John Donald Gawlik

With hearts full of both sadness and gratitude, we announce the peaceful passing of John Donald Gawlik, known affectionately as Johnny, on March 23, 2024. Born under the Texas sun in Mission on June 26, 1947, John's 76 years were marked by an abundance of love, integrity, and quiet strength. John devoted his life to his family. He is survived by his wife, Nidia Gawlik, and his only daughter, Kimberly Kelly Gawlik. His steadfast presence was the bedrock upon which they built a home filled with joy and kindness. Throughout his educational journey from the halls of Saint Paul Catholic School to the classrooms of Mission High School and further into the realm of higher learning at the University of Pan-American, John exemplified diligence and a thirst for knowledge that guided him through life. His working years were spent at West Side Storage U-Haul, where he was respected for his dedication and hard work. John's sense of responsibility and his unwavering commitment to his vocation earned him the admiration of his peers. In his personal life, John found his greatest joy in the simplest of pleasures: spending time with his wife and daughter. These moments, precious and all too fleeting, were the treasures he held dearest. He cherished his role as a husband and father and embraced it wholeheartedly. Everyone who knew him cherished John's presence, and his loss will be deeply felt. In addition to his roles, John was an incredible uncle to his nephews and nieces. He treated them as if they were his own children, with love, support, and guidance. John was an exceptional brother to his siblings and cousins. He was a source of strength, guidance, and kindness. John was preceded in death by his father, Edmond Gawlik, and his mother, Alice Kremel-Gawlik; his sisters, Doris Saner, Marjorie Brewer, Mary Kleinhans, and Carol Davenport, his brother Robert E. Gawlik, sister-in-law, Dominque Gawlik. His memory will be forever cherished by his wife, Nidia, and daughter, Kimberly Kelly Gawlik, who survive him. We invite those who knew and loved John to gather in remembrance at Funeraria Del Angel in Mission, Texas, on March 29, 2024, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, with a chapel service to follow at 2:00 pm. The burial of ashes will take place at Valley Memorial Gardens at 3:00 pm.

Johnny Donald Gawlik lived a life filled with humble grace and selfless love. Through his actions, he taught us the enduring value of kindness and loyalty. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all blessed to know him. May he rest in eternal peace.