Edward Lee Pawelek of Hondo, 78, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on Friday, Sept. 29, 2017, "Feast Day of the Archangels." He fought a courageous battle against a blood disorder. Born July 23, 1939, in Panna Maria TX, he was the first born of Leon N. Pawelek Jr. and Proxie D. Moczygemba Pawelek. As a young child, Edward spent most summers with his grandparents and aunts on the farm at Panna Maria. This is where he gained his love for the land. Eddie went to St. Gerard Catholic High School. He enlisted in the U.S. Air Force while in his senior year and, immediately after graduation, he was on his way to complete basic training. As a young man he enjoyed playing the guitar and banjo. Edward worked for the City of San Antonio 37 years. He was supervisor of all trades in the Parks and Recreation Department. It is said he was the only one brave enough to climb to the top of the Tower of Americas to change the lights. Edward enjoyed life fully. He especially loved fishing and hunting, especially hunting elk in Colorado. Blessed with many talents, he was a kind, hardworking, generous, God-loving man. He was mischievous, fun-loving and he loved to dance. He was blessed with many talents. After retirement, Edward got interested in making wine. He had studied organic chemistry so it came natural for him. He won several "Best of Show" awards and numerous first and second place awards for his wines at the Medina County Fair. Along with his wife, Elizabeth, he was an active member of St. John the Evangelist. He served on various committees, ACTS teams, and the Men's Rosary Group. Eddie had a great devotion to Our Blessed Mother Mary. Edward kept busy, too busy, if you ask most people. He loved planting crops, tending his cattle, spending time with family and friends, and helping others. He and Elizabeth traveled occasionally and he especially liked their trips to Mexico and San Francisco. He is preceded in death by his parents; his first wife, Edith; sister, Cecelia Frances Stalsby; and nephew/Godson, Thomas Lee Stalsby. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Garcia Pawelek; sister, Bernadette Marie Pawelek, both of Hondo; stepdaughter, Yvonne (Rudy Reyes) Granados; stepson, Lou (Priscilla) Herrera; step granddaughter, Christina G. (Juan) Perez; and step great-grandchildren, Isaiah and Jayden Perez. Visitation from 9:30 to 10 a.m. and Rosary at 10 a.m., followed by Memorial Mass at 10:30 a.m., will be Wednesday, Oct. 11, at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church, 2101 Ave. K, Hondo. Inurnment will be at 3 p.m. at Sunset Memorial Park, 1701 Austin Hwy., San Antonio TX 78218. The family suggests memorials may be made to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, St. John the Evangelist New Hall Fund, or the charity of one's choice.