We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Joseph Daniel Gawlik, Sr. Joe passed away on August 24, 2025. He was born on March 20, 1954, in Mission, TX.

A man of strong principles and a generous spirit, Joe’s legacy of solicitude and steadfastness will forever be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Joe was preceded in death by his father, Paul Gawlik Sr.; his mother, Helen Gawlik; his father-in-law, Hal Byers Sr.; his mother-in-law, Maxine Byers; his siblings Tom, Ted, Paul Jr., Chris, Cathy, John, and Jerry; and his daughter-in-law, Sheila Hunt, who helped Joseph Jr. care for Joe over the years.

He is survived by his daughter, Angela Gawlik; his son, Joseph Gawlik Jr.; his nephew, Paul Johnson Jr., whom Joe helped raise; and his grandchildren, Elizabeth Folsom and Dustin Reed. He also leaves behind his loving siblings Vernon, Felix, Michael, Mark, Joyce Poteet, Linda Mills, Elizabeth Segal, and Peggy Benton; his sister-in-law, Janis Smith; as well as the mother of his children, Nancy Thompson, who helped care for Joe during the last eight months of his life while he lived with their daughter.

Known for his laid-back and down-to-earth personality, Joe was a man who wore his heart on his sleeve. His love for rock and roll music and Western TV shows were some of the defining facets of Joe’s character. But above all, Joe was an avid fisherman; whether it was a river, a lake, or the ocean, it was one of his favorite places to be. His ability to find peace and joy in the simplicity of nature was an inspiration to all.

Joe’s passion for fishing wasn’t just a personal pursuit; he passed on his love for the sport to others, teaching his nephew, daughter, son, and all the neighborhood kids how to fish. His knowledge of outboard motors further amplified his dedication to his favorite pastime.

Joe’s generosity was profound. He was always willing to extend a helping hand to those in need. Joe provided his home, his food, his money, as well as his knowledge, mentorship, and expertise to countless individuals in a nearly constant display of incredible selflessness and altruism.

His children were his greatest accomplishment, and they are the legacy he leaves behind. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those who were fortunate to have known him.

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