Beatrice Hushak

Beatrice Hushak, 93, of Traer, Iowa, passed away March 16, 2020, at Sunrise Hill Care Center. Services are planned for a later date. Burial was at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to Mitchell Hushak, c/o Overton Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at www.overtonfuneralhomes.com. Overton Funeral Home, Traer, Iowa, was entrusted with the arrangements.

Beatrice Marian Hushak passed away March 16, 2020, at Sunrise Hill Care Center surrounded by family. Bea was born September 5, 1926, in Tama County, the daughter of Amiel and Blanche (Kubik) Halupnick. She attended country school, where for many years, she was the only girl in class. After graduating from Traer High School in 1943, she worked as a clerk in several businesses in Traer. Bea was united in marriage to Victor Hushak on September 24, 1946, after which they began their farming life east of Clutier. After moving to rural Traer for a short time, they settled to northwest of Clutier, where they spent their next 34 years in their farming operation.

In addition to the farming operation, Bea served as a detasseling crew chief for many years. She spent countless hours helping with her children’s 4-H projects. Once the work was done, Bea and Vic enjoyed traveling, making their way to Hawaii, Alaska, Europe, Australia, Fiji, Tahiti, Panama, and Costa Rica. After retiring in 1985, Bea and Vic split time between their homes in Dysart and North Fort Myers, FL, enjoying family gatherings, square dancing, playing cars and more travel. In later years, Bea transformed into a die-hard Chicago Cubs fan.

Bea was active in the community, being a member of FCSLA Catholic Workman Branch No 130, National Catholic Society of Foresters, Carroll Township Homemakers, Rosary Society and Dysart Women’s Clubs. Very active in the Catholic Church over the years, she had been a member of Immaculate Conception Church in Clutier, St. Joseph Church in Dysart, and most recently St. Paul’s Church in Traer. With family and friends being very important to her, she had an incredible gift for keeping in touch with everyone, writing letters, remembering birthdays and anniversaries, and bringing joy to the many lives she touched.

Bea is preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 68 years, Vic; a brother, Milo Halupnick; a sister, Ludmilla Dvorak; and son-in-law David Painter. She is survived by four children, Gail (Dwayne) Konicek of Festus, MO, Lorraine Painter of Mound, MN, Marlys (Nick) Rizzi of Ridgefield, CT and Mitchell (Lisa) Hushak of Granger, IA. In addition, she is survived by 9 grandchildren, 1 step-grandchild, 11 great-grandchildren, 5 step great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren.

In light of the current Coronavirus situation, only a small family service will be held for now. A full Celebration of Life will be scheduled in the coming weeks for all to enjoy the memories of what Bea meant to all of us. Memorials can be directed to Mitch Hushak, c/o Overton Funeral Home, 714 First Street, Traer, IA 50675.