Steve Janik

He was born on September 15, 1921 and was raised in Dayton, Texas. He grew up on his parents’ farm where he plowed, planted and harvested crops. As a young boy he enjoyed hunting and fishing with his brothers. As a young man he worked for the Texas Highway Department as a surveyor. On September 26, 1942, at the age of 21, he was drafted into the United States Army Air Corps, Engineer Division. He served in the Asiatic Pacific Campaign as a cook for 232 men. His division was monumental in building the Burma Road. He received several medals which include: American Theater Campaign Medal, World War II Victory Medal, Asiatic Pacific Campaign Medal with two Bronze stars and a good conduct medal. He was an excellent marksman with his rifle for which he received a Marksman medal. Upon completion of his service he had worked several different jobs until he began his employment with the City of Houston, Engineering Department. He worked as a surveyor until his retirement in 1985.

He married the love of his life, Marie Petrash, on January 31st, 1948. Together they were blessed with three loving daughters: Jo Ann, Janette and Carol. He loved taking his girls for picnics, trips to the beach, and the many fishing trips. He, along with his lifelong friend, Frank Polak, built a wooden fishing boat from a kit. Together both families enjoyed many happy years of fishing and forever memories.

He was an active member of the American Legion, SPJST and Saint Edwards Catholic Church. During his retirement years he loved spending time with his grandchildren. He also enjoyed gardening, fishing and spending time at the casino.

Steve was a faithful Catholic Christian. He loved and served The Lord. He was a man of little words, but his actions spoke louder than any words. He never judged anyone and always gave everyone the benefit of the doubt. He did not tolerate gossip in his home and believed if you could not say anything nice about someone, then you shouldn’t say anything at all.

In remembrance of Steve, please put God first and foremost in your heart. Hold and keep your family close. Enjoy life to the fullest.

He was preceded in death by his parents: Mary Ann and John, sisters: Christine and Helen, and brothers: Sylvester and Linhart.

He leaves behind his loving wife of 66 years, Marie. His daughters Jo Ann Lanclos and husband Larry; Janette Yanchak and husband Eugene; Carol Thompson and her husband Don. Grandchildren: Matthew Lanclos and wife Christina, Michael Yanchak and wife Tracy, Bryan Lanclos, Kristin Vance and husband Michael, Tyler Thompson and Sarah Thompson, Alyssa Ascencio and husband Eric, Austin Thompson and wife Sarah. Great-Grandchildren: Marie Yanchak, Emma and Jake Lanclos, Jacob and Sawyer Vance, Mia and Jacob Ascencio, Ellie and Evan Thompson. He also leaves behind his brother, George Janik and wife, Erline.

The family would like to thank the nurses, aides, and staff of Rose of Texas Hospice for the care and compassion bestowed upon our loved one during his time in hospice.