Thomas Pochobradsky

Born in Cedar Rapids, IA
Born on Aug 7, 1947
Departed on Apr 2, 2020

Memorial

Thomas E. Pochobradsky, 72 of Cedar Rapids passed away on Thursday, April 2, 2020 at his home surrounded by his loving family. Due to state and federal guidance on gatherings due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the family will not be having any public services at this time.  The small private service may be viewed at https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/31916856, the live stream will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 7th. A Celebration of Tom’s Life will be announced at a later date. Entrusted with the services is Cedar Memorial Park Funeral Home.

Tom was born on August 7th, 1947 in Cedar Rapids, Iowa the son of Dolores (Karl) Newport and Emil Pochobradsky. He graduated from Washington High School. Tom honorably served in the United States Marines during the Vietnam conflict. He was united in marriage to Joyce Churchill in 1974. Tom graduated, top of his class, from Aeronautical School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Tom started his career at Wathan Flying Service in Cedar Rapids. He then went on be a pilot, then head mechanic for Iowa Electric’s flight department. After Iowa Electric, Tom assisted in starting the PS Air at the Cedar Rapids airport. For several years, Tom was the head mechanic at St. Luke’s Hospital, working specifically on their helicopter. He proudly retired his working career at the Marion airport. 

Tom set the standard for professionalism and dedication to general aviation. Tom will always be remembered for his love of fishing for walleyes in northern Minnesota, working in his yard, growing tomatoes, cooking too much food for his family and friends, and in his last years, perfecting Czech kolaches. He was known as the man that fixed many things, but his best attribute was his heart for helping people. He was indispensable as a professional and more importantly as a father, husband, sibling, and friend. Tom will always be known for his generosity and integrity. 

Survived by his loving wife of 45 years Joyce; a son, KC (Ellen); daughter, Micheala; two grandchildren, Brieyonna and Reise; great-grandson Aaro; two sisters, Vickie (Mike) Langton, and Debbie (Dale) Eickstaedt; a brother, Eddie Pochobradsky; sister-in-law, Janet (Paul) Porter; many nieces & nephews, good friends Pat and Gordy Anderson, and his dog Maya.

He was preceded in death by his parents. 

Memorial donations may be directed to the Puppy Jake Foundation or The Salvation Army.