John Dvorak

John "Johnny"Leon Dvorak Sr., age 81, of Elm Mott, passed away early Monday afternoon, February 24, 2025 at West Rest Haven.

A rosary will be recited 5:30 p.m. Friday at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West, followed by visitation until 7:30 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Saturday March 1, 2025 at St. Martin's Catholic Church in Tours, with Rev. Walter Dhanwar as celebrant. Military Graveside Rites will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery near West, conducted by the West Veterans Honor Guard.

Born to a farming family on November 8, 1943, in West, Texas, Johnny was the son of John J. and Emma (Dirba) Dvorak. Raised in a Czech-speaking home, Johnny began school knowing only Czech before quickly picking up English in the classroom. He attended schools in West, where he began to shape the life that would be marked by hard work, dedication, and deep connections to family and community. He left school to go to work but then later received his GED through Baylor. On October 8, 1966, Johnny was united in marriage to Patricia Garrison in a ceremony that would be the foundation of a loving partnership that spanned over five decades. Together, they raised a family that filled their home with joy. Johnny took great pride in being a devoted father to his children, as well as a doting grandfather to his grandchildren. A proud veteran of the United States Army, Johnny served his country as a heavy equipment operator. His commitment to service reflected his strong character and sense of duty. After his military service, he transitioned into a successful career as a truck driver. In the 1970s, he worked for the Schlitz beer distributorship, driving delivery trucks across the region and making many new friends with co-workers and customers alike. He went on to operate his own long-haul trucking company, Dvorak Trucking, from 1980 until his retirement in 2008. Johnny's work ethic and dedication were matched only by his passion for the outdoors. He cherished moments spent deer hunting and fishing, especially with his sons and lifelong friend, Eddie Ray Scheler. He also enjoyed dancing, having a few pivos, dominoes, and fast cars. Johnny was a lifelong Catholic and an active member of St. Martin's Catholic Church in Tours. His faith guided him throughout his life, providing comfort and strength in both good times and bad.

Johnny is preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Leona Gerik (Eugene), Mary Young (Durwood), and Evelyn Kolar.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 58 years, Patricia (Patsy) Dvorak of Elm Mott; his children, Raymond (Jody) Dvorak and wife Linda, John Dvorak Jr. and wife Amanda, and Michelle Miller and husband Donnie; his grandchildren, Peyton Dvorak, Garrison Dvorak, Matthew Dvorak, LauraLayne Dvorak, Thomas Dvorak and Savannah Miller; sister, Georgie Hutchison; brother-in-law, Raymond Kolar; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Active Pallbearers are Peyton Dvorak, Garrison Dvorak, Matthew Dvorak, Thomas Dvorak, Raymond Kolar Jr, Paul Hutchison, John W. Dvorak and Danny Slovak. Honorary Pallbearers are Savannah Miller and LauraLayne Dvorak.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the West VFW #4819 Womens Auxiliary.

A memorial guestbook can be found at www.aderholdfh.com.

Aderhold Funeral Home in West is in charge of arrangements.