Michael Pavolka, Jr

Michael Pavolka, Jr, 91, of Nokomis, passed away peacefully Friday, October 4, 2024, at his home with his family at his side.

Visitation for Mr. Pavolka will be held Wednesday, October 9, 2024, at St. Louis Catholic Church, Nokomis from 10:00 am until 11:00 am.  Funeral services for Mike Pavolka will follow with Father Michael Meinhart officiating.  Burial will be held at a later date.

Mike was born on August 17,1933 in Nokomis to Michael and Juanita (Ruppert) Pavolka.  He attended Nokomis schools and went on to serve in the US Army in Germany where he was promoted to Corporal and earned the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Occupation Medal (Germany).  Mike married the love of his life, Betty Brandalise on June 13, 1964, at the St. Louis Catholic Church in Nokomis and had celebrated 60 years of marriage. During his lifetime he worked several jobs, including Phillips 66, Mike & Nick’s Tavern, Golden Manor Nursing Home in maintenance and Borg- Warner in Decatur, which he retired from after 32 1/2 years. His family says it was not uncommon for him to work three jobs at one time. 

His family shared he was dedicated to his wife, Betty, was hardworking, honest to a fault, funny, humorous, selfless, and disciplined. Mike was a handyman and could fix anything.  His strong faith and church were especially important to him.  He favorite pastimes, included mowing the grass, gardening, canning vegetables and was a nature lover.  He often joked that he traded his Harley Motorcycle for his wife, Betty and they enjoyed many hours on their swing together.

In addition to his wife, Betty, he is survived by his son; Michael (Cheryl) Pavolka of St Charles, Mo and daughter, Sandy (Vernon) Stevens of Nokomis; grandchildren, Zach (Haley) Stevens of Nokomis, Michael (Ashlee) Pavolka of Wright City, MO, Mariah (Derek) Archibald of Nokomis and Megan (Will) Webb of Wentzville, Mo; brother, Robert (Marge Bellairs) Pavolka of Grand Island, NB and Debbie Harris of Taylorville, IL

Memorials are suggested to St. Louis Catholic School or Nokomis American Legion Post 94.

Online condolences can be left at stiehldawsonfh.com

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