Willie Edward Strelec, 73, of Bay City went to be with his Lord on Friday, May 3, 2019. He was born January 3, 1946 in Ganado, TX. to the late Willie Strelec and Ardine Ryman.

Willie E Strelec will forever be known as a loving husband, dedicated father, proud grandpa (Bang Bang) and caring friend. He loved living life on the ranch where he was able to spend his final days before leaving life here on earth. He always found enjoyment by helping others in any way he knew how. Willie had a strong love and passion for hunting, fishing, and working in his shop. Not only did he enjoy these activities but he found pleasure in teaching others the ropes as well. From baiting hooks, casting reels, cleaning guns, cutting/welding or changing brakes, Willie enjoyed mentoring and helping others do the same. He would also be the first to roll up his sleeves and lend a helping hand. He had a unique way of expressing himself and had a way with words. He had a huge love for Clint Eastwood and Big Foot movies were his favorite. He could make anything. If he had an idea he could do it. He could be quite a character and always had an invention or project in the making. He showed his family all the good fishing spots where they spent countless times including Matagorda's three mile cut, Chinqapin, Brown Cedar Cut,  Shellbanks, Oyster Lake, Red Bluff, Half Moon Reef, West and East Bay, Dead Man's Curve, and many others. Willie exemplified the true definition of a hard working blue collar American, always providing for his family.

Willie is survived by his beloved wife: Marsha Dean Strelec; two sons: Willie Strelec Jr. and James Dale and wife Carolina; two daughters: Kristy Bundick and husband Thomas and Charlotte McKissick and husband Jerry; 13 grandchildren: Jessica Leissner, Bridget (Kyle) Kubena, Brittany Kersh, Brooke (Phillip) Robles, Gary Kersh Jr., Vance (Deanna) Strelec, Tyler Strelec, Ashley Strelec, Brandon (Cali) McKissick, Bradley McKissick, Bryce McKissick, Amy (Robert) Zenker, and Allison Bundick; as well as 20 great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents: Ardine and Arthur James Ryman; Willie Strelec; Brothers: James Lewis Strelec and Lee August Strelec; niece: Crystal Strelec.

Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM Wednesday, May 8, 2019 followed by the funeral service at 2:00 PM, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. Pallbearers are Gary Kersh Jr., Vance Strelec, Tyler Strelec, Brandon McKissick, Kyle Kubena, and Phillip Robles. Honorary Pallbearer: Charlie Rooks and Henry Paysse.

Willie's family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to The Legacy nurses and staff for the compassionate care he was given. Thank you also to the doctors, nurses, and staff of Memorial Herman Sugarland Hospital, and AMED Hospice for their kindness and care.