It is with heartfelt sorrow that we announce the peaceful passing of Joe Dlabaja at the age of 82, surrounded by his loved ones in the comfort of his home.

Joe’s life will be remembered for his warm heart, generous nature, strong work ethic, and the steadfast guidance he provided to family and friends throughout his life.

Born in Corpus Christi and raised on a farm, Joe spent his childhood years in Robstown and Corpus Christi. His lifelong journey of love began early when he and Doris were baptized together at the same church. Their story, rooted in childhood friendship from the second grade, blossomed again when they reunited at West Oso High School. Who would have thought he would have married his High School Sweetheart? On May 2, 2026, they joyfully celebrated 62 years of partnership and love. For the last 60 years, they made their home in Kingsville, Texas, where they became treasured members of their community. Joe’s commitment to service was evident through his role as an usher and his dedicated involvement in fundraising events at St. Gertrude Catholic Church.

Joe worked as a supervisor at ButterKrust Bakery for 17 years. In 1981, he and Doris purchased and successfully operated Borden’s Milk Distributors, building a respected family business through hard work and dedication. Joe proudly welcomed his son-in-law, James Clem, into the business, where they worked side by side, nurturing both strong business ties and deep family bonds for 25 years.

Joe’s youthful enthusiasm shone through his love of baseball, proudly pitching in Little League and Pony League through high school. Joe was a HUGE Houston Astro Fan.

Throughout his life, Joe found happiness in many hobbies, including golfing, hunting, playing dominoes, Tarocks (a cherished Czech card game), and poker. He had a particular love for tending his yard, collaborating lovingly with his wife's green thumb, and his dedication produced a beautiful and perfectly manicured lawn that was always the envy of the neighborhood. Their daughters, Victoria and Jo Ann, spent many weekends working alongside him, understanding that in Dad’s world, there was a right way, a wrong way, and HIS way.

Perhaps most dear to Joe was fishing, a lifelong passion. Some of his happiest moments were shared aboard his boat on Baffin Bay and the waters of Corpus Christi, surrounded by laughter, stories, and good company, including close friends and family, and just to name a few, were Raymond Dlabaja, Victor Bridges, and Gene and Shawn Kucera, which made for a great day.

Joe was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Joe John and Janie Dlabaja; his sister Dee Gregorcyk (Lonnie), and his brother John Dlabaja.

He leaves behind his devoted wife Doris; their children, Victoria Clem (James) and Jo Ann Heller (Mike); beloved grandchildren, James (JC) Clem, Liz Clem, Taylor Knippa Fisk (Kelby), Trey Knippa, and Michael Clem; great-granddaughter Brynlee Rae Fisk; sisters-in-law Nancy Schanen (Gilbert), Angie Hickman, Marcy Schenelle; brother-in-law David Ferguson (Betty); along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and dear friends who all hold his memory close.

A Funeral Mass to celebrate Joe’s remarkable life will be held at St. Gertrude’s Catholic Church, 120 S 8th Street, Kingsville, TX 78363, on Friday, May 29, 2026. Viewing will take place from 9:00 to 10:00 a.m., followed by a Rosary at 10:00 a.m. and Mass at 10:30 a.m. Burial will immediately follow at Seaside Memorial Park, at 4357 Ocean Dr., Corpus Christi, TX 78412. Family and friends are warmly invited to join a catered BBQ luncheon full of good food, desserts, drinks, and fellowship at Moravian Hall at 5601 Kostoryz Rd., Corpus Christi, TX 78415, to honor Joe’s memory.

The family sincerely thanks all who cared for, supported, and prayed for Joe throughout the years. Your kindness, friendship, and compassion will never be forgotten.