Wilfred James Rejsek

Wilfred James Rejsek

September 12, 1942 – May 27, 2025

Wilfred James Rejsek, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, teacher and coach, passed away peacefully at his home on May 27, 2025, at the age of 82.

Wilfred was born on September 12, 1942, at Schumann Hospital in East Bernard, Texas, to Frank James Rejsek Sr. and Esther Chernohorsky Rejsek. He was a proud lifelong resident of East Bernard.

Wilfred spent his formative years in East Bernard, attending Holy Cross Catholic School from kindergarten through 8th grade, and later graduating from East Bernard High School in 1960. While in high school, Wilfred distinguished himself earning the title of Mr. EBHS. He was an exceptional football player, widely remembered for his toughness, sportsmanship, and leadership on the field. He made history by becoming East Bernard’s first All-State football player, receiving the honor two years in a row, in 1958 and 1959. More than six decades later, stories of his grit and grace on the field are still shared in the East Bernard community.

After high school, Wilfred pursued higher education at Sam Houston State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree. He also proudly served his country, spending a year deployed in Chu Lai Vietnam with the U.S. Army. He was drafted and shipped overseas six weeks after his first child was born. He was honorably discharged as a Spec 4. His time in the military deepened his appreciation for life and his compassion for others—traits that would become hallmarks of his personality.

On May 1, 1965, Wilfred married the love of his life, Jeanette Ehrlich. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and family. Just weeks before his passing, Wilfred and Jeanette celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary, a testament to their unwavering devotion and partnership.

A dedicated educator, Wilfred committed over three decades to the East Bernard Independent School District, where he touched countless lives. He began by coaching junior high athletics in the 1970s and spent many years teaching physical science and biology at East Bernard High School. In addition to teaching, he drove a daily school bus route, ensuring the safety of students day in and day out with quiet dependability. His impact on generations of students was immeasurable, and many still recall the way he balanced discipline with compassion and humor. He retired in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of service and mentorship.

Wilfred will always be remembered for his extraordinary kindness and gentle soul. He was a man of quiet strength who never raised his voice and carried no trace of anger in his heart. His calm, laid-back demeanor naturally drew people in and made them feel at ease. Wilfred had a unique ability to connect with others—whether a lifelong friend or a complete stranger, he welcomed everyone with the same warmth, sincerity, and respect. He had a way of turning even the briefest encounters into meaningful moments, often leaving others with a smile and a lighter heart.

Even in his final months, while battling immense pain, Wilfred remained gracious and kind. He never failed to thank every nurse, doctor, and technician who cared for him. His humility, gentleness, and enduring gratitude were an inspiration to all who witnessed his quiet courage.

Wilfred is survived by his devoted wife, Jeanette Rejsek; his four children: Lance Rejsek and his wife Karen, Shannon Zimmerman and her husband Eric, Chad Rejsek and his fiancée Karen, and Clint Rejsek and his wife Elizabeth “Liz.” He was the proud grandfather of five grandsons: Jared and Ethan Rejsek, Noah and Zachary Zimmerman, and his most cherished grandson, Brock Zimmerman, who shared a special bond with his grandpa and will miss him dearly.

He is also survived by his sister, Bernice Ray, and three brothers: Donald Rejsek and his wife Janice, George Rejsek and his wife Troyce, and Frankie Rejsek and his wife Donna.

Wilfred was preceded in death by his parents, Frank James Rejsek Sr. and Esther Chernohorsky Rejsek and his brother-in-law John Ray.

Wilfred’s life will be honored with visitation at Holy Cross Catholic Church in East Bernard on Monday, June 2, 2025, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., followed by the Rosary at 9:00 a.m. Eulogies will be shared from 9:30 a.m. to 10:00 a.m., with the funeral Mass beginning at 10:00 a.m. Interment will follow at the East Bernard Catholic Cemetery with full military honors.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the East Bernard Holy Cross Cemetery Fund in Wilfred’s memory.

Wilfred lived a life of service, humility, and love. He leaves behind not only a devoted family and a community that will miss him deeply but also a lasting legacy of kindness, strength, and quiet grace.

May he rest in eternal peace.