John Havlik

John Havlik, Retired Army Major, devoted husband and father, passed away Tuesday at the age of 89, while amongst friends at his favorite place, the Courses of Fort Meade. His wife, Mary predeased him in 2006. He is survived by his daughter Elizabeth Havlik and her fiance' Steve Sierocki and also his son Navy CAPT John R Havlik of San Diego, CA, his neice Elenor Barrette, Cudahy, Wisc, several cousins and friends and his long time extended family, the Dillards. John was born in Chicago, 1919 and spent his early years playing hockey, baseball and caddying for golfers in the Chicago area. He pitched for the Pittsburgh Pirates farm club in Hutchinson, Kansas in the late 30's. In 1940, he enlisted in the US Army and saw action in many campaigns in the Pacific. He later returned to Chicago from the war and began working and going to college. He met his future wife, Mary Cesarec at work and married her at the outbreak of the Korean War. John, then a Lieutenant, left for the Korean peninsula and for over a year saw combat while serving with the 501st Chem Mortar Btn. After the war, he was selected for language school and served with distinction in Europe and retired in Maryland. He later worked and retired from the civil service at DIA. John received his Bachelor's Degree in Military Studies in June, 1969, from the University of Maryland. He was a member of many organizations, to include the the ACICV, American Legion, VFW. John and his family were devoted members of the Church of the Good Shepard, Glen Burnie for over 40 years. He will be missed dearly by all.