Robert Vrba

Born in Cedar Rapids, IA
Born on Dec 4, 1926
Departed on Oct 20, 2019

Memorial

Robert J. “Bob” Vrba, 92, passed away Sunday, October 20, 2019 at the Hiawatha Care Center. Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, October 24 at the Cedar Memorial Chapel of Memories.  Visitation will be held one hour prior to services. Burial will be held at the Cedar Memorial Park Cemetery.

Bob was born December 4, 1926 to Frank and Libbie (Toman) Vrba in Cedar Rapids. He graduated from Roosevelt High School in 1945. The day after his high school graduation, he left for basic training to serve his country in the 1st Division 18th Infantry during World War II in the European theater. While stationed in Germany, Bob guarded SS Troops and attended a day of the Nuremberg Trials.

Bob married his wife of 61 years, Linda Garlick, on June 7, 1958. They were blessed with two daughters, Stacy and Laura.

Bob spent his career as a senior mechanical designer, working at Link-Belt Speeder/FMC for over 28 years. Bob was awarded several patents while employed at FMC. Bob was an exceptional craftsman. He completed many pieces over his lifetime, including several wood carvings and crafted wood furniture. He was a gifted artist and illustrator, completing several oil and watercolor paintings and he became very skilled at sketched pencil portraits. Bob was also a life-long Cubs fan.

Bob is survived by his wife, Linda; daughters, Stacy Boston of Cedar Rapids and Laura (Dennis) Bullock of Sioux City; grandsons, Robert (Jessica) Austin of Des Moines, and Michael Austin of Sioux City.  Jack (Judy) Garlick, of Richardson, Texas.

Bob is preceded in death by his parents, son-in-law Francis Boston, and brother Frank Vrba.

Bob’s family would like to thank the compassionate and skilled staff of the Hiawatha Care Center for the excellent care they gave Bob while he was a resident.


In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Eastern Iowa Honor Flight or Friends of the Cedar Rapids Public Library.