John George Stefinsky

In Loving Memory of John George Stefinsky

With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life beautifully lived, we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, John Stefinsky, who entered into eternal life at the age of 91.

Born on September 28, 1934, John lived a life grounded in faith, service, and unconditional love for his family. While he wore many titles throughout his life—Hospital Corpsman, Lazy “S” Sales car dealership owner, outdoorsman, storyteller, mentor, and friend—the title he treasured most was that of husband, dad, grandpa, and great-grandpa.

For 69 wonderful years, John shared a remarkable love story with the love of his life, Barbara Lynn (Knox) Stefinsky or as he would call her, “Barbi.” Together they built a home filled with laughter, faith, hard work, and unwavering devotion. Through every season of life, they stood side by side, creating a family whose greatest blessing was the love they shared.

John leaves behind the family who was the center of his world: his beloved wife, Barbara; his children, Bernadette Klapuch and her husband, John; John Patrick Stefinsky and his wife, Shari; Lynnette Pustejovsky and her husband, David; and Michelle Starr and her husband, Scott. He was an incredibly proud grandfather whose greatest joy was watching his family grow. He leaves behind his grandchildren, Johnna Jasek and her husband, Byron; Zachary Klapuch; Adam Klapuch and his wife, Melissa; Bethany King and her husband, Dane; Greg Stefinsky and his wife, Mandy; Whitney Stefinsky and her fiancé, Thomas John; Stephanie Wright and her husband, Tim; Daniel Pustejovsky; Christopher Starr and his wife, Clare; Michael Starr, Nicholas Starr, and Johnathan Starr. He also leaves behind ten great-grandchildren with one more on the way. His love, guidance, and quiet strength will continue to live on in each of them.

John proudly served his country as a Hospital Corpsman in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1960 aboard the USS Silverstein. His mission, “Operation Redwing” was a United States series of 17 nuclear test detonations from May to July in 1956. He carried the values of honor, compassion, and service with him long after his military years ended.

His Catholic faith was the foundation of his life and his tenor voice wafted in the church rafters like an angel singing to the Lord. As an active member of ACTS and the Knights of Columbus, John believed that faith wasn’t just something you practiced on Sundays—it was something you lived every day through kindness, humility, generosity, song, and love.

An outdoorsman through and through, John loved hunting ducks and deer, finding peace in the quiet mornings and the beauty of nature. Hunting, fishing, and camping weren’t simply hobbies; they were opportunities to spend time with family, teach life lessons, and create stories that would be told around dinner tables for years to come. He also found great enjoyment and lifelong friendships through the National Association of Old West Gunfighter Teams. He had a lifelong fascination with the history of the Old West and historical gunfighters, spending countless hours learning about the legends, stories, and traditions that shaped America’s frontier. Whether sharing his knowledge or adding to his collection, this passion brought him great joy.

John never met a stranger. He loved telling stories—sometimes more than once—and somehow, they always seemed to get better with each telling. His laugh was contagious, his smile reassuring, and his stubbornness legendary.

Once he had made up his mind, there was little anyone could do to change it. It became one of the many things his family lovingly teased him about, and one of the countless reasons they adored him. A man of strong convictions, unwavering determination, and a heart full of love, John lived life on his own terms. His stubbornness came from his deep loyalty, strength, and commitment to the people and passions he loved most.

He taught those around him that the richest life isn’t measured by possessions but by faith, family, loyalty, and the memories we create together. Whether gathered around a campfire, celebrating holidays, sharing a meal, or simply sitting together talking, John made ordinary moments feel extraordinary. He gave his family the priceless gifts of laughter, tradition, and the comfort of always knowing they were deeply loved.

Although our hearts are broken by his absence, we find peace knowing he has been welcomed into the loving arms of his Savior. We can almost picture him now—free from pain, reunited with those who have gone before him, and smiling that familiar smile.

Family and friends are invited to celebrate John’s life on Monday, July 13, 2026, at St. James Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and the Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Burial will follow the Mass at St. James Catholic Cemetery, with a luncheon at the St. James Catholic Church Fellowship Hall afterward where family and friends can gather, share stories, laugh through tears, and celebrate a life so well lived. Pallbearers assisting will be Zachary Klapuch, Adam Klapuch, Greg Stefinsky, Christopher Starr, Michael Starr, Nicholas Starr, Johnathan Starr, and Daniel Pustejovsky. Honorary pallbearers will be Johnna Jasek, Bethany King, Whitney Stefinsky and Stephanie Wright.

Dad, Grandpa, John—you taught us how to love fiercely, work honestly, laugh often, and trust God always. Thank you for every story, every lesson, every sacrifice, every adventure, and every hug. We will miss your voice, your wisdom, and your presence more than words can express, but we carry you with us in everything we do.

Until we meet again, may you rest in the peace of Christ. You were deeply loved, and you will be forever missed.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the St. James Catholic Church building fund or the Knights of Colombus of Gonzales.

Family and friends may leave their condolences online by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com All services are under the care and direction of Seydler – Hill Funeral Home in Gonzales, Texas.