Henry Bisek, age 85, of New Prague, died suddenly Tuesday, July 21, 2015 at Mayo Center Health System Hospital New Prague. Hank was born on May 26, 1930 in rural New Prague to Frank M. and Stephania (Mamer) Bisek. He attended St. Wenceslaus School and graduated from New Prague High School in 1948. He then attended Stout Institute for Industrial Technology. He married Betty M. Sevcik on October 18, 1952 and served in the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict.
Hank worked at Kratochvil Construction Company for 35 years as an estimator and carpenter. He lived a life of service to his community. He was a member of the St. Wenceslaus School Board, ushered at St. Wenceslaus Parish, worked on the Parish Festival “Top Six” committee, was treasurer of Branch 1 of the Catholic Workmen (now FCSLA), treasurer of the Minnesota State Catholic Workman Council, and a life member of VFW Post 5145, where he was past Post commander, quartermaster, adjutant, and Post service officer. He was also a member of American Legion Post #45, where he served as adjutant for many years. Many area youth earned their Minnesota Firearms Safety certification from Hank, an instructor in the program for 42 years. He was recognized for his dedication to volunteerism with a Second District Outstanding VFW Post Service Officer award in 1989 and a National Fraternalist of the Year award from the Catholic Workman in 1991. He was also a member of the New Prague Veterans Color Guard and posted flags along Main Street and on veterans’ graves at area cemeteries for 26 years, delivered Meals on Wheels, and enjoyed small game hunting, fishing, playing cards, and visiting with family and friends.
Hank is survived by his wife, Betty; son, Marty (Lori); daughters, Barb Leuthe, Kate Bisek (friend, Tom Larson), and Amy Bisek (Dennis Seaton); grandchildren, Nick Bisek, Patrick Bisek, Emily Bisek (fiance, Tom Schwister), Andrew (Kelly) Opp; step-grandchildren, Michael Leuthe and Caitlin (Dan) Marty; 4 great-grandchildren; brother, John F. Bisek. He is preceded in death by his parents; two infant twin sons; son-in-law, Ronald Opp; brothers, Gilbert and Francis Bisek.
Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held Monday, July 27, 2015 at 10:00 AM at St. Wenceslaus Catholic Church with Father Kevin Clinton officiating. Visitation will take place at Bruzek Funeral Home on Sunday from 4 – 8 PM and on Monday morning from 7:30 – 9:30 AM. Burial will occur at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery with military honors. Lunch will follow at the Legion Clubroom in New Prague.
