Betty Gene Swize Pawelek, beloved wife, loving mother, doting grandmother, caring sister, aunt, and friend went to be with the Lord on April 12, 2014. Gene, as most called her, was born to Charlie and Martha Swize of Hobson, Texas on February 26, 1934. Gene is survived by Lambert "Johnny" Pawelek, her husband of 59 years, and their 5 children: Denise and husband, David Chidgey, daughters, Brooke, and the late Sarah; Michelle and husband Lee Rogers, children Skylar and Colton; Steve and wife, Pam, and children Jillian and husband, Steve Rountree, Stephanie, Kyle, Sean, and Katie; Charles and wife Brenda, and son Avery; and Mary and husband, Andrew DiNovo, and sons Jack and Beck. Gene was a devoted wife and mother. She supported her children at school and in the community by being active in PTA, Band Boosters, Athletic Boosters, and was an avid sports fan. She valued education and encouraged each of her children to pursue their interests and to complete college degrees. Gene was a devout member of the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. She also held the office of Regent of the Catholic Daughters and was a lifelong member and officer of the Altar Society.

Gene graduated from Falls City High School in 1951. She was drum major, played basketball, and was class valedictorian when the Falls City Beavers 6-man football team won regional, the highest level of competition for school size at that time. She and Johnny were high school sweethearts whose courtship included Saturday night dances, movies, and being with family and friends. Johnny was drafted in 1952 and sent to Korea in May, 1953. During his 13 months of service, Gene lived with her aunts in San Antonio and attended Incarnate Word College where she studied business. She worked at Westinghouse. They married in September, 1954 and started a family shortly thereafter. They made their home in San Antonio until they moved to the ranch near Poth in 1960. Gene was a homemaker, mother, rancher, gardener, cook, and family accountant. When Mary, their youngest, entered school, Gene reentered the workforce as a substitute teacher. She later had a 20-year career with the Farmers Home Administration where she retired.

Gene's passion was her family and having fun together. She celebrated every birthday and holiday with flair. She taught her children how to dance (including the two-step, polka, and the Twist) and how to entertain. She gave the best bunco parties, luncheons, and showers. Each were planned with great thought for the comfort and enjoyment of her guests. She prepared delicious meals from fresh vegetables grown in the garden. Her children and grandchildren, who loved to be grandma's helpers, learned how to make special treats such as coffee cake, cinnamon rolls, donuts, cookies, pies, and cakes. Her Thanksgiving dressing and chicken and dumplings are legendary. Gene's kitchen was filled with the aroma of freshly baked bread and other delights. She made sure there was always an abundance of food on the table. Gene loved working outside in the garden and flower beds. She canned, froze, and pickled much of what they grew. Her flowerbeds were filled with blooming petunias and roses. Gene was comfortable with being a rancher and would check calving heifers while Johnny was at work. After they both retired, they enjoyed evening rides in the Ranger, looking at their cattle and wildlife. Gene fought a long and courageous battle with diabetes and related health problems. Her determined spirit, faith, and positive attitude were never more evident than during her recent illness. Her family would like to thank all who helped care for Gene, and all who provided support to the family during this time.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 15, from 5pm to 7pm with a rosary to follow at 7pm at the Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church in Poth, Texas. The Mass in Celebration of her Life will be held at the same church at 10:30am, Wednesday, April 16.