Konrad Stefan Montsko, 75, died peacefully on Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024, at Great River Klein Center in West Burlington. He was born on March 21, 1949, to Stefan and Maria Gurka Montsko, in Hohen Schönberg, Mecklenburg, near the Baltic Sea in East Germany. His family was resettled after WW2 from Czechoslovakia to East Germany, fled to West Germany in 1952, and immigrated to the United States in 1956. He graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1965. He belonged to Divine Mercy Parish / SS Mary and Patrick Church in West Burlington.
Konrad worked in a variety of industries, including manufacturing of agricultural equipment, military ammunition, commercial building systems, and food products. He worked in construction and sold life insurance. He was very sociable and especially enjoyed jobs as a bartender and a casino poker dealer. Once he retired, he offered rides to many folks who happened to need transportation for errands or appointments, and he helped homebound friends.
Konrad loved taking photos at social gatherings, and especially of nature all around him in every season and in every kind of light. He enjoyed card and board games. He joined a bowling league and liked to play pool. His great adventure was skydiving. He hated shopping and did not care about accumulating or managing stuff; even as a child, he gave any unused items away.
Konrad had a kind and generous nature and deep faith, with an impulsive mischievous fun side. He was grateful for whatever blessings came his way and for all the friends and acquaintances who shared or touched his life, including all the interesting residents at the Friedenheim community where he lived for several years. He was moved by all the thoughtful folks who visited him at Klein Center. And he was thankful for the excellent care provided by the dedicated Klein Center staff.
Konrad was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his sister Anna of Park Ridge IL and a few remaining scattered cousins. Memorial contributions may be made to Divine Mercy Parish, 502 West Mt. Pleasant Street, West Burlington IA 52655.
Cremation was entrusted to Lunning Chapel. A graveside service will be held at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2024 (weather permitting), at Sacred Heart Cemetery, officiated by Father Dominic Nguyen.