Joan Lillian Rectenwald

On Ash Wednesday Joan Lillian Rectenwald passed away peacefully in the home where she lived and raised her children over the past 60 years. She was 93 years young and had just finished pulling weeds in her front yard before coming inside to rest in her favorite chair. She was always taking care of her home and her children. She was a great mother, home maker, adventurer, cook, teacher, grandmother, great grandmother, friend, companion and inspiration to all. 

She was born in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania to her parents Jack and Ruby Rectenwald in 1931. She attended North Texas State College where she met and married John Vasek in 1950. Shortly after she began to raise her family of eight children. In 1972 she started her career as an educator with the Waco independent school district and for more than 30 years taught elementary and junior high students math and science. She was a member of Lake Shore Baptist Church, a cook at the church kitchen, a volunteer with Gospel Cafe and Habitat for Humanity. Her desire to help others and love for cooking was her passion. Her home was a place for family celebrations and holidays, a place of peace and tranquility for all. 

She is preceded in death by her loving parents, oldest son Steve, oldest daughter Victoria, youngest daughter Karen, youngest son Brian and is with them again. She is survived by her daughter Adrian and sons Paul, Mark and Austin. Her daughters-in-law Dae and Mary. Her grandchildren Lauren, Karen, Taylor, Cara, Addicus, Dustin and Cole. Her great grandchildren Logan, Jack, Landon, Oliver, Harrison and Ruby. We will miss your wonderful presence. Rest in peace Grandma