Fred Dennis Rehmke, son of Robert and Elaine Rehmke of West Liberty, Iowa passed away at his home on March 10, 2026.  Fred was born in Anamosa on July 19, 1948.  Fred grew up on his family's farms and graduated from Elkader High School in Elkader, Iowa.  Fred enjoyed family fishing trips, 4H activities at the county and state fairs, and trail rides.  He also participated in community theater productions.  Fred attended the University of Iowa and graduated with a degree in Business Administration.  He was a proud member of the Hawkeye Marching Band and The University of Iowa's ROTC.  Upon graduation, Fred attended pilot training at Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio, TX and began his Air Force career.  He served two tours of duty in Vietnam, flying C-123's and B-52's in the SAC squadron.  The next phase of Fred's career was as a corporate pilot for Fleming Foods, flying a Falcon 50.  He then flew as a commercial pilot for American Airlines and after a 20-year career, retired.  In retirement, he pursued his love of the outdoors through hunting and fishing, cowboy history re-enactments with competitive marksmanship, and extensive travel.  He appreciated the scenic beauty and history of our country through these experiences.  Fred treasured being a true son of Iowa where family, friends, and community are the foundation and purpose of life.

While in pilot school, Fred met and married Diane Butschek in 1972; they recently celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary.

Fred is survived by his wife Diane; their two daughters, Kimra (Kaleb Hamilton and two grandsons, Weston and Quin) of Kalispell, MT; Rebecca (Steve Nusinow and grandson, Ben) of Austin, TX; and sister, Linda Nielsen of Kansas City, MO, and nieces Alicia Ringdon, Adrian Larson, and Abby Johnson.