Stanley Frank Hracek

Stanley Frank Hracek, 88, of Hankamer, Texas, passed away on Saturday, March 23, 2024, in Baytown, Texas. He was born on July 24, 1935, in Cameron, Texas, to the late Frank and Lucy Christine Zalesky Hracek. Stanley was a lifelong resident of Dayton, Texas, attending school there and growing up on Marblehead Street, where he built a two-car garage at the remarkable age of 14. He was a former member of the Bricklayer’s Union and the Liberty VFW Post 5621. He proudly served his country with pride in the United States Army.

Stanley’s early career as a bricklayer began in Dayton, where he contributed to projects such as the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. He later ventured into entrepreneurship, owning The Rock Drive-In, a car hop burger joint in Dayton, and the Sportsman Club on FM 1409. He had a knack for fabricating and fixing things, displaying remarkable mechanical prowess in cars or household repairs. At age 8, he disassembled his father’s lawn mower to learn what made it work, which eventually caused his father to pay someone to put it back together. And at 14, he built a 2-car garage for his parents. After marrying, Stanley eventually settled into a career in the oil and gas industry. After retirement, he enjoyed working with his cows and participating in cook-off events, for which he won several awards.

A generous provider for his family and community, Stanley was known for his outgoing and social nature. He found joy in music, especially traditional Czech tunes on Sundays, and loved dancing and having a good time. His home was always open to friends in need.

Stanley was preceded in death by his parents; his brothers Ray Gene Hracek and Melvin Joe Hracek; his first wife Shirley Fay Hracek and his late wife Vonda Hracek. He is survived by his children Stanley Ray Hracek and wife Connie of Baytown, Richard Hracek and wife Angie of Old River-Winfree, and Lana Kemp and husband Jason of Liberty. He also leaves behind his grandchildren Nathan Hracek, Hannah Petters, Haley Venema, Emily Nash, Allan Hracek, Ryan Hracek, Brittany Molina, Dillon Williams and Elizabeth Kemp; as well as great-grandchildren Camden, Teddy, Ethan, Nayla, Evie, Kaylyn, Natalie, Josie, Harper Fay, and Liam. He is also survived by his sister Janie Jones of Dayton; numerous nieces, nephews, and other loving relatives and friends.

A graveside service and committal will be held at 11 AM, on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, in Reeves Cemetery in Old River Winfree, with Deacon David Workman officiating.

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