Norbert F. Sedlak Sr.

Norbert F. Sedlak, Sr., 89, of Cedar Rapids, passed away on Sunday, March 21, 2010, at his home surrounded by family and friends. Norb donated his body to the University of Iowa. Memorial Funeral Mass: 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 24, 2010, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, Cedar Rapids, by Rev. Phil Thompson. Arrangements by Stewart Baxter Funeral & Memorial Services, Cedar Rapids. He is survived by his wife Sarah 'Sally' Sedlak; his children, Norbert (Karla) Sedlak, Jr., and MaDonna Walkner; stepchildren, Patti Heaton, Denise Kennedy, Sandy Baugh; a dear friend, Ronald 'Big Ron' Sandler; five grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren. Norb was born December 17, 1920, in Cedar Rapids, the son of Frank and Emma (Svobda) Sedlak. He served in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Norb worked for the Rock Island Railroad until retiring in 1972. He then worked as a field representative for a law firm in Minnesota. After retiring from the railroad, his love for locomotives continued as a lifelong model train collector. He was preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Annabelle Sedlak; brother, Bill Sedlak; sister, Grace Bowen; and step-daughter, Sue Cline. Sally would like to extend a special thank you to Norb's grandson, Ron Sandler for his devotion and care to his Grandpa. The family would like to thank Jo-Vivian, Jodie, and the staff of Home Choice, Jennifer, Chelsea, and staff at Hospice of Mercy, and Jeannie and Donna with Gentiva.