John Edward Siptak Jr.

John Edward Siptak Jr. was born April 19, 1941, to John Edward Siptak and Elizabeth Ann (Bettye) Kocurek. John was 83, just shy of 84, when he passed away on March 25, 2025 at his home in Houston, Texas.

He lived a full and wonderful life. He was a fun-loving, kind and loving partner, father and grandfather. John was mighty of brain and soul, with the perfect amount of curiosity and play. In his early years, he grew up in Caldwell, Texas working on the farm with his nature loving small town doctor father. John graduated from The University of Texas, with a BS in Biology. He served as a Lieutenant JG in the US Navy on the USS Ticonderoga Aircraft Carrier during the Vietnam War. As a young man, he met his sweetheart Gail Newell Rutledge in Houston, TX and they married on July 1, 1968. Together, they created and shared a rich and delightful life. He went into computer programming, working for Hughes Tool, and later into management with Pennzoil in Houston, TX. John brought humor, enthusiasm, joy and balance to all around him. He loved all things nature and volunteered for many years at The Arboretum in Houston, Tx and Armand Bayou Nature Center in Pasadena, Tx. From his favorite chair, looking through wide windows, he enjoyed daily observation of birds and squirrels inhabiting his natural backyard. He loved teaching others about plants, nature, and history. He and Gail loved to meander…knowing that many of life's best experiences are ones not planned. John will always be remembered for his joking nature and his innate ability to give the best surprises.

John leaves behind his loving wife and other half, Gail (Newell) Siptak, his children; Gretchen Siptak Valentine (Fairhope, AL) Greg Siptak (Houston, TX), Jason Siptak / Michelle Gorham (San Antonio, TX), Mai Lynn Womack (Houston, TX) and grandchildren; Nathan & Gavin Valentine (Fairhope, AL), Helen & Camille Siptak (Houston, TX), Béla Siptak (San Antonio, TX). He is also survived by his sister Carolyn Siptak Tolar (San Antonio, TX), Jim / Jimmie Sue Siptak (Alvin, TX), and Steve / Mary Siptak (Houston, TX).

Visitation will be held on Friday, April 4th, 2025 at Pat H. Foley from 4:00-8:00 pm.

John will be laid to rest at New Tabor Cemetery in Caldwell, Texas.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Arbor Day Foundation.