Louis Frank Kaska

Louis Frank Kaska passed peacefully in his sleep at his home on June 4, 2022. He was born to Charlie Kaska and Millie Kolar Kaska on March 6, 1930 in McLennan County just outside the town of West, Texas. When asked his birthdate he would add, “the fall of the Alamo.” His first language was Czech and he learned English in the first grade. He worked his family farm until he was called to the U.S. Army in 1951. He was awarded the Combat Infantry Badge, Korean Service Medal with three Bronze Service Stars, UN Service Medal and the Army Occupation Medal (Japan). Returning home, Louis married the love of his life, Betty Jo Kucera, in 1953. Betty and Louis waltzed and polka-danced their way through 68 years of marriage.

Louis worked as a cabinet maker in Waco before moving to Fort Worth where he worked for General Motors in Arlington for nearly 40 years until his retirement in 1993. He was never a minute late and took only four sick days with the birth of his four children. Louis was an avid gardener never leaving the love of farming behind. He was one of the original organic farmers, enriching his large garden with compost and never using pesticides or fertilizers. He shared his bountiful harvest with neighbors, family, and friends.

Louis was an active member of St. Rita Catholic Church for 65 years. He volunteered with Eastside Ministries in his retirement. Louis was first and foremost and always a husband and father. His family came first. He worked hard to provide a college education for his children. He loved his nine grandchildren and eight great grandchildren who called him PopPop. His eyes always lit up when he FaceTimed or looked at photos of these children. His legacy is his love; when you think of him, share the love.

The immediate family will hold a graveside service. A memorial mass will be celebrated at St. Rita Catholic Church in July on a date to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Louis’s name can be sent to St. Rita Catholic School, 712 Weiler Blvd., Fort Worth, Texas 76112.

Louis Kaska was preceded in death by his parents, his son Louis Kaska, Jr., four brothers and two sisters.

Louis Kaska is survived by his wife Betty Jo Kaska; brother Bill (Margaret) Kaska of Garland; three daughters Jeanne (Larry) Aertker of Katy, Mary Jo Kaska (Moira McCarthy) of Fort Worth, Caroline (Matthew) Danysh of Pawleys Island, SC; nine grandchildren Joseph (Sarah) Aertker of El Campo, Bobby (Andrea) Aertker of The Woodlands, Ben Aertker (Marysuna Wilkerson) of Clear Lake, Leslie (Miguel) Curo of Houston, Henry Danysh of Charleston, Leo Louis Danysh, George Danysh, Charlie Danysh and Lillie Danysh of Pawleys Island; eight great grandchildren Alan Aertker, Annie Aertker, Riley Aertker, William Louis Aertker, Ellen Aertker, Margo Aertker, Evan Aertker, and Maeve Curo. He is also survived by many beloved nieces, nephews, and friends.