JAMES C. VYNALEK JR

James C. "Jim" Vynalek Jr. passed away on August 31, 2024, in Pleasanton, TX after a full and glorious life of 102 years. Born on August 2, 1922, in Chicago, IL, Jim was a respected figure in his community, known for his gentlemanly demeanor, friendly nature, and deep commitment to family and community.

Jim grew up in Fox River Grove, IL, and acquired his love for fly fishing on the Fox River with his cousins. He was an outstanding student, and he achieved the rank of Eagle Scout where he would learn the qualities that would characterize his life - a life of energy, activity and civic duty.  Jim matriculated at Northwestern University where he excelled in track and field - men's low hurdles, pledged the Delta Tau Delta Fraternity and built long-lasting friendships.

His undergraduate years were interrupted by WWII. Jim served honorably in the United States Army Air Corps, where he contributed significantly by flying missions out of Casablanca as a bomber radio operator during this pivotal time in history. After his military service and completing his degree at Northwestern University, he married his college sweetheart and the love of his life, Earlene Mann of Pleasanton, TX and the couple settled in several places before making Pleasanton their home. He embarked on a successful career, ultimately becoming the Executive Vice President of Azrock Tile Company, where he was admired for his leadership and vision.

A devout member of the First Methodist Church of Pleasanton, Jim was actively involved in the church community and choir. He brought joy to the to the church with his sweet tenor voice that radiated his love for God and his friends. He was an avid fly fisherman and fished all over the world. As a founding member of the local chapter of Trout Unlimited, he served as an officer many times throughout the years. His hobbies included fly fishing and wildlife habitat preservation, particularly feeding the local bluebirds and raising rainbow trout to stock the Guadalupe River from his property at Canyon Lake. These activities reflected his deep appreciation for nature and commitment to environmental stewardship.

Jim was preceded in death by his mother, Jennie Vokac Vynalek, his father, James C. Vynalek Sr., and his beloved wife, Earlene Mann Vynalek, along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

His legacy of kindness, community service, and love for the environment will be remembered by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Tunnels to Towers Foundation, or the charity of your choice, in memory of Jim, honoring his spirit of service and community support.

A graveside service is scheduled for Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at Pleasanton City Cemetery starting at 2:00 pm.