Chadima, Donald Frank

Donald Frank Chadima, 88, passed away March 18, 2010, from complications of Alzheimer's disease and a fractured lower back. Several years ago Don chose to have his body cremated. A memorial will be held at a later date. 

Survivors include his wife, Marlis; daughter, Jennifer (Peter); stepchildren, Dean (Jane), Lori and Tim Van Loh; Marlis' two grandsons, Christopher and Michael, whom Don loved and enjoyed from toddlerhood on as if they were his very own grandsons. His former wife, Margaret, is also living. 

Don was born June 20, 1921, in Cedar Rapids to Frank and Anna Chadima. Don graduated from Wilson High School in Cedar Rapids in 1939. Don fought a brave and courageous battle with Alzheimer's disease. In his last days he would ask me “why am I like this and why is my mind going?” Fortunately, until Alzheimer's disease, Don lived a full and exciting life. Alzheimer's is a tragic disease but if you look at it from God's viewpoint, Don had a very healthy life until 84 years of age when the disease took over. 

Don loved Tim's cat, Big Sur, and laughed when the 15-pound “kitten” would race wildly through the house. One day he looked thoughtfully at his black and white friend and allowed “that kitty is the best thing that ever happened to me.”   To his last failing weeks I would catch him up on Big Sur's antics and a smile would still flicker across his countenance, and when Don ‘s lower back fractured and he had to be hospitalized, Big Sur took up residence in Don's recliner as he was missing his good friend as well. 

After high school Don was awarded a scholarship in commercial arts from the University of Minnesota, but was called to serve his country in World War II as a military policeman. Later he became a salesman for Grant Paper Co. in St. Louis for over 30 years. 

Don was a dedicated Hawkeye fan, only missing five games in over 50 home games. Fishing was another passion that Don enjoyed at Twin Valley Lakes at his residence in Solon, Iowa. Don had two state trophies over his fireplace for fishing. He was a good swimmer, often swimming a quarter of a mile. Don was also an excellent bowler throughout many years.

Don had a good sense of humor and in his retirement years spent Julys in Minnesota and winters in Florida and California. 

Don and Marlis were married June 25, 2008. He courted Marlis with his beautiful singing voice and he was complimented often when he sang the Star Spangled Banner before each Hawkeye game. His deep and booming voice with perfect pitch commanded the attention of all who heard him. Each evening he would pray the Lord's Prayer like clockwork for his family and many friends. Many of his neighbors asked about him during his last illness. 

Don was very generous to many charities. His lawn was one of the few long flat yards, so for years the boys in the neighborhood were invited to play football there and many of them went on to play star roles at Solon or Prairie High schools. Don also belonged to the Fraternal Order of the Eagles.  

Don was very easy to care for because of his sunny and caring nature. The fervent prayers of dear friends helped keep most of the terrors of Alzheimer's disease at bay. 

Marlis was able to be with Don constantly during the past two years and she counts that as one of her greatest blessings.   Don was very loved by all who knew him and he will be dearly missed.

Online condolences may be sent for Don's family through the Web at

 Gay & Ciha Funeral and Cremation Service is caring for Don's family and his arrangements.