Johnnie Frank Machu

Johnnie Frank Machu

April 10, 1942 – Aug. 14, 2021

Johnnie was born on a farm near Taylor, Texas, to parents Edward Rudolph Machu and Winnie Klima Machu. He attended Taylor area schools before joining the U.S. Marine Corps in March 1962 and serving his country as a sergeant in the Vietnam War.

He was stationed in California, Japan, and South Vietnam, earning the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal, and was honorably discharged in May 1966. Johnnie formed a lifelong bond and remained close with his Marine brothers.

He returned to his deep-rooted family in Texas and met and married Aileene Joyce Kaatz on July 29, 1967. They were joined in Holy Matrimony by Almighty God at the Taylor Brethren Church, officiated by Rev. Joseph Barton, with his brother Howard and wife Bonnie as witnesses. Johnnie and Aileene were blessed with one son, Ethan Alan Machu, born Nov. 26, 1969.

Johnnie started his career working at the local Pontiac dealer as a mechanic. Johnnie worked as a potsman for Alcoa for 37 years before retirement.  While working there, he began ranching and grew his cattle and herd through hard work, dedication, and lots of love.

He loved car shows and classic cars. He was the ultimate Do-It-Yourselfer and ready to help anyone in need, sometimes with a chuckle, “Don’t worry, I’ll get to it." He played guitar and was a poetic songwriter. He loved dancing with Aileene at the SPJST Hall and would sing with the band every chance he got. Barbeque was his specialty, and he hosted an annual gathering at his ranch celebrating opening day of dove hunting season. He also enjoyed photography and was fond of capturing memories at family gatherings, sharing his pictures, and collecting old photos for keepsakes.

Johnnie was a faithful member of the Taylor Brethren Church. With his humble nature and attitude, he earned countless friends. He was loving, kind-hearted, and devoted to his wife of 51 years, the late Aileene, and treasured his son, Ethan, to whom he passed on his knowledge of mechanics and raising cattle.

Johnnie is survived by his son, Ethan, and wife Alice Machu; step-grandchildren Jenifer and Alan Cundy; brother Howard and wife Bonnie Machu; sister Lorene Machu; brothers-in-laws Lloyd O’Brien and Gene Roepke; Companion Gail Nixon and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents Edward and Winnie Machu; his dear wife Aileene Machu; his oldest brother Eugene and wife Effie Machu; and sisters Mildred O’Brien and Melba Roepke.

Family and friends will gather for visitation Sunday, August 22, from 4-6 p.m. at the Providence Funeral Home in Taylor.

Church services will be conducted Monday, August 23 at 10 a.m. at the Taylor Brethren Church by Rev. James Hejl. Immediately following he will be laid to rest at the Taylor City Cemetery, with full military honors.

Pallbearers: Craig Sini, Roger Seggern, Peyton Pyle, Colton Pyle, Griffin Gilbert, Grant Gilbert

Honorary Pallbearers: Mike Quebe, George Rusick, Winston Edmond, Mike Edmond