August "Gus" Frank Smejkal

August Frank "Gus" Smejkal, a beloved member of the community, passed away peacefully surrounded by his family, at his home in Beeville, Texas on October 9, 2023, at the age of 86.

Gus was born July 14, 1937, in Yoakum, Texas to Frank Albert Smejkal and Rose Frances (Targac) Smejkal. He married Evelyn Fojtik on August 20, 1960, in Mathis. He served honorably in the U.S. Army. Faith played a significant role in his life. He was an active parishioner of St. Joseph Catholic Church and took great pride in being a 3rd degree Knight with the Knights of Columbus Council #1653 and served as a grand knight.

Gus was an exceptional individual who dedicated his life to his family and his career. Following in his father's footsteps, he continued to work in the family-owned business, Smejkal Electric, until he started his own company, A&E Electric, and retired from there. His commitment and hard work helped establish the company as a prominent name in the electric industry in Beeville and surrounding areas. After retirement, he enjoyed greeting customers at Wal-Mart with a friendly and bigger-than-life smile.

Gus was preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Rose Smejkal; sister, Barbara Van Allen; brother-in-law, Allan Van Allen; and brother, Frank M. Smejkal.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Evelyn (Fojtik) Smejkal of Beeville; son, Scott (Lesley) Smejkal of Victoria; two daughters, Sharon (Bill) Tillotson of Round Rock and Carol (Regan) Bain of Cedar Hill; three grandsons, Cody (Kelsey) Tillotson, Colton Tillotson and Kyle Smejkal; granddaughter, Clara Smejkal; great-grandson, Levi Tillotson; three sisters, Brenda (Larry) Mills and Linda (Glen) Ford, both of Beeville, and Sandra (Dr. Pat) McCoy of Skidmore; brother, Johnny (Dorothy) Smejkal of Beeville; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, October 11, at Galloway & Sons Funeral Home with a Rosary to be recited at 7 o’clock that evening.

The funeral Mass will be celebrated at 2 p.m. Thursday, October 12, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Pete Elizardo officiating.

Burial will follow at Beeville Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be Cody Tillotson, Colton Tillotson, Kyle Smejkal, Waylon Ford, Brian Smejkal, Douglas Huser, Clara Smejkal, Frank Cuevas and Stephen Smejkal.