William "Bill" Kadlec, 81, a lifelong resident of Ely, died Saturday, June 6, 2009 at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.  Services will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, June 11, 2009 at the Brosh Chapel in Cedar Rapids, temporarily located at 3100 F Avenue NW, with Rev. John Albertson presiding. Burial will follow in the Rogers Grove Cemetery, near Ely, with military graveside services by Ely American Legion San Quentin Post 555.  Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at the chapel.

William was born November 25, 1927 in Jefferson Township, Johnson County, the son of Joseph and Bessie (Kacerousky) Kadlec.  He served seven years in the U.S. Navy during World War II and the Korean War.  He married Helen Denk on December 21, 1950 in Cedar Rapids.  "Uncle" Bill worked 28 years for the Rock Island Railroad until its closing.  He finished his 34 year railroad career with the Chicago Northwestern Railroad in 1987.  Bill was a member of the Ely American Legion San Quentin Post 555.  He enjoyed woodworking, cooking, and baking.

Bill is survived by a son, Dan (Sally) of Central City, a daughter, Deanne Bartling of Anamosa, 4 grandchildren, Jessica Bartling and fiance Dave, and Katie Bartling, Crystal (Chad) Haring and Michael Kadlec and fiance Raven, a brother, Donald of Hiawatha, and a sister Helen Barta of Swisher.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Helen, a son, Eugene L. Kadlec, brothers, Joe, George, Charles, and Leo, sister, Doris May, and half sister Mary May.

Memorials may be directed to the family.