David Jack Sodek

David Jack Sodek, affectionately known as David and Papaw to his friends and loved ones, passed away on August 21, 2025, after a valiant battle with cancer. Born on July 25, 1957, in Temple, Texas, he was a true son of his beloved hometown, where he both began and ended his remarkable journey of 68 years. David was a graduate of Temple High School, class of 1975, whose spirit and determination were evident from a young age. He went on to co-own Quality Tile in Temple for 45 years, showcasing his incredible work ethic and versatility. David was much more than a successful businessman; he was a jack of all trades, with a talent for fixing and creating that seemed limitless. Grounded in his Christian faith, David lived a life that reflected his loving, courageous, and spirited nature. His love for hunting, fishing, and taking long drives through the country and spending time at his ranch in Colorado city was only surpassed by the joy he found in spending time with his wife and family. David's presence was a source of strength and inspiration, and his passion for life was contagious. 

He leaves behind a legacy of love and cherished memories with his wife, Kathy O'Mary Sodek, and a close-knit family that includes his daughter, Jennifer Sodek; four sons, Brian (Rebecca) Sodek, Johnny (Nisha) Jarolik, Kevin (Traci) Jarolik, and Richard (Lisa) Jackson; two brothers, Franklin Jr. (Frances) Sodek and Randy (Vicki) Sodek; and two sisters, Carolyn Cosper (Bud, deceased) and Janice Hayes (Bart). David was a proud grandfather to eleven grandchildren: Desirae (Roland) Aguirre, Allison (Brayden) Richardson, Emily (Riley) Jarolik, Tyler (Reese) Jarolik, Austin Jarolik, Ethan Jarolik, Sara Sodek, Hannah Sodek, Mae Sodek, Chloe Jackson, and William Sodek; and he was blessed to be a great-grandfather to Macie and Amy Aguirre. His family was his pride and joy, and he delighted in every moment spent with them.

David was preceded in death by his father, Frank Sodek, his mother Margie Jarolik Sodek, and his nephew Nathan Sodek. His departure leaves a void in the family that cannot be filled, but his influence will live on through the lives of those he touched. David's life was one of impact and purpose. He was a man who faced challenges head-on and overcame them with grace and determination. His absence will be deeply felt by his family, friends, and all who had the pleasure of knowing him. 

David's story is one of perseverance, love, and joy. It is not just in the milestones of his life that he will be remembered, but in the everyday moments that he made special for those around him. As we bid farewell to David, we celebrate a life well-lived—a life that was full of giving, sharing, and caring. His spirit will continue to guide and comfort us as we navigate the world without him. May we find solace in our memories and strength in the legacy he leaves behind. David will be dearly missed but forever remembered with love and admiration.