Joseph F. Zahradka, aged 81, passed away on December 8, 2024, at Altru Hospital in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Born on December 30, 1942, in Lakota, North Dakota, he was the son of William J. and Hannah (Courtney) Zahradka. Raised near Lankin, he attended Park River High School before graduating from the University of North Dakota School of Law. After his admission to the North Dakota Bar Association, Zahradka joined the US Air Force as a pilot.
He married Roberta McKinnon on April 3, 1965, in Grand Forks. During his service in Vietnam, he completed three tours and flew 225 combat missions. For his bravery and service, he received the Distinguished Flying Cross, seven air medals, and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry.
Upon retiring from the Air Force as a Lieutenant Colonel, Zahradka became an aviation professor at the University of North Dakota where he was affectionately known as Dr. Z. Later in life, he worked as a senior tax advisor at H&R Block and earned the nickname Joe the Tax Man. Following his retirement from H&R Block, he pursued farming.
Zahradka is survived by his wife Bobbi of 59 years; daughter Tawnja (Paul); son Travis (Katie); grandchildren Madisyn, Tyler and Hayley Zahradka; great-grandchildren Lilly and Apollo; along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers Bill (Shirley) and Jim (Becky); and sister Colleen.
Funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday, December 17, 2024 at Michigan Lutheran Church in Michigan City. Visitation will be held Monday from 5-7 PM with a prayer service at 7:00 PM at the same location. Military rites will be conducted by Michigan American Legion Post #238 alongside Lakota American Legion Post #21 and the US Air Force Honor Guard. A celebration of life will take place following the funeral service at Michigan Civic Center.
For more details on Joseph F. Zahradka's obituary visit: https://www.tollefsonfuneralhome.com/obituary/joseph-zahradka