Melnar

Albert Melnar was born Sept. 27, 1936, in Hallettsville, the son of Emil and Emilie Mekush Melnar.  He grew up in the Hallettsville area and attended the Vsetin School. 

On Dec. 28, 1957, Albert was united in marriage to Marcia Zapalac. Shortly after marriage, they moved and made their home in Abbyville, La. In 1958  Albert and Marcia moved to Houston where he managed an Exxon Service Center until 1979.

The Melnar’s then  move to Cat Spring, where Albert was employed by the Smith Industry, until its closing in 1984.  Albert then took a position with Austin County Precinct 3, until his retiring as a Foreman in 2004. 

Albert was an excellent fisherman and hunter.  He also enjoyed camping with his family and his trips to Las Vegas.  He definitely had a green thumb and enjoyed spending time in his garden.  His specialty was making homemade wine and sausage. He was an exceptional dancer and enjoyed listening to polka music daily.  He enjoyed get togethers’ with his friends at Cross Roads Tavern. 

Albert passed away at his home in Cat Spring, on Friday, January 9, 2009.  He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Marcia;  son  Leslie Melnar and Donna Shelton and her two children Randal and Brandon of Cuero;  sisters  Stella Blaha and Evelyn Sklar, both of Hallettsville;  8 nieces and 9 nephews;  and many other dear friends and relatives.  He was preceded in death by his parents;  brother, Alvin Melnar; sisters, Elsie Dusek, Irene Vornsand, Lucie Ubanoski, and a half sister Hermina Vasek. 

Funeral services were 10 a.m., Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2009 at  St. John Lutheran Church of Cat Spring and 3 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2009 at Czech Moravian Brethren Church in Hallettsville with Pastor Kevin Haug, officiating. 

Cat Spring pallbearers: James “Bubba” Duke, Danny Hengst, Avey Shrum, Mike Turner, Larry Brune and Mike Biehunko.

Cat Spring honorary pallbearer: Bill Hegemeyer, Franklin Goebel, Wilferd Ueckert, Clarence Himly and Warren Sseverin.