Leo Joseph Hejda Jr.

Leo Joseph Hejda Jr., 87, passed away on November 18, 2025, at EveryStep Kavanagh House in Des Moines. He was born on September 5, 1938. In Cedar Rapids to Leo Sr., and Lorraine (Kehoe) Hejda.

He retired as an inspector for the City of Des Moines. An avid golf enthusiast, Leo devoted countless hours to the sport he loved, mentoring young golfers and sharing his passion with anyone willing to learn.

Leo found joy in the outdoors, especially while tending to his yard and rose garden. Every afternoon, you could find him sitting at the end of his driveway waiting for the mailman, a simple routine he cherished. He kept a supply of dog treats in his garage and delighted in greeting neighborhood dog walkers, always ready to offer their companions a treat.

With an outgoing spirit and a warm heart, Leo touched the lives of everyone around him. His friends and family meant everything to him, and he cherished every moment spent with them

Leo is survived by his sons, Curtis Hejda, Craig (Stacy) Hejda, Clark (Darcee) Hejda and Jon Hejda; 8 grandchildren; 3 great grandchildren and sister-in-law, Catherine Hejda.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betty Hejda; parents Leo and Lorraine Hejda; brother, Richard “Rick” Hejda and his beloved shih tzu, Mimi.

Family will greet guests on Tuesday, December 2, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 p.m., at Hamilton’s near Highland Memory Garden, 121 NW 60th Ave., Des Moines, Iowa. A funeral service will take place on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., at the funeral home. Leo will be laid to rest at Garrett Cemetery in Delta, Iowa.

Memorial contributions may be directed to Golf House Iowa, 8050 Golf House Drive, Des Moines, Iowa, in loving memory of Leo.

Online condolences may be expressed at www.hamiltonsfuneralhome.com

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