Obituary of Emil Nedbalek

Emil (Ned) Nedbalek, 93, passed away November 15, 2010. He was born to Anna Barinka and John Paul Nedbalek in Snook, Texas on April 30, 1917. Ned is survived by his wife, Ollie Nedbalek; sons, David Nedbalek and Ronald Nedbalek; daughter Carolyn Kirkley and husband Dave; sisters, Lillie Kana and Annie Mazoch; grandchildren, Tiffani Kirkley Lewis and Kristen Kirkley Cantu. At a young age, he and his family moved to a farm near Blessing, Texas where he grew up with his five sisters and two brothers. During these years he formed close relationships with friends and family that have lasted his entire lifetime. On October 24, 1941, Emil married Ollie Kopecky and moved to Houston. He recently celebrated their 69th wedding anniversary with his beloved wife, who he fondly called “Honey.” Emil served honorably in the US Army overseas in Europe during World War II. His service in the supply division eventually led to a future in the industrial distribution industry. He was best known as “Ned” in the machine tool industry and owned Dolan Industrial Sales, Inc. for more than 40 years. His strong work ethic and keen knowledge of the industry provided a role model that inspired many young businessmen to work in the industry, and start their own companies. He worked until he was 89 years old. Ned was a lifelong Lutheran belonging to Ascension Lutheran Church and later Epiphany Lutheran in Pearland. Raising his family with Christian values was important to him. He celebrated his Czech heritage and belonged to SPJST Lodge 88, where he met lifelong friends and celebrated life, listening and dancing to Czech music. When not working, Ned enjoyed being outdoors and spending time on his tractor or raising cattle. He and Ollie cherished their time together at their farm. He will always be remembered for his devotion to his family, his sense of humor, love of friends and passionate work ethic. Visitation for Ned will be on Thursday, November 18, 2010 from 6:00 until 8:00 pm, at Clayton Funeral Home at 5530 W. Broadway, Pearland, TX 77581. Funeral Services will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, November 19, 2010 at Epiphany Lutheran Church at 5515 W. Broadway, Pearland, TX 77581. The final interment will follow at SouthPark Cemetery. The family would like to express sincere gratitude to Lillie Kana, Ned’s sister, for her love, devotion and constant companionship.