Anthony Joe Vacek

Anthony "Tony" Joe Vacek, beloved father, grandfather, and friend, passed away on December 6, 2024, at the age of 80 in San Antonio, Texas. Born on May 10, 1944, in Ammannsville, TX, Tony lived a life rich with dedication to family, community, and his passions.

Tony, a 1963 graduate of Sam Houston High School, was drafted in the United States Army during the Vietnam war in 1966. As a proud Army veteran, Tony served his country with honor before embarking on a distinguished 40-year career at Union Pacific Railroad. His commitment to hard work and perseverance was evident throughout his life, and he was well-known among his colleagues and friends for his strong work ethic and unshakable character.

Tony’s Czech heritage was a source of great pride, and he remained deeply connected to his roots. His love for polka music and country tunes filled his life with joy. He was often found enjoying a good dance at the local dancehall. He made sure to always save the best table when his favorite country artists would come to town, and his signature straw cowboy hat was a familiar sight to all who knew him. Beyond his love for music, Tony was a devoted father to his two children, Deana and Craig. He embraced life with a generous heart, loving not only his children but also his adopted dog, Bandit, whom he considered family. As a grandfather, he cherished his granddaughters, and his pride in them was evident to all who had the pleasure of seeing him with them.

In his later years, Tony faced the challenges of Parkinson’s disease, which took a toll on his physical and mental abilities. Fortunately, he remained easy-going and appreciative to be in his home while Janis and James, along with other dedicated caregivers, attended to his needs. His quick wit and warm spirit remained intact, and he quickly became a favorite among the care staff at his assisted living facility.

Tony will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His rich legacy of love, laughter, and resilience will live on in the hearts of those who knew him. He is preceded in death by his parents, George and Adela Vacek; siblings, Patsy Doege and Gary Vacek. Tony is survived by his children, Deana Seidel (Billy) and Craig Vacek (Heather); his granddaughters, Abigail, Morgan and Claire (Camilo); siblings, George Vacek (Jeanette), Jean Hartman (Robert), Monica Kosub (Emil), Michael Vacek (Kathy) and Diane Solarcyzk (Ray) and numerous other extended family members and good friends.

The family will receive friends from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Monday, December 23, 2024, at Porter Loring Mortuary North.

CELEBRATION OF LIFEMONDAY, DECEMBER 23, 202411:30 AMPORTER LORING NORTH CHAPEL2102 N. LOOP 1604 E.

Deacon Alvin Frerich will officiate. Interment with military honors will follow at 1:15 p.m., in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd. Pallbearers will be Donald Doege, Ryan Hartman, Wade Gulley, Chad Kosub, Jason Vacek, Jeremy Vacek, Joshua Vacek, and Travis Solarcyzk.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the San Antonio Food Bank dedicated to Anthony Vacek at http://safoodbank.org/donate/ or San Antonio Food Bank, 5200 Historic Old Hwy 90, San Antonio, Texas 78227, by check, include a note indicating it’s a dedication donation for Anthony Vacek.