Larry Arnold Safarik

1945 - 2024

Larry Safarik entered Paradise on May 18, 2024. Larry was born in Taylor, TX on August 22, 1945 to parents Arnold and Gertrude Safarik.  He was raised on a farm in Thrall, TX and learned the ethic of hard work at an early age.  Larry graduated from Thrall High School where he lettered in all sports.  He then continued his education at Southwestern University in Georgetown, TX, making the Dean’s list for 3 years. While still in college, Larry married his high school sweetheart, Katy Walther at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Taylor, TX on January 22, 1966.  They were blessed with two sons, Kent Safarik and Bret Safarik.

Larry did his student teaching in Taylor under the direction of David Krueger and was employed by TISD upon graduation from college. Larry earned a Bachelor’s degree in Education.  Larry began his career by teaching history and coaching sports at the Taylor Middle School.  He taught his athletes the merits of hard work and perseverance.  He was tough, but fair.  Every player on every team was important to him.

When the Taylor High School tennis coach position became available, Larry took over that program as well.   Although he had never played tennis, he learned the game and his players excelled.  The Taylor tennis team won many State championships, including both boy’s and girl’s UIL State Championships.  Larry was inducted into the Texas Tennis Hall of Fame in Waco.  

In addition to coaching, in all his “spare” time, Larry and his brother Arnie farmed 3,000 acres of land.  They were awarded “Master Farmer” in 1991.

Because coaching and farming were not enough, Larry began a program at Taylor Middle School called “Outdoor Recreation”, teaching students skills in outdoor activities; skills that could be enjoyed the rest of their lives.  Larry was very proud of this program and enjoyed it as much as his students.  The students were so taken with the program that even after they moved on to High School, many of them returned year after year to participate in Outdoor Rec reunions at the Turkey Creek Headquarters.

Larry taught at TISD for 57 years and only retired due to ongoing health issues.  During his years with TISD, Larry inspired his students to work hard and instilled confidence in them to always do their best.  He gave of his time and talents to better their lives.

Larry is preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Arnie and his son Bret.

He is survived by his wife, Katy, son Kent and grandson John, daughter-in-law, Mindy and grandson Benjamin (Ben), and sisters-in-law Wandeen Sakewitz and Paula Safarik.  His grandsons brought him immeasurable joy.

Larry was an exceptional man who influenced many lives and made a real difference in the world.  He will be missed.

Memorials may be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church, 401 West 7th St, Taylor, Tx 76574 or charity of your choice.