James F. Smetak

James F. Smetak, age 80, of West, passed away early Monday morning, March 21, 2016 at Hillcrest Hospital in Waco. Memorial services will be held 6:00 p.m. Thursday, March 24, 2016 at the Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel, followed by visitation until 8:00 p.m. James was born October 9, 1935 in Aquilla, the son of Louis A. and Marie (Kubacak) Smetak. He was a 1954 graduate of Crozier Tech High School in Dallas and attended East Texas State Teacher College in Commerce. He served his country with the United States Navy. On January 26, 1956 he was united in marriage to Peggy Ann Godwin in Dallas. James worked as an adjuster and supervisor for Kemper Insurance Company in Dallas for over 26 years before retiring in 1997. Prior to that, he was a cabinet maker. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption and was active in the ACTS Fellowship. James enjoyed woodworking and camping at the lake. He especially loved spending time with his family. James is preceded in death by his parents; a brother, Joseph Smetak; and sister, Eleanora Rejcek. Survivors include his beloved wife of 60 years, Peggy Smetak of West; sons, James "Chris" Smetak and wife Laura of McKinney, Stephen Smetak of West and Phil Smetak and wife Kelley of Wichita, Kansas; a sister, Mary Sulak; granddaughters, Sydney and Summer Smetak; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.