Modracek, Leo Alfred

Leo Alfred Modracek, 88, of Western in rural Cedar Rapids, passed away Saturday, Oct. 29, 2011, in his home. A Celebration of Life will be 11 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 12, at First Presbyterian Church near Ely, 11100 Spanish Rd. SW, Cedar Rapids, with the Rev. Julie Schuett presiding. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until service time at the church. A private family inurnment will be at a later date in the Shueyville Cemetery. Brosh Chapel in Cedar Rapids is assisting the family.

Leo was born Dec. 22, 1922, on the family farm near Cedar Rapids, the son of Frank and Emma (Kadera) Modracek. He graduated from Wilson High School in 1940. Leo earned a degree in chemical engineering from the University of Iowa in December 1943. He married Irma Rigel on Jan. 5, 1944, at First Moravian Brethren Church near Ely. Leo worked for Shell Oil in California until joining the United States Navy. He served during World War II from 1944-1948. After returning he worked for over 34 years at Rockwell Collins until his retirement.

Leo was instrumental in consolidation of the one-room school houses in College Township while serving on the school board, and was president for several terms. Leo was extremely proud of his Czech heritage working on the original building committee for the National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library, where he volunteered many hours. He was a 65-year member of the Ely American Legion Post 555 and Ely Odd Fellows. Leo was an active member of his church in numerous capacities, including establishing Geneva Towers in Cedar Rapids. He enjoyed fishing, carpentry, wine making “Modracol,” watching the Hawkeyes, driving his 1964 Czechslovakian Tatra in local parades, and time spent with his family.

Leo is survived by his sons, Darryl (Marilyn) Modracek of Eldersburg, Md., Glenn (Sharon) Modracek of Cedar Rapids and Larry (Becky) Modracek of Lisbon; his daughter, Kim (Curt) Ingwersen of Lake Park; 11 grandchildren, Stephanie, Nikki, Darryk, Ryan, Timon, Bethany, Amber, Ross, Ashley, Autumn and Kyle; 13 1/2 great-grandchildren; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Leo was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Irma; and his brothers, Leonard, Emil, Robert and Melvin (Judy) Modracek.

The family wishes to thank his special caregivers for their loving care and dedication.

Memorials may be directed to NCSML, First Presbyterian Church near Ely and/or Hospice of Mercy.

Online condolences to the family at

Published Nov. 6, 2011, in The Gazette