Stuart K. Waxenberg, 87, of Davenport, Iowa, passed away Monday, September 28, 2026.

Stuart was born on April 25, 1939, in Davenport, Iowa, to Morrie and Irene K. (Klassman) Waxenberg. He graduated from Rock Island High School in 1957. Stuart proudly served in the United States Army, spending most of his military service in Germany. Following his service, he worked for several years at Carson Pirie Scott in Chicago. When his mother became ill, Stuart returned to the Quad Cities to help Morrie care for Irene and run Fitzgibbon’s Men’s Wear in downtown Moline. After several years, his father retired from the store, allowing Morrie and Stuart more time to travel and play golf together.

Those who knew Stuart will remember his remarkably quick wit and sense of humor. His niece Natalie affectionately dubbed him “the king of the one-liners,” and Stuart rarely missed an opportunity for a perfectly timed comeback. He remained quick-witted and sharp until the very end. Within the Waxenberg family, Stuart was also something of a walking encyclopedia of family history. His remarkable memory for names, dates, places, and even addresses from decades earlier made him an invaluable keeper of the family’s stories and history.

The love of Stuart’s life was Carolyn Draper. They traveled, played golf, and simply enjoyed each other’s company for more than 30 years. She preceded him in death on May 7, 2022. After her passing, Carolyn's children, Laurie & Scott, maintained a close connection to Stuart and helped him in many ways.

Stuart served for several years on the board of the Rock Island Arsenal Historical Society and was also very active with the Scott County Historic Preservation Society.

Stuart was preceded in death by his parents, Morrie and Irene Waxenberg; his brothers, Jim Waxenberg and Howard Waxenberg; and his longtime companion, Carolyn Draper.

Stuart is survived by his nephews, Andy (Hallie), Jake (Courtney), and Zack (Alexandra); his niece, Natalie; his sister-in-law, Tobee; his great-nieces, Lily and Ella; and his grandnieces and grandnephews.

A graveside service will be held at 12 p.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026, at the Rock Island Hebrew Cemetery. Wheelan-Pressly Funeral Home and Crematory, Rock Island, Illinois is assisting with arrangements.

Memorials may be made in his name to the Col Davenport Historical Foundation, P.O. Box 4603, Rock Island, IL 61204-4603, the Hebrew Free Burial Association, 330 7th Avenue, Suite 1002, New York, New York, 10001, or to a favorite local charity.