Svestka, Alvin Joseph

Alvin Joseph Svestka, 71, of Garnavillo, died Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2013, at Guttenberg Municipal Hospital.

Alvin was born the son of William and Philomena (Pecota) Svestka on May 16, 1941, in Protivin, Iowa. Alvin graduated from the Rudophinum High School and owned and operated the Svestka Trucking Company for over 40 years. On Jan. 23, 1988, he was united in marriage with Marilyn “Mitz” Rodenberg at St Peters Lutheran Church in Garnavillo. He was an avid Dallas Cowboy and pro-wrestling fan and enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting events.

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Marilyn “Mitz;” three daughters, Wendy (Mark) Meirick of Protivin, Kelly (Kurtis) Johnson of Decorah and Susan (Justin) Elsbernd of Runnells; one stepdaughter, Lori Creery of West Union; one son, Galen (Tracy) Svestka of Johnston; nine grandchildren, Lee Meirick, Quinn Meirick, Riley Meirick, Brett Johnson, Marshall Johnson, Gannon Svestka, Colby Svestka, Olivia Elsbernd and Lauren Elsbernd; two stepgrandchildren, Nick Creery and Libby Creery; two aunts; one sister-in-law, Beverly Svestka; mother-in-law, Ilo Rodenberg; two sisters-in-law, Karilyn McArthur and Janet (Steve) Christianson; three brothers-in-law, Bill (Bev) Rodenberg, Bob (Vickie) Rodenberg and Brian (Vicki) Rodenberg; and many nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother, Roger.

Condolences may be left at .

Arrangements are being handled by Tuecke-Allyn Funeral Home & Cremation Service, Garnavillo, where the family will receive friends from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 24, and one hour before services Friday at church. Memorial service will be at St. Peter's Lutheran Church at 1:30 p.m. Friday. The Rev. Hillary Burns-Kite will be officiating.

Published in The Gazette Jan. 23, 2013.