Wesley Steven Pohorsky
Wesley Steven Pohorsky
Keokuk
Wesley Steven Pohorsky, 83, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2024 after an extended illness. Growing up in Cedar Rapids he was known as Steve to family and friends, and in Keokuk he was known to friends there as Wes. Services were held in Keokuk with burial in rural Sandusky Cemetery overlooking the Mississippi. DeJong-Greaves-Printy Funeral Home assisted the family. A photo tribute can be viewed under the obituary on their website.
Wesley Steven Pohorsky was born on July 7, 1940 to Wesley A. and Marie A. (Novotny) Pohorsky in Cedar Rapids. He attended Van Buren and Wilson and graduated with the first class from Jefferson in 1958. He was active in scouting and athletics. He graduated from Parsons College with a degree in education. Now going by Wes, he did his student teaching in Keokuk and accepted a position in the Keokuk schools after graduation. He married Marilyn Mortley on August 18, 1962 in Newton and they became the proud parents of Wesley “Brent” and Nicky. He devoted his professional life, of over 35 years, to education – as a teacher and coach and finally as the Athletic Director for Keokuk High School. He served in several capacities with the Iowa Boys and Girls athletic associations, as well as with the Iowa High School Athletic Directors Association. In 2011 he was inducted into the Athletic Directors Hall of Fame.
His art and crafts reflected his love for the culture of the Southwest. In retirement, he spent countless hours in his studio overlooking the Mississippi River. His creativity was expressed in paintings, lariat rope art, unique gourd art, kachina dolls, and restoring Mexican saddles.
He loved boating on the Mississippi. He was also an ardent supporter of Keokuk. He served on the Tourism Board for many years, and worked tirelessly on their annual events, such as the Civil War Reenactment, Eagle Days and Geode Fest. His optimism and his “can do” attitude were contagious.
Steve loved family dearly. His grandchildren and great-grandchild provided much pride and joy. The favorite destination for all was “Camp Grandpa” on the beautiful Mississippi River.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Marilyn (1993) and nephew Brad Pohorsky (1989). He is survived by his son, Wesley “Brent” (Linda) of Rockwall, TX and their children Mckenzy and Wesley Steven, and great-granddaughter River. Daughter Nicky Sand (Chris) of Muscatine and their children Emma and Izzy. Brother Richard “Dick” Pohorsky (Judi) of Cedar Rapids and their children Jenifer and Chad.