Joe Tikalsky, age 79, of New Prague, died suddenly as a result of being struck by a car on Wednesday, October 28, 2015 near his home.  Joe was born on August 3, 1936, in New Prague to Joseph and Adeline C. (Svoboda) Tikalsky.  He attended St. Wenceslaus School, graduated from New Prague High School, and then entered the Army Reserve.  On January 20, 1962, Joe married Emma Jean Bergan in Le Center, MN.  The couple made their home in New Prague where Joe farmed the family farm and worked for over 41 years with Tikalsky Brothers Stores.  He was also loved by hundreds of children in this community where he served as a school bus driver for almost 50 years.  Being 100% Czech, Joe was proud of his Czech heritage and donated the addition to the New Prague Public Library in 2008 in honor of his grandmother, Mary J. Tikalsky.  He left a legacy of travel for his children, having traveled with them through 47 states.  He loved playing cards, fishing, hunting, and gardening.  Joe had a special affection for local sports; he not only attended them but listened to every KCHK broadcast of sporting events. His greatest love, however, was his wife, children, and grandchildren.

Joe is survived by his wife, Emmy, of New Prague; children, Mary Jo (& Dan) Dorman of Albert Lea, Joseph (& Pam) Tikalsky, III of Lakeville, Greg (& Tammi) Tikalsky of New Prague; sister, Mary Dwyer of Le Center; brother, Mike (& Pat) Tikalsky of New Prague; 9 grandchildren.  He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Adeline Malecha.

Funeral Service will be held Tuesday, November 3, 2015, at 11:00 AM at Community Baptist Church with Pastor Joshua Stephens officiating.  Visitation will be held Monday, November 2, 2015, from 4 – 8 PM at Bruzek Funeral Home and 1 hour prior to service at church on Tuesday morning.  Burial will occur at Czech National Cemetery followed by lunch at the Park Ballroom in New Prague.  Memorials preferred in lieu of flowers.