Edward Fred "Ed" Melichar, 77, of Cedar Rapids, died Tuesday evening, January 28, 2020 at the Oldorf Hospice House of Mercy, Hiawatha, after a four year hard-fought, no self-pity struggle with pulmonary fibrosis.

Funeral Mass: 11:00 A.M. Saturday at Saint Wenceslaus Catholic Church by Father Christopher Podhajsky. Burial with Navy graveside services: Saint John's Cemetery. Friends may call from 4 to 7 P.M. Friday at Papich-Kuba Funeral Home East, 1228 2 ^nd Street S.E., and after 10:00 A.M. Saturday at the church. The rosary begins at 6:30 P.M. Friday at the funeral home.

Edward was born February 24, 1942 in Cedar Rapids, the son of Joseph and Blanche (Terpkosh) Melichar.

A hard working man best describes Ed, who throughout most of his years of employment, worked both a full time, as well as a part time job while also fulfilling his military obligations. After retirement, he enjoyed keeping busy with home improvement projects and maintaining a beautifully manicured lawn.

Ed proudly served his country in the U.S. Naval Reserve and was on active duty during the Vietnam Era. He was stationed aboard the USS Maloy when it took part in the Naval blockade of Cuba during the Cuban Missile Crisis. Upon his honorable discharge, he reenlisted in the Naval Reserve retiring after 30 years of service.

Ed was a member of the following organizations: Fleet Reserve Association Branch 216 where he served as treasurer; Post 298 of the American Legion in Marion and the Cadets of St. George Branch W045, FCSLA (formerly Catholic Workman) where he served as vice-president.

Ed has been a member of Saint Wenceslaus Catholic Church since his marriage to the former Janet Jakoubek on February 23, 1963. Following the flood of 2008, Ed volunteered many months, along with other volunteers, on the restoration of St. Wenceslaus Church and other buildings on the church premises. Ed also served on the Buildings and Grounds Committee and the Parish Council.

By far, Ed's greatest joys were family oriented. Family trips, events and activities, especially those involving his three granddaughters whom he adored. Their "Papa" was a kid at heart, he made them laugh at his humorous sayings. Funny things that he loved doing, especially stopping by to pick up any would be treasures lying in the street which one time ended up being a garlic bucket.

Ed is survived by his wife of 56 years, Janet; daughters, Lori (Ryan) DeCamp and Sheri (David) Johnston, all of Cedar Rapids; granddaughters, Jordan (Brian) Paulson of Grinnell, Jade Johnston and significant other Alex of Fairfield and Skylar DeCamp of Cedar Rapids; great-grandson, Cory Paulson and great-great granddaughter, Lyla Paulson both of Grinnell. Also surviving is a sister, Janice Ashbacker of Solon; sisters-in-law, Sharlene Melichar and Beverly Thole both of Cedar Rapids; brother-in-law, James (Melva) Jakoubek of Cedar Rapids and many beloved nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Preceding Ed in death were his parents and parents-in-law, George and Josephine Jakoubek; brothers, Joseph Jr., Richard and Donald; sister-in-law, Eileen Melichar and brother-in-law, Walter Ashbacker.

Special thanks to Dr. Abhishek Kumar with Mercy Pulmonology for his compassionate care for Ed over the last four years.

Memorials may be given to Saint Wenceslaus Catholic Church or a charity of the donor's choice.

Farewell: Old Sailors Never Die, They Just Sail Away. Fair Winds and Following Seas "Fast Eddie"!