Andrew Kobza

Andrew E. Kobza, 96, of David City passed away Tuesday, August 13 at his home in David City.

Mass of Christian Burial will be on Monday, August 19, at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard. Visitation will be Monday from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., with a Parish Rosary starting at 10:30 a.m. Interment will be in Holy Trinity Cemetery with lunch following in the Klein Center. Moravec Johnson Mortuary is assisting Andrew’s family with arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, plants, and statues, memorials may be directed in care of the family for a later designation. 

Andrew Kobza was born on August 1, 1928 in Brainard, Nebraska to Adolph and Rose (Pavel) Kobza. He attended Holy Trinity Catholic School and later attended a country school near his home. As a young boy he worked along side his dad and brother on the family farm where he farmed and raised cattle. He eventually took over the farm until his retirement in the early 2000’s and later moved to David City. 

On August 14, 1951, Andrew joined the United States Army in the 6th Armored Division. He traveled to Korea where he was stationed for 1 year and served as a Demolition Specialist. There, he was awarded the Korean Service Medal with 3 Bronze Service Stars. He was also awarded the United Nations Service Medal and received two overseas bars. He was honorably discharged on August 13, 1959. 

Andrew was a member of the Brainard American Legion Post 273. He never missed a funeral, honoring the members of his squad with the 21-Gun Salute. He currently served as Brainard Legion’s oldest member at 96 years of age. He occasionally attended Mass at his hometown parish, Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Brainard, but was an active parish member at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in David City. 

Andrew loved music, especially Czech polkas and country music. He never missed listening to Molly B and Big Joe Radio every Sunday morning. He had a great love of gardening, canning vegetables, and made the best apple strudel and duck. Andrew was a caregiver to his parents for several years until their passing. After his parents passing, he was still very compassionate to everyone. He was a caregiver to anyone that needed it, and would bring over soup when anyone felt ill. His humor, caring and compassionate self will be missed by many. 

Andrew is survived by his nephews: Adrian Scholz, Lyle Divis, David (Char) Ratkovec, and nieces: Yvonne (Bern) Hottovy, Carolee (Lowell) Quinlan, Sharon (Larry) Poskochil, Jennifer (Jim) McDonald, Arlyce Graffis, Cynthia (Ron) Glaser, Rachelle (Dan) Zysset, and Barb (Mike) Krenk. 

He is preceded in death by his parents, brother, Emory, brother and sister in law Marion and Betty Kobza, sister and brother in law, Alice and Ray Graffis, sister and brother in law, Leona and Art Divis, and sister and brother in law Sylvia and Leroy Ratkovec, and special friends, Edwardine Stara and Norma Matulka.