Steven Ray Reinert, age 81, of Davenport, formerly of Durant, passed away Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at his home. Cremation rites have been accorded. A memorial service will be held at 3 p.m., Friday, May 2, at the United Methodist Church of Wilton. A celebration of life will be held from 4-6 p.m., following the service at the church. Memorials may be made to Durant Community School Education Foundation. Online condolences may be left at www.bentleyfuneralhome.com.
Steven was born on Dec. 5, 1943, the son of Robert and Rozella (Cline) Reinert in Oskaloosa. He graduated from Sigourney High School with the Class of 1962 and later graduated from the University of Northern Iowa with a degree in business education. After graduating from UNI, Steve attended Northeast Missouri State University, earning his master’s degree in school administration. Steve married Darlene Beasley on Sept. 4, 1965, in Sigourney.
Steve began his career in education in 1966 when he accepted a position at Durant High School. Over the years, he taught accounting, typing, and business finance. A gifted and passionate coach, Steve coached multiple sports during his career, but was most notably the head baseball coach for 22 years. Under his leadership, the Durant High School baseball team celebrated over 400 wins. His commitment to his players earned him a place in the Iowa High School Baseball Coaches Association Hall of Fame. Players fondly recall his signature post-game talks - thoughtful, heartfelt, and always longer than expected. He also served as athletic director before becoming high school principal, retiring in 1999 after a career defined by dedication, leadership, and heart.
Long before his career in education, Steve was active in Keokuk County 4-H, where he showed cattle and sheep. He maintained a strong connection to his roots, attending the Iowa State Fair every year and playing cards with his close friends (The Sigourney Quail Hunters Card Club) for over 50 years. Steve loved gardening, hunting, fishing, and golfing. Above all, Steve loved spending time with his grandchildren – still a teacher and coach, their biggest fan, and always present in the moments of their lives.
Steve will be dearly missed by his wife, Darlene; one daughter, Stephanie (Eric) Sacia of Eldridge; four grandchildren, Matthew (Megann), Adam, Megan, and Andrew Sacia; one great-granddaughter, Jamie June; and one sister, Pam (Millie March) Reinert.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents; and a daughter, Julie.
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