Robert John Sykora

Robert John Sykora passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, September 28, 2014. A Dallas native, he was born February 26, 1939 in Penelope, Texas while his parents were visiting the family farm. Robert was honored to be a Catholic priest for 13 years for the Diocese of Dallas. One of his proudest life accomplishments was the building of his parish, Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Duncanville, Texas. He was equally proud of his career at Lockheed Martin, where he was a PAC III Engineer in the Quality Control Department, Missiles Division. He retired in March 2011.

In 1978 he married Kay, whom he was dedicated to for their entire married life of 36 ½ years. Together they were proud parents of their daughter Christian and son Aaron. In 2010 they were honored to have Kevin Kramer join the family when he married Christian. In January 2014, Robert was blessed with a grandson, Hudson Robert, who he loved dearly and who made his days brighter.

Robert loved gardening and every genre of music and the arts. He played keyboard accordion and the piano. With only two years of piano, “taught by nuns”, he was able to take any piece of music and play it in a key of choice. He found immense value in traveling and was able to experience vacations all over the world with his mom and dad. Robert also enjoyed cruising with family and friends. He was happiest when surrounded by those he loved, and they were many because he never met a stranger. He also loved being at Lake Kiowa enjoying the peacefulness, scenery and wildlife; particularly the many hummingbirds.

Predeceased by his parents, Joseph and Vlasta Sykora, he is survived by his wife Kay, daughter Christian Kramer, son Aaron, son-in-law Kevin Kramer and grandson Hudson Robert Kramer. In addition, he leaves a brother-in-law, a niece and nephew, their families and numerous cousins and their families.

Visitation at Calvary Hill Funeral Home will be from 6:00-7:00 pm on Thursday, October 2 with a recitation of the Rosary commencing at 7:00pm. Mass will be celebrated at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church at 10:30 am on Friday, October 3. Interment will be at Calvary Hill Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, Robert requested any donations be made in his name to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.