Kacena, R. Robert

R. Robert Kacena, 93, a resident of Willow Gardens Care Center, died Wednesday, May 15, 2013, at the care center. Funeral Service: 10:30 a.m. Thursday, May 23, at Murdoch Funeral Home & Cremation Center, Marion. The family will greet friends from 4 until 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 22, at the funeral home. Burial: Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery, Cedar Rapids.

Survivors include four stepdaughters, Mary (Greg) Derflinger of Milford, Iowa, Jean Derflinger of Emmetsburg, Rita (Richard) Peyton of Manassas, Va., and Linda (Dave) Stoneking of Springville; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and his friends, Jim and Pat Wright of Marion, and their family, who watched out and cared for him like family.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Edward; his first wife, Betty (Marx) Kacena; his second wife, Enid (Derflinger) Kacena; and stepdaughter, Shirley Hanson.

Bob was born May 1, 1920, to Joseph and Frances (Boyanousky) Kacena in Walker, Iowa. He was married to Betty from 1966 until her death in 1971. He was then married to Enid from 1974 until her death in 1988.

Most of Bob's life was spent in the Marion area where his family farmed. From 1942 to 1945, Bob served his country as a Marine tech sergeant and was a member of Marion American Legion Post 298. From 1953 to 1973, he was a factory worker for Collins Radio.

Bob had an excellent memory and loved to tell stories about his childhood. He was so kind to everyone, easy to talk to, quick to forgive, and will be missed deeply.

His family would like to thank Willow Gardens Care Center and the hospice staff for all their wonderful care during the years he lived at their facility.

Please sign the online guest book for Bob at www.murdochfuneralhome.com under obituaries.

Published May 17, 2013 in The Gazette