Stephen Joseph Pavlat
Stephen Joseph Pavlat, 84, of Wallisville, Texas passed away peacefully at home on September 21, 2024 at 3:00 PM, the Hour of Divine Mercy.
Born on March 13, 1940, in Holland, Texas, to Annie Marek and Frank Pavlat. Steve grew up on a cotton farm in Dayton, Texas, speaking Czech until he began school. His early years on the farm instilled in him a love for hard work and adventure that he carried throughout his life.
Steve served proudly in the United States Air Force from 1959 to 1964. His career later took him across the globe, where he worked for Northrop Aircraft Division in Saudi Arabia from 1972 to 1977, and then with Aramco in Saudi Arabia from 1983 to 1985.On January 21, 1961, Steve married the love of his life, Bernice. He often fondly recalled the moment he first saw her at age 15, when she was twirling a baton on her grandparents farm, and how he couldnt take his eyes off her. Five years later, they were married, beginning a love story that lasted for over 63 years. Bernice remained his favorite person in the world throughout his life.
Steve was a devoted father to Sherril Burwell (husband Roger), Darla Lastovica (husband Charlie), and Todd Pavlat (wife Courtney). He was also a proud grandfather to nine grandchildren and great-grandfather to six great-grandchildren, all of whom were fortunate enough to learn from his humor, skills, and boundless love.
One of Steves greatest passions was the family property in South Texas, known as "The Camphouse." For over 100 years, this cherished land has been a cornerstone of the Pavlat familys traditions, and Steve spent his life maintaining it, hunting on it, and teaching his children and grandchildren to love and respect the land as he did.
An outdoorsman at heart, Steve loved hunting, fishing, taxidermy, woodworking, and gardening. His craftsmanship was well-known, and his creations whether in wood or in nature were admired by all who knew him. Steve's travels took him all over the world, but no place was dearer to him than home with his family or out on the land he loved so much.
Steves faith was a guiding force in his life, and as a devout Catholic, he was committed to living his beliefs with sincerity. His sharp wit and sense of humor made him unforgettable to those fortunate enough to know him, always bringing joy and laughter into every gathering.
Steve was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Edie. He is survived by his beloved wife Bernice, his children Sherril Burwell (Roger), Darla Lastovica (Charlie), and Todd Pavlat (Courtney), his brothers Frank and Raymond Pavlat, his nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, and a legacy of love and laughter that will continue to live on.