Brian Joseph Felchak, 52, of Bellville, passed away Friday, Dec. 27, 2024, in Montgomery.
He was born March 17, 1972, in Houston, the son of Edward Anderson “Andy” Felchak, Sr. and Arvilla “Susie” Lee McWilliams Barksdale. Brian grew up and attended schools in the Bellville and Trinity areas before graduating from Trinity High School in 1990. After graduation he attended Sam Houston State University before joining the United States Navy. While in the Navy, Brian received the Navy/Marine Corps Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy E Ribbon (2), Good Defense Service Medal, Sea Service deployment Ribbon, Navy Artic Service Medal, Enlisted Submarine Warfare Pin, as well as an abundance of specialized education in nuclear power, nuclear power plants, and welding. After proudly serving his country on a nuclear submarine, the U.S.S. Boston, for eight years, he took a path into the agriculture industry working for himself and employed as a rice dryer operator. Brian was known as the “Haymaster” by so many, and in his spare time he enjoyed tending to his cattle, joking around with his family and friends, and doing for others. His greatest joy was loving his kids and grandkids.
Brian was a member of the Lions Club in Orange.
He is survived by his children, Stephanie Felchak of Waco, Reid Felchak and his wife, Aubrey, of Houston, Melody Shaye Felchak of College Station, Peyton Felchak of Bellville, and Griffin Felchak of Kingwood; mother, Arvilla “Susie” Barksdale and her husband, Mike, of Montgomery; father, Andy Felchak Sr. of Bellville; grandchildren, Blaine, J.J., and Adelaide; sister, Vivian Monica Reeves of Bellville; brothers, Andy Felchak Jr. of Montgomery, and Lee Felchak and his wife, DeeDee, of Conroe; stepbrother, Chris Barksdale and his wife, Brandy, of Trinity; aunt, Cody Hughey and her husband, Charlie, of Bellville; uncle, Buddy Felchak and his wife, Shirley; niece, Erica Felchak; nephews, Eric Felchak and his wife, Chyna, Tylar Tatum and his wife, Marley, Blake Tatum and his wife, Emily, and Mikel Tatum and his wife, Ashley; and numerous cousins, other family members and dear friends.
Brian was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Bill and Vivian McWilliams; paternal grandparents, T.J. and Geraldine Felchak; uncles, Carl McWilliams, Paul McWilliams, and Walter Felchak; aunts, Jan McGuire, Hannah, Joy Pipes and her husband, Larry; niece, Kassandra Tatum; and brother-in-law, Ricky Reeves.
Pallbearers are the 4th Degree Knights of Columbus members and Bud Little.
Honorary pallbearers are his grandchildren, Blaine, J.J., and Adelaide.
Visitation was held Monday, Jan. 6, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Bellville. Rosary was recited immediately following.
A Funeral Mass was celebrated Tuesday, Jan. 7, at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church with the Rev. Joe Doran celebrant.
Interment followed in the Oak Knoll Cemetery in Bellville.
Friends who wish may make memorial gifts in Brian’s name to the charity of their choice.
Funeral arrangements under the direction of Schmidt Funeral Home of Bellville, (979) 865-2424, www.schmidtfunerals.com 497
