Daniel James Simek, 71, passed away suddenly at his home in Engle on Saturday, April 1, 2023.
He was born in Shiner on March 16, 1952 to Jerry Simek and Albina Rypel Simek. He attended school in Flatonia until the sixth grade. He graduated from Schulenburg High School in 1970. He attended Blinn College for two years. Daniel worked at Riverside Convenience Store in La Grange until it closed in 2019. After that he worked at Walmart and presently, he was employed by Dollar General in La Grange.
Daniel lived with and looked after his mother until her death in 2013. He helped her with the huge garden she had every year.
He was a die-hard Astros fan. He could tell you every player’s batting statistic and pitcher’s win/loss records. He was so excited about the new season.
Daniel loved watching old westerns. He could name all the actors. Daniel never met a stranger. He loved talking to everyone, especially about the Astros. He was perfect for his position as a Walmart Greeter with his cheerful, friendly demeanor.
Daniel loved animals. He fed most of the stray cats in the neighborhood. He took many of them to Gardenia E. Animal shelter to be spayed or neutered and took them back home. His dog, Buddy, who was adopted from the shelter, misses him very much. Buddy has found a new home.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Jerry and Albina Simek, and a cousin, Gloria Jaco Lotz.
He is survived by his brother Jerry Simek Jr., and seven cousins, Rebecca Jaco Hoyland and husband Roger, Doris Jaco Smith, Bill Jaco and wife Mary Ellen, Wayne Powell and wife Shelia, Michael Powell and wife Cindy, Jodie Bawcom and James Vackar.
Memorial services are set for Thursday, April 13, 2023 at Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home in Schulenburg. Visitation will begin at 10 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life Memorial at 11 a.m., conducted by Pastor J.P. Kessie of St. Paul’s Presbyterian Church. A private interment will be held at a later date.