Neil Edward Pavelka, a devoted father, brother, and proud Texan, passed away on July 4, 2026, at the age of 62.

Born in Corpus Christi, Texas, on March 26, 1964, Neil grew up with a deep appreciation for his roots. He graduated from Banquete High School before heading to Austin to attend his beloved University of Texas. His time at UT solidified a lifelong, passionate devotion to the Longhorns; you could always find Neil cheering them on, bleeding burnt orange through every season.

Neil was a man of diverse interests and quiet determination. In his younger years, he enjoyed the focus and patience of bow hunting. That connection to the outdoors stayed with him throughout his life, often reflected in his favorite TV shows about the dedication of Game Wardens. He brought that same discipline to the pavement, challenging himself by running in marathons, and to the financial world, where he sharply followed the ups and downs of the stock market.

Neil also excelled in his career. He started with analytical positions at manufacturing companies, which in the late 1990's led to a software consulting career focused on the PeopleSoft Supply Chain Management package. Eventually that brought him to GAF Materials Corporation, where he spent 13 years and rose to Product Director in the IT department. During a GAF reorganization, he accepted a severance package in 2023, and with successes in the stock market he concluded that retirement was his preference.

Above all his hobbies and achievements, Neil’s greatest joy was his family. He is survived by his beloved daughter, Hailey Pavelka; his brother, Randy Pavelka; and sister, Sue Pavelka; along with extended family and friends who will miss his presence dearly.

Neil’s memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him, every time the Longhorns take the field, and in the quiet beauty of the Texas landscape he called home.

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Thursday, July 16, 2026, at Berkshire Chapel, 9073 Berkshire Drive, Frisco, Texas 75033, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.