Patricia (Patti) Bowman Chadima

Patricia (Patti) Bowman Chadima

Cedar Rapids

Patricia (Patti) Bowman Chadima passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love, devotion, and friendship that will live on in all who knew her.

Patti was born on March 27, 1929, in St. Louis, Missouri, to John Arnold Bowman and Louise Ritter Bowman. During the Great Depression, her family returned to their hometown of Fort Madison, Iowa, where Patti grew up. She graduated from Fort Madison High School in 1946, participating in drama, choral programs, and the Kilties Pep Squad.

She attended the University of Iowa, majoring in Advertising and Marketing. Patti left the University for what would become a meaningful and successful career at Killian’s Department Store in Cedar Rapids. Starting as assistant advertising manager and becoming advertising manager in 1954, Patti loved her work and formed friendships that lasted a lifetime.

On May 18, 1957, Patti married Glenn T. Chadima, at Danforth Chapel in Iowa City. Together they built a life centered on family in Cedar Rapids. Patti and Glenn were devoted parents who attended their daughters’ activities with unwavering pride and encouragement. They were loyal Hawkeye fans and longtime Iowa football and basketball season ticket holders, spending many Saturdays cheering on the Hawkeyes.

Patti retired from Killian’s in 1958 when her daughter Susanne was born, later freelancing for the store for several years. While raising her family, she poured her energy into her community. She volunteered with PTA and Camp Fire Girls, was active in Czech societies, served as a docent at the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art, and spent seven years on the board of the Cedar Rapids Community Theatre. During that time, the theater proudly purchased its first permanent home.

In 1973, Patti earned her real estate license, followed by her broker’s license, beginning a remarkable 40-year career. Beyond helping clients buy and sell homes, she played a key role in marketing several condominium developments in Cedar Rapids. After the 2008 flood, Patti devoted two years to helping families navigate the overwhelming paperwork and process of finding new homes. She approached her work not just as a profession, but as a way to serve others. Upon retiring as Realtor Emeritus, she left behind not only a successful career, but her clients that she lovingly called her “real estate family.”

Above all, Patti’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted and loving mother to her daughters who she cherished and loved unconditionally. She adored her grandchildren and great-grandchildren who brought immeasurable happiness to her later years. Holidays, especially Christmas and birthdays—were made magical through her creativity, generosity, and boundless love.

Patti enjoyed sports, good books, theater, dancing, life on the farm, animals and collecting antiques. She was a wonderful cook, endlessly capable, and seemed to know how to do almost anything. Her warmth, determination, and generosity touched many lives.

Survivors include her daughters, Susanne (Sue) Chadima Chelf of Iowa City and Terry Chadima of Hiawatha; grandchildren, Megan Ledvina (Jake) of Bettendorf and John Chelf of St. Petersburg, FL; great-grandchildren, Carter, Cooper, and Amelia Ledvina; her sister, Mari Greb of Iowa City; and several nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband Glenn.

Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Hospice of Mercy-Cedar Rapids or to a charity of your choice.

Please join the family on Tuesday, February 17 from 12:00 -1:30 pm for a reception and luncheon at the Cedar Memorial Family Center and Library. A private family burial will precede the luncheon.

Online condolences may be left at www.cedarmemorial.com under obituaries.