Clarann Rae Dvorak

Clarann Rae Dvorak, 78, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, was called home to be with her Lord and Savior on Saturday, June 6, 2026. A private family graveside service will be held at Blodgett Cemetery in Central City, Iowa, with Pastor Rick Gail officiating.

Born on November 15, 1947, in Cedar Rapids, Clarann was the beloved daughter of Ernest “Ernie" and Frieda Nelson. From an early age, she possessed a caring heart, a strong faith, and a nurturing spirit that would become the foundation of her life. On July 8, 1966, she was united in marriage to the love of her life, Leonard Donald Dvorak Jr. "Don", at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Cedar Rapids. Their marriage was a beautiful example of unconditional love, mutual respect, faith, and devotion. Together, they built a family centered on love, laughter, and unwavering support. Their 47-year union was a blessing, not only to each other, but to everyone fortunate enough to witness it.

Clarann dedicated more than 30 years of her life to Nursing, a profession that perfectly reflected her compassionate nature. Caring for others was not simply her career, it was her calling. Whether caring for patients, family members, friends, or even strangers, Clarann always gave of herself freely and selflessly.

While she was proud of her career, Clarann’s greatest joy came from her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, an adoring Nana, and a loyal friend. Her children and grandchildren were the center of her world. Clarann treasured every opportunity to spend time with them, celebrate their accomplishments, encourage them through life's challenges, and create memories that will be cherished forever.

Clarann also found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She loved working in her garden, where her patience and care helped beautiful things grow. Clarann had a special love for animals and volunteered for many years at the DeKalb Animal Shelter in Auburn, Indiana, where her kindness touched countless lives—both human and animal alike. Her faith remained a guiding force throughout Clarann’s life, and she was a faithful member of First Assembly of God Church in Cedar Rapids.

Clarann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Don; her father, Ernest Nelson; her mother, Frieda Nelson; and her brother, Ron Nelson.

She leaves behind a family who loved her deeply and will miss her beyond measure: her son, Jeff Dvorak and girlfriend, Michelle Mackey of Des Moines, Iowa; her daughter and best friend, Kelly Horn and husband, Chris of Cedar Rapids; her daughter, Stacy Helmick and husband, Dut of Burlington, Iowa. She was the proud and loving Nana of Johnross "JR" Dvorak, C.J. Horn, Harrison Horn, Amanda Goins, Abby Charlier, Kelsey Devereux, Ari Devereux, and Adam Devereux.

Those who knew Clarann will remember her for her gentle heart, unwavering faith, quiet strength, and endless capacity to love. She had a remarkable gift for making people feel welcome, cared for, and valued. Clarann’s kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met, and her love created a family legacy that will continue for generations.

Though our hearts are broken by her passing, we find comfort in knowing she is reunited with Don and resting peacefully in the presence of her Savior. Clarann’s life was a blessing, her love was a gift, and her memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to call her wife, Mom, Nana, and friend.

Clarann and her grandson, Harrison spent a lot of time together volunteering at the Dekalb Humane Society in Auburn, Indiana. If you wish to honor Clarann’s memory in lieu of flowers, it would make her so happy to know that donations were made in her name to them.

www.dekalbhumanesociety.org