Louis Zapalac

Louis Zapalac died peacefully on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, at 94, in Sealy, Texas. He was born on March 7, 1930, the son of longtime Sealy residents Louis and Julia Zapalac.
As a young child, Louis spoke Czech at home. He began learning English when he started Catholic school at five. Remarkably, he entered Sealy High School at the age of twelve. Louis excelled in academics, football, basketball, and tennis. When not in school, he worked long hours at his grandfather's cotton gin and went duck hunting whenever possible. Upon graduation in 1946, he attended Tarleton State Junior College in Stephenville, Texas, where he initially studied petroleum engineering and played collegiate football.
In 1948, Louis enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He served four years on active duty, primarily at Camp Pendleton in Southern California, first as a radio operator, then as a draftsman, and finally as the ammunition depot manager. He separated from the service in 1952 with the rank of Sergeant.
After returning to Sealy in 1952, Louis worked with his father in the family five-and-dime business. He eventually took over the store and ran it successfully until his retirement. Louis continued his love of hunting throughout his working years, sharing many fun stories of going to deer camp with friends and family. Upon retirement, Louis became a skilled woodworking craftsman. Most notably, he built birdhouses and replicas of prominent landmarks, such as the dance halls in the area.
Louis was a lifelong member of Sealy's Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus. As a follower of Jesus, he loved his neighbor and was known for his exceptional kindness.
In one of his journals, Louis shares the story of running a tennis league in 1952 at the Sealy public courts. There, a young lady caught his eye-Carolyn Krampitz. He eventually gained the courage to ask her out on a date. After a few years of courtship, they were married on Easter Sunday, April 10, 1955. They shared a wonderful marriage of sixty-five years until Carolyn's passing in 2020. They were the proud parents of three children: Brian, Steve, and Beverly (all graduates of the University of Texas).
Louis is preceded in death by his parents and his wife, Carolyn. Sadly, their son Brian passed away in 2006 from cancer at the age of 49.
He is survived by his brothers, James and Leroy Zapalac; his son, Steve Zapalac, and his wife, Kim; his daughter, Beverly Bell, and her husband, Kirk; and Brian's wife, Jamie Zapalac. Grandchildren: Stacy Okonski and her husband, Daryl; Leslie Anderson and her husband, Brent; Keith Zapalac and his wife, Dana; Jordan Zapalac; Brady Zapalac and his wife, Sarah; Jeff Bell; Carrie Bell; and Emily Bell. Great-grandchildren: Brandt, Ally, and Tyler (Stacy's family); Andie, Ford, and Shep (Leslie's family); Brian, Beau, and Austyn (Keith's family); and Hudson (Jeff's son).
The family wishes to express their heartfelt gratitude to Louis and Carolyn's caregivers for their exceptional care and support over the past six years.
Papa was a remarkable man whose love for his family knew no bounds. He was a role model, embodying wisdom, kindness, and an unwavering commitment to those he cherished. His stories taught valuable lessons about life and the importance of friendship and family. Papa's sense of humor was a bright light in our lives. His legacy will live on in our hearts, reminding us to honor and cherish one another as he did through his extraordinary life.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, October 8, at 10:30 a.m. at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, 600 Fourth St., Sealy, TX. The Mass will begin at noon, and interment will follow at the Catholic church cemetery, 811 Main St., Sealy, TX.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. Their website is https://icc-sealy.org/donation.