Jaro Wilbert Opela, age 90, passed away Sunday, October 2, 2011. Jaro was born on June 22, 1921 in Shiner, to the late Frank & Sophie (Roesler) Opela. He married Gabrella Melnar on November 21, 1945 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Koerth.

Jaro was a World War II Veteran, having served in the US Army from July 1942 to October 1945, as a Heavy Auto Equipment Operator. He received the American Theater Campaign Medal, Good Conduct Medal, 1 Service Strip, and 5 Overseas Bars. He was a member the American Legion Post 0571 of Sweet Home, and lifetime member of the KJT St. Wenceslaus Society #15 - Smother's Creek.

Jaro is survived by: 2 sons, Joseph & wife Margie Opela, and Mike Opela, both of Hallettsville; 2 daughters, Barbara Pavlas & husband Richard of Houston, and Linda Janak & husband Ben of Victoria; brother Leo Opela of Shiner; 2 sisters, Pauline Kutach and Edith Pekar of La Porte; 9 grandchildren; and 10 great grandchildren.

Jaro was preceded in death by: his wife Gabrella in June 2004; daughter Patricia Ann Langenberg; parents; brother Julius Opela; and 3 sisters, Lucy Matusek, Matilda Janak, and Frances Janak.

He was a good man and will always be remembered for his quick wit and strong will. He will be missed.

Funeral Mass Service: 10 am, Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2011 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church of Koerth. Visitation: 4 pm, Tuesday, at Kubena Funeral Home. Wake Service: 7 pm, Tuesday, at Kubena Funeral Home. Officiate: Rev. Charles Sonnier. Pallbearers: Justin Opela, Kelly Opela, Zachary Opela, Brian Pavlas, Stacey Langenberg, and Clayton Wenske. Memorials: St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. Burial: Koerth Catholic Cemetery.

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