Ralph Kenneth Baracz

Ralph K. Baracz, 75 years old, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family at 7:06 p.m. on June 11. His departure leaves a void not only in the lives of his family, but also in the hearts of all who knew him.

He was born on March 26, 1949 in Cleveland, Ohio, the son of Henry Sr. and Bernice (Karpowicz) Baracz. He graduated from Cuyahoga Heights High School in 1967, attended junior college in Centerville, Iowa before he was given a full athletic scholarship to play football for the Iowa State Cyclones. During this time, Ralph met Diana Hope and the couple later married on February 20, 1971.

He was a valued member of the Waterloo Fire Department for many years, retiring in 2002. Ralph was a legend at the WFD. His stories will forever echo throughout the stations. He was more than just a firefighter; he was a beacon of strength and courage, serving his community with unwavering dedication for 27 years.

A natural storyteller with an infectious spirit, Ralph was the life of every party, leaving laughter and joy in his wake. His vibrant personality and zest for life endeared him to all who had the privilege of knowing him.

When Ralph wasn't entertaining, he spent time pursuing his other passions like cooking, hunting, caring for his high-tailed bird dogs, coaching, and watching his grandkids grow up.

If you know Ralph, you know that in all of these endeavors, he went full force. He didn't do anything "halfway". He was able to connect and make a difference in the lives of countless athletes, many of which reached out in these last difficult months giving him thanks for always staying in touch even after the glory of the moment was gone.

Though Ralph may have left this world, his legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the memories he created. As we bid farewell to a remarkable man, let us remember him not with sorrow, but with gratitude for the light he brought into our lives. As a man of profound faith, Ralph Baracz will forever remain a cherished figure in our hearts.

Ralph is survived by his wife, Diana of Cedar Falls; two daughters, Betsy Smith of Waterloo, and Lindsey Baracz of St. Paul, MN; three grandchildren who were the light of his life, Anna, Mary and JP Smith; a sister, Aurelia (Rich) Nutaitis of Cleveland, OH and numerous extended family members.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Henry Baracz Jr., and special nephew Nicholas Mohs IV.

Visitation:

Friday, June 14th, 4:00-7:00 p.m. (4:00 p.m. rosary)

Locke Funeral Home, Tower Park, 4140 Kimball Avenue, Waterloo, Iowa

Mass:

Saturday, June 15th, 10:30 a.m. (Visitation 9:30-10:20 a.m.)

Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church, 650 Stephan Ave, Waterloo, Iowa

Celebration of Life:

Immediately following the service, Red Carpet Golf Course Clubhouse, 1409 Newell Street, Waterloo, Iowa

Memorials may be directed to Cedar Valley Hospice, PO Box 2880, Waterloo, Iowa 50704.

Condolences may be left at www.lockefuneralservices.com or by calling Locke Funeral Home 319-233-3146.