Christopher Bruce Pavelka Sr.

Christopher Bruce Pavelka Sr., beloved husband, father, Papa, and friend, passed away on November 25, 2023, surrounded by loved ones. Born on March 22, 1967, in Fullerton, California, Chris’ life was filled with laughter and love. His loud, belly-laugh was a rememberable characteristic that those who knew him will not soon forget. Chris had an unwavering good spirit and always had a smile on his face. He had great love for his family and spending quality time with them brought him the most joy.

Chris started his family on March 22, 1991, with his marriage to his wife Lynne. They filled their home with memories with their four children, Chris Jr., Nicole, Tara and Nathan. Chris suffered a back injury in 1994 that inhibited him from working, however this allowed him to be the family man he always dreamed of.  He enjoyed his role as Santa Claus every year and sported a beard and big belly year-round. His jolly spirit was truly infectious, and he brought so much happiness to his loved ones.  Perhaps his favorite role of all time was his title, Papa. Chris was blessed with four grandchildren who he spent hours of quality time with every week.  He enjoyed spoiling them with snacks and toys and all the love he had to offer.

Chris is survived by his wife Lynne Pavelka, son Christopher Pavelka Jr. and Octavia, daughter Tara Splattstoesser and Isac, son Nathan Pavelka, son-in-law Daniel Schlichtman, honorary son Matthew Schlichtman and Jessica, parents Patricia and Richard Manke, sister Lisa Osborne, grandson Hayden Schlichtman, granddaughter Laelynn Schlichtman, grandson Jase Schlichtman, honorary granddaughter Charlotte Smith, mother-in-law Diane Walz. Chris was preceded in death by his daughter Nicole Pavelka, grandson Ryker Schlichtman, sister Nina Kennedy, brother Leo Craig Pavelka, and father Leo Gene Pavelka.  There will be a celebration of life for Chris at a later date. Expressions of condolences to the family can be made through charitable donations, flowers, prayers, and positive thoughts.  Urbauer-Price Funeral Home of Davenport, Nebraska is assisting the family with arrangements.