Paul Grmela

Paul J. Grmela, age 76, of Abbott, passed away early Saturday afternoon, May 10, 2014 at Hillcrest Medical Center in Waco. A rosary will be recited 6:00 p.m. Monday at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West by Janice Kaluza, followed by a visitation until 8:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Abbott, with Rev. Ed Karasek as celebrant. Military Graveside Rites will follow at Fatima Cemetery conducted by the West Veterans Honor Guard. Paul was born August 15, 1937 in Vaughan, the son of Vaclav "Jim" and Julie (Rejcek) Grmela. He attended schools in Abbott and was a 1955 graduate of Abbott High School. On October 21, 1961, Paul was united in marriage to Irene Jakubik in Ennis. Paul served his country with the United States Army for 36 years before retiring as Chief Warrant Officer. He served during Desert Storm in the early 1990's. Paul was a farmer and served on the Abbott City Council. He was a member of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Abbott. He was also a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #4819 and K.J.T. Society in Abbott. Paul enjoyed taking care of his dog "Bitsy" and spending time outdoors. He was known as a handyman. Paul is preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his beloved wife of 52 years, Irene Grmela of Abbott; four daughters, Joan Spainhour of PA, Denise Williams and husband Richard of Bristol, FL, Carol Cathey and husband Jimmy of College Station and Susan Popp and husband Brady of Abbott; two brothers, George Grmela and wife Josey and Edward Grmela; a sister, Margaret Kaska and husband Bill; 7 grandchildren, Daniel Williams, Joshua Williams, Ryan Popp, Darren Popp, Sara Cathey, Rachel Cathey and Jared Cathey; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Pallbearers are Daniel Williams, Josh Williams, Ryan Popp, Darren Popp, Jared Cathey, Andrew Jakubik and Ernest Jakubik. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, Abbott Volunteer Fire Dept. or the charity of your choice.