Earl W. Kading Jr. of Polk City, IA peacefully passed away September 8, 2021, at home surrounded by family. Earl died of natural causes at the age of 79. He began in home hospice care on Saturday, September 4th and enjoyed quality time with family and friends the days preceding his passing. The family will hold a celebration of life at a later date.
Earl was born on April 25, 1942 in Iowa City, home of his beloved, Iowa Hawkeyes. He grew up in Casey Iowa, second of four children born to Earl W. Kading Sr. and Martha Louis Stanley and siblings, Patsy Hester, Kathy Westergaard (Neil), and Russ Kading.
Earl is married to Dee Kading, together they have a blended family of five children, ten grandchildren and two great grandchildren; Dawn Findling (George) Emily, Jacob, and Ian. Curtis Kading (Jill) Eva. Tracy Kading (Leigh) Alan and Alec. Patrick Kading (Brandy) Patrick and Brandon. Shannon Bennethum (Rod) Mackenzie and Brady. Lennox and Sullivyn. Let us not forget his beloved dog, Kinnick.
Earl was an avid Hawkeye fan and regularly attended home games, tailgating with friends. He and Dee enjoyed traveling to the bowl games, and had many unforgettable life adventures. When he watched the Hawks from home, you could find him in his decked-out, Iowa Hawkeye garage “ultimate man cave,” where he and his wife Dee hosted many neighborhood parties, which quickly became a tradition. Earl knew no stranger, in fact gave most everyone a “nickname” so he wouldn’t forget their name and made them feel special. Earl could get himself in much “mischief” in the name of having a great time with friends and family.
As we reflect on a life well lived, we will always remember Earls unmistakable laugh, wonderful smile & genuine kindness. His warm, jovial personality made anyone he met feel like part of the family. The following quotes were offered by family and friends to describe Earl, “he made the best damn bloody mary’s”, “he always carried a song in his heart”, “he whistled while he worked”, “the ultimate big brother”, “always ready to have a good time”, and “keep a cool tool”.
Finally, said best about Earl, by his neighbor and friend Brad Nobiling;
“The man, the myth the legend! Earl will never be forgotten. A great man, neighbor, father, grand-father, husband, friend. The memories of what he did and said will be spoken among many, countless times as we sit to reminisce. It can’t come soon enough when we can all see and talk to him again. Talk about the Hawkeyes as some of us puff on a cigar and have a beverage of choice. Hey, maybe, just maybe you will finally give me that secret recipe of your bloody mary? Thank you for leaving such an indelible mark on us all!”
Earl would no doubt reply, “Brad, I don’t care what your friends say about you… I think you’re alright.”
Being the absolute optimist, Earl would ask us all to be happy and celebrate a life lived fully, with much love and lots of laughter. He will be missed by us all and is now in heaven, laughing with those who passed before him.
Memorials will go to University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital.
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