Joel Scott Svatek

(01/30/2003) Joel Scott Svatek, beloved son, brother, uncle, and friend, passed away Monday, January 27, 2003, taken away from us at the hands of a drunk driver. Joel was born November 25, 1969 in Wharton, Texas. He grew up in Boling, Hempstead, and Sealy, Texas, where he attended Sealy High School. In 1988, Joel moved to Austin, where he has since resided. Joel was preceded in death by his stepfather, Donny Ward of Brazoria. He is survived by his mother, Katherine Ward of Irving; his father and step-mother, Dennis Svatek Sr. and Joyce of Boling; brother, Dustin Svatek of Irving; brother and sister- in-law, Dennis (Jr) and Marcie Svatek; niece, Courtney; and nephew, Stephen of Taylor; half-sisters, Christy and Melissa Svatek of Boling; numerous oousins, aunts and uncles; and hundreds of ``brothers and sisters'' in the Austin music community. A celebration of Joel's life will be held Friday, January 31 at 2:00 p.m. at Austin Peel and Sons Funeral Home, 607. E. Anderson Lane. There will be a visitation on Thursday, January 30 from 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. ``Handsome'' Joel was very much a part of the Austin music scene. He worked as a stage manager for Emo's and had been a part of several bands. Several tributes/benefits are being scheduled for the next few weeks, please check the Austin Chronicle or Emo's website for details. In keeping with Joel's spirit, he will be cremated, where he can be as free in death as he was in life. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Sims Foundation, 2305 Lake Austin Blvd, Austin, Texas 78703.