Obituaries

Alvis Roy Mueller

Alvis Roy Mueller (88) of Carmine, Texas was called home by His Heavenly Father on December 18, 2024, at Baylor Scott & White Hospital in College Station, TX. Alvis was born on June 15, 1936, to John and Ida (Stebner) Mueller at home in the La Bahia/Burton Texas area. He started his education at Boundary School and Burton Elementary. When the family moved to the Carmine, Texas area, he continued his education at the Round Top-Carmine junior high and high school. After Alvis graduated from Round Top-Carmine high school in 1955, he continued his education by studying Education at Blinn College for 2 years and then Sam Houston State Teachers College. After receiving his Master of Education degree from Sam Houston State Teachers College, he started his first job at Round Top-Carmine high school on September 6, 1960, as a math and driver’s education teacher and principal. In addition to teaching and administrative responsibilities, he coached both boys basketball and baseball. After a month of teaching, he was drafted by the United States government to serve in the US Army achieving the rank of Sargent First Class.  He was stationed at Fort Polk, Louisiana for twelve months before being assigned to the Army National Guard.  He was a member of the 49^th Armored Division as a squad leader. Upon returning from serving his country, Alvis, resumed his teaching/coaching and leadership roles at Round Top- Carmine high school in 1962, kickstarting a 32-year career in education in this school district.  He furthered his education by attending the University of Arkansas on his summer breaks and obtained his superintendent certification in 1969. Alvis touched many students’ lives through his 30 plus years in education.  Many remember him from his numerous math classes, driver’s education courses, and coaching them in sports. A few students even have memories of him from their trips to the principal’s office where they were introduced to his paddle with his initials “ARM” on it, which he jokingly referred to it as the long ARM of the law. From his actions to others, people knew Alvis was a devoted Christian man.  He was baptized into the Christian faith on November 22, 1936, at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine, Texas.  He later confirmed his Christian faith at the same church on September 24, 1950.  Alvis was an active member of this church until his death and participated in the church as a church council member, Sunday School teacher, Brotherhood/Men in Mission member, and sang in the church choir.   Alvis’ passion for service touched him to lead the Port of Houston Seafarers boxes for numerous years at the church. In addition to being actively involved at the high school in Carmine, he was also very active in the community by being a charter member of the Carmine Lions Club, where he served numerous leadership roles as well as the Carmine Volunteer Fire Department, Young Farmers, and served on the Board of Directors for the Fayette County Farm Bureau.  Alvis loved animals and wildlife and was a member of the Sandtown Wildlife Association.  He continued his love and support for his country by being actively involved for 42 consecutive years in leadership roles in the American Legion Quade-Werchan Post #338.   Alvis also remained connected with fellow service members through his involvement with the 49^th Armored Division National Guard Reunion Committee. In his early adulthood, he loved to travel, the US states and abroad, often taking his family with him on these trips.  He enjoyed participating in community sports, playing volleyball, baseball and softball.  He also enjoyed crappy fishing and water skiing on Somerville Lake on his boat. In 1994, Alvis retired from his career at school and spent his time taking care of his mother until her passing in 1996.  His retirement allowed him to become more involved in farming and ranching.      During his retirement years, he really enjoyed tending to his cattle, many times sitting on the back of his truck and handfeeding range cubes to his tame cattle. He enjoyed the comradery of the small towns in his area with friends and relatives at local restaurants and stores. Alvis loved animals and you would see him frequently driving around with one of his canine friends riding shotgun in the front seat. He also loved listening to the radio where some of his favorite programs were the Country Store, Rush Limbaugh and all other Republican talk-show hosts.  Another favorite on the radio was Polka Time, where he often made birthday dedications for his family members. Alvis was very independent and enjoyed living on his own until six months until his passing. Alvis was predeceased by his parents, brother, J.D. Mueller and sister-in-law, Shirley Fuchs Mueller, brother- in-law, J.C. Pohl, and great niece, Karlee Layne Peters.  Left to mourn are his sister, Avalda Pohl; nieces, Debbie Eckert and husband Ronnie, Renee Mueller, Connie Peters and husband Mike, Jill Finke and husband Rodney and nephew Jody Pohl and wife Evelyn. In addition to his family, Alvis touched many lives through his 30 plus years of teaching at Round Top-Carmine high school as a teacher, coach, principal and friend.  Missing his loving touch will be his dog, Speckles, and his numerous cats. Pallbearers include his great nephews: Andrew Eckert, Joshua Eckert, Joey Pohl, Jared Pohl, Ryan Finke and Grant Finke.  Honorary pallbearers are his great nieces: Brooke Klausmeyer, Kayla Peters and Jordan Peters. Services will be held at Martin Luther Lutheran Church on December 23, 2024, at 2pm. Visitation will be held at Memorial Oaks Chapel in Brenham, Texas with the family present from 3 – 5pm on December 22, 2024.   In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Martin Luther Lutheran Church Educational Fund; the Gardenia E. Janssen Animal Shelter serving Fayette County; the City of Brenham Animal Services or an organization that touches your heart.

Donald (Don) Lee Andrew

Donald (Don) Lee Andrew, 78, passed away on December 18, 2024. Don was born December 5, 1946 in Dallas, Texas to Les Andrew & Betty Andrew (Perry).  The family moved to Houston when Don was an infant, and he was raised and lived in Houston for 28 years. He graduated Reagan High School in Houston in 1965. Don married Sandra Nowlin and had twin daughters, Lisa and Risa in 1970. Though their relationship turned out to be less permanent than either expected, both went on to remarry and raise exceptional children.  Don worked as a machinist starting right after high school until his retirement from MIC Group in Brenham. Don met the love of his life, Linda in Houston and they were married May 25, 1976. They had their daughter, Courtney in 1977 and moved to Brenham shortly after to raise their family.  Don joined the Brenham Fire Department and was a volunteer for 12 years. He loved responding to the calls and being a part the community. Don’s greatest accomplishments and joys was his family. He loved his wife Linda more than anything and they were inseparable for 48 years. Don also loved the Astros, Texans, Nascar and his dogs Jake and Roxie. After his retirement, his joys were working in the yard, polishing up his Jeep and computer games. Don was a great husband, father and friend. There was nothing he wouldn’t do for anyone in need.  Don had a full life until he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2023. Even through his struggles and tough times he still remembered his sweet Linda.  Don is survived by his wife Linda Roese Andrew, daughters Courtney Thomas and husband Carl, Lisa Wright and husband Mel, Risa Stone and husband Matt, his four granddaughters, and one great granddaughter. He is also survived by his brother and sister-in-law Gene Perry and wife Jeannie.  Don was preceded in death by parents Dallas & Betty Perry, brother Dally Perry, and in-laws Melvin and Emma Jean Roese.  A visitation with the family will be 4pm-6pm Sunday, December 22 at Memorial Oaks Chapel. The funeral service will be 11am Monday, December 23, 2024 at Christ Lutheran Church in Brenham. Burial will follow in Prairie Lea Cemetery.  Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main Street, Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, please visit: www.memorialoakschapel.com

Mary Evelyn Maddox

Mary Evelyn Maddox, age 88 of Brenham, passed away December 17, 2024.  She was born October 11, 1936 in Gladewater, TX to parents Errell and Maurine (Eaves) LaRoe. She was educated in the schools of Farmington, New Mexico. From an early age, Mary loved to dance. After graduation, she became a dance instructor. After relocating to Brenham, she opened her own dance studio, named Mary Maddox Academy of Dance, which she was involved with for many years. She met her husband Francisco on a trip to Mexico and they married September 5, 2006.  During her free time, Mary enjoyed traveling to Europe, Mexico, and Africa as well as spending time with friends, and reading mysteries.  Mary was preceded in death by her parents.  Surviving family includes: husband of over 18 years Francisco Rodriguez; son Cecil Grimes, Jr., wife Reeta and daughters Cereena and Cecilee; daughter Cynthia June Lacina and son Lee Neal; brother Don Laroe; and, special friend Caroline Gates-Groves.  Visitation will be Sunday, December 22, 2024, from 1pm until the funeral service begins at 3 pm in Brenham Memorial Chapel with Father Stephen Whaley officiating.  Graveside services will be Monday, December 23 at 11 am at Glenwood Cemetery in Groveton, TX.  Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611 Share condolences at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com

Dorothy Ann Lueck Hohlt

Dorothy Ann Lueck Hohlt, affectionately known as “Meme,” entered eternal rest on December 17, 2024. Born at home on the family farm on November 26, 1937, Dorothy’s life began on land cherished by her family since 1893. She grew up surrounded by love, raised with her parents, paternal grandparents, and great-grandfather. She often spoke of her great childhood, filled with warmth and cherished memories. She is survived by her loving sons and their wives: Michael Ray and Trissie (Fuller) Hohlt, Bruce David and Joyce (Wensel) Hohlt, and Harold William “Bill” and Christi (Luhn) Hohlt. Dorothy adored her grandchildren, Shelbie and Santos Benitez, Shayna and Lane Vermillion, Tyler and Taylor Hohlt, Wyatt and Courtney Hohlt, and Courtney and Alejandro Jantes.  Her great-grandchildren—Taytum and Tyetan Hohlt, Hazel Vermillion, and David and Isabele Jantes—were her greatest joys. She is also survived by her brother, Lonnie “Butch” Lueck and wife, Margie; brothers-in-law Charles Everett Hohlt, Donald Hohlt, Weldon and wife, Connie Hohlt; sister-in-law Florence (Hohlt) Smith; her very special “sister,” Kay Hohlt, and her daughter in her heart, Holly Lynn.   Dorothy treasured her numerous nephews, nieces, and extended family. Memorial Contributions may be directed to Eben-Ezer Lutheran church of Brenham, Texas. A visitation will be held 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Thursday, December 19, 2024 at Memorial Oaks Chapel. The funeral service will be 10:30 a.m., Friday, December 20, 2024, at Eben-Ezer Lutheran church. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main Street, Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, please visit: www.memorialoakschapel.com

Michael O’Keffee Watts Sr.

Michael O’Keffee Watts Sr. of Brenham passed away at age 63 on December 11, 2024.  Michael was born on September 9, 1961, to Floyd Sr. and Lenora Watts.  Michael accepted Christ at an early age at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Brenham, Texas. Michael began his early years of education in the Brenham Independent School District and later the family moved to Jasper, Texas where he graduated from Jasper High School with the class of 1980. Michael loved the outdoors and enjoyed fishing and camping with his family. Michael was preceded in death by his father and mother Floyd Watts Sr. and Lenora Rideout.  Three brothers Charles Wayne Thomas, Joel Quentin Watts, and Troy Anthony Watts.  Grandparents: James (Leola) Thomas and Rufus (Mattie) Watts. Michael leaves to cherish his loving memories: his devoted wife of 43 years Jacquelene Watts, four daughters Laticia F. (fiancé Fidney) Watts, Bridget Stackhouse, Katrina Adams, and Jessica Watts. One son Michael (Candace) Watts Jr. Seven granddaughters, Alauna Stackhouse, Ashanti Brown, Aleara Stackhouse, Alanis Stackhouse, Cadence Watts, Caitlyn Watts, and Mya Huff.  Six grandsons DaVarian Sullivan, Brian Sullivan II, Steven Stackhouse Jr., Telly Davis Jr., Michael Watts III, and Randerian Pollard.  Five brothers: Elder Floyd (Letha) Watts Jr. of Brenham, Jeffrey (Rita) Watts of Jasper, TX., Frederick Watts Sr. of Gonzales, TX., Terrence Watts Sr. of Austin, TX. and Clifton Hennington. Three sisters: Gail Pinchback of Dallas, TX., Barbara Watts of Brenham, TX., and Kathy Silas of Austin, TX.  Three aunts: Dorothy Deeds and Melissa Obi of Brenham, TX. and Janice (Cloy) Mathis of Burton, TX. One uncle: Larry Thomas of Brenham, TX.  And a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.  The family would like to give special thanks to Dr. and Mrs. Henry J. Boehm Jr., Tom and Edith Whitehead Sr., and Tom and Bonnie Whitehead Jr. Visitation will be Friday, Dec. 20, 2024, in the chapel of the Allen Dave Funeral Homes and Crematorium of Brenham 407 Burleson from 3:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Funeral service will be Saturday, Dec. 21, 2024, at 11 a.m. at New Hope Missionary Baptist Church, 704 W Jefferson St. in Brenham with Elder Floyd Watts Jr. officiating. Interment will follow in Kenney Cemetery. Services are in the care of Allen Dave Funeral Home & Crematorium 407 Burleson Street. Brenham, TX 77833. (979) 830-5510. To post a tribute to his family please visit allendave.com.

Betty Marie Randermann

Betty Marie Randermann, 78, passed away on November 22, 2024. Betty was born September 4, 1946 in Brenham, Texas to Raymond and Odell Schultz. Betty retired from Blinn College after serving meals for 25 years out of the cafeteria. She loved church and doing her devotionals morning, noon and night but most of all she loved her family. Betty is preceded in death by her husband, Delphine Randermann and her parents. Betty is survived by her loving daughter, Debra Giammalva and her husband Devin, her siblings, Ronnie (Kathy) Schultz, Carolyn (James) Grimm and Mary (Wallace) Johnson, her grandchildren, Tilly and Sam Giammalva. Family will be receiving friends on Friday, December 20, 2024 from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm at Memorial Oaks Chapel located at 1306 W. Main Street, Brenham, Texas. A graveside service for Betty will be held on Saturday, December 21, 2024 at 1:00 pm at St. Matthew Lutheran Cemetery of Sandy Hill located at 8819 FM 2621, Brenham, Texas. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main Street, Brenham, Texas. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com

Jeanette Sander Poehlmann

Jeanette Sander Poehlmann, 84, was called home by her Heavenly Father on December 8, 2024.  Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m.  to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 12, 2024 at Memorial Oaks Chapel. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, December 13, 2024 at Salem Lutheran Church with Pastor Craig Dohse officiating. Interment will follow in the Salem Cemetery.  Jeanette was born to Raymond Edward (R.E.) and Hilda Rose (Riechers) Sander on September 3, 1940 in the Wonder Hill Community of Washington County. She was received as a child of God through Holy Baptism on October 20, 1940, by Pastor C. P. Hasskarl and affirmed her faith through confirmation on April 11, 1954 by Pastor H. Brunette in St. Paul’s Lutheran Church of Phillipsburg.  Jeanette graduated from Brenham High School in 1959. Upon graduation, she was employed by Southwestern Bell Telephone Co. in Houston. After returning to Brenham, she was employed as secretary for The Lower Colorado River Authority, during which time she was an organist for Sunday School and church.  On April 29, 1962 she and Ralph Edward Poehlmann were married at Salem Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor G.A. Poehlmann officiating, at which time Jeanette became a member of Salem Church.  Jeanette served in various capacities through the years serving as Sunday School teacher, Vacation Bible School Superintendent and teacher, Secretary of Education, Mission Growth; served as church council secretary, Altar Guild, sang in the church choir and was a member of The Rachel Circle.  Jeanette was a past member of the Brenham Lioness Club, the Washington County Genealogy Society, and was a member of the Gideons Auxiliary. She was a secretary for Texas Fibers, Inc. and was employed for 20 years at Brenham State School where she developed the Art Studio there.  One of Jeanette’s God given blessings was the talent of hearing a song; hymns, country music or classics, etc. And then being able to play it. This was a talent she didn’t realize that she had until she got a piano at twelve years of age.  After retirement Jeanette and her beloved husband, Ralph enjoyed traveling and spending more time with family and friends. She kept numerous journals throughout her marriage, making scrapbooks and albums for her husband, children, and grandchildren. Ralph and Jeanette enjoyed 56 years of marriage until his death on November 11, 2018. Ralph lovingly referred to her as “the diamond in my life’”  Her loving family includes their children, Lori Gail Balusek of Brenham, Ralph Todd and Carrie Poehlmann of Brenham, and Dana Robin and Mark Clifton Larson of Beckville, Texas; grandchildren, Michael Brandon Mobley of Austin, Megan Nicole Poehlmann Jackson and husband Nickolas Grant of Kingwood; Brittany Dana Starr and husband Deven Michael of Port Charlotte, Florida, and Mollie Erin Poehlmann of Brenham; great grandchildren, Sara Claire, Elizabeth and Grant Jackson of Kingwood; brother, Travis Ray (T-Ray) and wife, Cheryl Sander of Fort Worth, and her many cousins, nephews and nieces.  Jeanette was preceded in death by her parents, Raymond Edward and Hilda Rose Sander; her parents-in-law, Reinhold Frederick (R.F.) and Elsie Louise (Rodenbeck) Poehlmann; son-in-law, Eddie Lee Balusek, sisters-in-law and brother-in-law, Helen Louise (Poehlmann) Mikeska, Schulz; John Robert Mikeska, Jr.; Delphin Schulz; Joyce Aldean (Poehlmann) Weiss, Zientek, Arthur Robert Weiss, and Henry Zientek, nephew Michael George Mikeska, and niece, Tricia Rae Sander.  Pallbearers will be Michael Brandon Mobley, Nicholas Grant Jackson, Deven Michael Starr, Waldemar Carl Poehlmann, III, Troy Ray Sander, Trenton Ryan Sander. Honorary pallbearers are Mark Clifton Larson, William Earl Love, Luther Dale Poehlmann, cousins, nieces and nephews.  In lieu of flowers, for those desiring, memorials may be given to Samaritan’s Purse - P.O. Box 3000 Boone, N.C. 28607, Salem Lutheran Church - 1500 Salem Rd. Brenham, TX 77833. Operation Christmas Child (church address) The Gideons - P.O. Box 41 Brenham, TX 77833, or charity of choice.  Funeral services for Jeanette Sander Poehlmann are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main in Brenham, TX. To post a tribute to the family, visit www.memorialoakschapel.com     

Roy B. Schroeder

Roy B. Schroeder, 79, of Brenham passed away December 7, 2024 at Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, Brenham.  Roy B. was born in Washington County on August 28, 1945 to Roy H. and Dula (Lehmann) Schroeder and was baptized and confirmed at Grace Lutheran Church. He graduated from Brenham High School and attended Blinn College.  On June 6, 1976, he was united in marriage to Lorena Ruth Schulz at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Sandy Hill. To that union, two children were born, Kelly Lynette and Ryan Brandon.  Roy was employed at the Texas Highway Department for 35 years, where he operated various types of heavy machinery that built and maintained the roads in Washington County. Years later, he was promoted to assistant supervisor until his retirement. To stay busy after retirement, Roy worked with the Brenham Independent School District and Blinn College maintenance departments. In the following years, Roy enjoyed looking after the cattle and taking care of the homestead that he and Lorena built together.  Roy is survived by: his wife of 48 years, Lorena Schroeder; daughter Kelly Flisowski and son-in-law Kevin Flisowski; son Ryan B. Schroeder and daughter-in-law Jennifer Schroeder all of Brenham; grandchildren, Karleigh Flisowski and special friend Dakota McCall of Temple, Kaden Flisowski, Rhett and Rilynn Schroeder of Brenham.  He is also survived by: a brother, Glenn Schroeder; sisters-in-law, Kathleen Wiemken, Carol Hold, Lenora Bliznak and her husband, Vincent; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.  Visitation will be Tuesday, December 10^th, from 5-7pm at Brenham Memorial Chapel.  Services will be Wednesday, December 11^th at 10:30am at Bethlehem Lutheran Church of William Penn. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.  Pallbearers will be Kevin Flisowski, Kaden Flisowski, Rhett Schroeder, Corey Jackson, Jeff Schulz, Keith Forester and Trey Burleson.  A special thank you to Hospice Brazos Valley nurses, caregivers and staff for their support and special care for Roy.  Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611 Memories may be shared at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com.

Emery Charlie Schulze

Emery Charlie Schulze, 89, of Brenham, Texas passed away on Monday, December 2, 2024 at Baylor Scott & White in College Station with his family by his side. Emery was born in Washington County on May 10, 1935 to Edward “Ed” and Mathilda Fischer Schulze. He moved to the family homestead at the age of four and remained there for the entirety of his life. He was baptized and confirmed at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Prairie Hill, and was a lifetime member there. Emery was the youngest of the family. At the age of 10 his father passed away and with all siblings already being married or away from home, he had to fill in as man of the house as best he could. He and one brother who lived nearby continued to work the farm and take care of his mother at the homestead. Some of his favorite times were the large family gatherings with all siblings and their families at the homestead celebrating Mathilda’s birthdays and Christmases. Emery was a graduate of Brenham High School and Blinn College. On November 30, 1958, he was united in marriage to Helen Pape Schulze at St. John’s Lutheran Church. Emery and Helen had just celebrated 66 wonderful years of marriage.  Emery loved being outdoors and enjoyed all outside activities. If it was daylight, you could be sure he was outside somewhere on the property. He spent much of his life farming cotton and corn, doing custom hay baling and plowing, and raising registered Simmental cattle for show and sale. Alongside his son, Allen, they always strived to improve the genetics and quality of their herd through embryo transfers and good feeding practices.  He was actively involved in 4-H when his children and grandchildren were showing animals and was involved with the annual Ag Day for school children in Washington County for numerous years. Emery was involved in various clubs and organizations over his lifetime reflecting his love of all things farm equipment and cattle related. He was a member of EDGETA and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006. Other memberships included the Farm Bureau, Sharecroppers Antique Farm Equipment Club and the Washington County Beef Committee. He was also a past member of Old Iron Collectors, Gulf Coast Simmental Association and the Bluebonnet Beef Breeders. In 2014, he was the recipient of the Farm Bureau’s Farmer/Rancher of the year award. Emery grew up with Farmall tractors and his collection reflected his love for the red.  He spent much of his time restoring those antique tractors, and many were displayed at the Washington County Fair. He was also a supporter of the Burton Cotton Gin Association and donated farm equipment items for that museum. Emery loved all things related to history, especially family history, and he had his own little “museum” at home where many antique pieces were on display. Friends and family could not visit without getting a guided tour of his antique display along with his collection of old black and white family photos. He was a great story teller and jokester, and visits from friends and loved ones often turned into long visits with many stories and much laughter. Emery was a man of faith and was actively involved in worship services all of his life. He was a member of the Men in Mission at church and served as Treasurer of the Sunday School for many years as well as usher for Sunday services. He thoroughly enjoyed gospel music and you might even find him quietly singing along. While the family will greatly miss him here with us, we are assured that he is reunited in joy with his son, Allen, and many other loved ones in their eternal home. Emery is survived by his wife, Helen; daughters and sons-in-law: Debra and James Hanath, Becky Schulze, Gail and Shannon Mitschke, daughter-in-law, Marcie Schulze, all of Brenham; 7 grandchildren; 8 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives. He is preceded in death by his parents, his parents-in-law, his son Allen Schulze, 1 great grandson, 3 brothers and 5 sisters. Pallbearers include Jerry Schulze, Gary Schulze, Ross Curtis, Randy Thumann, Robert Taylor and Garrison Schulze. Honorary Pallbearers are the Sharecroppers Antique Farm Equipment Club members. The family wishes to thank his numerous caregivers over the past few years and especially, Schrella and Martha, who took care of him in the past year. Memorial Contributions may be directed to St. John’s Lutheran Church of Prairie Hill. A visitation will be held 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 8. at Memorial Oaks Chapel. The funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Monday, December 9, at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Prairie Hill. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main Street, Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, please visit: www.memorialoakschapel.com

Elizabeth Ann (Murski) Wunderlich

Elizabeth Ann (Murski) Wunderlich passed away in the early hours of November 30, 2024, after bravely facing pancreatic cancer. Those who knew her will remember her selflessness; she remained concerned for others, even in her final moments, worried about the impact on their holiday. Liz, as she was affectionately called, was born on January 8, 1959, to Julian and Lonie Mae (Eickenhorst) Murski. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Brenham. She attended Brenham schools and graduated in 1977.  On July 3, 1993, she married the love of her life, David Wunderlich. Liz worked as a waitress for most of her life, even earning the Banner-Press Reader’s Choice award for best waitress.  In the last 20+ years, she enjoyed serving customers at various cleaners.  She worked up until she was no longer able. Some of Liz's favorite activities included joy riding across Washington County, taking gambling trips to Naskila or Louisiana, watching football and cheering for her beloved Houston Astros, and participating in pitch tournaments whenever she had the chance. Liz is survived by her loved ones she leaves behind, husband, David; daughter, Cyndi Klausmeyer and special friend Donald Roehling; sister and brother-in-law, Pat and Randy Klausmeyer; brother and sister-in-law, Timothy and Denise Murski; mother-in-law, Loraine Wunderlich; brother-in-law, Edd Wunderlich; sister-in-law, Shannon Wunderlich; nieces and nephews, Amy and David Moreno, Kayla Klausmeyer and special friend Joe Gaffey, Katie Murski and Dason Wunderlich; and special friend, Kim Kopecky. She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Connie Murski; father-in-law, Auggie Wunderlich; plus numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. The pallbearers will be Glenn Eickenhorst, Mark Eickenhorst, Russell Klausmeyer, Kenny Krueger, Coy Surrett and Fidel Trevino.  The honorary pallbearer will be Darnell Surrett. A visitation will be held on Wednesday December 4, 2024, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Memorial Oaks Chapel.  The funeral service will be held on Friday, December 6, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Memorial Oaks Chapel.  Interment will be held at Calvary Catholic Cemetery following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to American Cancer Society.  Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W, Main Street, Brenham, Texas.

Herbert Edward Rust

Herbert Edward Rust, 79, of Burton, TX, died on December 1, 2024. Herbert was born in Brenham, Texas on April 8, 1945 to Della Spreen and Herbert Albert Rust. He was baptized on May 13, 1945 by Rev. A. J. Mohr and confirmed August 23, 1959 by Rev. Albert Holck at Eben Ezer Lutheran of Berlin.  Herbert was a 1963 graduate of Brenham High School.  On June 4, 1966, he married Joyce Elaine Landua at St. Paul Lutheran Church of Rehburg where he became a lifelong active member.  Over the years he served on church council and as a leader of Men in Mission. He served in the National Guard and later joined the Brenham Police Department in 1976, serving the community for 10 years. Beginning as a part-time job during his years with the police department, he started the familiar Rust Roofing business. After 1976, Herbert owned and operated Rust Roofing until retiring in 2022.  He employed many young men and taught them the meaning and importance of a strong work ethic. Herbert enjoyed saltwater fishing, hunting in the Hill Country and Rehburg area, and watching any ball game his grandchildren participated in.  He knew no stranger, loved a good joke, socialized as a hobby, and loved cooking for his family.  Over the past 15 years, he struggled through many medical challenges that altered his lifestyle, but ultimately accepted his final destiny to be with the Lord.  He is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, Brent and Vicky Rust of Cypress, TX; daughter and son-in-law, Amy and Bradley Jasinski of Burton, TX; grandchildren, Haley and Abby Rust, and Della and Briley Jasinski; sister Dorothy Hicks of Houston, TX; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Carol and Arlin Naegeli of Burton, TX. He was preceded in death by his wife, Joyce Elaine Rust; parents, Della and Herbert Rust; parents-in-law, Earl and Minnie Landua; sister and brother-in-law, Aneva and Harold (Slim) Rogas; brother and sister-in-law, Clarence and Vicki Rust; and brother-in-law Jack Hicks.  Serving as pallbearers are James Naegeli, Steve Naegeli, Nolan Rogas, Bryan Rogas, Brian Hinze, and Kenneth Ladewig. Honorary pallbearers are Rodney Foerster, Ronnie Luhn, Ken Baker, Terry Korthauer, Charlie Rauch, and Gary Gaskamp. Visitation will be from 12 p.m. - 7 p.m., Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at Brenham Memorial Chapel with the family present from 5 p.m. - 7 p.m.  Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at St. Paul Lutheran Church of Rehburg, with Rev. Dr. Alvin Luedke officiating.  Burial will follow at the church cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church of Rehburg, Hospice Brazos Valley Organization, or American Cancer Society.  979.836.3611 Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611 Memories may be shared at www.BrenhamMemorialChapel.com

Werner Paul Oeser

Werner Paul Oeser, 81, of Brenham Texas passed away on November 29, 2024. Werner was born in Austin County on September 22, 1943 to Arthur and Ora Nell (Sommerlatte) Oeser. He was baptized April 23, 1946 in the Lutheran Faith. Werner was confirmed on August 12, 1963, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Fayetteville, Texas. He graduated Fayetteville High School on May 27, 1962, and proudly drove the school bus his senior year.  On October 22, 1966, he was united in marriage to Carolyn Ann (Maresh) Oeser at Nelsonville Brethren Church by Rev. Albert Michalik. They shared 58 wonderful years of marriage.  After 40 years of working at Hi-Line Industries, Werner retired and could be found at one of his two farms, either in Nelsonville or Willow Springs. His joy was gardening, raising his cattle, and working on his tractors. He took great pride in everything he grew in his garden, mainly his cabbage. Collecting old tractors was a hobby he enjoyed; he had seventeen tractors which he thought by collecting them he was saving them from being destroyed. His goal was to fix them up and have one for each of his children and grandchildren. If you didn’t find him on one of his tractors or in his garden, you would see him sitting on a bench with his cats.  Werner’s kind spirit was evident whenever you were around him. You would often find him sharing his vegetables with friends and family. He loved talking with others about his tractors and the accomplishment of his children and grandchildren, which he was so proud of.  Werner is survived by his wife, Carolyn; son and daughter in law: Mark and Tami Oeser and daughter and son in law: Donna and Jeff Damon all of Brenham; grandchildren Hannah Damon, Aiden Oeser, Lance Oeser, Mark Shapiro, and Ethan Shapiro; sister, Stella Cherry of Georgetown; and sister-in-law Grace Maresh of Bellville. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and cousins.  He is preceded by his parents, sister-in-law: Janice Maresh, brothers-in-law: David Maresh and William Cherry.  Pallbearers will be John Shedd, Aaron Maresh, Justin Maresh, Blake Shedd, John Debura and Alfred Hall.  Honorary Pallbearers include Aiden Oeser, Lance Oeser, Clif Hine, Leon Gorney and Leroy Brending.  Memorial Contributions may be directed to National Cemetery or to Nelsonville Brethren Church.  The funeral service will be 11:00 a.m. Friday, December 6, 2024 at Nelsonville Brethren Church. Burial will follow in National Cemetery. Visitation with the family will begin at 10:00 a.m. prior to the service.   Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main Street, Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, please visit: www.memorialoakschapel.com

Delores (Addicks) Gaskamp

Delores (Addicks) Gaskamp passed away peacefully on the 29th of November 2024. She was born on the 20th of March in 1933 at home to tenant farmers Ben and Selma Harmeigh Addicks. She was baptized at home.  She was confirmed at St Mathew’s Lutheran Church of Sandy Hill.  Delores married Floyd Gaskamp on the 25th of November in 1951. She worked for 16 years under the Catholic nuns at San Francis Hospital where she received her LVN nursing license. She stayed in the nursing career while raising her two girls, Diana and Betty, until she and Floyd opened their own business, Gaskamp’s Fabrics and Floyd’s Rebate.  She spent a great amount of time meeting with the ladies in town helping them to pick out fabrics, making life-long friends and sewing drapery. She did this for over 35 years when the store was unfortunately taken by a fire. Floyd and Delores then decided to retire and travel the world with their friends and family for the next chapter of their life. Some of the places she has been to include many of the states, Germany, and Jerusalem to see the Holy Lands to name a few.  Her joy and purpose in life was her chaplaincy all over Texas for over 40 years. She spent 20 years in prison and hospital ministry. She served on numerous committees in her church. She was devoted to sharing the love, work, and word of the Lord.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Floyd Gaskamp; daughter, Diana Williams; son-in-law, Bob Keith; parents, Ben and Selma Addicks; father and mother-in-law, Ed & Hilda Reue Gaskamp; sister Lorena & brother- in-law Raymond Neumann; sister and brother-in-law Florence & Butch Ripple; brother-in-law Raymond Bentke and nephew Gary Ripple. They have welcomed her to her eternal home in the Kingdom of Heaven. She is survived by her loved ones she leaves behind, daughter, Betty Keith; son-in-law, Mark Williams; grandchildren, Brian and Kim Estes, Bethany and Joshua Steely, and Ben and Laura Williams; great grandchildren, Brandan and Kate Estes, Ellie, Mason, and Emelynn Steely, and Gavin Williams; sister-in-law Verna Mae Bentke and numerous nieces and nephews. Until they meet again. In lieu of flowers, she wishes donations be sent to the Gideon’s, Brazos Valley Hospice, and or St. John’s Lutheran Church Prairie Hill. Visitation for Delores Gaskamp will be on Monday, December 2, 2024, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel. The Funeral Service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, at St. John’s Lutheran Church of Prairie Hill with burial following the service at the church cemetery. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main St., Brenham.  To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com

Daniel George Kieke

Daniel George Kieke of Burton passed away peacefully at his home on November 23rd, 2024.Daniel was born on June 17, 1929 to Alex and Martha (Gerland) Kieke. He was baptized in Carmine, Texas and confirmed at Winedale. On May 8, 1948 he was married to the love of his life, Ila Wagner at Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Greenvine. They were NEVER seen apart. Daniel was a lifelong member of Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine. He served on the LaBahia Cemetery Association, board member of the Four County Auction Center and was a member of the Carmine Hall. His hobbies were few as he found enjoyment in his family operation. In his younger days, Daniel & Ila enjoyed going to dances and dining out on the weekends with their close friends. They also thoroughly enjoyed watching their grandchildren play sports. In his early years he helped his father on the farm and quickly became a farmer and rancher. After marriage Daniel and Ila recognized the farming life was not a sufficient way of life for them so they moved to Houston where Daniel began work for Carnation Milk as a delivery man. He was later employed by Shell Chemical as a refinery worker. In the late 1950’s Daniel would travel back home to his parents farm in Burton to gather their weekly supplies of farm fresh eggs, sausage, and other food produced on the homeplace. They began supplying their neighbors with eggs and it soon became evident that this “sideline” job soon began making more money than Daniel’s job. They then moved back home to Burton and went into the commercial egg business. Daniel and Ila delivered every Tuesday to their 500 door-to-door customers in Houston, Daniel in his pickup and Ila in her car. They never missed a Tuesday! Daniel and Ila’s children, Karen & Ricky, at a very young age helped produce and process eggs. It didn’t take many months for Daniel & Ila to decide to invest in a larger delivery truck and work together. As demand grew for their farm fresh eggs Daniel and Ila increased their hen population and in turn brought Kieke Egg Farm to life. In no time at all, Kieke Egg Farm’s production and selling operation reached the limit of family endurance and is still thriving today under the ownership of his son, Ricky and his two daughters, Angie & Abby. The Sellers Brothers supermarket chain in Houston, TX played a major role in the expansion and success of Kieke Egg Farm. The bond with the Sellers Family still remains strong and true with all business being done with only a handshake. Until the age of 93 and under home health care he was still determined to show his face at work in the processing plant and check on day to day operations. Survivors include his loving wife of 76 years, Ila Kieke, daughter, Karen (Kieke) Rosenbaum and husband Raymond, son Ricky and wife Debbie (Boehnemann). Grandchildren, Theresa (Rosenbaum) Garlin, Jeremy Rosenbaum and wife Stephanie (Wilson), Angie (Kieke) Fritsch and husband Ryan “Bubba”, Abby (Kieke) Majewski and husband Dustin. Great-grandchildren, Haley(Rosenbaum) Hargrove and husband Ryan, Hayden Garlin and wife Alexa, Allison (Roenbaum) Weiss and husband Shawn, Cole Gaylin, Ryan Rosenbaum, Chet Fritsch, Paige Fritsch, Hank Majewski and Charli Majewski. Great great grandchildren Carter and Reagan Hargrove, Coleman and Graham Weiss. And numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Special thanks from the family to his caregivers Alice, LaKeshia, Sharon, and Wendy for their outpouring love and care for Grampsy. The special care they provided for him the last four years was extraordinary! Visitation will be held on Monday, November 25, 2024 from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Memorial Oaks Chapel located at 1306 W. Main Street, Brenham, Texas. Funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 26, 2024 at 2:00 PM at Martin Luther Lutheran Church located at 211 Luther Ln., Carmine, Texas with Pastor David Tinker officiating. Interment will be held at LaBahia Cemetery in Burton, TX following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials are requested to La Bahia Cemetery Association, 2025 S. Hinze Rd. Carmine, Texas 78932 or Martin Luther Lutheran Church, Carmine, Texas. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel at 1306 West Main St., Brenham. To post a Tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com

Bobbie Jo (Sorrells) Alexander

Bobbie Jo (Sorrells) Alexander, age 94, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, cousin and friend, went to be with the Lord on Friday, November 8, 2024.  She passed away peacefully at her home in Brenham, Texas, with family and caregivers by her side.  Bobbie Jo was born in El Reno, Oklahoma on January 11, 1930.  She was the only child of Dee Robbins Sorrells and James Thomas Sorrells.  Her parents were farm kids who worked their way through college at Oklahoma A & M, now Oklahoma State University, in order to have professional careers.  Bobbie Jo was very proud of them and loved them deeply.  She grew up in Houston, TX in the Heights neighborhood from 1931 to 1945 attending school at one point where her mother was a teacher.  In the 9^th grade, she was given the coveted American Legion Award for outstanding girl at Hamilton Jr. High.  Bobbie Jo was always very proud of this honor.  Her father’s job with Piccadilly Cafeterias took them to Baton Rouge, LA, in 1946 and on to Beaumont, TX in 1947 and ’48 where Bobbie Jo graduated from Beaumont High School.  In the fall of 1948 she entered Baylor University and it was there, in 1949 she met the love of her life, Jud Alexander.  She and Jud married in June of 1951 and moved to Oceanside, CA where Jud was in training at Camp Pendleton with the US Marine Corps.  Bobbie Jo always said it was the best of times living in Oceanside as newlyweds. Following Jud’s deployment to Korea in December of 1951, Bobbie Jo moved back to Waco to live with her parents while finishing her degree at Baylor.  She graduated with a BA in English and Education in 1952. She taught school in Waco until Jud returned from Korea.  They moved back to California where Jud’s military service was completed.  While living in Oceanside, their first child, Alison, was born. After Jud’s discharge from Marine Corps, they moved to Pearland, TX where Bobbie Jo taught school and they had their second child, Jud, Jr.  The young family moved to Chappell Hill, TX in January of 1956 to operate the Alexander family farm in the Brazos River bottom.  Bobbie Jo joined the Chappell Hill Ladies Canasta Club to get acquainted in the community and made many new friends.  Soon they had their third child, Jay.  The family built a new house and moved to Brenham in 1965.  From then on, Bobbie Jo was busy volunteering at her children’s schools and St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.  She also enjoyed her ladies bridge club for the next 40 years. After her husband Jud became the Gulf Oil distributor in 1972, she began to enjoy many company related travels.  She also loved family trips to Colorado and Grand Cayman Island.  In 1982 Bobbie Jo and Jud built a lake house at Lake Belton, which became their almost every weekend getaway for the next 30 years.  Bobbie Jo and Jud also enjoyed traveling with the Brenham Golf Group for 20 years.  Bobbie Jo is survived by her children, Alison Alexander Stewart and husband Mike, Jud G Alexander, Jr. and wife Jody, Jay T Alexander and wife, Cheryl.  She is also survived by her grandchildren, Michael A. Stewart and wife Rachel, Madeline Stewart Mozjesik and husband Cole, Whitney Alexander Schultz and husband Ryan, Jud G Alexander III, Shelley Alexander Whalen and her husband Ryan, Jess T. Alexander and Jenalee L. Alexander. She is also survived by her great grandchildren William, Henry, Samuel, and George Schultz, Mae, Eleanor and Jack Whalen, Sutton and Adley Stewart and Meritt Mozjesik.  She is survived as well by her much loved sister-in-law, Patricia Alexander Wood, her dear cousin in Oklahoma, Robert Daniel Robbins, many nieces, nephews and extended family whom she loved very much. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband Jud and her parents Dee and J.T. Sorrells.  Also, Jud’s parents and his four brothers and four sisters, also her grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins from Oklahoma. The family would like to thank Dr. Jennifer Devoke, her longtime caregivers, Barbara Wilson, Troyshaneeq Nunn and Veronica Breedlove.  Also her care team managed by Alisa “Cookie” King, consisting most recently of Tammy Moore, Loretta Jones, Kim Gantt, Kathy Mathis, Courtney Watts, Zion, Sweetie and Shakira.  Bobbie Jo was the sweetest and kindest person we ever knew and treated everyone the same.  She always had time for family and friends.  She loved life!  Her favorite Bible verse was Psalm 118:24, “This is the day the Lord hath made, we will rejoice and be glad in it.”  Bobbie Jo’s grandsons will serve as pallbearers.  Visitation with family will be at 11:00 a.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel with Funeral Service beginning at 12:00 noon, on Thursday, November 14^th with Pastor Dr. Craig Dohse officiating.  There will be a reception at the home of Jay and Cheryl Alexander following the service at 2760 S. Berlin Rd. Private graveside will be held later with family at Prairie Lea Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to the charity of your choice. 

Sylvia Ann Bernhardt Ashorn

Sylvia Ann Bernhardt Ashorn, 80, of Burton, Texas, passed away on November 8, 2024 in College Station, Texas. Sylvia was born on July 2, 1944 to Walter and Mildred Finke Bernhardt in Brenham and was baptized on August 27, 1944. Sylvia was a graduate of Sam Houston High School. She met her future husband, Olan Ashorn, at the Bill Mraz Dance Hall and they were united in marriage on June 13, 1964. Joining their family were their sons, Brian and Russell. She served as a Special Education Teacher’s Assistant for many years. Gardening, landscaping, antiquing, dancing, traveling and serving as a volunteer at church were favorite activities she enjoyed. Many good times were spent playing games into the early morning hours with friends. She was a wildflower enthusiast and hosted many family members and friends for holidays, birthdays and celebrations. She especially enjoyed making specialized dishes for each grandchild. Sylvia is survived by her husband of 60 years, Olan; her sons and daughters-in-law, Brian and Lisa Ashorn and Russell and Amy Ashorn; grandchildren, Justin (Chanze), Courtney (Michael), JT (Kayla), Kristen (Fiancé Tevin), Kaylee and Trista; and great-grandchildren, Zoey, Paislee, Tommy, Cade and Allie. She was preceded in death by her parents, Walter and Mildred Bernhardt. A visitation for Mrs. Ashorn will be held on Wednesday, November 13, 2024 from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel, Brenham, Texas. Funeral services will be on Thursday, November 14, 2024, at 10:30 a.m. at St. James Lutheran Church of New Wehdem with Pastor Joe Leavengood officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Pallbearers assisting with the service will be Justin Ashorn, JT Ashorn, Gary Ashorn, John Muery, Wesley Russell and Mark Jakubik. Memorial contributions for Sylvia Ashorn may be directed to St. James Lutheran Church-New Wehdem, 10362 New Wehdem Rd., Brenham, Texas 77833 Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main St., Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com

John Kenjura, Jr.

Driving down the gravel backroads of Latium at a leisurely 20 mph, a cold beer or two in his console and nature’s music streaming through the open windows – that was John’s favorite way to close out each day. He began his final ride, back in the driver’s seat, early November 8, 2024. John Kenjura Jr. was born into a Polish Catholic family on August 18, 1939, to John Sr. and Rosalie in Chappell Hill, TX. The youngest of three by a dozen years, Johnny was loved and spoiled by his two older sisters, Clementine and Maggie. They were active members at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Chappell Hill, where John was baptized. After moving to Brenham, TX they joined St. Mary’s Catholic Church where John went to St. Mary’s elementary school and served as an altar boy. Growing up a humble farmer’s son taught John the value of working hard and dreaming big. He started earning his own money shining shoes at 8-years-old. He moved on to delivering papers before beginning his favorite job around the age of 12, working at a local bakery making donuts. Little did John know the important role donuts would play in his later years when he was lovingly nicknamed “The Donut Man,” first by his grandchildren and then by his great-grandchildren for delivering the sweet treats. John met his life-long love and wife of 62 years, Julie, at a county fair in Bellville. Despite first failing to impress her with his new 1959 Chevrolet, she later agreed to go on a date with him. Two years later, they were married on June 30, 1962, in the Frelsburg Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. Continuing to work hard, sacrifice, and put his stubborn streak to good use, John definitely proved “this Polack’s” worth throughout his life. After leaving high school before graduating (when he found out he was ineligible to play football his Senior year because he was over the allowed age by just days), John got a job in Houston making company signs with his friend Steve Przyborski. Later, he returned to Brenham to work for Fischer Tile & Floor Co. -- this is where he discovered his love for the tile and floor business. In 1966, at the age of 27 and with their third child on the way, John and Julie took a huge leap of faith – they started the Kenjura Tile Company out of their 900 sq ft home. Through some ups and many downs, unlimited sacrifices, and pure grit, they created a thriving business that supported (and continues to support) their family and the families of their employees. This successful company grew from a local small business with a couple of employees to a nationally known and respected company, employing as many as 120. John diversified his ambitions when he started K&H Portable Toilets in 1980. He then went in a different direction when he co-founded two new endeavors: B&K Car Wash in 1998, and Kountry Boys Sausage in 2000. They were in business together until 2006, and Kountry Boys remains a well-known successful business today. Of all his other business successes, John was especially proud and honored to be a Founding Member and Board of Director of Bank of Brenham since 2001. Known for his generosity, John was just as quick to help a family member or friend as he was to help someone he just met. While his love knew no bounds, you didn’t want to disappoint him. Once you were on John’s bad side, it could take some time (and maybe a few six-packs of Budweiser) to get back on his good one. He expected a lot from those in his inner circle, but no more than he was ready and willing to give of himself. He filled many roles and was known by several names: Johnny, JJ, Dad, Boss, Jadusch, Big Man, Big John, Patron -- and a few not suitable for print. He was a devoted husband, loving dad, a tough but fair boss, and Jadusch to 14 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. John and Julie went to Las Vegas for the first time on her 50^th birthday. To say they caught the gambling bug is an understatement. They had many adventures to Las Vegas before discovering Louisiana casinos. The slot machines were their main entertainment. To keep the marital bliss, they each had their own stash of cash to gamble; sometimes one would ask the other for some extra money if their day had been a bust. Not sure if John and Julie shared their winnings, but more than likely they did. John loved God, his family and his Country. He loved to fish with his family and his friends Ted and Steve. Taking his young children to a deer blind in the early morning hours were some of his favorite memories. Raising cattle and working the land brought John hours of happiness, frustration, satisfaction and pride. He brought some of his gambling luck back from the casinos when he won the Texas Lottery in 1995. The happiest periods of John’s later life were the times and celebrations he spent with his grandchildren and great-grands. They truly are his and Julie’s heart. Our family will keep John’s memory alive through our love, memories and shared stories. He is greatly loved by his wife, Julie (Vasicek), and their four children, their spouses, children and grandchildren: Son Rick & Linda with their family Megan & Kris Rigsby; Cole, Gabbi & Kase; Bailey & Daniel Brinson, Ruth & Vivian; Paige & her fiancé Connor Klussmann; and Maggie Jane. Daughter Sharon & Mark Williams with their family Jamie & Justin O’Brien, Noah, Piper and Callahan; and Carter. Daughter Connie & Mike Maples with their family Taylor & Kevin Vanderbok, Garrett & Rebbecca Matlock, and Carley. Daughter Lorrie & Jeff Grimm with their family Casey Lyons, Michaela Lyons, Austin Grimm, and Amanda & Chase Martin. John’s bonus son Val Pimental & Emilia and their children. And all John’s aunts, uncles, cousins, friends, colleagues, and employees.  John was welcomed into his Heavenly home by his parents, John Sr. & Rosalie, his sisters Magdaline Mary Kenjura and Clementine Frances & her husband Thomas Joseph Bugaj. Visitation will be 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. o Monday, November 11, 2024 with a Rosary starting at 6:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel. The Funeral Service is at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 12, 2024 at St. Mary's Catholic Church with burial following in the Calvary Cemetery. Pallbearers are John and Julie’s grandchildren: Cole, Maggie Jane, Garrett, Carter, Justin, Austin, and Kevin. Along with Val Pimental and Will Murski. Honorary pallbearers are Ted Zientek, Steve Przyborski (in spirit), Darrell Murski, Bill Nutt, the employees of Kenjura Tile, K&H, and KT Auto, and his friends and the employees of the Bank of Brenham. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to one of John and Julie’s favorite charities or church:

• Margaret E. Blizzard Senior Activity Center, 1301 E. Tom Green St. (P.O. Box 401), Brenham, TX 77834
• St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital, 501St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105
• St. Mary’s Catholic Church, 701 Church St., Brenham, TX 77833

Sallie Mae Moody

Sallie Mae Moody, 94, peacefully passed away on November 7, 2024. Sallie was born on June 22, 1930 in Franklin, Texas to Rufus and Elvia James. Sallie was a devoted wife and mother. She worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company for 34 years before her retirement in 1985. Sallie was a faithful church member of the First Baptist Church in Brenham since 1951. She was a member of the Red Hat Club from 2000 through 2010. Sallie’s hobbies included traveling, arts and crafts, painting portraits and landscapes, gardening and landscaping her own yard. Sallie is survived by her loving daughter Phoebe Moody and her husband Gregory Isaacs. She is preceded in death by her loving husband Roy P. Moody, Jr., her son Roy P. Moody III, her siblings, Odell James (Elsie), RC James (Margarete), Wilford Louise James (Edna), Estelle Rabe (Tator) and Helen Koon (Larry). A viewing for Sally will be held on Monday, November 11, 2024 from 10 am to 7pm at Memorial Oaks Chapel located at 1306 W. Main St. Brenham, Texas. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in Sallies honor to Brenham Animal Shelter/Pet Adoption Services located at 1804 Longwood Drive, Brenham, Texas 77833. They can be reached at 979-337-7351. Funeral Arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel located at 1306 W. Main St. Brenham, Texas 77833. Tributes for the family may be left online at www.memorialoakschapel.com      

Roger Brinkmeyer

Roger Brinkmeyer, age 91 of Brenham, died November 1, 2024.  Roger was born January 1, 1933 to Fritz and Mary (Muelberger) Brinkmeyer in the Sandy Hill Community of Washington County. He was educated in the Sandy Hill Schools and Brenham High School. On December 27, 1953, he married Doris Wisnoski in St. Mary’s Catholic Church. She preceded him in death February 24, 2008. Roger worked for the Southern Pacific Railroad for 27 years, retiring as a bridge foreman.  He is survived by: brother and sister-in-law, Rev. Arthur and Carol Brinkmeyer; sister-in-law, Margaret Brinkmeyer; and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and friend and care-giver, Mary Ellen Schmid.  He was preceded in death by parents, wife, brothers and sister-in-law Alfred and Irene Brinkmeyer and Willie Brinkmeyer.  Visitation will be Friday November 8^th from 4-6 pm at Brenham Memorial Chapel.  Funeral services will be held Saturday November 9^th at 11 am in Brenham Memorial Chapel with Rev. Arthur Brinkmeyer officiating.  Interment will follow in Calvary Catholic Cemetery.  Memorials are requested to Traditions Health and Hospice Care, 1103 Rock Prairie Rd., Suite 2051B, College Station, TX 77845.  Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611 Share condolences at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com.

Hilton Coleman Thompson

Hilton Coleman Thompson of Burton, Texas, passed away at age 79 on October 27, 2024.  Hilton was born on August 19, 1945 at the Burton Hospital in Burton, Texas to James Allen and Flara (Green) Thompson. The youngest of four children, he was the unexpected surprise. Hilton spent his formative years in Burton and rural Lee County. He attended school in Burton.  It was there in Burton he developed a strong work ethic, working for Howard Matthies at Matthies Grocery. But greener pastures lead him to follow his brother Jimmie to the pipeline, working as an oiler. These travels took them on many adventures as members of the International Union of Operating Engineers.  While in the Dakota’s pipelining cabling for missile silos with Jimmie, Hilton received word he had been drafted by the US Army. He fulfilled his duty to serve our country in October 1969. Serving a first tour of duty as an infantryman, he reenlisted as a door gunner on a UH-1 Huey helicopter crew. During this service he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism and extraordinary achievement during aerial flight.  During leave, visiting his brother’s farm in Tennessee, he was introduced to Joan. After a short courtship, they wed on July 13, 1971. They were married for 51 ½ years. Hilton completed his service to our country in April of 1972, returning to the construction and equipment industry with the IUOE. Early on they resided in Sierra Vista, Arizona near Fort Huachuca and later moving to Houston, Texas. It was in Houston where Hilton’s mechanical career excelled in the crane and lifting industry as a certified technician on Grove, Manitowoc and Galion cranes.  In 1986 they returned to Burton to reside full time and opening Thompson’s Repair Service where he was a fixture of the community, repairing equipment of all colors until his retirement in 2010.  Hilton served two terms as a member of the Burton city council and was a past president of the Burton Volunteer Fire Department. He was also one of the original members of Operation Restoration, the group of locals that rallied to save the Burton Farmers Gin. As the leader of the engine room, he was the first to awaken the “Lady B” from her slumber. He was an active member of the Sharecroppers antique tractor club and enjoyed tinkering with old iron with his son.  Hilton was preceded in death by his parents, wife Joan (Brake) Thompson, daughter Lorie Jane Thompson, siblings Annie Lorene Gould & husband Harry, James “Jimmie” Thompson and wife Doris, Mildred Wetjen & husband Leroy.  Survivors include: Son: Juston Thompson and daughter-in-law Ursula Darden, TN, Numerous nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.  Visitation will be Wednesday, November 6, 2024 from 5-7 p.m. at Brenham Memorial Chapel. Funeral services will be on Thursday, November 7, 2024 at 10 a.m. at Brenham Memorial Chapel, Brenham, Texas. Pastor Larry Ideker will officiate the service. Following services, burial will take place at Beaman High Prairie Cemetery, Dime Box, Texas.  Pallbearers for the service will be Charles Chovanec, John Gould, Murray Kieke, Jared Stanley, Richard Wegner and John Wetjen.  In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made for the upkeep of Beaman High Prairie Cemetery. Memorials can be made to Tina Wernecke with memo being Beaman High Prairie Cemetery. The mailing address is 1221 CR 121, Giddings, TX 78942.  Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611 Memories may be shared at www.BrenhamMemorialChapel.com

Kimberly Rena Hembry

Kimberly Rena Hembry was born in Brenham, TX November 19, 1985 to parents Tim and Kristine (Jacobs) Hembry. Kim lived life to the fullest sharing God’s love. She attended Brenham’s First Baptist Church School and Brenham Christian Academy, graduating in 2004.  She was a cheerleader and active in sports, playing soccer, softball, volleyball and basketball. Kim also enjoyed gymnastics and dance. She furthered her education at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and Instituto Biblico Agua Viva in Quetzaltenango, Guatemala. Kim was the founder of Freedom Gate International Ministry.  Kim was working as a missionary with Every Day Ministries in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Through the years she was blessed to touch lives and teach English with GMO in Panimaquin, Guatemala, she taught Bible, Spanish, and art at Brenham Christian Academy, she taught Bible, Spanish and coached volleyball among many other things at Still Creek Ranch in Bryan, TX. She even drove a bus for Bryan ISD. She worked with the Caribbean Mountain Therapeutic Boarding School in Jarabacoa, Dominican Republic.  Kim died October 10, 2024 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.  Kim’s loving family includes: parents Tim and Kristine Hembry; grandmothers Lola Hembry and Pauline Jacobs; uncles, aunts and cousins Allen and Melanie Jacobs, Brad and Kaylin; David and Anita Jacobs, Dawson, Dylan, Kade, Kaleb; Debra Goessler, Micah, Willem; Pam and Daniel Krause, Teshia (Jason) Ryan; Donnie and Jackie Hembry, Austin (Alexa), Garrett (Erin); Tina and Bart Steffen, Desiree (Nile), Alexandria (Boris), Peyton (John); Lisa and John Schmidt, Erich, Ann, Krista (Pablo); Ronnie and Laura Hembry, Thomas (Sara), Jessica (Kyle), Amanda (Ronan), Cassandra (Audrey), Rebecca (Seth), Lori and Kyle Harvey, Aunica (Kyle), Journee, Zaina; great aunts and uncles Freida and Melvin Dallmeyer, IdaBell and John Finke, Robert Leonhardt; numerous cousins, and friends that were like family; beloved pet dog Salem Stone.  Kim was preceded in death by: biological father Clinton Goessler; grandparents Alton and Katherine Jacobs, Doyle Hembry, Milton and Janice Goessler; great aunt Martha Leonhardt.  Visitation will be Friday, November 1st from 5:00-7:00 pm at Brenham Memorial Chapel.  Services will be held Saturday, November 2nd at 2:00 pm at Brenham Memorial Chapel with Jacob Biswell officiating.  Interment will follow at Prairie Lea Cemetery. Pallbearers will be: Dawson Jacobs, Brad Jacobs, Dylan Jacobs, Kade Jacobs, Kaleb Jacobs, and Rodney Leonhardt. Honorary pallbearer will be Kaylin Jacobs.  Memorials are requested to You Are, Inc. at youareconference-bloom.kindful.com/?campaign=1335119 Kim loved seeing the lives changed in the women through this ministry.  Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.361 Share condolences at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com

Jose Antonio Gamboa Aguilera

In loving memory of Jose Antonio Gamboa Aguilera, 69, a Brenham, TX resident who was called home on October 4, 2024.  Jose spent his final hours at St. Joseph Hospital in Bryan, surrounded by his loving family after years of battling Cirrhosis.  Born March 25, 1955, in Santa Teresa Nazas, Durango, Mexico, he was one of eight children to his late parents, Jose Gamboa Garcia and Margarita Aguilera de Gamboa.  Jose shared his childhood with four Brothers, Dimas, Pedro, Victorino, and Gerardo; and three Sisters, Juanita, Zenona, and Guadalupe.  He was baptized and confirmed by the Santa Teresa Catholic Church in Durango, Mexico.  Jose married Susana, his high school sweetheart, on November 3, 1974, and would have celebrated 50 years of marriage this November.  Jose was a Mexican immigrant who moved to the United States to pursue the American Dream and a better life for his family.  He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his Wife, Susana Calderon-Gamboa; Children, Antonio Gamboa, Jose Luis Gamboa, Margarita Gamboa, Carla Gamboa-Salinas, Bennie Santiago Gamboa; Grandchildren, Hayden May, Carlos Torres, Christin Torres, Hayden Torres, Adam Salinas Jr., Evelyn Salinas; Great Grandchildren, Wesley May and Liam Torres.  Jose was a manual worker, a jack of all trades known for his toughness, creativity, ingenuity, love of family, music, dancing and Susana's home cooking.  He was a passionate and emotional storyteller. One favorite and true story goes that he would often wait until dark, to "borrow" a neighbor's horse, and ride bareback for miles, to see his future wife Susana.  He had a witty sense of humor and many signature catchphrases, "Hold your horses", "It don't hurt anymore", "Hey there cowboy", "Oh I see", and "Put 'em up".  If he saw anyone down he would say, "Hey, gotta keep it going" or ask "You need see Haydon? I pay" referring to the family doctor.  In his retirement years, rain or shine, you would find him in his workshop where he enjoyed crafting, woodworking, and tinkering with anything that needed fixing.  He looked forward to attending Sunday service at St. Mary's Church until his health declined.  This was one of the rare times you could see him dressed up and wearing one of his favorite cowboy hats.  Jose's heart was filled with Love and the Holy Spirit as he spent his last months hand making shrines for religious statues to celebrate his Christian faith.  A Post Cremation Visitation to celebrate his life will be held Saturday November 2nd from 3 pm to 6 pm at the Gamboa House 2100 FM 389 Brenham, TX.

Corene Niemeyer

Corene Niemeyer was born in Independence, Texas on December 6, 1933 to Gus and Alvina Brinkmeyer Niemeyer.  She attended Independence Public Schools and Brenham High School. She was a lifelong member of Sandy Hill Lutheran Church where she taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and was active in the Women of the Church.  She was active in German Club, Washington County Genealogy Club and Washington County Home Economics where she served in various offices.  She also had many hobbies including painting, making scrapbooks, bowling, sewing and taking pictures of anything and everything wherever she went.  Upon entering retirement, she retired from Blinn College Custodial Department. Corene enjoyed going to the Senior Citizens Center where she had many friends and enjoyed noon meals and playing bingo and dominoes. Every year she sent a Birthday card to every member of St. Matthews Lutheran Church.  Corene was preceded in death by her parents, brothers, Gus Wm. Niemeyer,  Daniel Niemeyer and  Karlee Alvia, her great niece.  She is survived by her sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Edward Neumann, brother and sister-in-law, Allan and Dinah Niemeyer and numerous nieces and nephews.  Pallbearers will be her nephews. Visitation will be 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 27th with family present from 5-7:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel.  Funeral service will be at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 28^th at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, Sandy Hill.  Burial will follow at church cemetery.  Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main St., Brenham.  To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com

“Teddy” Theodora Carter Vanderwerth Boehm

“Teddy” Theodora Carter Vanderwerth Boehm, of Brenham, Texas, passed away at age 85 on October 20, 2024.  Theodora, known as “Teddy” by friends and family, was born November 10, 1938 in Brenham, Texas to Theodore and Ellie (Carter) Vanderwerth, at the hospital in Brenham, Texas and was raised in the nearby town of Ledbetter by her loving parents. Teddy, who grew up reading books, exploring the outdoors and climbing trees around Ledbetter, went to school in Giddings, graduating from Giddings High School in 1956, where she was Senior Class President and Band Sweetheart. She then attended Blinn College in Brenham, followed by The University of Texas in Austin, where she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in History in June 1959. Teddy enjoyed working for the Social Security Administration for four years in Galveston and Austin. Always the history buff, she later earned her Master’s Degree in History from Texas A&M University.  Teddy met Henry Boehm, Jr. while at Blinn College, and they both attended UT in Austin.  After college, each of them happened to relocate to Galveston, as Teddy took a job with the local Social Security Administration and Henry began medical school at UT MB. They were married on August 15, 1960, while Henry was still in medical school, then moved to Austin for his internship at Brackenridge Hospital and finally settled in Brenham in 1963 making Brenham their home. Teddy and Henry valued family and made a great parenting team in raising their four children, all of whom are married with families. The family has grown to include eleven grandchildren, three grandchildren-in-law, and one great-grandson.  Many things in life brought joy to Teddy…family, friends, faith, hard work, reading, sports, Longhorns, chocolate, and Blue Bell ice cream to name a few.  Teddy was an avid tennis player for years, and later took up golf, even playing in Scotland on a vacation with friends. She was passionate about cheering her kids on in their activities and sports, and coached Kay’s and Dee’s softball team for several years. Teddy and Henry were both physically active and began many of their days with an early morning jog. They both enjoyed snow skiing and water skiing, and annually planned family ski trips to the mountains and weekend getaways at Lake LBJ.  Teddy was an active member of Grace Lutheran Church and had a strong faith.  Teddy had many friends, both long-term and new, and she was loved and respected by many. She enjoyed gathering with friends and family, celebrating birthdays and holidays, getting together with the gym bunch, playing bridge, pitch and later bingo, or catching up over lunch or dessert.  Teddy had a passion for community service and was a strong leader, making a positive impact in so many areas, and was a wonderful role model. She was the youngest recipient to be named “Outstanding Woman in Washington County” by the Chamber of Commerce in 1974. Teddy served as a member of the Blinn College District Board of Trustees from October 2013 to October 2021. Teddy has served on the boards of Trinity Medical Center (President), the Lower Colorado River Authority (President), the Brenham Economic Development Foundation, and the Washington County Leadership Forum. She was Girl Scout Leader for Troop 153 and served on the Lone Star Girl Scout Council Board, which named her a “Central Texas Woman of Distinction”.  She also served the Texas Academy of Family Physicians Foundation, Washington County Goodfellows, Washington County Girls Softball League (Co-Founder, Coach, Coached first All-Star team which advanced to State), Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park Association (President), Washington County Historical Commission (President), German-Texan Heritage Society Board (President), Heritage Society of Washington County (President), Daughters of the Republic of Texas, Burton Cotton Gin Museum, Independence Historical Society, Brenham Fortnightly Club, Lifetime Learning Board (President), Washington County Council, and Washington County Genealogical Society.  Teddy’s husband, Dr. Henry J. Boehm, Jr. passed away in 2018. She is survived by children: Kathryn “Kay” Boehm Fannin and son-in-law Gary, Dr. Adelia “Dee” Boehm Brannen and son-in-law David, Dr. Henry J. “Trey” Boehm III and daughter-in-law Beth, and Dr. Teresa Boehm and son-in-law Dr. Trey Cole; grandchildren: Richard Fannin and wife Tayanne Prestes, Garrett Fannin and wife Carrie, Gene Fannin, Christopher Brannen, Kathryn “Katie” Brannen and husband Nathan Sany, Emily Brannen, Henry Boehm IV, B. Davis Boehm, Carter Boehm,  Ashton Vanderwerth Cole, and Haley Vivian Cole; great-grandson: Lane Henry Fannin.  The family would like to extend a special thanks to all the helpers and caregivers who provided compassionate care for Teddy.  Pallbearers are Chris Brannen, Rich Fannin, Garrett Fannin, Henry Boehm IV, Gene Fannin, Davis Boehm, Carter Boehm, and Ashton Cole.  Memorials may be made to Grace Lutheran Church or to Blinn College Foundation.  Visitation for Teddy will be Friday, October 25th from 5pm until 7:30 pm at Brenham Memorial Chapel.  Funeral service will be held Saturday, October 26th at 10 a.m. at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham, with Rev. Ryan Ogrodowicz officiating. Interment will follow in Prairie Lea Cemetery.  Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611 Condolences may be shared with the family at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com

Nathan Charles Zibilski

Nathan Charles Zibilski went to be with his Heavenly Father on October 15, 2024 at the age of 80.   Nathan was born to Emil and Louise Hodde Zibilski on February 27, 1944.  He was baptized and later confirmed in the Zion Lutheran Church by Rev. R.J. Weber.  Nathan attended Harrisburg schools and graduated from Brenham High School in 1962.  He graduated from Blinn and Sam Houston University with a Bachelors and Masters Degree.  On December 18, 1965, Nathan married the love of his life, Carolyn Maass. Nathan and Carolyn spent many happy times with friends and family, especially enjoyed camping, dancing and going on cruises.  Nathan’s favorite cruise was going to Alaska.   Nathan was employed by Spring Branch ISD for 36 years where he was known as Mr. Z.  He was a teacher, counselor, and assistant principal at various high schools within Spring Branch ISD.  His real joy was mentoring and helping students achieve their goals in life.  Nathan also sponsored many band and drill team trips attending many of their competitions.  Working with students was not just a job for Nathan, but rather it was a true joy.  Nathan is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carolyn Zibilski; son, Matt Zibilski and wife, Leigh; son, Chad Zibilski and wife, Robbie Zibilski; sister, Joyce Fuchs and husband Vernon; twin brother, Nelson Zibilski and wife, Susie. His grandchildren were his pride and joy, Laura Kate, Kennedy, Audrey, and Eli Zibilski.  He also survived by numerous nieces and nephews which he was very proud of.  He is preceded by his parents, and his sister and brother-in-law: LaVerne and Franklin Fuchs.Pallbearers include Kenneth Valtramp, Russel Valtramp, and Brandy Robinson.  Honorary pallbearer is his lifelong friend Roger Kelm.  The funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Friday, October 18, 2024 at Zion Lutheran Church with Pastor Glenn Hohlt officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.Visitation with the family will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. Thursday, October 17 at Memorial Oaks Chapel in Brenham.Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main St., Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com

Thomas "Tom" Howard Kent

Thomas “Tom” Howard Kent was born February 2, 1931, to Oren Thomas Kent and Janie Dallam. He grew up in Longview, Texas where he was the captain of his high school football team and voted “Most Handsome” his senior year.  Growing up in a poor family during the Great Depression formed Tom into a very generous, yet frugal man. His work ethic and determination to succeed was honed through many humble experiences. In fact, to pay for his college, Tom drove a bus and sold bologna sandwiches to his classmates for ten cents each.  Tom graduated high school then attended Tarleton State and the University of Houston, where he played football before a knee injury.  Out of college, Tom entered the United States Army as an officer, where he learned to fly airplanes.  His career led him to travel the world and see more than most of us will ever be blessed enough to. As an international pilot, he flew to some of the most exotic and extravagant destinations like Buenos Aires but also some of the poorest places in the world, including Bombay. October of 1961, in Houston, Texas, Tom and his first wife brought a daughter into the world. As he continued his career, he was based out of Berlin where his second daughter was born. Flying for Pan Am was his passion and he was able to retire as a captain.  Tom loved to play tennis, ride horses, and watch his dog Smokey chase wasps on the back porch. While enjoying many hobbies, he was also quite the savvy businessman. From a carwash to warehouses, his entrepreneurial spirit provided many experiences for us to learn from his wisdom.  In 1988, Tom married Carol and gained three sons. In 1990, he and Carol moved to Brenham, Texas, where he spent almost twenty years as a rancher. While there, he also met a best friend in Andy Hughes. When asked why he chose Brenham to be his forever home, he’d explain how he had seen the world and there was no prettier place on earth than right here.   Tom was passionate about politics and patriotism. While he may not have always said it out loud, his love for us was on display, one way or another. In his final years, as long as a football game or Fox News was on, he was content. To say he will be missed doesn’t begin to explain the hole in our hearts, but the love and memories we possess, along with the deep faith he instilled in us, will slowly help to fill that hole.  Mr. Kent was preceded in death by his parents, sister Carol Kent; brother John Kent, the mother of his children, Donna Kent; stepson, Billy Reeves.  He is survived by his loving wife, Carol Kent; daughters, Terri Dennis (husband Michael), & Kelly Hartley; son, Danny Kent; stepson, Bobby Reeves; granddaughters Beau Benfield (husband Rohn), Ashlee Denson, Christen Compton (husband Byron); Rachel Kent (husband Aaron Matsusaka); numerous great-grandchildren; as well as too many friends to count.  Donations can be made to the Brenham Church of Christ in his memory.

Edward Charles Baumann III

Edward Charles Baumann III (‘Eddie’), surrounded by family, was welcomed into Heaven on September 26, 2024. Eddie was born February 26, 1936, at home on the family farm in Lebanon, MO, to Edward Charles Baumann II and Teresa Smith Baumann. He was the second youngest of six, and is survived by his loving wife, Susan Hess Raymond Baumann.  Following graduation from Lebanon High School, Eddie joined the US Army, serving in Hawaii and Korea. After his military service, Eddie attended the Spartan School of Aeronautics, eventually landing a job with Delta Airlines in Houston as a mechanic. Eddie traded mechanical upkeep on planes for flying time, earning his pilot's license, and became a professional pilot and an occasional flight instructor. His flying career spanned over fifty years.  Eddie married Susan Hess Raymond at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas on May 23, 1981. After a full life in the big city, in 2012, Eddie and Susan moved to their "country place" in Chappell Hill, Texas. Soon they were embedded in the local community with Eddie frequently driving one of his many classic cars or trucks in local parades. His vehicles always included patriotic flags, music, local dignitaries, and family. Eddie enjoyed being active with the Chappell Hill Methodist Church and took his Sunday morning church responsibilities, like carrying the cross and taking up the offering, very seriously.  Eddie’s hobbies included restoring classic cars, attending swap meets, playing golf, watching sports (especially car racing), and country-western dancing with Susan. It was often said of Eddie that he could fix or build anything. Eddie was the master at repurposing, so it was to be expected that his cars, trucks, and numerous outbuildings showed a creative mixture of airplane parts, castoffs, and things others might have called junk. He would much rather repurpose than buy something new. He was always quick to laugh and joke, and relished being silly with his granddaughters who called him "Ebbie". In the last months of Eddie's life, he assembled furniture for Olivia's college rental house, fulfilled a dream to build a treehouse where he saved the finishing nails for Amanda, built a deck by the pond, built an A-frame called Chappie's Chapel and a wooden swing for Susan. All of this without any assistance, proving he lived his life to the fullest to the very end. Eddie was one-of-a-kind and will be greatly missed by a large community of family and friends, and a border collie named Chappie.  He is survived by his wife, Susan; son, Brent Baumann; daughter and son-in-law, Brena Baumann-Gonzalez and Carlos Gonzalez; stepson and daughter-in-law, Mike and Boo Raymond; grandchildren, Olivia and Amanda (Gonzalez), Max and Anabel (Raymond), and his first wife, K. Kaye Keenan.  Eddie is preceded in death by his parents, older sisters Margaret "Margie" Smith, Patricia "Patty" Jenkins Lindsey, Teresa "Weesie" McVey Morgan and Charlotte "Tottie" Rieman, his younger brother James "Jimmy" Chappell Baumann, Sr., his niece Deborah Baumann and nephew Eric Smith. After the death of his siblings, Eddie kept in regular contact with many of his nieces and nephews creating a close bond. Surviving him are Nancy Tanzi, Philip Smith, Natalie Greenwood, Steve Jenkins, Cindy Jenkins, Pam Jenkins, Daniel McVey, Michael McVey, Douglas McVey, Kimberly Moylan, Rick Cooper, Connie Baumann Atkins, Jimmy Baumann, and their families.  A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 19, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. at Chappell Hill Methodist Church, 5195 Church St., Chappell Hill, TX 77426. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Chappell Hill Methodist Church. Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611 Memories may be shared at www.BrenhamMemorialChapel.com

Theodore William (Ted William) Borgstedte, III

On October 9, 2024 Theodore William (Ted William) Borgstedte, III passed away at the age of 55. He was born on May 10, 1969, to Ted and Linda (Reddehase) Borgstedte in Houston. On June 29, 1969, Ted was baptized at First United Methodist Church in Brenham. Ted was preceded in death by his grandparents, Ted and Thekla (Lauter) Borgstedte and Melvin and Wilma (LaBeth) Reddehase, uncles Authur Steele, Larry Schilling, Douglas Reddehase, and aunt Carolyn (Reddehase) Loesch, cousins Laura Beth Schilling and Philip Loesch. He is survived by his parents Ted and Linda (Reddehase) Borgstedte, brother and sister-in-law Dr. Thomas and Dr. Allyson {Farlow) Borgstedte, and their children Victoria and Thomas, Jr., brother and sister-in-law Robert and Kathryn (Oliver) Borgstedte, and their children Keaton and Dashiell, his aunts, Mary Steele, Terri Schilling and Maud Ann Reddehase, his second mother and Thomas’ mother in law, Eileen Farlow, his uncles Dale Borgstedte and Elroy Loesch, as well as a number of cousins and friends.  Ted loved his family dearly and kept up with them frequently. For example, when the policeman in Dallas was shot and killed, he knew that his cousin, Chris, was a policeman in Dallas, and was very concerned that it was Chris, but it wasn’t. Ted was a member of the First Presbyterian Church and choir, and recently had been confirmed at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He participated in Special Olympics from a youngster and helped establish the Ted Borgstedte award for La Grange Special Olympic athletes who placed at the Texas State Meet. He attended for a number of years, the Muscular Dystrophy Association Summer Camp and was a graduate of the La Grange High School class of 1989. Ted was loved and cared for by the nursing home staff at Care Inn, Dr. Wes Blackwell, La Grange Family Clinic staff, and Kenmar Residential Facility for many years. Ted was a charmer. He was born with clubbed feet and had other orthopedic issues and always charmed the hospital staff~ so he got extra special treatment. Ted loved playing video games and watching classic movies. He loved all types of music. He took guitar lessons and made a lot of noise. He could read a map better than most people. A visitation will be held on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations of La Grange from 1:00 to 7:00 p.m. Family will be present from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. to receive friends. There will be two church services held on Monday, October 14, 2024. The first church service will be held 10:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church of La Grange with a reception to follow. A second church service will be held at 2:00 p.m. at the Friedens Church of Washington with burial to follow at the Friedens Church Cemetery. Honored to serve as pallbearers are: Thomas Borgstedte, Keaton Borgstedte, Dashiel Borgstedte, JR Kettler, Chritopher Walkoviak, Curtis Reddehase, Andrew Wagnor, and Nathan Taylor and serving as an Honorary Pallbearer, Blaze Graham. Memorials may be given to March of Dimes, First Presbyterian of La Grange Church Choir, or to a charity of one’s choice. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations, 208 W. Pearl, La Grange, TX. Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals.com

Dorothy Mae Hodde Eberhardt

Dorothy Mae Hodde Eberhardt, 94, passed away on October 6, 2024 at High Hope Care Center in Brenham, Texas.  Dorothy was born December 7, 1929 to Henry and Annie Witschorke Hodde and was raised in the La Bahia area of Washington County.  She attended Boundary School. Dorothy was a lifelong member of St. John’s United Church of Christ where she was baptized and confirmed.  On November 20, 1949 she was married, in that same church, to Erwin (Emmie) Eberhardt. At St. John’s, Dorothy was a member of the Circle 2 women’s group.  While she was a member of the church’s Sewing Circle, she helped in the making of many quilts for the community.  The American Legion Auxiliary was another organization of which she was a part for many, many years. Preceding her in death were her husband, her parents, her son, William Eberhardt; her sister, Lorina Hodde; her sister and brother-in-law, Allyne and Frankie Jaster; her brother and sister-in-law, Erwin and Vlasta Hodde; her brother and sister-in-law, Wilton and Janice Hodde; her sister and brother-in-law, Annadell and Raymond Blum; and her brother-in-law, Calvin Lehde. She is survived by her daughter and son in law, Wanda and Bob Whitener; her grandson, Jared Whitener; her grandson and his wife, Kyle and Brianna Whitener; her great-granddaughter, Evelyn Mae Whitener; great-grandson, Elijah Thomas Whitener; daughter-in-law, Melinda Walker Eberhardt and sister, Veradell Lehde. People who knew Dorothy knew her to be quick witted, outspoken and guided by her sense of humor. Pallbearers will be Jared Whitener, Kyle Whitener, Charles Hodde, Darrell Blum, Darrell Kieke and Blake Emmett. Honorary Pallbearers will be Jerry and Kathy Martin, Steve and Linsay Bubert and members of the St. John’s Sewing Circle. A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 13, 2024 at Memorial Oaks Chapel. A Funeral Service will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, October 14, 2024 at St. John’s UCC in Burton, with Pastor Darrin Holub and Pastor Glen Schoenberg officiating. Burial will follow in the St. John’s UCC Cemetery. Following the burial, the family invites everyone to St. John’s Fellowship Hall for refreshments and fellowship. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main St., Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com

Gladys Marie (Eickenhorst) Roemer

Gladys Marie (Eickenhorst) Roemer, 89, the widow of Herbert O. Roemer, Jr., passed away October 4, 2024 in Brenham. Gladys was born August 25, 1935 to Ben and Laura (Loesch) Eickenhorst in the William Penn community of Washington County. She was baptized on November 3, 1935 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church of William Penn by Pastor C.J. Appel. Gladys was confirmed June 5, 1949 at Saint Matthew’s Lutheran Church in Sandy Hill by Pastor A. M. Fielder. On January 31, 1959, she was united in marriage to Herbert Roemer, Jr. at Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham with Rev. Arnold Mueller officiating. Mrs. Roemer is survived by her brothers and sisters in law: Glen and Rose Eickenhorst of South Carolina and Johnnie Lee and Elois Eickenhorst of Brenham.  She is also survived by her sister-in-law, Loyce Murray of Brenham, brother-in-law and sisters-in-law Clarence and Linda Roemer of Schulenburg and Alice Wiederhold of Caldwell. Many nieces and nephews are also left to cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her husband, Herbert, her parents, 2 brothers, a sister, and several nieces and nephews. Gladys will lie in state at Memorial Oaks Chapel from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm Tuesday, October 8, 2024 for those who wish to pay their respects. A visitation with the family will be held at 9:00 am until the funeral service at 10:00 Wednesday, October 9, 2024 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine. Pastor David Tinker will officiate.  Burial will follow in Carmine Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers will be Scott Roemer, Mark Roemer, Ricky Roemer, Vince Neal, Timmy Murski, and Glenn Eickenhorst, II. Memorial contributions may be directed to Martin Luther Lutheran Church or Hospice Brazos Valley. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main, Brenham.  Please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com to view Gladys’s obituary online and post a tribute to her family.