RACHEL KAY WESTER

MUSCATINE, Iowa – Rachel Kay Wester, 47, passed away on March 8, 2025, after a courageous battle with colon cancer, surrounded by her family at her parents' home.

Funeral Mass will be 10:00 am on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Ss. Mary Mathias Catholic Church. The Reverend Jake Greiner will officiate. Concelebrants will be Reverend Chris Weber, Reverend Andrew Rauenbuehler, Reverend Isaac Doucette. Burial will be in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4:00 pm until 7:00 pm on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at the Ralph J. Wittich-Riley-Freers Funeral Home. There will be a Rosary prayer service following visitation. Online condolences may be made at www.wittichfuneralhome.com. In lieu of flowers, in accordance with her wishes, memorial contributions can be made to Big Brothers Big Sisters of Muscatine.

Rachel was born on December 31, 1977, in Iowa City, the daughter of James and Gail Smith Wester.

Rachel dedicated her life to education and was a beloved teacher at Jefferson Elementary School for twenty-five years. She graduated from Muscatine High School in 1996 and earned her degree in Education from the University of Northern Iowa in 2000.

Rachel lived a compassionate life, caring deeply for her students and the community. Her kindness and warmth made everyone feel at ease

Rachel is survived by her son, Alexander (Alex) Reifert, and his father, Ryan Reifert. She also leaves behind her loving parents, Jim and Gail Wester; her brothers, Jason Wester (Karra) and Troy Wester (Lisa); her cherished nieces and nephew, Isabel, Abigail, Alivia, and Drew; and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.

The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming love and support from family, friends, students, and colleagues during this difficult time.