With heartfelt sadness and deep respect, we honor the extraordinary life of James Edward (Luke) Smolik, a man whose vibrant personality and boundless spirit touched everyone he encountered. At the age of 83, Luke bravely succumbed to cancer on July 12, 2024, after a valiant fight, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, unwavering love, and indomitable humor.
Born in Victoria, Texas, Luke was destined to be a rancher, his heart forever intertwined with the land he cherished. His career with Schroeder Welding & Construction was marked by an unmatched dedication and expertise. Luke’s weathered hands, the result of years of labor, were a testament to his resilience. Renowned throughout South Texas, he skillfully managed heavy equipment, conserved land, and contributed to the development of countless oil and gas locations, ranch tanks, and roads. His work left an enduring impact, sculpting the land he so loved into art we now cherish.
To his family, Luke was an unshakeable pillar of strength and unwavering support. As a husband, his deep love and enduring devotion to his wife, Norma, of 64 years is a testament to his character. Each time he recounted the story of mustering the courage to introduce himself to the beautiful girl next door all those years ago, it was a celebration of their remarkable journey together and the profound bond they shared.
As a father, he imparted lessons of perseverance and integrity, instilling a profound sense of responsibility and dedication in his children. His love was limitless, his actions always motivated by a desire to provide a better life for his loved ones.
As a grandfather and great-grandfather, Luke’s presence was a source of warmth and wisdom. His laughter, stories, and songs, rich with humor and heartfelt tales, created cherished memories across generations. His passions—music, hunting, butchering, sausage making, canning, and gardening—were shared generously, leaving behind a legacy of skills and joyous experiences.
Throughout his battle with cancer, Luke exhibited remarkable courage and resilience. Even in the face of adversity, his spirit remained unbroken, and his sense of humor and faith never faltered. He taught us the true meaning of strength and the importance of never giving up, no matter the challenges.
Luke’s passing leaves an irreplaceable void in our hearts, but his memory will endure in the countless lives he touched. His legacy of hard work, love, and laughter will continue to inspire and guide us. Rest in peace, knowing that your spirit will forever illuminate the lives of all who were fortunate enough to know you.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Norma Smolik; his children, Brent Smolik (spouse Kathy), Katrina Smolik Michalk (spouse Nathan), and Luke Anthony Smolik (spouse Lea); his grandchildren, Kristin Edgeller (spouse Johnathan), Brian Smolik, James William Smolik (spouse Patty); his great-grandchildren, Sophia, Luke, and Stella Edgeller, and Oliver James Smolik; his brother, Louis L. Smolik (spouse Lillian); and numerous nieces and nephews who adored him. He was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Bessie Netardus Smolik, and siblings Frances Patton, Jaro Smolik, Emily Buckert, Bessie Adams, Mary Ohrt, Leslie Smolik and Patrick Smolik.
Visitation will be held on July 23, 2024, from 6:00-8:00pm at Rosewood Funeral Home, 3304 E Mockingbird Ln, Victoria, Texas. A rosary will be recited on Wednesday, July 24, 2023 at Holy Family Catholic Church, 704 Mallette Drive at 10:30am, with the mass to follow at 11:00am. A private family burial will be held at 3:30pm.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Luke’s memory to Hospice of South Texas.
Thoughts and memories may be shared at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com.
