Louis Pekar

Louis (Lojzek) Pekar, 98, of Wayne, passed away peacefully on February 5, 2025. Born in Hovezi, Czechoslovakia, on November 10, 1926, to Pavel Pekar and Rozalie Janus, Louis led a remarkable life defined by courage, passion, and unwavering dedication to his family and principles.

At the age of 18, Louis made a bold escape from his homeland, defying the communist regime under the cover of darkness. Hidden in a freight car, he fled to Germany before eventually finding his way to São Paulo, Brazil, where he worked as a livery driver for a wealthy industrialist. This industrialist recognized Louis' ambition and helped him realize his dream of emigrating to the United States. Louis became a proud U.S. citizen in 1953, embracing his new home with fervor.

In the United States, Louis built a long and successful career in the restaurant industry, where he became well-respected as a professional who valued hard work and excellence. Known for his generosity, Louis always provided abundantly for his family and friends making sure there was good food, good drink, and good company at every gathering. His love for bringing people together was especially felt during the Christmas season, which he made truly magical for his loved ones. And when Louis reflected on his past, he would often say with a smile, “It was a good time.”

Louis' meticulous nature was evident in all aspects of his life. He took great pride in maintaining his home and yard and could often be found working outdoors on his day off. Louis also instilled a love of water and the outdoors in his family, creating memories with trips to lakes and summers spent at the Jersey Shore.

Louis leaves behind his beloved children Carmine Pekar and his wife Cindi of Jerome, Idaho; his daughter, Dolores Forget of Hatboro, Pennsylvania; and his son Paul of Mesa, Arizona. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Michael Forget of Hatboro, PA, and Mindi Spencer of Jerome, ID; as well as five great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

The family extends their deepest gratitude to our wonderful neighbors, the Blau and Sirkus families, and the caring staff at Arbor Ridge Rehabilitation Center, Lisa Gapski, Gertha Francois, and Lucia Ramirez, for their unwavering care and support. They would also like to thank Affinity Hospice, especially Amy Kerr, for the comfort provided in his final days.

In honor of Louis’ commitment to helping others, the family requests that donations be made to the charity of your choice.