Robert James Polasek, 66, of Hallettsville, was called home to the Lord on Thursday, December 23, 2021.  He was born in Hallettsville on October 3, 1955, to Adolph E. & Caroline Hollub Polasek.

Robert attended Sacred Heart Catholic School, and gradated 3 ^rd in his class.  He attended the University of Houston Victoria, and graduated with Honors with a Bachelor of Business Degree.  After Graduation, he joined the family business as manager of Hallettsville Lumber Company.  There he served his customers with loyalty and compassion for over 40 years.  He truly appreciated the hard work and dedication of the employees of Hallettsville Lumber Company. They were his right-hand men and he spoke highly of them.

In 1982 he was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma, enduring chemo and radiation, and thru these tough times he reached out to the Lord for guidance. This led to to his first ACTS retreat in 2001. This led Robert further on his faith journey.  In 2010 he was diagnosed with a calcified aortic valve, determined to be from radiation from his previous cancer treatments.  He endured open heart surgery and many months of post-surgery recuperation.  As he endured many trials he drew closer to God.  He served on many ACTS teams, being an inspiration to many and also joined God's Embrace Ministries, first as a participant then as a facilitator.  He was a part of the weekly Divine Mercy prayer group for many years, as well as prayer and fellowship with prayer groups sharing a deep love for our Lord and the Blessed mother.  A few years ago, he had the opportunity to go to the Holy Land with friends, and it was tough as his body was already frail but his will was strong and he came back with more love and fervor for our Lord.

Last year, he received another cross, when it was determined that the mitral valve had severe calcification, again an after effect of the radiation.  Doctors determined that surgery was too risky, and said he was in congestive heart failure, thus limiting his capabilities due to fatigue and shortness of breath.  Due to his declining health was in and out of the hospitals for the past year and came to live with David and Mary, which they considered to be a blessing, as it brought the family even closer for time together.

Robert enjoyed the yearly trek to the camp house on the opening weekend of deer season as well as spending time there throughout the year.  Hunting and fishing was a favorite pastime of his.  He loved the beauty of the great outdoors.  He looked forward to annual trips to the coast with family.  He loved his family, especially his nieces, great nieces and great nephews.

Robert was an active member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Knights of Columbus, Hallettsville Rotary Club, Sacred Heart A.C.T.S. Community, Gods Embrace Ministries, Divine Mercy Prayer Group, Growing in the Holy Spirit Prayer Group, Thursday Night Rosary Prayer Group and St. Michael Prayer Team.  He shared his faith journey with many and helped many other spiritually and prayer devoutly for the intentions of others.

Robert is survived by:  brother David T. Polasek & wife Mary; nieces, Lisa Motal & husband Matthew, and Jennifer Bradberry & husband Michael; great nephews and great nieces, Jacob, Natalie, James and Karoline Motal.

Robert was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral Mass Service: 10 am, Wednesday, December 29, 2021, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville. Visitation: 4 pm Tuesday at Kubena Funeral Home with Rosary starting at 7 pm. Pallbearers: Matthew Motal, Michael Bradberry, David Pastucha, William Pastucha, Brian Jahn and Travis Jahn. Honorary Pallbearers: Leon Jahn, Larry Jahn; Hallettsville Lumber Company Employees, Raymond Henke, Roman Henke, Tommy Henneke, Chris Rainosek, Clay Rainosek and Ty Heinsohn Officiant: Msgr. John Peters. Burial: Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Memorials: Sacred Heart Catholic Church/School or donor's choice.