Charles Edward Svoboda, 78, of Cedar Rapids, died Friday, May 18, 2018 at the Solon Nursing Care Center. Celebration of Life Services will be 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, May 22, 2018 at Brosh Chapel & The Avacentre in Cedar Rapids, located at 2121 Bowling Street SW. Burial will follow in Czech National Cemetery.  Visitation will be from 4 until 7 p.m. Monday, May 21, 2018 at Brosh Chapel in Cedar Rapids.

Charles was born April 28, 1940 in Cedar Rapids, the son of Joseph and Bessie (Hughes) Svoboda.  Charles was united in marriage to Sharon Hunter in 1970.  They were later divorced.  He worked at Universal Engineering for over 35 years.  Charlie enjoyed being outdoors, boating, fishing, hunting, going to the casino, playing bingo, and spending time with his family.  He was a past member of the Cedar Rapids Boat Club.  Charlie earned the nicknames of "Charlie the River Man, or Abe Lincoln."

Charlie is survived by his two daughters Lori (Don) Bland of Cedar Rapids and Lenae (Jesse) Grade of Ely; four grandchildren Connor, Chase, Sydney and Saxton; and his former wife and friend, Sharon Svoboda.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and his brother Franklin Svoboda.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be directed to the family.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to staff at Solon Care Center and Hospice of Mercy for their loving care for Charlie.