Benedict Joseph Kalina

Bennie Kalina, 70, of Miles passed away Wednesday, May 9, 2012 at his home. He was born June 1, 1941, in Rowena to Matt and Mary (Kubenka) Kalina. He married Clara Schwertner on July 10, 1962, in Rowena, Texas.

Bennie was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Harry Kalina; brother-in-law, Victor Hoelscher and sister-in-law, Judy Kuntz.

Bennie is survived by his wife, Clara. His sons, Joseph and wife Dena, their children, Nathan, Jordan, and Taryn of Rowena; Paul and wife Dawn, their children, Michael, Marial, and Marissa of Miles; Mark and wife Jodi, their children, Garrett, Hannah, Ross, and Heidi of Rowena; daughter Diane Michalewicz and husband Kevin, their children Damian, Katie, and Seth of Ballinger. Also surviving are brothers Sydney and wife Betty of Elm Mott; Marcel and wife Annie Lois of Eola; sisters Alice Gleich and husband Stanley of Rowena; Germaine Hoelscher of Olfen; Valeria Hoelscher and husband Leroy of St. Lawrence and sister-in-law, Betsy Kalina of Arlington and numerous nieces and nephews.

One of Bennie’s pastimes was fishing in the creeks and rivers. He loved his grandchildren most of all. He enjoyed attending all their activities, especially baseball. One of his greatest joys was having the grandchildren come over. They enjoyed eating the watermelon that he took pride in growing.

Rosary will be recited at 7 p.m on Friday, May 11, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Rowena. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 12, at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Father Ariel Lagunilla officiating with burial following in St. Joseph Cemetery.

Serving as pall bearers will be grandsons along with Randy Collins and Steve Kalina. Memorials may be made to St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery or the American Cancer Society. The family would like to thank Dr. Barnett, the nurses on 5th Floor North, and the nurses at Shannon Oncology Center.