Dorothy Pulkrabek

Dorothy Frances Charba Pulkrabek, 90, of Flatonia, TX passed away on January 30, 2023. Dorothy’s true legacy is that she stored up treasures in heaven - and her eternal reward is the comforting presence of Jesus which serves as a testimony of her faith. She was born April 10, 1932 in Rosanky, TX to Anton and Frances Kusak Charba. On December 29, 1951 she was united in marriage to Anton J. “Tony” Pulkrabek in Moulton, TX. They lived and raised two children in Flatonia, TX.

Tony and Dorothy were no strangers to hard work. Dorothy worked for Flatonia ISD school in the cafeteria for many years. She cooked for the children and mastered many cooking skills that she shared for years to come. Years later, Tony and Dorothy purchased the Pulkrabek Sinclair Service Station. At that time Dorothy chose to leave the school to help run the family business. As I-10 was built and traffic diverted, they built and opened Tony’s Discount Store & Gas Station which was located next door to their old station. They also built and operated Tony’s Trailer Park which is still operating today. The Friendly Tavern was a huge part of their lives and easily known as Dorothy’s kitchen table to which she welcomed everyone. Many friendships were made and occasions shared. Love, laughter and food was among many special gifts they shared. Pulkrabek’s visited from other states, new friends stopped by from Czechoslovakia, domino tournaments were held and many birthdays celebrated. Tony and Dorothy’s famous meals and hospitality were enjoyed by so many. No one was ever left alone during a holiday as everyone was always welcome to join the family. City Market was another business they had for many years. Saturday BBQ was a staple for the Flatonia community. Dorothy continued to run the Friendly Tavern after Tony’s passing. When she retired, her final years included gardening, canning and doing her word searches. Since she was unable to go to mass she watched Catholic TV and prayed the rosary. She enjoyed her favorite shows (the Marty Stuart Show, the Big Joe Polka Show, Mollie B. Polka Show and Wheel of Fortune) but her most favorite past-time was spent with her beloved puppies Fiona and Springer.

Dorothy was preceded in death her husband; her son: Anthony Pulkrabek; her parents; three brothers: Willie, Emil & Anton Jr; one sister: Mary Jemelka Flory and one son-in-law: Tom Monse.

Dorothy raised 5 generations under her warm and loving embrace.

She is survived by one daughter: Barbara Monse-Miles.

6 grandchildren: Christina Powell; Deondra Gonzales; John Miles and wife Beth; Tammy McPhearson; Jennifer Mayo; David Kalisek.

14 great grandchildren: Seth Weber and wife Tori; Kailie Weber and boyfriend Corey Crouch; Cameron Powell; Jonathan Gonzales and fiancé Ana Solis; Jullissa Gonzales and fiancé Andrew Tavera; Jeshua Gonzales; Jayvien Reyes; Victoria, John David and Lorelai Miles; Nikolas Hunter; Rhiannon, Jacob and Skylar Mayo.

5 Great-Great Grandchildren: Sophia Weber; Jayslie Sumrall; Parker Powell; Camila Tavera; Jonathan Joseph Gonzales.

A visitation for Dorothy will be Friday, February 3, 2023 from 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, a rosary will be recited on Saturday, February 4, 2023 at 9:30 AM followed by a funeral service at 10:00 AM, officiated by Deacon Tim Kozelsky all at Smith Funeral Home in Flatonia, TX.

Pallbearers: Seth Weber, Jonathan Gonzales, Cameron Powell, Jayvien Reyes, Kailie Weber, Jeshua Gonzales and Jullissa Gonzales.

Fond memories and words of comfort can be shared with the family at www.smithfuneraltx.com

Smith Funeral Home – 128 East 5th Street. Flatonia, TX 78941                   Phone #361-865-3311