Jerry Josef Ernest Zapalac, 91, passed away Thursday, Dec. 10, 2020. On this day he was born again celebrating his earthly birthday with his heavenly birthday. Jerry was born Dec. 10, 1929, in Sealy, Texas, to parents Charles Zapalac and Albina Belunek. He grew up in Frydek, Texas, where he attended school.

He served honorably in the United States Army as a corporal from 1952 to 1954 during the Korean Conflict. Jerry’s many occupations included cotton farmer, cattle rancher, owner-operator of Main Street Grocery, and carpenter for Lamar ISD where he retired in 1994.

He married Stella Valicek, the love of his life, in Rosenberg, Texas, on May 28, 1953. Over the years, they raised their family of two children, Pat and Cindy, in Sealy.

Jerry enjoyed working on “the farm” located in Frydek where he spent many days on his tractors, fixing fences, and working cattle. When he wasn’t on the farm, he could be found attending tractor shows in Texas or as far away as Iowa. He also loved his annual trips to Fredericksburg for fresh peaches.

Jerry became a widower in January 1982. After finding love again, he married Vera Vrazel in January 1996. Jerry enjoyed his visits to the Czech Republic with Vera visiting family and friends. He also said the pivo and slivovice were much better over in Europe.

Jerry enjoyed listening and dancing to polka music and also playing the fiddle and accordion. He loved a good barbecue plate combined with polka music at annual church picnics such as Frydek and the Father’s Day picnic at Millheim with his son and grandsons.

Surviving family includes his wife Vera Vrazel Zapalac; son Patrick Zapalac and daughter-in-law Margaret (Peggy) Zapalac; daughter Cynthia Agnor and son-in-law John E. Agnor III; grandchildren Jacob Zapalac, Ryan Zapalac, John E. Agnor IV, Megan Agnor, and Kyle Agnor.

Jerry was preceded in death by his wife of 29 years, Stella Valicek; and sisters Bertha Jalowy and Patricia Zapalac.

And we will always greet you with a fond “Jak se máš” and will forever say “Miluji te”.

A visitation with the family was held Dec. 14 at Knesek Bros. Hwy 36 Funeral Chapel. Funeral Mass was held on Dec. 15 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Sealy. Interment followed the funeral mass at Immaculate Conception Catholic Cemetery in Sealy.

Funeral Arrangements under the directions of Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel 768 Fourth St., Sealy; 979-885-3535; www.knesekfuneralhome.com.