Class of 1959
In Memoriam
Below is the death notice of John Pavelka Jr., Class of 1959. Please keep the Pavelka family in your prayers.
John (Smokey) Pavelka was born April 14, 1941, in Cleveland, Ohio. He attended St. Boniface grade school where he met his buddy of 74 years, and his wife of 60 years; Janice. He graduated from St. Edward High School in Lakewood, Ohio and immediately joined the Air Force.
After the Air Force, he worked for Greyhound Computer who transferred him to San Francisco, California where he spent most of his adult life. He had an IT career with Intel Corp and Visa USA. He was a Boy Scout Leader, little league coach, CYO basketball coach, and girls’ softball coach. He loved kids. He loved to golf and travel the world.
In the year of 2000, he retired and moved to Surprise, Arizona with Janice. He will be remembered for his quick wit, generosity, and being an all-around good guy.
He struggled with illness for two years and died peacefully with his lifelong buddy, Janice by his side. Services will be held Monday, December 5, 2022, at Our Lady of Lourdes Church 19002 N. 128th Ave. Sun City West, AZ 85375 at 10:00am. Military Honors will be rendered at the church at 9:45am.
Posted on: November 30, 2022
You can view a list of all St. Ed's Alumni who have passed away on our website.
Make a Gift in Honor of John “Smokey” Pavelka Jr.
St. Edward High School is humbled by the generosity expressed by our community. Commemorative gifts enable us to empower our students with the knowledge, skills, and Holy Cross values to grow into Christ-like servant leaders. To make a memorial gift, click below.
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