Norman Sasek

NORMAN SASEK

Cedar Rapids

With characteristic sense of dedication, humor and hard work, Norman Sasek approached life in search of adventure and opportunity. Sadly, his family announces his recent passing.

Born on Nov. 2, 1935, in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Norman Joseph Sasek was the son of Anthony "Tony" and Bernice (Keefer) Sasek. Growing up, he loved to play baseball and told tales of riding his bike around town. Finding little use for school, he went to work full-time at age 15, fudging a bit on his age. After working for a time, he got his GED and entered the Army so he could travel and explore.

Serving from 1955 to 1958, he was stationed in Germany and would mention his experience as a guard at Spandau prison and travel to England, Italy and France. Going to baker's school opened doors for him in the Army and for future pursuits. After returning home, Norman found little in the way of employment and chose to re-enlist in the Army and was stationed in Hawaii for 16 months. Upon discharge, he returned to Cedar Rapids and joined the National Guard working as a baker.

With this experience Norman found work at Sunmart and stayed there for almost 12 years and also met his wife, Karen. They were married on Feb. 23, 1963. In 1974, Norman went to work at General Mills, where he was known for his diligence, until retiring in 2002 after 28 years. Over the years, he has traveled a great deal with his family and often combined it with his hobbies and interests.

His survivors include his wife of 58 years, Karen; children, Susan Sasek, Maria (George) Cook and Norbert (Sherry) Sasek; grandchildren, Rachael (Brandon) Williams, Sam, Zach and Joshua Nading, Jack and Ben Cook, Dylan and Devin Sasek and Brianna Chew; great-grandchildren, Rebecca Williams, Aveline Chew and Oliver Chew; brothers, John (Betty) Sasek, Jerry (Jean) Sasek and Keith (Joyce) Sasek; and many extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Tony and Bernice; and an infant son, Donald.

He and his wife have long felt the importance in giving back, which has inspired his family to continue those efforts. He has been a member of AARP, various coin collector societies and an avid Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes fan. He appreciated the fact that the Cubs won a World Series on his birthday.

The family thanks Mercy Medical Center and Heritage for their skilled care over the past few months.

Graveside services are at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 11, at Saint John's Cemetery with the Rev. Mark Murphy officiating. Military honors at the cemetery will be provided by the Marion American Legion Post 298. Visitation will be Monday, May 10, from 4 to 7 p.m. at Papich-Kuba Funeral Home East, 1228 Second St. SE, with a vigil service at 5 p.m. Due to COVID-19 considerations, anyone attending is respectfully requested to wear a face mask and practice social distancing.

In lieu of flowers, memorials and donations may be directed to the family.

Online condolences may be left at www.papich-kubafs.com under obituaries.