Rae Ellen Zahradnik, 85, of Cedar Rapids passed away on her 85th birthday, Monday, June 8, 2026. Friends and family are invited to a luncheon at the First Presbyterian Church near Ely on Friday, June 19, 2026 at 12 noon. A private family inurnment will take place at Roger’s Grove Cemetery. Brosh Chapel and The Avacentre in Cedar Rapids are assisting the family at this time.

Rae was born on June 8, 1941, in Wellsville, New York, the daughter of Frank D. and Francis A. (Rouse) Waldeck. After graduation, Rae attended the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. On July 6, 1963, she was united in marriage to Gerald Zahradnik in Andover, New York. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church near Ely. She was very proud of her family, especially her 7 grandchildren. Rae will be remembered as a loving sister, mother, grandmother, and friend.

Rae is survived by her sons Douglas (Jason Dircks) Zahradnik, Daniel (Cheryl) Zahradnik, Dean (Shelly) Zahradnik and David (Adrianna) Zahradnik; grandchildren Noah, Reed, Will, Gabrielle, Blake, Taylor, and Zach.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband of 51 years, Gerald “Jerry” Zahradnik and her parents.

The family would like to thank the Rehabilitation Center of Lisbon and Suncrest Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to either of these organizations in memory of Rae.