Edward L. "Eddie" Cada

Edward L. “Eddie” Cada, age 86, of Winona, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his own home in his recliner, on Saturday, January 20, 2024.

He was born on October 8, 1937, in Winona, to Mark and Barbara (Gabrych) Cada, and honorably served his country with the United States Air Force from 1955-1958.

He was united in marriage with Barbara Ratajczyk on January 5, 1963, at St. John Nepomucene Church in Winona, and she preceded him in death on October 9, 2018.

Ed was employed with Peerless Chain Company in Winona for 37 years until his retirement, and he was a member of St. John Nepomucene Church.

He will be remembered for his appreciation of the simpler things in life.  He enjoyed woodworking, remodeling his home, a good dish of ice-cream, taking Barb all over town shopping and running errands, and trips with Barb to Branson and Ocala, FL.

An avid sports fan, Ed especially enjoyed watching the Vikings, Twins, Timberwolves, and the Minnesota Wild.  He had a great love for his dogs, including Elvis, Adam, and Yukon.

He will be deeply missed by all those who knew and loved him.

Ed is lovingly survived by his children: Dallas (Sherry) Cada, Dawn (Dennis) Cooper, Jackie (Rick) Cada, and Eileen Cada, who was his caregiver; grandchildren: Heather, Brian, Aaron, Charity (Christopher, Sr.), Carl, Sean, Craig, John, and Amanda; great-grandchildren: Andrew, Isaac, Cameron, Caroline, Christopher, Jr., Dominic, Malachi, Jordan, Karmine, Nasia, Elijah, Aiden, and Kayleigh; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his wife, parents, grandson, Colton Cooper; and siblings: Harold, Richard, Robert, Donald, Larry, and Ruth.

Visitation will be held at St. John Nepomucene Church, 558 E. Broadway, Winona, on Thursday, January 25, 2024, from 10:30 AM until the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 AM.   The Very Reverend Patrick Arens will officiate.  

Ed will be laid to rest at St. Mary’s Cemetery, where the American Legion Leon J. Wetzel Post 9 of Winona will provide military honors.

Pallbearers will be: Craig Cada, John Fann, Aaron Cada, Mark Cada, Adam Smith, and Mike Walechka.

Memorials may be directed to St. John Nepomucene Church.

Ed’s family would like to express their deepest appreciation to the staff of the Gundersen Health System, Winona Health Hospice, those from St. John’s Church who brought First Friday communion, and especially to Mike Walechka and his family for their friendship and help they provided over the last several years.

Online condolences of memories may be left for Ed’s family at www.watkowski-mulyck.com.

Watkowski-Mulyck Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.