Robert Carl Potratz

Robert Carl Potratz, 83, of Cedar Falls, passed away at home on Thursday, June 18, 2026. He was born in Oelwein on March 9, 1943, son of Carl and Alice (Downing) Potratz. Bob graduated from West Central High School in Maynard in 1961, then enlisted in the U.S. Navy, serving until 1965. Following an honorable discharge, he returned to Iowa and enrolled at the State College of Iowa, graduating in 1969. On July 13, 1968, Bob married Linda Kay Fox at Nazareth Lutheran Church. He worked for Olson’s Boathouse where he developed the skills and passion for boats leading him to open his own business, Tower Plaza Marine and RV.

Bob was a born leader who was reliable, honorable and trustworthy. He enjoyed all sports, especially watching baseball and playing pickleball, and he was an Iowan to the core, having visited most of the communities and sites in the state. Bob liked traveling anywhere that he could soak in some vitamin D, especially at the Lake of the Ozarks and the sunny beaches of the Florida Gulf Coast. He loved taking long bike rides on Sunday afternoons, especially when it included a stop for ice cream. With his love for the outdoors Bob’s lawn and garden were always meticulously groomed. He had a passion for History, Geography and Genealogy and was an active volunteer with the Cedar Falls Historical Society. But above all else, Bob treasured time with his family and loved to attend his grandchildren’s many and varied activities.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Linda; his brothers: Ralph, Roy (Jean) and Randall; and brothers-in-law, Ken Oelrich and Charlie Eickhoff. He is survived by his children: Chad (Kristena) Potratz of Cedar Falls, Kara (Mark) Scott of Chaska, MN, and Shane Potratz of Story City; grandchildren: Savannah (Bradley), Bethany (Blake), Rebekah (Jack), Jackson, Ellie, Joe, Mercy and Zeke; great-grandchildren, Henry, Jeffrey and Theodore; siblings: Laurel Eickhoff of Independence, MO, Loyce Oelrich of Fayette, IA, and Russell (Glenda) Potratz of Gilbertville; many beloved nieces and nephews; and his special friend, Betty Balkenende (and her corgi, Panda) of Marble Rock.

Bob’s Funeral Service will be at 11:00 AM on Monday, June 29, 2026, at Nazareth Lutheran Church with Visitation from 3-5:00 PM the evening prior at Dahl-Van Hove-Schoof Funeral Home both in Cedar Falls. Military Honors to follow the service with burial at a later date. Memorials may be directed to the family for future designation to causes close to Bob's heart.

As Bob and Linda first met at Hy-Vee and their son, Chad, works for Hy-Vee, the family would like to recommend the Hy-Vee Floral shop if you wish to send a floral arrangement for the Visitation and/or Service.