Memorial

Richard E. "Dick" Berzinski, 89, of Cedar Rapids, passed away on December 2, 2014. Dick was born August 10, 1925 in Winona, Minnesota to Emil and Augusta "Gustie" Tadewald Berzinski.  He graduated from Winona Senior High School in 1943 and attended Winona State University.

Dick was a member of the 449th Bomb Group, 15th Air Force that was based in Italy during World War II where he flew 32 combat missions over enemy territory.  He was a member of the American Legion Post #298 and the Polish Museum & Cultural Institute of Winona, Minnesota.

He married Barbara M. Shrake on May 6, 1947 in Winona, MN.  She passed away April 25, 1974.  He is survived by his children Robert of Winona, MN, and William, James, Michael and Carol, all of Cedar Rapids; two brothers Emil (Beverly) Berzinski of Fulton, IL and Kenneth Berzinski of Cedar Rapids, a sister Ruth Raymond of Cedar Rapids; nine grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren; and a life long friend Marian Pretasky.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife; sister-in-law Barbara Hasbrouck Berzinski; and a brother-in-law Richard Raymond.

Dick came to Cedar Rapids in 1947 where he started his career in the food industry.  His first venture was the Park Lane Drive-Inn, followed by the Hot Fish Shop, Shorewood, Shiloh and Berzinski's in downtown Marion.  He was a former member of the National Restaurant Association and the Iowa Restarurant Association where he served on the board of directors for several years.  He was also involved with developing several residential and commercial properties in Cedar Rapids and Linn County, and was a former member of the Cedar Rapids Board of Realtors.

Dick enjoyed the outdoors, fishing with friends, and dancing to big band music.  He was a devoted fan of the Chicago Cubs and Iowa Hawkeyes. He was very fond of animals, especially his dog Mitzy, who preceded him in death.  Mitzy was his devoted, faithful companion who accompanied him on all his trips about town.  

A private family gathering will be held at Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home.  Entombment will be held at Cedar Memorial Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, please direct memorials to the family.