Obituary of Richard Lee Hruby

Richard Hruby, 86, of North Liberty died Wednesday July 14, 2021, at the Bird House - Hospice Home of Johnson County surrounded by family. Richard’s family will receive guests for visitation at Gay and Ciha Funeral and Cremation Services (2720 Muscatine Ave, Iowa City) on Monday, July 19, from 4-7 pm. A funeral service is scheduled for Tuesday, July 20, 11 am at Parkview Church (15 Foster Rd., Iowa City). Richard will be laid to rest at the Oxford Cemetery. Richard was born Sept. 20,1934 in rural Oxford, IA to Stanley and Ethel (Mueller) Hruby. He graduated from Oxford High School in 1953. In 1956 he joined the US Army, and was stationed in Frankfurt, Germany. He later returned and completed his service in the Army Reserves until 1962. He married Merlene Rose Knight on November 23, 1958, at Marion Presbyterian Church. A year later they started a family, with the birth of their daughter Janice, who was later joined by son John. From early childhood to his final days, farming was a family business for the Hrubys. Richard shared field work with his brothers Lloyd and Ray, son John, and nephew Luke. They each had livestock, as well. When his son and daughter-in-law chose to build a new home in the country, Richard worked alongside the construction crew to help the work go faster. He frequently donated time to help John with projects for the North Liberty Jaycees. In later years, he would help with remodeling or upkeep of the grounds for John and wife Amanda’s business. Throughout his life, Richard enjoyed working with lifelong friends from the Oxford community, including those from the local Birthday Club. He and his family found many friends in the Iowa City area, as well. They have attended Parkview Church for over 40 years. Richard served as deacon and usher and took turns with others to host or lead home Bible studies. Surviving Richard is his beloved wife Merlene; children, Janice (Michael) Gregory and John (Amanda Lynn-Hruby) Hruby; grandchildren, Anne Marie Gregory, Hailey Gregory, Clifford Williams, Mylissa Rehm and Monika Barnes; brother, Don Hruby (Cille); sister- in- laws, Shirley Hruby and Marie Hruby. Sadly, Richard is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Lue Ellen Larew; brother-in-law, Harold James Larew; brothers, Lloyd Hruby and Ray S. Hruby. Memorial contributions are suggested to Richard’s family or the Bird House – Hospice of Johnson County. To share a thought, memory or condolence with his family please visit the funeral home website @ www.gayandciha.com.