Gearhart, Lee J.

Lee J. Gearhart, 79, of 6417 Decatur St. SW, died Friday, May 6, 2011, at his home after a long illness. Memorial services: 11 a.m. Wednesday at Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, where friends may call after 10 a.m. Wednesday. Inurnment: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, with military rites. Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Survivors include his wife, Marlene; a daughter, Toni (Larry) Gallo of Cedar Rapids; two sons, Terry (Kerri) of West Des Moines and Timothy (Rhona) of Camdenton, Mo.; six grandchildren, Joey, Charley, Kassandra, Michaella, Trevor and Kristi; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by a son, Michael; and a sister, Nancy Brammer.

Lee was born April 1, 1932, in Cedar Rapids, the son of Lee and Emily (Kovacik) Gearhart. He married Marlene L. Berg on April 25, 1959, in Davenport. Lee was in insurance sales for over 45 years, retiring in 1995. After retirement Marlene and Lee were the owners and operators of Class Act Limo Service.

He was a faithful member of Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, the Boys and Girls Shoe Shine Club of America, the VFW and proudly served in the Korean War in both the Air Force and Navy.

Lee enjoyed playing pool, bowling, playing pinochle, swimming, playing the trumpet and was a real car enthusiast. Lee loved to dance, teach dance and was awarded several trophies for his ballroom dancing.

Lee's greatest love however was his family. He was a devoted husband, father and grandfather who will be missed by his beloved family and many friends,

A memorial fund has been established in Lee's name.

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