Richard James Zbaracki (1928-2014)

ZBARACKI, ULMEN

Posted By: Mark Christian
Date: 9/26/2014 at 20:42:56

Obituary From Adams Soderstrum Funeral Home, Story County, Iowa.

Richard James Zbaracki died August 13, 2014 in Maple Grove, Minnesota. Visitation will be at 10:00 AM on August 22, 2014 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in Ames, a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM and a luncheon to follow.

Dick was born April 1, 1928 in Duluth, Minnesota. After graduating from Duluth Cathedral High School, he served in the Army, completed his Bachelor’s Degree at the College of St. Thomas, and he was extremely proud of his Master’s Degree from Northwestern University. He later completed his education with a Ph.D from the University of Nebraska.

Dick spent over 30 years on the faculty at Iowa State University where he served as Coordinator of English Education, Coordinator of Freshmen English, and Chair of the Department of Curriculum and Instruction. He received the Iowa State Board of Regents Award for Faculty Excellence, and his distinguished service was recognized by the Iowa Council of Teachers of English. He also served three terms on the Ames School Board, including as President, the then helped many Iowa school boards select new superintendents. In addition, he was very involved in different capacities at St. Cecilia Parish.

Dick was married to Jacqueline Ulmen Zbaracki and had six children--Paul, Mark, Sara, Peter, Andrew and Matthew--as well as 11 grandchildren who he loved to play with. Dick was an inspirational, generous person, and his family will always remember his sacrifices and commitment to their growth. He spent many an April Fools Day patiently looking for hidden birthday presents. He enjoyed his trips on RAGBRAI with his children, guided all of his children through college, and loved to share his enjoyment of arts, theatre, and opera with everyone. While he did not have an athletic background, he developed a passion for Iowa State sports. However, what he enjoyed most was an extra thick chocolate malt from Dairy Queen.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you contribute in memoriam to Reiman Gardens.

AUG 22 A Mass of Christian Burial 11:00AM - 12:00PM
St. Cecilia Catholic Church
2900 Hoover Ave.
Ames, IA, US, 50010

AUG 22 Graveside Service 12:15PM
Iowa State University Cemetery
Pammel Drive
Ames, IA, US, 50010

http://www.adamssoderstrum.com/
 

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