Joseph Jacob Reznicek

Joseph Jacob Reznicek, age 67, of Aliceville, Alabama, passed away Friday, January 15, 2010 at his home on Cow Creek Ranch after a valiant battle with lymphoma. Joe was born June 26, 1942 in Moline, IL, the son of August and Marie Zimmerman Reznicek.

In his 67 years, Joe lived life to its fullest. He made the most of every moment he lived. Joe was a devoted husband, father and grandfather continually sharing his love, wisdom and knowledge. Joe's deep appreciation of his roots and connection to the soil beneath his feet made him a remarkable steward of the land. He was an avid bird hunter and spent many hours hunting with his retriever, Ruby. Joe was a visionary in every aspect of his life, from his personal matters to his business life. He spent his last year preparing and mentoring his family to move the business forward.

Joe was reared on a diversified farming and cattle operation in south central Illinois. The Reznicek family purchased their first registered Angus female in the spring of 1952 and in 2002 the family celebrated its 50th year in the seedstock business.

Joe received a Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Husbandry from the University of Illinois, Champaign. He dedicated his career to the production of high quality genetics in Angus and Brangus cattle. Joe joined Cow Creek Ranch in 1985, became managing partner in 1994 and eventually became sole owner of the operation. Joe led Cow Creek Ranch to become a nationally recognized producer of seedstock for the beef cattle industry; currently the country's 21st largest. In 1999, he was named Brangus Breeder of the Year by the International Brangus Breeders Association

Joe was active in local and civic activities and served two terms on the American Angus Association Board of Directors. He served as a judge of many state, national and international livestock shows.

He was preceded in death by his father, August (Gus) Daniel Reznicek and his sister, Bonnie Reznicek.

He is survived by his wife of 15 years, Joy Reznicek of Aliceville; daughter, Carrie Reznicek of Chicago, IL; and son, Matthew Reznicek and wife, Hannah, of Aliceville; four granddaughters, Emily, Sydney, Lexi and Zoe; mother, Marie Reznicek of Carlinville, IL; brothers, Daniel Reznicek and wife, Lynda, of Nashville, TN; David Reznicek and wife, Carolyn, of Carlinville, IL; and August Reznicek and wife, Susan, of Hettick, IL; parents-in-law, Roy and Bernice Weinheimer of Stonewall, TX; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Joe was a supporter of, and mentor to, many young people in the cattle industry and beyond. The family has set up a memorial to fund scholarships for youth in the beef cattle industry. Memorials may be made to the Joseph Reznicek Memorial Fund and sent to Cow Creek Ranch, 1170 Cow Creek Road, Aliceville, AL 35442.

Benjamin Disraeli is quoted as saying, "The legacy of heroes is the memory of a great name and the inheritance of a great example." Joe Reznicek was truly a hero in all aspects of life.