Johnny Fred Zapalac

Johnny Fred Zapalac passed away on March 24, 2023 in Austin, Texas at the age of 89 after complications from a stroke. Johnny was born in Friendship, Texas to Alfred & Martha (Roepke) Zapalac on November 27, 1933. He played football throughout his years at Granger High School where he graduated in 1952.

Johnny joined the U.S. Navy and proudly served four years with the SeaBee’s (MCB-5) during the Korean War. He helped build many U.S. bases that are still used today. Johnny retired from Southwestern Bell Telephone Company after 35 years of service. He was a long-time resident of Austin and enjoyed many days fishing and enjoying family time with his children and then grandchildren at Lake Travis. After retiring Johnny enjoyed spending summers with his family at the cabin he and his wife built in the mountains of Colorado. He made life long memories taking his grandkids trout fishing and on long drives in the mountains of Conejos county Colorado.

Johnny is proceeded in death by his parents and brother Cpl Wallace Zapalac, WWII.

Johnny is survived by his loving wife of 66 years, Irlene (Finn) Zapalac, daughters; Brenda (J) Bouldin and Diana (Ricky) Janecka. Grandchildren; Trey (Lacie) Bouldin, Tonya (Daryn) Burleigh, Candice Zapalac-Janecka and Johnette Janecka. Great Grandchildren; James, Jacob & Claire Bouldin, Easton & Casen Burleigh. He is also survived by his brother Glen (Peggy) Zapalac as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Serving as Pallbearers are Trey Bouldin, Daryn Burleigh, Dwayne Finn, Wade Finn, Russell Zapalac, Phillip Wagner.
Honary Pallbearers are Norman Miksch, Gene Finn, Tex Finn, John Simcik, Mike Givens, Dan Respondek, and the Granger High School class of 1952.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to: Granger American Legion Post 0282 or Capitol Rod & Gun Club scholarship fund; Capitol Rod & Gun Club Inc. 20325 Rod & Gun Club Road, Spicewood TX 78669-6570

Visitation will be at Harrell Funeral @ 4435 Frontier Trail, Austin 78745 on Wednesday March 29, 4pm-7pm

Funeral will be held at Providence Funeral Home @ 807 Carlos Parker Blvd NW, Taylor Tx 76574 on Saturday, April 1st. Visitation will be at 10am, Service starting at 11am. Followed by burial at Taylor City Cemetery.