Joseph Michael Juranek

Joseph Michael Juranek, a faithful servant of God and beloved brother, passed away peacefully on June 24, 2025. He was 84 years old.

Born on December 23, 1940, in Taylor, Texas, to Joe and Agnes Juranek, Joe grew up with seven siblings on a family farm nestled in the countryside outside of Taylor. He attended St. Mary’s Catholic School, where his lifelong commitment to faith and service began.

Following high school, Joe proudly served in the United States Navy, where he was stationed in Hawaii for much of his service. As a Second Class Petty Officer Photographer’s Mate (E5), he captured operational documentation, training, and historical records for his fellow servicemen until his honorable discharge.

Returning home, Joe continued his education at the University of Texas at Austin, later starting a job with Southern Union Gas in Austin. After that he worked as a real estate agent, but his true vocation was found in service to the Church.

Joe dedicated much of his life to St. Ignatius Martyr Catholic Church in Austin, where he worked faithfully as the Parish Business Administrator for decades. He was honored by the Diocese of Austin with the Lumen Gentium Award in 2004 which is given to “someone who lives his or her baptismal call in an extraordinary way through stewardship and leadership.” Even after his retirement from St. Ignatius, his deep commitment to ministry led him to continue his work with the church’s food pantry, ensuring that those in need were never forgotten.

Joe was a calm, soft-spoken man, known for his gentle spirit and generosity. He loved watching football—especially cheering on the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns—playing 42 with a trusted domino partner, shooting pool, and enjoying a round of golf with friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Agnes Juranek, and his siblings Stanley Juranek, Frank Juranek, Mary Ann Mokry, Paul Juranek, and Danny Juranek.

He is survived by his sister Dorothy Robinson (husband Ken), and his brother Michael Juranek (wife Stella), as well as many extended family members and cherished friends.

Pallbearers will be nephews: Shannon Juranek, Nathan Robinson, Michael Juranek, Jason Newton, and nieces’ husbands: Rob Wilbert and Jared Felker.

Joe will be remembered for his steady presence, servant’s heart, and deep-rooted faith. His legacy of humility, kindness, and dedication to others lives on in all who knew and loved him.

Funeral services will be held on Tuesday July 1, 2025 at 11:00 am at St. Mary's of the Assumption Catholic Church in Taylor, burial will follow in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Taylor. Visitation will be held on Monday, June 30, 2025 from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm with a Rosary at 7:00 pm at Providence Funeral Home in Taylor.