Clarence J. Smisek, age 93

Clarence J. Smisek, age 93, of New Prague, died peacefully, surrounded by his family on Tuesday, October 11, 2016, at Mala Strana Rehabilitation Center in New Prague. Clarence was born on April 12, 1923, in Wheatland Township, Rice County, MN to Fred and Emma (Havel) Smisek. He attended Catholic grade school in Veseli and graduated from New Prague High School. On June 3, 1948, Clarence married Janice M. Kubes in New Prague and the couple lived on their farm outside of Veseli, where they raised their three children. Clarence worked as a dairy farmer his entire life. The most important things in Clarence’s life were his faith, his family, and his farm.

Clarence was on the board of Rice County Planning and Zoning, an AMPI Director, a member of the KC Fourth Degree, a former New Prague School Board member, a Holy Cross Catholic School advocate, and a member of the Most Holy Trinity Church Men’s Club. Music was also a very big part of Clarence’s life and he enjoyed singing with the Most Holy Trinity Church Choir and the New Prague Czech Singers. He rounded out his activities with his enjoyment of traveling, especially his fishing trips to Osakis.

Clarence is survived by his children, David (Cathy) Smisek of New Prague, Francis “Fritz” (Laur) Smisek of Veseli, Mary Howe of Mora; grandchildren, Jessica and Amy Smisek, and Sara Howe. He is preceded in death by his wife, Janice on June 6, 2003; parents, Fred and Emma; brother, Albert Smisek; and sister, Margaret “Margie” Novotny.

Mass of Christian burial was held on Tuesday, October 18, 2016, at 10 a.m. at Most Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Veseli with Father Michael Miller and Father John Lapensky officiating. Visitation took place Monday from 4-8 p.m. at Bruzek Funeral Home. Burial occurred at St. Wenceslaus Cemetery in New Prague followed by lunch at the KC Hall.

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