John Joseph Dzurnak

Wednesday, March 18, 2015, ended up being John Dzurnak’s last day with us. Although he was in the midst of planning his 80th birthday celebration with his children, God had bigger plans and called on him to help. John never woke up that morning.

Born in Torrington, Connecticut on August 13, 1935, to Joseph and Mary Dzurnak, John was the oldest of 3 sons (William (deceased 2014) and Philip). After graduating from Torrington High School, he joined the United States Air Force (USAF), married his high school sweetheart, Ella (deceased 2008) and traveled the globe. The Dzurnak’s itinerary included overseas duty assignments in France, Guam, Japan, Philippines, and U.S. assignments in California, New York, Massachusetts and Texas.

After honorably serving our country for 28 years, John retired in 1981 with the highest enlisted rank available in the USAF, Chief Master Sergeant. He also completed his education with dual master’s degrees. His career path continued into the private club industry where he managed private country clubs in Denton, Wichita Falls and Austin.

John’s “retirement” started in 2005 when he became a partner in a hospitality consulting business (now called STIRS). His greatest friend, Bob Max, is the only surviving partner.

John “The Great DZS” Dzurnak is survived by his four children: Karen M. Lentz and her husband, Richard, of Colorado Springs, Colorado; John M. Dzurnak and his wife, Jenny, of Wichita Falls, Texas; Joan E. Gentry of Austin, Texas; David E. Dzurnak and his wife, Arlene, of Salt Lake City, Utah; five grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

John’s vigil will be held on Tuesday, the 24th of March, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Cook- Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home and Memorial Park located at 6300 West William Cannon Drive, Austin, TX 78749. Their phone number is (512) 892-1172.

John’s funeral will be celebrated by Father Pat Coakley at Saint Catherine of Siena located at 4800 Convict Hill Road, Austin, Texas 78749. The Funeral Mass will be held at 10:00 AM on Wednesday, March 25, 2015.

The burial will take place at a future date.

Memorial contributions in John’s memory may be made to St. Catherine of Siena, Special Projects Fund, 4800 Convict Hill Road, Austin, TX 78749. Phone number: 512 892-2420

John once said, “When it stops being fun…….it’s time to go!”