Julius Rebek

Julius Rebek died October 1, 2005 at Midland Hospice. Mr. Rebek was born Apri 20, 1914 in Korostarcsa, Hungary the son of Ruby and Paul Rebek. He is survived by his wife Eva and two sons and daughters in laws. They include Dr. Paul and Carolyn Rebek of Topeka, and Dr. Julius Jr. and Dr. Mitra Rebek of LaJolla, California. Grandchildren include Elizabeth and Stacy Rebek of Topeka, Eva Rebek, New York City, Anna Rebek ,New Haven, Connecticut, Pouya Rebek, La Jolla and Arash Rebek, Chicago. An infant great-grandson, Jake, Topeka, also survives. Mr. Rebek married Eva Racz on June 29, 1941 in Beregszasz, Hungary. He received a law degree from Debrecen University in 1941, and worked as Chief Counsel for the country of Bereg in the city of Beregszasz. At the time the Rebeks resided in their homes in Beregszasz and a summer home in Sostogyogyfurdo, Hungary. Following World War II, the Rebeks fled Hungary with their two infant sons. Freedom loving Julius realized that Hungary would be a Communist country. Rebek relatives and friends at the time were assassinated or exiled to Siberia. Eva and Julius were determined to raise their children in the United States with the opportunities available to all Americans. The Rebeks fled to Vilach, Austria where they lived in a refugee camp for the next one and a half years. Mr. Rebek then received permission to work as a farm hand in Feldkirchen, Austria for the next three and one half years until the family received United States immigrant status in 1949. Upon arrival to the United States, Mr. Rebek worked to support his family on a farm in Perry, Kansas, as a gravedigger in Mount Hope Cemetery and as a janitor for U.S.D. 501. In 1954, Eva and Julius Rebek became naturalized citizens. In 1958, Mr. Rebek began an independent house painting business. He is fondly remembered by many Topekans as the "the Legendary Painter" or the "Master Craftsman". When Mr. Rebek began his business he brought his parents and his wife's parents to Topeka from Hungary where they resided at the home of Eva and Julius. Julius Rebek was proud to be an American. His wife, children, grandchildren, and great grandson are all a proud part of his American dream. Mr. Rebek will lie in state and the family will receive friends from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Sunday evening at Penwell-Gabel Mid Town Chapel. Private family graveside services will be conducted as a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be given to Midland Hospice Care, 200 S.W. Frazier Circle, Topeka, Kansas 66606. A special message may be given to the family online at www.PenwellGabel.com.