Nelga Ann Janus Stavena

Nelga Ann Janus Stavena ,91, of Wharton, passed away Monday February 15, 2016, after an extended illness. She was born April 3, 1924, in Richmond, TX to parents Edwin and Leona Wilke Janus. Nelga was reared in Fort Bend and Wharton Counties. She married Walter Stavena on February 20, 1946 at Holy Family Rectory in Wharton, TX. They enjoyed dancing to Polka and Waltz, Country Western, and big band music throughout their lives. They belonged to numerous dance clubs and also loved playing “42” with beloved friends for over 25 years. Nelga’s greatest joy was spending time with her family. She was a truly beautiful individual both inside and out. Nelga was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church and one of the founding members of the Holy Family Catholic School’s Mother’s Club. She remained devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mother throughout her life and had an unswerving trust in God that kept her strong and gentle amid difficult times and personal loss. Nelga always had a kind word of encouragement or complement for everyone she encountered. Her understanding heart and generous soul showed us how life should be lived. Her sweet spirit lights the way for the rest of us to follow. She will always be remembered and dearly missed. In addition to her parents, Nelga was preceded in death by her husband, Walter Stavena, sons, Chris Shawn and Darryl Janus Stavena, brother Leroy Janus, and sister Veola Janus Hanslik. She is survived by her son Ronald Stavena and wife, Honey of Wharton, daughter, Dee Ann Viktorin and husband, Larry of Wharton, grandchildren, Jason Stavena of San Marcos, Christie Viktorin of Colorado, Brooke Merta and husband, Derek of Bryan, and great granddaughter, Anna Merta. A Rosary was said on Wednesday, February 17, 2016, at 1:30. Funeral Mass was Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. with Father Bob Knippenburg officiating. Both were held at Holy Family Catholic Church. Serving as pallbearers were Derek Merta, Shane Stavena, Lambert Stavena Jr., Taylor Stavena, Evan Stavena and Connor Stavena. Honorary Pallbearers were Jason Stavena and Larry Viktorin. Memorial gifts may be made to Holy Family Fellowship Committee, Holy Family’s CCD program or Holy Family Building Fund. 2011 Briar Lane, Wharton, TX. 77488.