Daniel (Dan) Krenek, 87, of Manchaca, passed away peacefully on Sept. 28, 2026.
Born on June 21, 1939, to Veronica and Valentine Krenek in Caldwell, Texas, Dan grew up in the tight-knit co-op farming community between Caldwell and Deanville.
Alongside his parents and four siblings, he spent his childhood summers working the fields picking cotton, instilling in him a lifelong dedication to hard work and family.
He graduated from Caldwell High School in 1957.
In 1961, Dan proudly answered the call to serve his country by joining the United States Navy. Assigned to the Western Pacific Fleet, he served aboard the USS Caliente and the USS Bellatrix, traveling through the Philippines, Hong Kong, and Japan before receiving an honorable discharge in 1963.
Following his military service, Dan embarked on a distinguished 34-year career in the telecommunications industry starting in October 1966.
He worked with General Electric, Southwestern Bell and AT&T, eventually retiring from Lucent Technologies in September 2000.
Dan had a deep love for the outdoors and a true craftsman’s spirit, always happiest working with his hands.
An avid farmer and gardener, he took great pride in cultivating his crops and generously sharing his harvest of green beans, tomatoes, potatoes and corn with family, friends, and neighbors.
He was the quintessential good neighbor always ready to lend a helping hand, whether trimming a tree or mowing a lawn.
Dan also cherished his Texas roots and Czech traditions, frequently attending local Catholic Church festivals in Rockne, Praha, Cornhill and returning home for the Caldwell Kolache Festival.
Dan is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Emma; his daughter, Deborah and her husband, Chris; his son, Dean and his wife, Brandi; and his five cherished grandchildren, Thomas Jistel, Kaitlyn Jistel, Sydney Caperton, Allyson Krenek and Erik Krenek. He also leaves behind his twin sister, Dorothy Matus; his brother, Thomas Krenek and his wife, Joyce; and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Veronica and Valentine; and his brothers, Hubert Krenek and William (Bill) Krenek.
A Rosary recitation will be held at 1:00 p.m., with memorial Mass at 1:30 p.m. are scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 25, 2026, at St. Paul’s Catholic Church in Austin.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Knights of Columbus 10209 Youth Scholarship Fund: https://square. link/u/qLJjkZae