Ara Fleck

Ara Patricia Waite was born July 2, 1937, in Long Beach, California, the daughter of Everett Waite and Ara Patricia Ryan Waite. Later she moved to New Jersey and lived with her mother and stepfather John T. Jenter, Sr.

In New Jersey, she met the love of her life Ervin E. Fleck, who was stationed there with the military. When he was discharged, Ara came to Texas with him. They were married on August 4, 1956. She became a lifelong Texan but returned to New Jersey to visit every year until the trip became too difficult for them. Ara, who was called Pat by her Texas family, worked at various jobs, including being a key punch operator. She worked at Cameron Iron Works in Houston while they lived in spring. When Ervin and Pat left the city life and moved to Cistern, she worked at the cactus nursery. She also worked at Gladys Bakery and V&V Sausage. Ara enjoyed embroidery and cross stitch. She made beautiful tablecloths, pillowcases, table runners, and framed pieces which she shared with family members. Another hobby was sending greeting cards, including birthday, anniversary, get well, and cards that just say "hi." She always enjoyed using stamps that were special. A couple of years ago she started sending Christmas in July cards. They brightened our summer days. She enjoyed working in her yard and garden, reading books, and doing word games. Ara enjoyed helping others. She was always ready to share her baked goods with family. For many years she stayed with her sister-in-law on Sunday mornings so her family could go to church. She volunteered at Born Again Emporium and kept the coffee pot going. Ara had a true servant heart. Ara was a faithful Christian attending mass at her Catholic church.

Ara was predeceased by her parents, Everet and Ara Waite; two brothers, Kenneth Waite and John T. (Jack) Jenter; and her beloved husband, Ervin, whom she affectionately called Flick; sister-in-law, Maria Fleck Helfer and husband, Alvin; brothers-in-law, Henry Fleck, Ben Fleck and his wife, Bridie, John Fleck and his wife, lzilla.

Ara is survived by her brother, James (Jim) Jenter, Sr.; sister,  Anna Michele Scott; sister-in-law, Mamie Fleck, brother-in-law Marcus Fleck wife, Geraldine; and brother-in-law Jerry Fleck and wife, Helen. In addition a large number of nieces and nephews survive. We will miss you, but we know you are in a better place.

Visitation will be Saturday, February 12, 2022, from 9:00am-10:00am at St. Paul Catholic Church in Smithville followed by Mass at 10:00am. Interment will take place in Byler cemetery following Mass.