Charles James Marek Jr.

Major (retired) Charles James Marek, Jr., born May 24, 1926, passed away Sunday, December 27, 2020 at the age of 94.

Charles was born in Jourdanton, Texas to Charles James and Isabel Pfeil Marek.  He married the love of his life, Donnie Sue Shelton, September 20, 1947.

He wore many hats in his career as a law enforcement officer.  He was a Highway Patrol Officer in Alpine, Texas.  He was called to active duty in the United States Army, where he was assigned to the Central Intelligence Department (CID), which took him to numerous foreign countries.  As an officer, he received numerous commendations, and at one point, was assigned as security for Vice-President Lyndon B. Johnson.  At the end of his career, he was given the title of Honorable Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma.  Upon retirement from the military, he and Donnie Sue settled in Baird.  Charles worked as a security officer for the Abilene Airport, and received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Hardin-Simmons University. He was a Mason and a Shriner.

Charles was preceded in death by his father, Charles James Marek, Sr.; his mother and step-father, Isabel Pfeil Helms and Roy Helms; a brother, Johnny Vance Marek; 2 sons, Robert Franklin and Carl Dunn Marek; and a granddaughter, Jamie Marek Horner.

He is survived by his wife of 74 years, Donnie Sue Marek; a son, Johnny Vance Marek and wife Debora; grandson-in-law, Luke Horner; and grandchildren Landrye (Bella), Kingston and Charlee Horner.

Visitation will be 6:00 to 7:00 PM Friday, January 1, 2021 at Parker-Jacobs Funeral Home, 141 E. 3rd Street in Baird.  Graveside services with Military Honors will be 10:30 AM Saturday, January 2, 2021 at Ross Cemetery Annex, Hwy 283, just north of Interstate 20 in Baird. Those attending are reminded of social distancing guidelines.  Face coverings are required.

Online condolences may be shared at www.parkerjacobsfuneralhome.com

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