Curtis Walter Bederka

Curtis Walter Bederka, a beloved pillar of the Eastgate, Liberty Count Texas community, passed away on May 9, 2024, at the age of 83. Born at home on December 21, 1940, in the Eastgate farming community where he was raised, Curtis was the cherished son of Antone Bederka and Mary Zavada Bederka.

After graduating from Dayton High School in 1959, he embarked on a path of service by joining the Air Force, where he honorably served his country for four years. Following his military service, Curtis settled in Waco, Texas, where he found joy in driving trucks, fishing and building a family.

Marriage brought him immense happiness, and he was blessed with three children, Vicki Garcia, Robert Bederka and Michael Bederka. Although he faced the loss of his first wife, Curtis's enduring love for Martha, his high school sweetheart, led him back to Dayton, where they rekindled their romance. Their union of 18 years was a testament to the power of enduring love and companionship.

Curtis found solace in the great outdoors, whether it was fishing in serene waters or hunting amidst the beauty of nature. A fan of the classic Western series Gunsmoke and Lonesome Dove, he cherished moments spent in front of the television, enjoying the timeless tales of the Old West. Curtis's hands were equally adept at woodworking and tending to his beloved garden, and Martha’s flower beds and roses, where he nurtured both vegetables and flowers with equal care.

Active in his community, Curtis was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus and cherished the camaraderie he found there. His presence at the senior community center, where he engaged in spirited games of dominoes with friends, brought joy to all who knew him. Known for his kind heart and willingness to lend a helping hand, Curtis touched the lives of many with his genuine compassion and generosity.

Curtis is preceded in death by his parents, Antone and Mary, as well as all eight of his siblings. He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories for his beloved wife, Martha Boothe Bederka, his children with his first wife, Robert Bederka, Michael Bederka, and daughter Vicki Garcia; Martha’s children, Brad Hajovsky and wife Amie, Scott Hajovsky and wife Amy, Glen Hajovsky and wife Virginia, along with numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and other relatives, and friends.

A visitation to honor Curtis's life will be held at Pace Stancil Funeral Home on Sunday, May 12, 2024, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., with a rosary to follow at 7:00 p.m. The celebration of Curtis's life will continue with a service at St. Anne's Catholic Church on Monday, May 13, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., officiated by Father Peter Nguyen. Following the service, Curtis will be laid to rest at St. Anne's Catholic Cemetery in Eastgate, where he will rest in eternal peace.