Bernard Pustejovsky

Bernard Anton Pustejovsky, age 81, of Abbott, passed away Tuesday evening, October 21, 2025 while tending to his farm in Abbott.

A rosary will be recited 5:00 p.m. Tuesday at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel in West, followed by visitation until 7:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Abbott, with Rev. Thomas Jones as celebrant and Deacon Terry Timmons assisting. Burial will follow at Fatima Cemetery.

Bernard was born on December 25, 1943, in Hillsboro, a beloved son to Anton and Helen (Hykel) Pustejovsky. A proud graduate of Abbott High School, Bernard furthered his education at Tarleton State University and earned a Bachelor's Degree in Agriculture Economics from Texas A&M University. On April 8, 1967, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Lucy Hennig, in West. Together they cultivated a life full of love and shared values on their family farm. Barney proudly served in the United States Air Force as a Medic. Barney's dedication to his community reached far beyond his military service. He was actively involved in many organizations, including SPJST Lodge #54 in West, Knights of Columbus Council #2305, KJT Society #31 in West, the Hill County Tax Assessor's Office, and the Hill County Farm Bureau. He also served as past president of both Texas Pest Management and Blackland Income Growth and was honored to serve on the nationally recognized Cotton Board. In addition, Barney was a member of the Prairie Lands Groundwater Conservation District-all reflecting his lifelong devotion to agriculture and the land he so deeply cherished. A proud third-generation farmer in Hill County, Barney worked tirelessly alongside his son, Matt, and grandson, Derek. He took immense pride in his work and found joy in gardening, fishing, and traveling with his agricultural friends to meetings and events. Family was always at the center of Barney's life, and he especially treasured time spent at family gatherings with his grandchildren. Beyond his love of farming and family, Barney was a devoted member of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church in Abbott, where his faith guided and sustained him throughout his life.

Bernard is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Helen Mach; infant brother, James Pustejovsky; brother, Michael Pustejovsky; and brothers-in-law, Felix Picha, Ernest Mach and Sam Hurst.

Survivors include his beloved wife of 58 years, Lucy Pustejovsky of Abbott; children, Matthew Pustejovsky and wife Kathleen of Abbott, Mark Pustejovsky and Elizabeth Wingo of Rockwall, and Denise Pustejovsky and Bill Grote of Lewisville; grandchildren, Derek Pustejovsky and wife Jolee, Katelyn Pustejovsky, Cooper Grote, and Carter Grote; great-granddaughter, Kinley Pustejovsky; brothers, Joseph Pustejovsky and wife Carolyn, and Anthony Pustejovsky and wife Beverly; sisters, Bernice Picha, and Janice Hurst; sister-in-law, Elaine Brown and husband Robert; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and close friends.  Barney was also blessed to be part of the extended Hennig family, with whom he shared many cherished memories and lifelong bonds.

Active pallbearers are Richard Mach, James Picha, Jeff Hurst, Brad Pustejovsky, Eric Pustejovsky, Clifford Anderson, and Andrew Webre. Honorary pallbearers are all of his nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Blackland Cotton and Grain Producers Association, a donation-based nonprofit dedicated to advancing agricultural research. Barney proudly served as past president of the association. Your gift will support efforts to improve and innovate agriculture for future generations. Donations can be sent to PO Box 108, Abbott, Texas 76621.

Memorials may also be made to the Legacy Fund at Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church of Abbott.