Clem Mikeska

Clem Mikeska, age 94, passed away peacefully in his home the afternoon of Sunday, April 14th, surrounded by his loving family. He was born September 27, 1929 to John and Francis Mikeska. He married Anna Jo Janak September 12, 1965. Clem and Anna Jo had 3 children, Angela, Anna and Stephen.

He was a devoted Dad, Grandpa, and business owner of Clem Mikeska BBQ which he opened in 1965 in Temple. His restaurant was his passion. As business continued to grow, his three children joined him and expanded the restaurant to a full service BBQ and Steakhouse. His legacy will continue to prosper under their leadership.

Clem was born in Taylor, TX and was the youngest of nine children. He worked on the family farm and there he learned about cattle and the meat market along with his 5 brothers in which all 6 of them eventually ran their own BBQ business. Clem learned the most about meat cutting during his time in Washington State ….he became a master butcher with all the knowledge he gained.

After Clem graduated from Round Rock High School, Clem served in the Army for 3 years and was in active combat in the Korean War for one of those years. He worked in the mess hall where he learned to cook in large quantities which later aided him in his catering cooking skills. He was a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus council # 3444.

An avid hunter, Clem's passion is reflected in the theme and decor of his famous BBQ restaurant. He cherished his annual Colorado hunt with his son, brothers, and nephews, as well as his 30-plus years of hunting on his deer lease in Florence. It was a special family place where he bonded with his three grandsons, imparting many life lessons including learning how to drive the good old green jeep. Clem was also a dedicated fan of the Houston Astros, attending many games and even being honored as a guest by his lifelong friend, Drayton McLane.

He enjoyed going to Round Top/Warrington junk shopping with his two daughters, forging friendships with many of the vendors over the 30-plus years he visited. Clem always found special treasures, proudly displayed at his ranch house and at the restaurant. He eagerly anticipated the annual family beach trip to Port Aransas, where memories were made and famous Winton’s caramel candy was never in short supply.

Clem was a faithful parishioner of St. Mary’s Catholic Church actively involved in starting a trust fund for the Catholic school. He regularly attended Mass and became good friends with Monsignor Arthur Michalka with whom he spent much time hunting, fishing, and Monsignor even crafted several pieces of furniture Clem still treasures in his home. In his later years, he grew close to Father Ranjan Cletus. Their friendship was very special and the conversations always began and ended with an “Amen Brother” He always attended the church picnics and all the parishioners loved to see Clem there because they knew he would always make a big contribution at the auctions

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He had a passion for youth involvement and was deeply engaged in the Bell County Youth Fair program. Clem was the driving force in getting the Expo Center built. His drive and determination inspired leaders of Bell County to get the building process approved and built.

Clem was one of the first recipients of the Bell County Youth Fair Ring of Honor which is a prestigious award recognizing local supporters. For 30 years, Clem purchased the Grand Champion steer and later initiated a scholarship for the winner, nurturing young leaders to become outstanding citizens. His passion for the youth was very clear and he knew these kids where the future of the livestock and agriculture world. Clem's involvement extended hosting the meal and dance prior to the weeklong show in which he always enjoyed watching the kids do the “Chicken Dance”. He also participated in the annual Belton 4th of July parade, where his upbeat band and the aroma of BBQ smoke inspired the crowd.

Clem loved his six grandchildren Garrett, Hank, Madison, Blake, Lauren and Sarah. He was beyond proud of them and enjoyed attending many of their sporting events, school activities and birthday celebrations. All of them adored their dear Grandpa and will forever cherish the special bond between each of them.

In the face of health challenges over the past 18 months, Clem was well cared for by dedicated caregivers till the end. Gloria (momma) and Corina tended to his every need, while nurse Angela provided exceptional care, blessing both him and his family.

Clem will be greatly missed. He never met a stranger and he had a knack for making everyone feel welcome, greeting them with a firm handshake and a friendly smile along with his quick wit. Clem’s charismatic personality, integrity, and dedication will be remembered and cherished, carrying on through his family and his legendary BBQ business.

Clem is preceded in death by his parents, 8-siblings, and wife of 46 years Anna Jo Mikeska.

Clem is survived by his 2 daughters; Angela Conlan and husband Ray, Anna Payne and husband Troy; son, Stephen Mikeska and wife Angie; grandchildren, Garrett Conlan and wife Kaylee, Madison Conlan, Hank Payne, Blake Payne, Lauren Mikeska and Sarah Mikeska.