The Superior Express -

Rural Glenvil resident, Edward J. Pavelka, 78, died Sunday, Dec. 24, 2023, at his home after a lengthy battle with the Vexas Syndrome.

Rosary was Friday, Dec. 29, at Butler Volland Chapel. Mass of Christian Burial was Saturday, Dec. 30, at St. Michael's Catholic Church in Hastings with Father Jeremy Hazuka officiating.

Burial was at Parkview Cemetery in Hastings.

Memorials may be given to St. Michael's Catholic Church.

Edward was born Sept. 27, 1945, in Hastings, Nebraska, to Joseph and Julia (Mazour) Pavelka. He attended grade school at Spring Ranch and graduated from Fairfield High School in 1963. Edward served in the National Guard from 1965 to 1971.

Edward married the love of his life, Diane Karmazin on April 20, 1968, in Lawrence, Nebraska. Together they spent their life on the farm raising crops and livestock. They were blessed with four children. Edward was a simple and humble man. He was born with the gift of being able to play music by ear. He made use of this gift all his life. He started playing with the Paul Kothe Band when he was 16. He played with them for 40 years. Later, he and his sister and brother started the Pavelka Variety Combo Band. He loved to entertain people and make them happy.

After the Vexas Syndrome invaded his body and he could no longer work outside, he started restoring John Deere pedal tractors on the kitchen table.

Edward was a member of St. Michael's Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, and the Catholic Workman.

Above all he loved his family. He tried to show them the example of faith in God, good work ethic and the love of family. He was proud of them all. He loved all the hugs and kisses he got from the grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He loved to tease all of them and make them laugh.

Edward was preceded in death by his parents; father-in-law, Clarence Karmazin; son-in-law, Michael Swanson; and daughter-in-law, Kay Pavelka.

Survivors include his wife of 55 years: Diane Pavelka – Glenvil; children and spouses: Ronald and Angie Pavelka – Glenvil; John and Julie Pavelka – Omaha; Sandra and Chad Samuelson – Hastings;    James and Gina Pavelka – Glenvil; 11 grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; mother-in law, Norma Karmazin – Lawrence, Nebraska; sisters and spouses:  Joanne and Glen Beyke – Lincoln, Nebraska; Dolores and Clarence Kimminau – Hastings; Marilyn and Tom Karmazin – Lincoln, Nebraska; brother and  spouse: Ken and Jan Pavelka – Glenvil ; numerous nieces, nephews and other extended family, and many friends.