Lucian "Lou" Bratkiewicz

Lou Bratkiewicz, 76, died on October 2, 2022, at Countryside Healthcare Center.

A memorial service will be held at 12:00 p.m., on Monday, October 10, 2022, at Christy-Smith Morningside Chapel, 1801 Morningside Ave., Sioux City, Iowa, with visitation beginning two hours prior, at 10:00 a.m.

Lou was born in Bamberg, Germany and immigrated to the U.S. in 1949 when he was 3 years old. He graduated from Bishop Heelan Catholic High School and attended Briar Cliff College. He served in the U.S. Army, with a tour of duty in Vietnam. Lou worked as a federal food safety inspector for more than 40 years. After he retired, Lou enjoyed playing golf, cheering for the Hawkeyes, and going to the Elks Lodge. He was an avid Cubs fan. A highlight of his last Summer was a visit to Wrigley Field with two of his grandsons for their first Cubs game. With a knack for telling humorous stories, Lou enjoyed family gatherings where he was known for his clever quips and one-liners. Lou also had no shortage of friends, and he possessed a unique talent for getting along with everyone he met. Lou was not one to complain or dwell on the negative. He was loving, forgiving, and never backed down from life’s challenges. Lou was proud of his family, his career, and his Polish heritage.

Lou is survived by Connie, his wife of 50 years. The couple had two children: Jeff (Heidi) of Sioux Falls, SD, and Anne of Sioux City. Lou doted on his 3 grandsons: Sam Bratkiewicz, Eli Sandage, and Max Barajas. He is also survived by his brother, Dr. Rick (Mary Ellen) Bratkiewicz of West Des Moines, IA, his sister, Dr. Linda Bratkiewicz, of Clive, IA, and 13 nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Adeline (who passed in 2012) and Ignacy Bratkiewicz (who passed in 1973), and an infant brother John who was stillborn in 1957.

Memorials may be made in Lou’s memory to the Carmelite Monastery, 2901 South Cecelia Street, Sioux City, IA 51106.