I Petra was a foreign exchange student who graduated with us:

Petr Polak, 64, passed away Tuesday, September 6, 2016. He is preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Alena Polak. Petr is survived by his wife, Milena Polak; sons, Peter Anthony Polak, Michael Christopher Polak, Nicholas Alexander Polak; and a host of other family friends.

Petr was born and raised in Bmo, Czechoslovakia. He came to the United States in 1969 and moved to Houston in 1970 where he graduated from Spring Woods High School. He went on to the University of Houston and completed his degree in Chemistry in 1975. Petr began working in the oil industry for several years and decided to go back to school where he received his Bachelor of Science degree in Electronic Technology. Petr then began his new career in aerospace at the Johnson Space Center working for NASA more than 25 years. He worked in the Shuttle Avionics Integration Lab and later transitioned to the International Space Station program. Petr retired shortly after the Space Shuttle Program ended, but continued working with computer software for businesses here, as well as in Europe. Petr was a car enthusiast and he shared this passion with his three sons. He had a strong thirst for knowledge and would constantly research many things in order to better himself. Petr enjoyed physical activity; whether it was practicing Tae Kwon Do, Kayaking, weight-lifting or playing Tennis, he enjoyed them all. Petr had a very strong will, and following a car accident that left his ankle crushed, he had to endure reconstructive surgery and a long rehabilitation period. Petr did extensive research and formulated a game plan that involved exercise and alternative treatments that surprised everyone, even the doctors. Petr inspired everyone around him with his courage and positive outlook throughout his life. He was truly an inspiration to everyone who knew and loved him.

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