George Jerold Vaclavek
April 3, 1926 — January 17, 2016
George Jerold Vaclavek, 89 years old, resident of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, passed away on Sunday, January 17, 2016.
George was born on April 3, 1926 in Chicago, Illinois to Paul J. Vaclavek and Josephine (Fencl) Vaclavek. George had three brothers. George never married.
George was the Groundskeeper for Oklahoma City University for 19 years, and taught Horticulture for many years.
George enlisted in the Army in 1944 and served honorably during World War II as a Canoneer. He saw combat in the Southern Philippines and Luzon for which he received a Victory Medal, Asiatic-Pacific Theater Ribbon, Philippine Liberation Ribbon, three Overseas Service Bars and a Good Conduct Medal.
George was the first recipient of the of the Oklahoma Horticultural Society’s award for outstanding members on February 6, 1999. After which the award was name “The George J. Vaclavek Award”. He also served on the Society’s Board of Directors for many years, and remains on the Board Members Emeritus.
George loved collecting art, figurines, unique glassware, and protecting hurt and endangered birds. His passion was horticulture, which he devoted many years of his life to, professionally and personally.
George was proceeded in death by his parents. He is survived by his cousins, Nelita A. Sherberneau, Owen Sherberneau, and JoAnn Harrigan, many nieces and nephews, many friends, and by his loyal dog and precious friend Billy.
A memorial service will be held on Monday, January 25, 2016 at 2:00 p.m., at the Bishop W. Angie Smith Chapel located on the grounds of the Oklahoma City University. The service will be officiated by Rev. Trevor Smith. Arrangements are under the direction of OKCremation & Funeral Home, Oklahoma City.
It has been requested that in lieu of flowers all donations be made to the Oklahoma Horticultural Society.
“No occupation is so delightful to me as the culture of the earth, & no culture comparable to that of the garden.”
―Thomas Jefferson
Three words that sum up George’s life: plants, trees, and flowers.