Gerald Joseph Barak Sr., age 95, of West, passed away peacefully Thursday morning, January 1, 2026 at his residence.

A rosary will be recited 6:00 p.m. Tuesday at Aderhold Funeral Home Chapel, followed by visitation until 8:00 p.m. Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, January 7, 2026 at St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption in West, with Rev. Timothy Vaverek as celebrant, assisted by Deacon Robin Waters. Military Graveside Rites will follow at St. Mary's Cemetery, conducted by the West Veterans Honor Guard.

Born on June 12, 1930, in West, Gerald was the son of Walter and Aylene (Mudryk) Barak. He was a proud graduate of West High School, where he graduated in 1948. His unwavering sense of duty and commitment to his country led him to enlist in the United States Army, where he served honorably during the Korean War until his discharge at the rank of Corporal in 1953. On August 22, 1955, Gerald was united in marriage to Rosalie Karlik, and together they built a life full of love and family. Rosalie preceded him in death on December 26, 2016. Gerald was a dedicated member of St. Mary's Catholic Church of the Assumption in West, where his faith guided him throughout his life. He also found camaraderie and support in the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #4819 and American Legion Post #478, as well as in his membership with the National Rifle Association. His long career in the shipping department at General Tire and Rubber Company in Waco concluded with his retirement in 1986 after 33 years of service. In his leisure time, Gerald found joy in hunting, woodworking, reading, and nurturing his garden. But perhaps his greatest joy came from dancing with his wife, spending time with his family and friends, sharing stories and laughter that enriched the lives of everyone around him.

Gerald is also preceded in death by his parents; sister, Virginia Marek; and brother, Larry Barak.

Survivors include his children, Gerald Barak and wife Marilyn, Sharon Miller and husband John, Judy Haney and husband Lynn, and Diane Kalina; his grandchildren, Aaron Barak, Jennifer Lewis and husband Chris, Kimberly Clark and husband Robbie, Shari Davis and husband Ken, Sarah Proctor and husband Raymond Jr., Jessica King and husband James "Matt", Jared Miller, Tiffany Haney, Candace Neill and husband Morgan, and Kaylee Kalina; great-grandchildren, Landon, Carter, Colt, Nylah, Tyler, Alex, Alia, Ben, Olivia, Jonah, Maddie, Brie, Noah, Samantha, Evan, John, Abby, Charlotte, Evelyn, and Eleanor; and many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

Pallbearers are Aaron Barak, Jared Miller, Robbie Clark, Chris Lewis, James King, and Ray Proctor.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to West Veteran's of Foreign Wars Post #4819 or American Legion Post #478.