John Michael Rehwaldt was born October 5, 1942, in Muscatine, to Charles and Helen Rehwaldt. He graduated in 1960 from Muscatine. He attended the University of Iowa. He joined the Sigma Chi fraternity, making lifelong friendships and enjoyed being active in the alumni association.
He was the assistant manager of the Hotel Muscatine before purchasing it in 1970. He loved meeting people in the hospitality business. He was active in the Republican Party, serving on Jim Leach’s first campaign for congress, leading him to Washington, DC after he sold the hotel in 1977. He served as a fundraiser for the Republican National Committee.
He worked as an executive headhunter, retiring to Muscatine in 2013.
Wanting to become more involved, he campaigned for second Ward Alderman and won one term. He kept up with his political activities and stayed informed. He was a member of 33 Club.
Michael loved to entertain. He was an excellent chef and continually tried out new recipes. He loved dining out, the Merrill and SalVitale’s were his favorites. He was a great friend. Traveling was one of his favorite things. He was an anglophile, loving everything British.
His boon companion was his dog, Spike. He often drove through DQ for ice cream for both of them.
He is survived by his sister-in-law, Fran Rehwaldt, her daughters Katie and Helen; cousins, Sally, Mary, and Rae Ann Rehwaldt and children.
Michael was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Chad; and cousin, Tom Rehwaldt.
He appreciated the help as he became frailer, passing of COVID complications at Crestview in West Branch.
Michael’s request, no services will be held. Memorials may be sent to Anne Carroll, to be used for pet rescue. The Ralph J. Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements.
