August John Gallia

August J. Gallia, age 88, of Mesquite, formerly of Penelope, passed away early Monday morning, July 9, 2012 at Golden Acres in Dallas. A rosary will be recited 6:00 p.m. Wednesday at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Thursday at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption, with Rev. Ed Karasek as celebrant. Burial will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery. August was born June 27, 1924 in Penelope, the son of Frances (Hanzelka) and August J. Gallia Sr. He attended the Brigman School near Penelope. He served his country with the United States Army during World War II and was honorably discharged at the rank of Private 1st Class in January of 1946. On January 7, 1947 he was united in marriage to Cecilia Marek in West. August was a cabinet maker for George Steele and Associates and several other construction companies prior to retiring in 1989. He was a member of St. Pius X Catholic Church in Dallas. He was also a member of the K.J.T. Society #111 and the S.P.J.S.T. Lodge #84. August enjoyed polka music, playing his accordion, working in the garden, and doing yard work. August is preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Henry Gallia, Alois Gallia, and Charlie Gallia; and two sisters, Marie Knezek and Martha Kubala. Survivors include his beloved wife of 65 years, Cecilia Gallia of Mesquite; a daughter, Connie Malek and husband Ed of Paradise; grandchildren, Eric Malek, Angela Malek and Niki Malek; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Pallbearers are Cy Svrcek, Cy Marek, Michael Gallia, Daniel Vanek, David Knezek, and Tom Marek. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. Mary's School Endowment Fund.