Blaza Gus Hejtmanek

Blaza "Gus" Hejtmanek, 96, of Sedalia, MO passed away Monday, August 17, 2020 at Bothwell Regional Health Center in Sedalia. He was born on September 2, 1923 in Clarkson, NE a son of Joseph and Anna (Cerny) Hejtmanek, who preceded him in death.

On May 16, 1950 in Omaha, NE he was united in marriage to Ardella Hill, who preceded him in death on January 15, 2007.

Blaza was a member of Epworth United Methodist Church. He served his country honorably in the United States Army during World War II. Gus worked at First Baptist Church as the maintenance supervisor for many years. He later worked for Hayes Wheels as material controller and forklift driver retiring in 1991.

Gus was an avid Kansas City Royals and Chiefs fan. He enjoyed traveling, camping, playing cards, and gardening. After retiring, he took up helping his wife with cutting out pieces for her quilting.

Survivors include a daughter, Carol Pfannenstiel (Tom) of Blue Springs, MO; a son, Chris Hejtmanek (Sharon) of Sedalia; five grandchildren, Matthew Strodtman, Cody Hejtmanek, Kyle Hejtmanek, and Shelly Barnett; five great-grandchildren, Zoe Strodtman, Ella Strodtman, Clay Barnett, Coal Barnett, and Sage Barnett; a brother, Dennis Hejtmanek of Thornton, CO; and many nieces and nephews.

In addition to his wife and parents he was preceded in death by a son, Danny Hejtmanek; a grandson, Adam Strodtman; two brothers, Emil Hejtmanek and Joseph Hejtmanek; a sister, Elsie Krajicek.

Graveside service and burial will be held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, August 20, 2020 at Highland Sacred Gardens with Rev. Dan Hankins officiating. Full military honors will be conducted by the United States Army and Sedalia VFW Post #2591.

Pallbearers will be Matthew Strodtman, Cody Hejtmanek, Kyle Hejtmanek, Shelly Barnett, Sharon Hejtmanek, and Tom Pfannenstiel.

Memorial contributions may be made to Epworth United Methodist Church in care of Rea Funeral Chapel.