Raphael Pisarik
December 22, 1920 ~ June 23, 2013
Raphael Francis Pisarik, 92, a lifetime resident of rural Mount Vernon, died Sunday, June 23, 2013, a short time after suffering a major stroke. Wednesday, June 26, 2013 Rosary and Prayer Service at 3:00 pm with visitation to follow until 8:00 pm at St. John's Catholic Church in Mt. Vernon. Funeral Mass will be Thursday, 10:00 a.m., June 27, at St. John's with graveside services following at St. Peter and Paul's Cemetery rural Solon. Raphael is survived by 8 sons and 3 daughters: Dennis (Joyce), Francis (Teri), Terese, Larry (Kathy), Pat (LeAnn), John (Jane), Kathy Dix (Minor), Ron (Nancy), Mark (Luann), Steve (Susan), Mary Holubar (Ron) and 34 grandchildren and 38 great grandchildren. Raphael was preceded in death by his loving wife of 52 years, Elizabeth, an infant daughter, Christine, parents Joseph and Mary, brother Aloysius, and Frances Daley. Raphael was born December 22, 1920, on the family farm which is now South Cedar Park. Raphael graduated from Mount Vernon High School in 1938. He married Elizabeth Marie Becker in 1942 and they lived south of Mount Vernon. Raphael worked for a time at the Pieper Sawmill near Ivanhoe, worked on the crew that paved Highway 1 south of Ivanhoe to Solon, and helped build the Ivanhoe Bridge. Raphael was an avid outdoorsman and farmer. He loved hunting, trapping and fishing and told many tales of his adventures. He was well known for his storytelling. Later in his life, he bought and sold furs. He was also an industrious farmer, ran a small family sawmill, and sheared sheep for area farmers. He knew the land and promoted its conservation. Raphael and Elizabeth raised a large family and demonstrated the strength of love and partnership. Raphael was a teacher of life's lessons and served as a model for his children and acquaintances. He was known throughout the area as a historian and had an amazing memory. He could recall the history of family trees, marriages, events, buildings and people of the area with astounding detail. He shared a wealth of knowledge with people during his lifetime. Raphael was a strong Catholic and attended Mass regularly where he took pride in leading the Rosary when the opportunity arose. He was a 75-year member of the Catholic Order of Foresters. Raphael lived a humble life. His kindness and generosity touched many. The world is a better place because he was here. He will be missed by all who knew him. Raphael's family would like to thank the staff at Mercy Hospital, Cedar Rapids, and Hospice House of Mercy, Cedar Rapids, for their loving care. A Memorial account has been established at Hills Bank, Mt. Vernon, Iowa. Online condolences may be posted at www.morganfuneralchoices.com.
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We are very sorry for your loss. We only got to see Raphael once a year at the annual Euchre tournament of Solon vs. Norway. Every year, even this past year, Raphael showed up ready to play and he was definitely a card shark. You knew that you were unlikely to win if you were the unlucky opponent, but it worth it just for the fun conversation. The card tournament will never be the same. Our thoughts and prayers are with your family in this difficult time.
The Kimm family always sat behind Mr. Pizarik at Mass. When I would come to visit them, I sat right behind him. Diane Kimm is my daughter. They were very sad to hear of his passing, Diane especially. Diane and I talked and we know he is in Heaven, what a glorious feeling this must be for all of his family. God BLess.
To all the Pisarik family…we wish you a path of peace as you experience the absence of Dad, Grandpa and Great Grandpa Raphael….we have enjoyed being a part of your extended family…to share in the love that is demonstrated…”The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26
Thinking of your family at this difficult time. We were only with your Dad a few times but could see the love he held for his family and community. He has left a wonderful legacy for generations. His memory will be carried on in the hearts of all who knew him. Sincerely, Dorothy & Bob
My sympathy to the Pisarik Family. Raphael will be missed my many throughout the area. He gave his family a wonderful example to live by.
So enjoyed our times with Raphael when selling furs to him! Incredible man!!
Sorry to hear of Raphael’s death. He and my dad were good friends. They are probably coon hunting in heaven.
I wanted to offer my condolences to the entire Pisarik family, but most especially to my classmate, Larry Pisarik. My prayers are with you all.
Just learned of Raphael’s passing. sorry I missed funeral. Last saw Raphael at my dad Lefty’s funeral in November 2012 and had a nice visit with him. Even after all those years, he still remembered me. He was indeed a gentleman. Pat Doyle, Floyd IA
Ohhhh my gosh! I just heard about Raphael passing. I am so sorry for your loss. And I mean a true loss. What a wonderful person Raphael and his wife were. I can remember spending many an hour at their place selling furs and listening to their stories. Loved those folks!