Michael Duane Avant

Michael Duane Avant, 77, of Robstown, Texas, went home to be with the Lord on December 1, 2025, after a brief illness. Born on December 28, 1947, in Los Angeles, Texas, to Alvin and Elizabeth (Marley) Avant, Mike was the fifth of six children and grew up surrounded by family.

He graduated from Cotulla High School in 1967 and attended Texas A&I in Kingsville. Mike proudly served his country as a military policeman in Vietnam after being drafted into the Army in 1969—a service he carried with honor throughout his life.

In 1972, Mike married the love of his life, Wylma Pavelka, and together they built a home filled with laughter, love, and strong values in Violet, Texas. They raised two children, Amanda and William, who were his greatest joy. Mike worked as a refinery operator for Lyondell for 34 years, providing for his family with dedication and integrity.

Mike had a deep love for the outdoors—hunting, fishing, and cheering on rodeos were among his favorite pastimes. He also enjoyed traveling, lending a helping hand on the family farm, and most of all, spending time with his grandchildren.

He is survived by his beloved wife Wylma; children Amanda Boone (Justin) and William Avant (Angela); and grandchildren Hunter, Anna, Daniella, William, and Evelyn. He also leaves behind cherished extended family including his brother Darwin Avant (wife Betty, deceased), sister in law, Joyce Danysh, brother in law, Otto Danysh, Nephew Matt Danysh (Samantha La Plant), and great nephews Clay and Joel Danysh who will miss his warm smile and kind heart.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Alvin and Elizabeth Avant; siblings June Hooper, Eugene Avant, Kathyrn Avant, and Vernon “Sleepy” Avant; and his in-laws Willie and Dorothy Pavelka.

Services are as follows:

• Date & Time: December 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

• Location: Memory Garden Funeral Home, Corpus Christi, TX

• Burial: Memorial Park Cemetery, Robstown, TX

• Reception: Robstown Community Hall

Pallbearers will be William Avant, Will Avant, Justin Boone, Hunter Boone, Matt Danysh, and Clay Danysh. Honorary pallbearers include Charlie Williams, Joel Danysh, and granddaughters Anna Boone, Evelyn Avant, and Daniella Boone.

The family requests donations be made to a charity of your choice in Mike’s memory. Special thanks to Home Bright for their compassionate care and to Jennifer Martinez for her assistance during this time.

Mike’s legacy of love, service, and family will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.