Young's Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center

01/16/2026

Kevin Dean Klecka

Kevin Dean Klecka,

Kevin Dean Klecka, known affectionately as "KK," was born on July 8, 1971, in Temple, Texas. He left this world unexpectedly at his home on Monday, January 12, 2026. Kevin was a beloved partner, father figure, son, brother, and cherished friend to many. He is survived by his parents, Anton F. Klecka and Carolyn (Jistel) Klecka; his devoted life partner, Maria Chavez; and his proud children: one son, Xan Chavez; three daughters, Heather Robinson, Madeline Cardenas and her husband Austin Lee, Anneliese Chavez and her significant other Paul Blair. Also surviving are his sister, Karen Jarma and her husband Larry Jarma Sr.; his nephew Larry Jarma Jr. and his wife Jennifer; along with five grandchildren.

Kevin had a diverse career, having worked at a local O'Brian's Irish Pub, earning his Real Estate License to sell local houses, and serving as a sales manager at Delta Centrifugal. His educational journey began at St. Mary's Catholic School, followed by graduating from Temple High School in 1989, where he played drums in the band and actively participated in 4H and the Bell County Livestock Show. He later obtained an Associates Degree in Business Administration from Temple College.

Kevin's relationships were characterized by deep love and thoughtful gestures. He met Maria Chavez and pursued a loving relationship that they dedicated to one another on April 5, 2024. In their time together, they blended their families and created treasured memories, from exploring record stores and attending concerts to cooking delicious meals. Every morning, Kevin's routine of waking Maria with coffee became a cherished moment that will be greatly missed. They held a special love for Christmas, often spending hours outside by the fire, creating an atmosphere of warmth and joy.

Known for his kindness and compassion, Kevin was a remarkable individual who always showed up for those in need. He had a welcoming personality, never turning away a stranger, and his ability to bring people together was nothing short of extraordinary. His greatest pride was the day he quit drinking, an accomplishment he held dear, and he embraced sobriety with honor.

Visitation will take place on Monday, January 19, 2026, from 1:00pm to 6:00pm with the family recieving hours from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Young's Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center, located at 4235 E. US Hwy 190, Temple, TX 76501. Service will be held on Tuesday, January 20, 2026 at 10:00am at Bethel Assembly of God Church in Temple with Celebrant Jason Harris officiating a burial will follow and be held at Greathouse Cemetery, located at 2343 East FM 93 near State Hwy 95, Temple, TX 76502.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a memorial donation to St. Mary's Catholic School in Temple.

Kevin's legacy of love, family, and friendship will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who knew him. His memory will forever be a guiding light in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to have shared their journeys with him.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young's Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center of Temple, Texas.

View Kevin Dean Klecka's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/30/2025

Lunch and Learn 2026
January 4, 2026 at 2:00p.m.: New Year, New Peace of Mind
Start the year by resolving to remove the burden of future decisions from your loved ones.
It's free to join!
To be held at Young's Daughters Funeral Home
4235 E US HWY 190 Temple, Texas 76501

12/26/2025

12/25/2025

Due to the holidays, we will be closed on Wednesday, December 24th and Thursday, December 25th. We wish you a very Merry Christmas! Stay safe in this cold weather! Love the Young's Daughters Family

12/23/2025

Did you know that you can have a set-aside grave for your spouse at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery? On a preplanning form, you can request to be buried with your spouse. Have additional questions about this? Call 254.401.1302

12/22/2025

Motivational quote for the day!

12/21/2025

Here are our future lunch and learn dates! As the dates get closer we will provide times and a place.
January 4, 2026: New Year, New Peace of Mind
Start the year by resolving to remove the burden of future decisions from your loved ones.
February 8, 2026: A Gift of Love: Preplanning for Your Family
Frame pre-arrangements as the ultimate Valentine’s Day gift of emotional security for those you love most.
March 15, 2026: Springing Forward: Organizing Your Final Wishes
Use the change of season to focus on "spring cleaning" for your end-of-life plans.
April 12, 2026: Planting Seeds of Certainty
Discuss how early planning provides a firm foundation for your family’s future emotional well-being.
May 3, 2026: Honoring Motherhood: Legacy and Life-Planning
A session focused on maternal legacy and ensuring your children have clear guidance during difficult times.
June 14, 2026: Father’s Day Reflection: Protecting Your Family’s Future
Highlight the role of "provider" by pre-funding and pre-arranging to shield family from financial and emotional stress.
July 26, 2026: Independence Day for Your Estate
Explore how preplanning grants your family independence from the weight of "guessing" your wishes.
August 9, 2026: Summer Solace: Finding Peace in the Plan
A relaxed mid-summer discussion on the calm that comes with a completed final wishes organizer.
September 6, 2026: Labor of Love: Easing the Burden for the Next Generation
In honor of Labor Day, focus on doing the "work" now so your family doesn't have to later.
October 11, 2026: Autumn Reflections: Harvesting Your Legacy
Focus on preserving your life story and preferences to ensure a meaningful, stress-free celebration of life.
November 8, 2026: Giving Thanks for Thoughtful Planning
A Thanksgiving-themed seminar on being grateful for the clarity pre-arrangements provide during grief.
December 6, 2026: The Holiday Presence: Providing Emotional Security
Emphasize how the "presence" of a plan is the best way to support your family through future holiday seasons.

12/20/2025

Did you know that you can fully pre-plan for the future? We can get you a headstart on any and all forms that it takes to make your wishes happen. With our wide range of funeral options, there are limitless amount of possibilities for what may fit for you.
To start preplanning, you can call at 254.401.1302 or visit our website at www.youngsdaughters.com

12/19/2025

With the new year being right around the corner, there is no better way to start it off than by having your things in order! Come by and preplan your services with us as well as start your legal documents such as wills, power of attorney, advance directives, and more! If you have any questions, please call 254-401-1302.

12/18/2025

Alvin James Marek

Alvin James Marek, a beloved husband, father, and cherished member of his community, passed away peacefully at his daughters home on Monday, December 15, 2025, surrounded by his family. He was born on November 25, 1935, in Red Ranger, Texas, to Roudolf and Justine Marek and his life was a testament to hard work, love, and dedication.

Growing up on a family-owned farm, Alvin developed a strong work ethic as he helped cultivate the land, primarily focusing on cotton, corn, and maize. This early experience laid the foundation for a fulfilling career that would span over two decades. Alvin worked as a carpenter with Cloud Construction for 29 years, demonstrating his craftsmanship until his retirement in 2000. His commitment to his trade earned him the respect of colleagues and community members alike, and he remained an active member of the carpenter local unions.

Alvin’s warmth and devotion were perhaps best exemplified in his long-lasting marriage to Wanona Goldman. The couple first met at the Marak Picnic in 1955, and soon after, they became partners for life, wedding the following year after their high school graduation. Their bond lasted 69 years until Wanona's passing in July 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and partnership that served as an inspiration to all who knew them.

Throughout their lives together, Alvin and Wanona fostered a nurturing home in Bell County, where they spent most of their days, with a notable ten-year period in Dallas before returning to establish permanent roots. Alvin's deep love for his family was matched by his passion for gardening and farming. He took pride in cultivating his crops not only as a means of sustenance but also to share with those around him. His commitment to raising cattle, goats, hogs, and chickens highlighted his dedication to both family and community values.

Alvin will be remembered not just for his hard work, but also for his engaging personality. He was a devoted family man, often found sampling his wife's cooking before meals were served. His interests included fishing, playing dominos, and making memorable trips to the casino. Alvin was particularly fond of treasure hunting at garage sales and had a noteworthy collection of ball caps that reflected his unique spirit.

In addition to his personal interests, Alvin was known as the SPJST 42 Domino Tournament Winner. His love for Dr. Pepper was well noted, and he always made sure to keep his supply plentiful.

Alvin leaves behind a lasting legacy of his love for life, family and friends. His community involvement as a member of the SPJST Lodge 24 showcased his commitment to fostering connections with others. He will be missed not only by his family but also by the countless friends whose lives he touched.

He is survived by his daughter, Ruth and her husband Creed Cox; one brother, Ruben Marek of Temple; four grandchildren, Rebecca Cox, James Spohn, Jennifer Spohn and Jason Spohn.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Rudolf and Justin (Jezek) Marek; his beloved wife of 69 years, Wanona (Goldman) Marek; one daughter, Diane Spohn; one brother, Rudolf Marek Jr.; Edna Malcik and her husband Frank Malcik.

A memorial service to honor Alvin's life will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Young's Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center in Temple, Texas. The service will commence at 11:00 AM and provide an opportunity for family and friends to come together to celebrate a life well-lived.

A special thank you to Baylor scott and white Hospice team for their compassionate care.

In lieu of flowers please consider making a memorial donation to the Ronald McDonald House in Temple.

Alvin James Marek's spirit will continue to thrive in the hearts of those who knew and loved him, and his contributions to both family and community will be remembered with great affection and respect.

Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young's Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center in Temple, TX.

View Alvin James Marek's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

12/15/2025

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