John F. Bisek

May 11, 1927 - December 13, 2018

John F. Bisek, age 91, of New Prague, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Thursday, December 13, 2018 at Mala Strana Rehabilitation Center.  John was born on May 11, 1927 in Helena Township, Scott County to Frank M. and Stephania (Mamer) Bisek.  He attended St. Wenceslaus Catholic School and New Prague High School.  John served in the U.S. Army in the Korean War and was honorably discharged, receiving 2 bronze service stars.  On June 6, 1953, John married Dorothy C. Zika in Lonsdale and the couple made their home and raised their six children on their farm in rural New Prague. John was very active throughout his life,  much of which revolved around the Park Ballroom;  he served on the Board of Directors and worked at the ballroom in many capacities.  He was a past commander of both the VFW and the American Legion and served on the New Prague Honor Guard, having been one of the charter members.

 

John was a committed conservation farmer and received the honor of being the Minnesota Conservation Farmer of the Year.  He served on the Board of Directors for the Scott County Soil and Water Conservation District, served on the Cedar Lake Township Board, and was a 50-year member of the Catholic Workman and held several positions with that organization.   He and local farmers started a chapter of the Minnesota Beekeepers.  John’s volunteer activities saw him on the rural fire district for many years.  Finally, he was a committed member of St. Wenceslaus Church.  He served on the parish board, ushered, and in his later years, volunteered for the St. Wenceslaus School lunch program.

 

During his time in the Army, John played the tuba with the Army Band.  He continued that love of music as a member of the Richard Sevcik Band and the New Prague Community Band; he particularly enjoyed this activity with his son, Steven, until Steven’s death in 2003.  Hunting, fishing, gardening, and cooking rounded out John’s interests and he could always be counted on to make the kolaches and rolls for any family gathering.  In the fall and winter, he could be found cracking black walnuts and butternuts.  He loved traveling on bus tours and especially time at the cabin up north with his family.  Finally, John enjoyed euchre with the family and solitaire on his own.

 

John is survived by his children,  Ann Hortop of Faribault, Albert Bisek of New Prague, Mary (& Dean) Semmer of Minnetonka, Frank (& Donna) Bisek of New Prague, John (& Cindy) Bisek of New Prague; daughter-in-law, Lynn Bisek (& special friend, Rob Wick) of New Prague; 7 grandchildren; 2 great-grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy on December 7, 2004; son, Steven; parents; brothers, Gilbert, Francis, and Henry “Hank” Bisek.

 

Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, December 17, 2018 at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Eugene Theisen officiating.  The eulogy will be delivered at church at 9:45 AM. Visitation will take place Sunday from 4-8 PM and Monday morning from 7:30 – 9:15 at Bruzek Funeral Home. Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery, where military honors will be conducted.  Lunch will follow at the Legion Clubroom.

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Sally Walstrom
5 years ago

Our condolences to all of John’s wonderful family, we know he will be missed. You are in our prayers, Sally and Denny

Charlene Skluzacek
5 years ago

Classmate Mary Bisek Semmer’s Dad passed away Friday. So sorry for your loss. I’m glad I was able to visit with him and sit with him at other Veterans and friends funerals. I also visited with him and made a phone call to his friend Don Heuer. He enjoyed his conversation with his friend connecting one more time. We never know when it’s our last time with friends. R.I.P. John Bisek. Say hi to my folks. Severin and Rosella Riesgraf. Now you and Dorothy can visit in heaven.

Dave Vaughan
5 years ago

I served on The Honor Guard with John his last few years in the Squad. I am so happy I was able to visit with him on Veterans Day at Mala Strana! The entire family is in my thoughts and prayers. God Bless!

Rosie Riesgraf Blacketer
5 years ago

So sorry to hear this. He was a wonderful gentlemen. I loved the times your mom and dad would come to Kansas and see me. My prayers are with all the family at this sad time.

Bill & Colleen David
5 years ago

Our deepest sympathy to all of John’s families!! Our thoughts and prayers are with you!!

Novak Marlene
5 years ago

To the Bisek family.. may God be with you at this time. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you.

Jean and Doug
5 years ago

Our sympathy to all of John’s family and friends. He was a fine example of how to live a purpose filled life. Rest In Peace, good and faithful servant.

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