Clarence John Mikolajchak

Clarence John Mikolajchak, 83 of Cypress, TX, passed away on 10/2/2026 at Memorial Hermann Hospital of Cypress.

He was born January 26, 1943 in Bellville, TX to John Mikolajchak and Cecelia Wisnieski Mikolajchak. He was reared in the Houston Heights area on Adele Street, where he attended Christ the King grade school. Clarence was most appreciative of Sister Marie Bernard who dedicated countless time helping him learn English and work on his accent as Polish was spoken at home. He graduated from St. Pius in 1961 along with some of his best friends including Clarence Wisnoski (Little Clarence) and Henry Wisnieski, Jr. He went on to attend University of Houston.

February 20, 1965 he married the love of his life, Betty Jean Gurka in Houston, TX at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church. Together, they shared 61 years of marriage and built a life centered around family, faith and hard work. Despite their desire to have a house full of children, after a series of miscarriages, they were overjoyed to welcome and proudly parent Christie Ann.

Shortly after marriage, Clarence was drafted into the Army October 14, 1966. He did basic training at Fort Polk, LA and was transferred to serve at Fort Hood, TX. He earned both the National Defense Service Medal as well as Marksman (Rifle). He was in Infantry Operations and an Intel Specialist. Clarence typed over 40wpm and his card was pulled more than once because he was needed in the office. He was honorably discharged July 15, 1968 as an SP5 (T) at pay grade E-5. Clarence was proud to serve his country.

Clarence worked a number of jobs. He had side gigs before the term was ever coined. He proudly worked three jobs simultaneously for years. His paid work included working at a butcher shop of a grocery store (Kowis) in the Houston Heights and also for Kaiserhoss mostly Friday, Saturday and Sunday in high school making screens for patio doors both with Henry Wisnieske, Jr. He and Jr. then commuted for awhile to Cameron Ironworks. Both he and Jr. co-owned Henclar Homes in the 70's during which time they built approximately 6 homes including the home he raised Christie. In addition, he worked as the superintendent of West Belt, owned Minuteman Press, worked for JM Industries in sales and lastly at Cameron Cooper as an inspector until he hurt his back and became disabled on the job in the 90's.

Clarence was a faithful servant to the Lord, a devoted son, brother, husband, friend, Uncle Sonny, father and Papaw. His family felt well provided for and loved. He especially treasured his marriage, family gatherings and time with his grandchildren.

Those who knew him will remember him as a wise, passionate, religious family man. Those who worked for him appreciated his going to bat for them and his dedication and work ethic.

He played football, wrestled and learned karate in his younger years. In his free time, Clarence enjoyed hunting and fishing. He was a lifetime automobile enthusiast. He reflected fondly of his time wrenching with his brother-in-law Gene Hablinski, marveling at his ability to fix anything. Later, he was excited to meet Dana Mecum and have their picture taken. He has a picture with every car, boat and dog he ever had. Nature intrigued him. He never lost his awe and enjoyment of nature. He loved scenery from the mountains in Colorado to the deer stand to the water. He delighted in having coffee and vanilla wafers with Betty in their bedroom, watching the sunrise while enjoying the squirrel and bird action.

His faith was an important part of his life. Clarence was a founding member of Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church. His name can be found on the Chappel wall. He and Betty attended Prince of Peace then followed the journey from celebrating mass at Millsap Elementary to the current buildings and grounds of Christ the Redeemer today. Father George Sheltz served as priest and later became Archbishop of the Galveston-Houston Diocese. He also gave regularly to EWTN being a big fan of Mother Angelica. Ursula Siwek has served as Clarence and Betty's eucharistic minister for the homebound and sick for years. During this time, they became friends and had deeply religious conversations. He was ready to be in the place Jesus had prepared for him. He worked at preparing himself to meet the Lord. "Jesus, I trust in You," was a regular prayer. He was fascinated with and learned more about Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska as part of his preparation.

He was proceded in death by his Mother, Cecelia Wisnieski Mikolajchak; Father, John Mikolajchak; and sister Edwina Hedwig Mikolajchak Brosch as well as in-laws, cousins, additional family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Jean Gurka Mikolajchak; his daughter, Christie Ann Mikolajchak Cripps (Gene Christopher Cripps); grandchildren Alyssa Kirstin Cripps Hill (Michael Hill); Scott Christopher Cripps and Matthew Christopher Cripps; siblings Clara Hablinski; Gertrude Nowak, and Mary Ann Wilganowski (Charlie Wilganowski); as well as niece, nephews, cousins, extended family and special friends.

Special recognition for past and present caregivers: Vickie Ivie, Zulma Bonilla, Yvette Harrison, Rita Haney and Tracy Malone as well as life extending doctors Rex Marco MD, Chris Meyer MD and the entire medical team over the years.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, 10/11/2026 from 5-8pm at Klein Funeral Home Wortham.

Funeral services will be held Monday 10/12/2026 at 11am at Christ the Redeemer Catholic Church.

Serving as pallbearers will be:

• Scott Cripps
• Matthew Cripps
• Michael Hill
• Karl Brosch
• Glen Brosch
• Keith Wilganowski
• Christopher Gurka
• Michael Gurka
• Larry Gurka
• Quentin Martin

Honorary pallbearers:

• Billy Hablinski
• Anthony Hablinski
• Ronald Hablinski
• Elliott Nowak
• Brian Nowak (Godchild/ring bearer at wedding)
• Henry Wisnieske, Jr.
• Clarence Wisnoski
• Marshall Wisnieske
• Marvin Gurka

Clarence will be deeply missed, but his memory, the lessons he taught, and the love he shared, especially of his faith, will remain in the hearts of his family and friends for generations to come. Rest in peace good and faithful servant finally free of pain and suffering.