Joseph Victor Hlavenka, age 87, passed away on November 7, 2024, in Allen, Texas. He was born on August 30, 1937, in Penelope, Texas, to his loving parents Joseph Marvin Hlavenka and Mollie (Dudik) Hlavenka.
Joe met the love of his life, Mary Ann Svrcek, and on July 13, 1956, they celebrated their love and commitment to each other in West, Texas. Raising their four children brought many years of joy and countless cherished memories.
Throughout his lifetime Joe worked hard to support his family. Over the years he was employed by Algas Inc., Rainbow International, and Walmart.
Joe and his family had deep roots in their community, especially with their connection to St. Jude Catholic Church in Allen, Texas. As founding members, their commitment to the faith and to the community helped to establish a cornerstone for many others over the years. Joe’s involvement with the Knights of Columbus emphasized his dedication to service and his strong sense of camaraderie. The Knights are known for their charity work, fellowship, and support of the church, so it’s clear Joe was someone who not only enjoyed life but also contributed to the well-being of others in a meaningful way.
Joe balanced his serious commitment to his faith and community with a fun-loving personality. He was the kind of person who really enjoyed life and knew how to have fun. Joe appreciated the outdoors and the satisfaction of working with his hands through his hobbies—fishing, gardening, and lawn care. Then there was his love for the casino. He had a bit of a thrill-seeking side, always up for a gamble or two. Joe had a great sense of humor, always ready to give people a hard time in the best possible way, making them laugh along the way. Joe will always be remembered for bringing a little extra joy to the world around him.
Joe is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Hlavenka, of Allen, Texas; daughters, Marlyn Hlavenka-McInnis (Lynn McInnis), of Van Alstyne, Texas, and Denice Hlavenka (Paul Anderson), of Celina, Texas; sons, Joey Hlavenka, of Celina, Texas, and Mark Hlavenka (Sheri), of Plano, Texas; grandchildren, Nicki Loper, Meagan Hlavenka, Devon Hlavenka, Jeremy Monroe and Jonathan McInnis; great grandchildren, Sophia, Kaitlin, and Chase Loper, Madison, Olivia, and Tucker Benavides, and Kaceton and Kinsleigh McInnis; brother, Steve Hlavenka, of Denton, Texas; and a host of family members and friends, who will miss him dearly and forever cherish his memory.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mollie Hlavenka, and brother, Bob Hlavenka.
A Funeral Mass of the Resurrection will be held at 9:30 a.m., Friday, November 15, 2024 at St. Jude Catholic Church, 1515 North Greenville Avenue, Allen, Texas 75002, followed by Rite of Committal in St. Jude Columbarium.
(All are invited to a reception in the Parish Hall afterwards).