Johnny Pavelka, Sr.

John J. "Johnny" Pavelka Sr., age 82, of Abbott, passed away late Monday morning, December 19, 2022 at his residence.

A rosary will be recited 6:00 p.m. Tuesday at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West, followed by visitation until 8:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 28, 2022 at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption in West, with Rev. Stephen Nesrsta as celebrant. Military Graveside Rites will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery in West, conducted by West Veterans Honor Guard.

Johnny was born August 5, 1940 in West, the son of the late John and Albina (Kocian) Pavelka. He attended Abbott schools. On November 19, 1960 he was united in marriage to Reta Wells in Coleman. Johnny proudly served his country in the United States Army National Guard. Johnny was a member of Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church. He was also a member of American Legion Post #478 and SPJST Lodge. He worked for Duncan Truck Sales in Waco for 25 years before retiring in 1990. Johnny enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, gardening, and visiting with anyone and everyone. He loved spending time with family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandson.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 62 years, Reta Pavelka of Abbott; a daughter, Becky Willis of Abbott; a son, John Pavelka Jr. of Whitney; his brothers, Rudolph Pavelka and wife Nolene, Raymond Pavelka and wife Betty, Billy Pavelka and wife Doris, David Pavelka and wife Jeanette, and Frankie Pavelka and wife Mary; a sister, Evelyn Gonce and husband Wilburn; a brother-in-law, Kenneth Wells; grandchildren, Jeff Butcher and wife Paige, Josh Butcher, Brittany Rhoudes, Jacob Pavelka, Jared Pavelka, Julia Pavelka, Joey Pavelka, and Jaycee Pavelka; a great-grandson, Hunter Butcher; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Pallbearers are David Pavelka Jr., Michael Pavelka, Jeff Butcher, Josh Butcher, Jacob Pavelka, Jared Pavelka and Joey Pavelka.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Abbott Volunteer Fire Department or the Hillsboro Boys and Girls Club.