Leon 'Tunnie' Melsha

LEON G. MELSHA

Cedar Rapids

Leon "Tunnie" Melsha, 87, of Cedar Rapids, passed away Monday, Aug. 27, 2018, at his home surrounded by his family. A Celebration of Life will take place Sept. 8, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Little Bohemia. Burial will be at a later date in Czech Cemetery.

He is survived by his wife, Diane (Hauskins) Melsha of Cedar Rapids; two children, Jeffery D. Melsha of Cedar Rapids and Ronald "Pub" Melsha of Springville; two grandchildren, Joe Melsha of Cedar Rapids and Sarah Melsha of Springville; as well as a faithful pal, "Macey."

He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert Sr. and Hazel Melsha; his siblings, Robert D. and Kenny; and his son, David.

Leon Gerald Melsha was born July 25, 1931, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, to parents Robert Sr. and Hazel Melsha. He started working with his father at Refrigeration Equipment Co. at five years old. He enjoyed growing up on Ellis Boulevard with all his friends. Leon graduated from Roosevelt High School and attended the University of Iowa engineering school, and was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1955. Leon married Diane Hauskins in Cedar Rapids and started a family. Leon worked in industrial refrigeration and boiler works all his life. He loved boating, steam engines, traveling and processing meat. Leon spent many happy times at his cabin in Bellevue, with family and friends and cold beer.

The family would like to thank all the caregivers and friends who provided for Tunnie in his last chapter.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be directed to the Alzheimer's Association.

Online condolences may be left at iowacremation.com.