85S12444 BK-D
By: Zerwas H.R. No. 226
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, A life filled with meaningful achievements ended far
too soon with the passing of James Edward Vasek of Austin on May 29,
2017, at the age of 48; and
WHEREAS, Born on December 30, 1968, in Spokane, Washington,
Jim Vasek was the son of Edward James Vasek Jr. and Mary Manno
Vasek; he graduated as valedictorian of his class at La Grange High
School and went on to receive his bachelor's degree in physics from
Rice University before earning two master's degrees in physics and
material science from the University of Wisconsin--Madison; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Vasek built a successful 23-year career in
engineering with tenures at Motorola, Freescale Semiconductor, and
NXP Semiconductors; along the way, he maintained an active
lifestyle, which included mountain biking and completing many
marathons, half-marathons, and triathlons; in his free time, he
also enjoyed astronomy and volunteered extensively with Texas 4000
for Cancer, Head for the Cure, Sunshine Camps of Austin, and Rice
Engineering Alumni; and
WHEREAS, Devoted to his family, Mr. Vasek cherished his wife
of 21 years, Heather, and their children, Jenna and Dylan; he was
known for going out of his way to make others smile, and he enjoyed
planning parties and celebrating the achievements of those around
him; in turn, he was comforted by the support of his loved ones and
colleagues while fighting a long and courageous battle with cancer,
and he inspired them with the optimism, good humor, and spirit that
he demonstrated during that trying time; and
WHEREAS, A man of impressive intellect and boundless zest for
life, Jim Vasek will be greatly missed, and he will forever be
remembered with deepest affection and admiration by those who held
him dear; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas
Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby pay tribute to the memory
of James Edward Vasek and extend heartfelt condolences to all who
mourn his passing; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for his family and that when the Texas House of
Representatives adjourns this day, it do so in memory of Jim Vasek.