James “Papu” Van Dresar

James “Papu” Van Dresar, 76, of La Grange, died Saturday, May 7, 2016. James was born in McAllen on Nov. 2, 1939, the son of Dalton and Ruth (Vernon) Van Dresar. He married Janice Pavlica on April 10, 1964 in Pharr, Texas. He worked as a recreational vehicle mechanic for over 40 years. Boat motors were his specialty, with certifications from Mercury Marine. He was a member of the Texas State Guard, Pharr Unit. He served as a volunteer firefighter for the Caldwell VFD. James greatest joy was spending time with his family and watching his grandchildren play sports. He piddled on his ranch with his cows. He enjoyed football, bowling and golfing and exploring in the mountains. He is survived by his wife, three sons: John A. Van Dresar and wife, Sherri A., David A. Van Dresar and wife, Stephanie L., and William C. Van Dresar and wife, Kelly R. of La Grange; one brother, John Dalton Van Dresar of Caldwell; nine grandchildren; eight great grandchildren; special cousin, Patty; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Joan Roberts and great grandson, Caden James Van Dresar. Visitation was held on Tuesday, May 10, 2016 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home in La Grange. Family received friends from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Memorial contributions are to be made to: American Heart Association, P.O. Box 841125, Dallas, Texas 75284-1125; American Cancer Society, 4401 Lilac Ln., Victoria, Texas 77901 or National Kidney Foundation, NKF Serving Central Texas, 7421 Burnet Rd., #444 Austin, Texas 78757. Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals.com. Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home in La Grange was in charge of arrangements.