Gene David Lopanec, Sr.

Gene D "Red" Lopanec, Sr., 77, of New Braunfels, passed away on Tuesday, July 4, 2017 at his home in New Braunfels. Born on August 17, 1939 in Sugarland, Texas, he was preceded in death by his parents Victor and Mary Lopanec, his wife of 39 years Joyce Lopanec and sister Virginia Isbell. Gene is survived by his son, Gene David Lopanec, Jr. and his wife, Christie Lopanec; daughter, Pam and husband Norman Lehmann, Mike Lopanec and wife Julie; grandchildren, Brittney Lopanec and daughter Kinsley, Ben Lopanec, Trey and Devin Lehmann, Daniel, Allissa, Jason and Austin Lopanec, Jason and Clayton Strutz; 12 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews, all of whom thought the world of him. While still in his teens he joined and proudly served in the US Navy. He started his career as a lineman in Indio California and spent most of his working years at the electrical department at NBU, eventually retiring as an underground superintendent, where he made many friends. He loved being in Del Rio at the hunting camp, in Colorado hunting elk, or fishing at the coast-reeling in the big one. Many nights were spent at his house playing poker where he enjoyed being surrounded by his friends. He was a man that once you met him you would never forget him. A memorial service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 9, 2017 at the Lux Funeral Home Chapel with Military Honors. Family and friends will gather following the service at the Albert Kyper Hall in Clear Springs. Special thanks for the care dad received from Bonnie Baumbach and Hope Hospice. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Genes name to Hope Hospice.