Raymond A. Knapek

Raymond A. Knapek, age 85, of Axtell, passed away early Friday morning, March 2, 2007 at Wesley Woods Care Center in Waco. The family will receive visitors from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. Sunday at Aderhold Funeral Home in West. A rosary will be recited 7:00 p.m. Sunday by Sister Bernice Knapek. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Monday at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption with Rev. Timothy Vavarek as celebrant. Military graveside rites will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, conducted by VFW Post #4819. Mr. Knapek was born on January 25, 1922 near Penelope, the son of Joe and Mary (Hlavenka) Knapek. He attended Griffin school and Mt. Calm High School. Raymond served his country in the United States Army Air Corp during World War II. On December 29, 1945 he was united in marriage to Rosie (Soukup) Knapek. Raymond was known as a very happy man. He enjoyed whistling, singing, and listening to Czech music. He was very proud to be a lifelong farmer and rancher. Raymond was named the Outstanding Farmer by McLennan County Soil Conservation and Waco Lions Club and was also an honorary member of the Axtell Future Farmers of America. He also was a sponsor of the McLennan County Jr. Livestock show for over 25 years. Raymond was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Bellmead. His parents; two brothers, Eddie Knapek and John Knapek; and five sisters, Mary Bartosh, Nora Holacka, Bena Kubala, Matilda Sykora, and Christine Sykora all preceded him in death. Survivors include his beloved wife of 61 years, Rosie Knapek of Axtell; one brother, Ben Knapek and his wife Lottie of Penelope; one sister, Olga Hutyra of West; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends. Pallbearers are Larry Knapek, Thomas Matus, Ronnie Sykora, David Pavelka, Ray Bartosh, Bill Sustala, Richard Soukup, and John Kramr. Memorials may be made to Providence Hospice, Wesley Woods Alzheimer's Care Center, Scholarship Fund for Catholic Education at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, St. Mary's Parish Center, or the charity of your choice.