Richard B. Jochec

Richard B. Jochec, a dedicated husband, father and grandfather peacefully passed away on June 9th, 2024, at the age of 100 in Eagle Lake, TX. He was born in East Bernard, TX, on April 3rd, 1924, to the late Louis Jochec and Lydia Sliva Jochec.

He joined the U.S. Navy at the age of 19 during WWII and served from 1944-1946 on the USS Kwajalein Aircraft Carrier and was trained as a mechanic and belly gunner.  He was shot down twice and amazingly, by the grace of God, rescued at sea.

When he returned home, he married his lovely bride, Mary Fojtik on October 7, 1947.  Together they raised 5 children.  His love for his family was unparallel.  He enjoyed working on tractors, raising cattle, and gardening.  He found solace in the simple joys of life, always with a gentle smile on his face.

Richard is survived by his daughters, Veronica Pace, Susan Jochec, Nancy Seydler and husband, Harry of East Bernard; sons, Louis Jochec and wife, Denise of California, Jimmy Jochec and wife, Delores of East Bernard; sister, Wilhelmina Muniza and husband, Raymond of Lake Jackson; 7 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren and 1 great great granddaughter.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Mary M. Jochec, son in law, Larry Pace; sister, Angeline Klekar and brothers, Sylvester, August, Clem, Julius Jochec and grandson, Alex Jochec.

Visitation will be held on Friday, June 14, 2024, at 9 a.m. followed by a rosary at 9:30 a.m.   A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10 a.m. at Holy Cross Catholic Church with Father Charles Otsiwah officiating.  A Rite of Christian burial will follow at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery.

May he rest in eternal peace.

Funeral Services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home.  Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com