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‘Angel of Czech Village’: Mary Kay Novak McGrath passes away at 69

Lifelong local resident played key role in investment, development of Czech Village businesses
By: Richard Pratt|February 26, 2024
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    • Mary Kay Novak McGrath 2022 Chadima Award

    Lijun Chadima, Don Barrigar, Mary Kay Novak McGrath and David Chadima are shown April 20, 2022, after the State of the District luncheon at the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library in Cedar Rapids. Ms. Novak McGrath and Mr. Barrigar were named recipients of the 2022 Robert Chadima Visionary Award at the event. (CREDIT CINDY HADISH)

    Over the years, Mary Kay Novak McGrath became affectionately known as “The Angel of Czech Village,” but friends and family members say it’s not a title she would have actively pursued for herself.

    Ms. Novak McGrath, a Cedar Rapids native, Jefferson High School graduate and longtime community supporter who purchased a number of Czech Village buildings in 2018 and worked diligently to transform many of them into thriving businesses, passed…

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