Roll Call Tribute

William Frank "Bill" Havelka 

November 23, 1933 - January 18, 2026 

William (Bill) Havelka, age 92, passed away on January 18, 2026, at his home in Robstown, Texas.

The second of four children, he was born on November 23, 1933, to Anton and Annie Havelka in Robstown. His early years were spent on a farm near Banquete, where he attended school, participated in 4H & FFA, and played football. After graduating from Banquete High School in 1951, he attended Texas A&M University and graduated with a degree in Range and Forestry Management in 1955.

Later that year, he joined the Air Force, where he attended flight school and later became a mobile radar technician.

After working for the Soil Conservation Service in Hondo, TX, he settled in San Patricio and began his career as a farmer and rancher. During this time, he met his wife, Mary Kay Burkhardt.

William had a deep interest and appreciation for the history of South Texas. In addition to his involvement with the Nueces County Historical Commission, Texas Archaeological Society, and Friends of Old Bayview Cemetery Association, he could often be found participating in various archaeological digs and research projects.

William was a longtime member of St. Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church. He served as an usher, was a member of the Knights of Columbus, and provided firewood for the church’s annual Czechfest fundraiser. He was always eager to help a friend or neighbor and reluctant to ask for help.

William is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Mary Kay (Burkhardt) Havelka, brother Robert Havelka, and sister Caroline Neely. He is survived by his son Mark Havelka and daughter-in-law Ruth Johnson, grandsons Owen Havelka and Liam Havelka, as well as his brother George (Janell) Havelka and many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.