Kenneth "Ken" Eugene Erger

Kenneth “Ken” Eugene Erger, 98 of Cedar Rapids, died Friday, March 8, 2024 at Northbrook Manor Care Center. He leaves behind a legacy as a beloved family man, a dedicated Navy veteran, and a pillar of his community.

Funeral Mass: 10 a.m. Friday, April 5, 2024 at St. Jude Catholic Church by Rev. Nick March. Burial: St. John’s Cemetery. A vigil service will be held at 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at Teahen Funeral Home. Those not attending the vigil service may visit with the family on Thursday from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the funeral home and on Friday at the church after 9 a.m.

Ken will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew him. He is survived by his daughters, Linda (David) Swope of North Liberty, Sheryl (Mike) Rogers of San Diego, CA, Marla Wardell of Cedar Rapids; son, Gary (Shelly) Erger of Cedar Rapids; brother-in-law Clair Rowe of Cedar Falls; nine grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great-grandchild. 

Ken was preceded in death by his wife, Ginger; brother and sister-in-law, Bob and Mary Erger; sister and brother-in-law, Rita and Donald Erusha; sister Florine Rowe; brothers and sisters-in -law Milo and Gladys Kofran and Rose and Wilmer Sedlacek.   

Born on November 26, 1925, in Walford, to Walter and Esther Norland Erger, Ken’s journey was one defined by courage, service, and unwavering devotion. After graduating from Walford High School in 1943, he enlisted in the Navy and served aboard the USS Intrepid during World War II. The USS Intrepid, now a museum in New York City, faced significant challenges during the war, being hit by kamikaze attacks multiple times. His service exemplified bravery and honor, and earned him the Purple Heart. Ken’s recollections of his time serving in World War II are preserved through his oral histories recorded by the Intrepid Museum and other institutions. His contributions will enlighten future generations and ensure that the memories of his fellow sailors and the lessons of that era endure.

Following his discharge from the Navy in 1946, Ken pursued higher education at Coe College, where he graduated in 1950 and was a baseball letter winner. He married Georgianna Kofron on June 30, 1947, in Cedar Rapids. One of Ken’s greatest sources of joy was found in the warmth of his family. His unwavering love, wisdom, and kindness always provided a steadfast anchor in their lives.

Ken dedicated 40 years to working as an insurance agent, primarily as co-owner of Slavia Agencies, which later became First Iowa Insurance Agency. He was well known in the Cedar Rapids community as his gentle demeanor and genuine interest in others allowed him to build lasting relationships wherever he went.

Throughout his life, Ken dedicated himself to serving his community selflessly. He was a member of St. Jude Catholic Church where he served on the finance committee for 30 years and volunteered for the Sweet Corn Festival since its inception. He was a member of Knights of Columbus Council 5544 and Catholic Layman. He was also a member of the Elks Club, American Legion, and V.F.W. Local #788. He served as past president of the Cedar Rapids Association of Insurance Agents and the Cedar Rapids Life Underwriting Association. Ken was a founding member of the Thursday Noon Optimist Club of Cedar Rapids and he volunteered countless hours at the Community Health Free Clinic. He was also part of the National Czech and Slovak Museum & Library for many years–he was a volunteer before it even had a building; one of Ken’s properties–a three-room house–served as the NCSML’s first home. Ken was a devoted Hawkeye fan and a proud supporter of Xavier High School.

Ken’s impact leaves an indelible mark on his community, and his legacy of faith, service, and love will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

The family would like to thank the staffs at Prairie Hills and Northbrook Manor for their outstanding care of Ken. 

Memorials may be directed to St. Jude Catholic Church or Xavier High School.