James Stelk

James F. Stelk, 87, of Davenport, Iowa, passed away on November 30, 2025.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am, Thursday, December 11, 2025 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church. The family will greet friends from 9:00 am until the time of mass at church. Burial will take place on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 10:00 am at Davenport Memorial Park. Memorials may be made to St. Anthony’s Catholic Church.

James lived a full, vibrant, and dedicated life marked by curiosity, service, and a passion for community. A lifelong resident of Davenport, he poured his energy into the places and organizations he loved, leaving a legacy that will endure for generations.

James held a lifelong fascination with aviation. He earned his private pilot’s license and served as Secretary-Treasurer of the Rock Island Arsenal Flying Club, where he enjoyed the fellowship of those who shared his love of flight. His professional career reflected the same spirit of innovation — he retired from the Rock Island Arsenal as a Computer Systems Analyst, driven by a lasting interest in computers and technology.

Deeply committed to civic involvement, James served the City of Davenport as a Plan and Zoning Commissioner, helping shape the community he called home. His dedication to local history and heritage was equally profound. He was a life member of the Davenport Schuetzen Gesellschaft, serving as the association’s secretary for 30 years and remaining active in shooting sports for over 60 years. A skilled marksman, James was a member of the Iowa National Guard shooting team and earned numerous medals at the prestigious Camp Perry matches.

James also helped preserve and celebrate local German-American culture. He was a cofounder of both the Schuetzen Park Guild and the German American Heritage Association, serving on the Schuetzen Park Board of Directors and playing a key role in the establishment of the German American Heritage Center and Museum, proudly signing its founding deed.

Automobiles were another enduring passion. As a 50-year member of the Porsche Club of America, James cultivated a deep appreciation for high-performance Porsche vehicles and maintained an enthusiasm for all things automotive. Over the years, he had the rare opportunity to drive millions of dollars’ worth of historically significant cars, including Auburns and Ruxtons.

A man of steady faith, James was a member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Davenport.

James was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ruth Stelk; his loving wife, Theresa O’Rourke Stelk; and his brother, John (Debra) Stelk. He is survived by his brother, Thomas (Deborah) Stelk; his sister, Susan (Richard) Mikkelson; and many nieces and nephews, all of whom loved him dearly.

James will be remembered for his sharp mind, steadfast dedication, warm sense of humor, and the countless ways he enriched the lives of those around him. His influence will live on in the organizations he supported, the history he helped preserve, and the many people whose lives he touched.

Arrangements are entrusted to Halligan–McCabe–DeVries Funeral Home, Davenport.

May he rest in eternal peace.