Keith Kobliska
October 11, 1931 to February 10, 2019
Keith William Kobliska, 87, of Elkader, passed away Sunday, February 10, 2019, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Cedar Rapids surrounded by his family. He was born October 11, 1931, to John Bernard and Camilla Mae (Timmerman) Kobliska in New Hampton, Iowa. He graduated from Immaculate Conception High School in Charles City, Iowa.
Keith married his high school sweetheart, Anita Joan “Billie” Wagner, on July 14, 1952, in Charles City. Four children were born to this union, Kathy, Cindy, Joni and David.
He worked as a cook in the family business, the Hilltop Café in Waverly, Iowa. Keith was drafted from Army Reserves and served his country during the Korean War. He was honorably discharged as a Sgt. in 1955.
In 1957, Keith and his family moved to a scenic farm bordering the Turkey River north of Elkader, Iowa. He farmed his entire life and took his “vacations” on the back porch because, as he would say, he never got tired of the view. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and especially spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is survived by his wife, Anita “Billie” of Elkader, children, Kathy (George) Sadewasser of Iowa City, Cindy (JP) Zapf of Littleport, Joni (Mike) Zapf of Littleport, David Kobliska of Elkader; eight grandchildren, Courtney (Neal) Bentley, Kelly (Brad) Carnes, Candyce (Scott) Marmann, Brandon (Melissa) Kobliska, Katie (Nick) Scherf, Nate (Cassie) Sadewasser, Jana (Jake) Warning, Molly (Andy) Zapf-Morarie; 12 great-grandchildren; Cassie Larson; Willow, Iris, Branch and Meadow Kobliska; Hayden Scherf; Doug, Bridget and Isaac Bentley; and Celia, Michael and Tahlia Sadewasser; brothers, Bill (Ruth) Kobliska, Jerry (Rita) Kobliska; sister, Phyllis Ross, many in-laws, nieces, nephews and friends.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Ron Kobliska.
A visitation was held from 8:30 a.m. until Mass time on Thursday, February 14, 2019, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Elkader. A Mass of Resurrection was held at 10:30 a.m. at the church with Rev. John Haugen and Rev. Paul Peters, co-celebrants.
Leonard-Grau Funeral Home & Cremation Service assisted the family. Online condolences may be left with www.graufuneralhomes.com
