Dennis Julius Jurek, 85, was called to the house of the Lord on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023 while holding the hand of his beloved wife, Agnes.
Dennis was born Nov. 27, 1937 to Julius and Edna (Mladenka) Jurek of St. John. After graduating from Schulenburg High School, Dennis would occasionally walk/hitchhike his way to San Marcos to pursue his degree in chemistry from Southwest Texas State University where he earned his diploma in 1960. He soon gained employment as a chemist at Jefferson Lake Sulfur. Dennis married the love of his life, Agnes Oncken, Sept. 13, 1964. Soon after, Dennis expressed a calling to become an educator and began teaching in Dickinson. In 1967, Dennis and Agnes relocated back home to Schulenburg where he gained employment as the high school math and science teacher.
Seven years later, their first son, Dennis Brett, was born, and he was followed by Kris in 1977. Dennis Julius Jurek thoroughly enjoyed raising his boys on the farm. From chasing chickens and selling eggs to hauling hay and milking cows, Dennis and his wife Agnes always had the boys along. The nostalgia of these events is still present as one walks through the old chicken houses and stumbles upon toy trucks and tractors. When not spending time at home, Dennis could be found at the high school campus preparing lessons, teaching or attending athletic events. Dennis enjoyed his students and always looked forward to catching up with them after graduation. Dennis enjoyed teaching so much that he returned to education three times after he retired.
Despite Dennis’s busy lifestyle, he still made time to share his love of the outdoors with his family and friends. He enjoyed camping, fishing and hunting, an appreciation that his sons have passed onto their own children. Eventually, Dennis’s family grew to include five grandchildren. Needless to say, he was a very proud PoPo.
Survivors include his wife, Agnes Jurek of Schulenburg; his two sons, Dennis Jurek and wife Stephanie of Weimar, and Kris Jurek and wife Cortney of Tomball; and his five grandchildren. Dennis was preceded in death by his parents.
Funeral Mass was held at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church onFriday, Feb. 24, 2023 at 10, a.m. with Fr. Chase Goodman officiating. Interment followed in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Gunner Jurek, James Beene, John Oncken, Bryan Hinkel, Shandy Oncken, Brandon Pesek, Jason Oncken, Scott Hunt and Andy Young. Named as honorary pallbearer was Brantley Jurek. Distributing programs was Sophie Jurek. Rosary was said on Thursday, Feb. 23 at 7 p.m. at Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home.