John Slezak

July 25, 1941- Nov. 13, 2025

John Slezak, born on July 25, 1941, passed away with his family by his side on November 13, 2025, at age 84. A devoted husband, father, and proud Czech American, John leaves behind his wife of 60 years, Marilyn; sons, Douglas (Barbie) Slezak and Steven (Christine) Slezak; daughter, Teresa (Corey) Wedel; and grandchildren: Rayen Dye, Erin (Tony) Kuerner, Tim (Brooke) Slezak, Kira (Tyrell) Jeffries, Aaron Wedel, and Lynnsey Slezak. Great-grandchildren Maiyah, Jaxon, Tripp, and Olive.

A self-made man with a relentless work ethic, John built a life based on honesty, loyalty, and love. He was immensely proud of the family he raised and the values he shared. His Czech heritage was central to his identity, he shared it generously through traditions, stories, and food. He cherished the trip he took to the Czech Republic as a teen, as well as a memorable journey that allowed his children and grandchildren to see their ancestors’ resting place. John never met a stranger with his gift of gab and sincere curiosity; he made friends wherever he went.

Born and raised in Omaha, John graduated from Omaha South in 1959. John led a life full of achievements: earning two trade degrees, speaking two languages, remodeling his own home, as well as using his skills to build four others. During his lifetime, he donated 10 gallons of blood and even became the oldest person to defeat the Pierce Pounder ice cream challenge twice. He proudly served in the U.S. military as a Communications Sergeant and personal driver to the commanding officer. He even cut hair on the side as the Company barber.

His joy stemmed from simple, hands-on passions: woodworking, cowboy shooting, trap shooting, carving, gardening, canning, making sausage and pickles, collecting beer cans, and preserving the Czech traditions he cherished. He believed in hard work, saving carefully, helping others, and living life to the fullest. He often said, “Every night is New Year’s Eve, “and “You can sleep when you’re dead.”

John will be remembered as an honest man, a hardworking provider, a loyal friend, and above all, a loving husband, father, and grandfather. His legacy lives on in the family he was so proud to raise.

In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation.

To view a live broadcast of the Funeral Service, visit www.heafeyheafey.com and click the "Live Cast" button at the top of the home page.