Obituaries
Kathy Ann Frederick
Kathy Ann Frederick, 65, a devout Christian, wonderful wife, and loving mother, of Brenham, Texas, went to her heavenly home with Jesus on September 7, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born on September 8, 1958, in Houston, Texas to James Sherrill Kelly and Kathy Karels Kelly. Kathy graduated from Spring Woods High School, and attended Stephen F. Austin University before transferring to and obtaining her bachelor’s degree from Texas A&M University. She then obtained her master’s degree from the University of Houston. After completing her education, Kathy became a high school teacher. It was during this time, at 23 years of age, that she met a fun and somewhat unsettled rapscallion, Bob Frederick, at a bar in Houston. She would go on to date this Bob, who would become the love of her life. Kathy and Bob married on April 14, 1984, and went on to have three children together: Cole, Bart, and Kathryn. In 1999, Kathy and Bob moved from Houston to Brenham, Texas, where they planted roots and raised their kids. Kathy believed her purpose in life was to glorify God, and that her means of carrying that out was through motherhood, and raising good, Christian children. As a result of her tireless love, hard work, and teaching, all three of her children have grown to believe and trust in Jesus (though “good” may be a questionable descriptor for her sons, through no fault of her own). She made a home for her family that was better than anything they deserved or could have hoped for. After having raised her children, Kathy continued on her mission to glorify God by serving as a Christian counselor to adults and children. She was also an active member of Champion Fellowship Church in Brenham, where she served and built lasting and meaningful friendships. Kathy brought joy to everyone in her life. She constantly had her friends and family laughing. She was a refreshingly honest person, who never hesitated to “tell it like it is” or share her core beliefs. She was tough, hard-working, smart, loving, loyal, selfless, sacrificing, and brave. Kathy was an avid reader, and excelled at anything athletic. She loved to travel, and some of her family’s fondest memories are of trips that she planned and took them on. In her later years, she loved her grandchildren, who affectionately called her “Sweetie.” Kathy is survived by her husband, Robert (“Bob”) Allan Frederick of Brenham, Texas; her son Robert Cole Frederick of Fort Worth, Texas, his wife Andrea, and their daughters, Hayden, Libby, and Grace Gage (“Gigi”); her son Bart Christian Frederick of Brenham, Texas, and his wife Abigail (“Abby”), and their daughters Charlotte and Caroline; her daughter Kathryn Grace Herrera of Austin, Texas, her husband, Troy, and their soon-to-be-born son, Robert Grant; her brother James Lee Kelly, his wife, Kim, and their children Reagan Kelly and James B. Kelly; and her sister Sherri Kelly. To those that knew her, Kathy was truly a great person. In an evil world, she was salt and light. She fought a good fight, and ran a good race. In looking back at her life, her loved ones can confidently know that when she stepped into Jesus’ presence, she heard “Well done, good and faithful servant.” A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, September 14 at noon at Champion Fellowship Church in Brenham. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kathy’s memory to Champion Fellowship Church. Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611 Share condolences at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com
Elaine Franklin Jankowski
Elaine Franklin Jankowski went home to be with her Lord and Savior on August 28, 2024 surrounded by her family. Elaine was born on July 24, 1955 in Houston, Texas to Ernest & Jeanette Franklin. She met her Cowboy, Danny of 54 years at the Tin Hall in Cypress. They were married on June 20, 1970 and moved to Chappell Hill, Texas. Elaine loved everything about the country lifestyle and loved her plants. She was a mother to three boys, but was “Momma” to many others through the years. Elaine enjoyed good music with a great beat, fishing, cooking for her family, a good laugh and the occasional Miller Lite, especially at fair time or in the Hill Country which she thoroughly enjoyed. She loved spending time with family, but none greater than spending time with her grandchildren, as she was their biggest fan near or far. She also loved to look at the moon every chance she had, as the peace helped put everything into perspective at the end of the day. Elaine is preceded in death by her parents, Ernest & Jeanette Franklin; brother, E.B. Franklin; brother-in-law, J.W. Jankowski; and grandchildren, Carson, Addison and Logan Jankowski. Elaine is survived by her husband Danny Jankowski, Sr.; sons: Danny Jankowski, Jr. and wife Heather of College Station, Cliff Jankowski and wife Audrea of Brenham, and Cody Jankowski and wife Taylor of Chappell Hill; grandchildren: Weston, Cason, Victoria, Valoree and Vincent Jankowski; brothers: Albert Franklin and wife Savanna of Bay City, Texas, Ernie Franklin and wife Debbie of Rockport, Texas, Walter Franklin of Cleveland, Texas; sisters-in-law: Sharon Franklin of Blanco, Texas, Jennie Jankowski of Brenham, Texas and Sandra Stegent and husband Raymond of Huntsville, Texas; special friends: Poncho and Julie Dismukes of Brenham, Texas; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, family and friends. Pallbearers for the service include: Weston Jankowski, Joey Franklin, Kevin Franklin, Chad Dismukes, Patrick Koronka, Keith Wisnieske, Michael Ray Kmiec, Gage Kmiec and Kelvin Mikolajchak. Honorary pallbearers include: Victoria, Valoree, Cason and Vincent Jankowski, and Poncho and Julie Dismukes. Visitation will be Monday, September 2, 2024 with family present from 5:00 pm-7:00 pm at Memorial Oaks Chapel, with Rosary immediately following. Elaine’s Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00 am on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Brenham, Texas with Father Edwin Kucera, Celebrant. Burial will follow in the Prairie Lea Cemetery in Brenham, Texas. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in memory of Elaine Jankowski to MD Anderson Cancer Center, PO Box 4486, Houston, TX 77210-4486 or at https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/VnpBC31K1wtZjoxAtgfXuQIJuB?domain=mdanderson.donordrive.com or to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/j45uClYMY7iLW676uGfjuzD-bV?domain=fundraising.stjude.org. Funeral arrangements for Elaine Jankowski are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main, Brenham, TX. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com
Herbert J. Wickel
Herbert Jerry Wickel, age 81, of Carmine moved to his heavenly home on August 22, 2024 after a lengthy illness. Jerry grew up in La Porte, TX, graduating from LPHS as Salutatorian. After graduation, he attended Sam Houston University, then before being drafted, joined the USAF. After being honorably discharged, Jerry worked as a field engineer for IBM, Control Data and Amdahl, in which he had the pleasure of working at NASA for a number of years. In his later years, he served in the ministry as a lay minister for the UCC at several churches in the area. He was a multi-talented, creative, and highly intelligent man who loved astronomy, music, model trains, and remote control airplanes, but his main priorities and greatest loves were for his family and the Lord. He leaves behind his wife, Jolene, daughter, Karen, and daughter-in-law, Julie, plus sister-in-law, Dotty and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, William (Willie), parents, Herbert & Alvina (Finke) Wickel, and siblings, Bill Wickel, Jo Ann (Wickel) Shippey Schnell, and DuWayne Wickel. Services will be held at Bethlehem Lutheran Church on Saturday, September 7th, 10:30 a.m. with Visitation to be held at Memorial Oaks Chapel on Friday, September 6th, with family present 5:00-7:00 p.m. For those who wish to memorialize Jerry, contributions may be made to Brazos Valley Hospice, Bridge Ministry of Burton, TX, Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Round Top, or St John’s UCC, Burton. 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
Chief Ronald K. Parker
Chief Ronald K. Parker of Brenham, Texas passed away on August 25, 2024. Ron was born on December 19, 1958, in Duncan, Oklahoma to parents Shirley and Curtis Parker. After high school he enlisted in the United States Army National Guard, where he served in Field Artillery. He joined the La Porte Police department in 1984 and was recognized as “Rookie Officer of the Year” in 1985. He transferred to the Criminal Investigations Division as a detective in 1986 and was later promoted to Sergeant, where he was awarded the Medal of Merit and the Medal of Valor. In 1997, he was promoted to Lieutenant and was assigned as a Patrol commander. He transferred to the Support Services Division in 2000 as commander and then was appointed as Assistant Chief of Police in 2008 and given command of the Support Services and Criminal Investigations Divisions. He was appointed Chief of Police in 2018. He left the La Porte Police Department in 2020 and became the Chief of Police for Brenham that same year. After a distinguished 40-year career he retired from the police force in March of 2024. A dedicated public servant, Ron was affiliated with prominent organizations such as the National Domestic Preparedness Coalition, Texas Police Chief's Association, and International Police Chief's Association. He contributed to the field through publications with the Texas State Historical Society and held the esteemed title of Leadership Fellow by the Texas Municipal League's Inaugural Leadership Academy. His impact on law enforcement education extended to his role as an Adjunct Professor in Criminal Justice at Sam Houston State University where he was committed to mentoring the next generation of criminal justice professionals. Beyond his professional achievements, Ron was a devoted father, grandfather, husband, and friend. He and his wife Debbie were married for 43 years and raised two children together in the suburbs of Houston. He enjoyed reading, spending time with his wife and loved ones, and doting on his grandchildren. Ron leaves behind his wife Debbie, children; Brandi (Jason) Tubb and Kent (Karina) Parker, grandchildren; Cayden and Kennedi Tubb, Brayden and Kensley Parker and Andrew and Bella Rosas, mother; Shirley Parker, siblings; Cindy (John) Maguire, Letia (Curtis) Cruson, and Steve Parker, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. He is preceded in death by his father, Curtis Parker. A celebration of Ron’s life will be held at the Cowboy Church in Brenham, TX, on September 4 at 10:30 a.m. 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
William ‘Bill’ Derrick
William ‘Bill’ Derrick, known by many as ‘Pastor Derrick,’ died Sunday, August 18, 2024, at Bec’s Blessing in Giddings, Texas, after a years-long battle with congestive heart failure. He was 84. A lifelong and proud Texan, Bill was born not in Texas, but in Hobbs, New Mexico, to Erwin Aaron and Allyne Louise Prenzler Derrick. He was baptized in Texas at St. John United Church of Christ in Burton, on September 29, 1940. He lived in the Texas towns of Monahans, Andrews, Texas City, and Kingsville as a young child, and survived both polio and the Texas City explosion before moving to La Marque, Texas, where he spent most of his childhood. Bill was La Marque High School student council president, and voted Most Likely to Succeed, Best Personality, Best All-Around, and Friendliest, and that was just his senior year. Unfortunately for his father, who was himself a great ball player, Bill proved to be rather incompetent with a bat and ball, but he did find his place in sports as the beloved manager for the La Marque High School football team. He was so good at it that had his own cheering squad at football games. Bill graduated from La Marque High School in 1958 and moved on to Texas Lutheran College, where he began his journey to become a Lutheran pastor. After graduating from TLC in 1962, Bill drove his VW bug to Wartburg Seminary in Dubuque, Iowa. He graduated in 1966 and booked it back to Texas having spent four winters being extremely cold. Bill was ordained at his home congregation, Trinity Lutheran Church, La Marque, on June 19, 1966, making his mother very, very proud. Pastor Derrick then went on to serve St. John Lutheran Church, Robstown, from 1966-72, Abiding Savior Lutheran Church, Houston from 1972-78 and finally to Salem Lutheran Church of Brenham from 1978 to his retirement in December 2005. It was in Robstown that Bill met the love of his life, Rosemary Totter, who was a beauty and a transplant from New York, and who was also very smart, having conveniently placed herself in the front pew during Sunday services. They married on June 19, 1971, at St. John Lutheran Church, Robstown, TX., and in quick succession had two children, Julyne and Jason. Bill and Ro also welcomed into their Houston, Texas, home many foster sons and daughters, and one very special exchange student, Karsten Luethke of Germany, whom Dad referred to as his ‘first son,’ and who would remain in Bill’s life for more than 50 years, until his own life ended from cancer in 2023. Bill loved singing since he was a child. He sang in the choirs at La Marque High School, Texas Lutheran College, and at Wartburg Seminary. Bill also sang in the Brenham Chorale for many years and he was beloved for singing ‘O Holy Night’ every Christmas Eve at Salem Lutheran in Brenham. He was one of several area pastors who, in 1985, helped found Brenham’s Faith Mission, an ecumenical, non-profit that serves the homeless. Long before his own kids got into scouts, Bill was a cubmaster and scoutmaster in Pack and Troop 636 in Houston and cubmaster of Pack 74 in Brenham. He also founded a scout troop after he retired and settled in the Burton area. When his son Jason was in elementary school, Bill was one of several parents who helped start the youth soccer program in Brenham. Later, the league needed a referee, so he started training, running three times a week around the Brenham High School track. As an avid Brenham Cub Sports Fan, he could be heard in the stands ringing the cowbell showing his support. He was a lifelong runner, having taken up the sport in his 30s after his dad had coronary bypass surgery. Fitness and healthy eating were a lifelong passion of Bill’s, who strived to live a long, healthy life. Bill was named Washington County Man of the Year in 2006. He loved the Astros, his grandkids, the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, the Democratic Party, and perhaps most of all, card games and dominoes, especially 88, Bridge, Gin Rummy, Pinochle, and the game ‘Oh S***,’ which he taught to his fellow students at the Texas School for the Blind in Austin. A couple years after he retired from Salem, Bill had a stroke that blinded him in his eye. He’d had a previous stroke 10 years before that blinded him in his other eye. He attended the School for the Blind, where he learned how to live with his blindness with humor and grace, and where he met many dear friends, including his roommate Ken Gwyn, who was the only 75-year-old blind person Bill knew who made it a hobby to jump out of airplanes. Bill is preceded in death by his parents Erwin and Allyne; his wife Rosemary ‘Ro’; two infant sisters, Betty Anne and Baby Derrick; and a host of dear family members and friends, all of whom we imagine were gathered to excitedly greet him as he joined them in Heaven. He is survived by his daughter Julyne and husband Nick, and grandson William ‘Parker’ Siewert; son Jason and granddaughter Kerrigan, and Jason’s partner Jennifer Wright and her daughters Jenna and Jada Dechant; nephew Kevin Rausch, and nieces Catherine Keenan and Tara Hermanowski; and many grandnieces and grandnephews. Pallbearers are Rebecca and Ray Hooks, Kevin Rausch, Chris Jackson, James Naegeli, and Al Cardenas, his beloved caregiver of 13 years. Honorary pallbearers are Kenneth Moerbe, Charles Parnell, Gary and Kerri Veit, Lynn and Glenda Pieper, Mark and Jane Crocker, Justine Morton, Carolyn Jones and employees of Bec's Blessing. Visitation will be on Friday, August 23rd at Brenham Memorial Chapel with family present from 5-7pm. Services will be on Saturday, August 24th, 11:00am at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine, TX, with burial in Oak Hill Cemetery in Burton, TX. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine, Grace Lutheran Church in Giddings, and the Pastor William and Rosemary Derrick Endowed Scholarship at Lutheran Foundation of the Southwest Lutheran Foundation of the Southwest at www.lfsw.org 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
Cleo Reddehase Jaeger
On August 18, 2024, Cleo Reddehase Jaeger passed away at the age of 94. She was born on October 1, 1929, to Henry & Louise Reddehase in the Zionsville Community. On December 1, 1929, she was baptized in Zion Lutheran Church. She married Aubert "Bert" Jaeger on November 16, 1952, in Zion Lutheran Church where she was a lifelong member and remained faithful in her attendance. She was a member of the Mary Martha Circle, Bluebonnet Club, Sons of Hermann, and Top Cat Dance Club. She dearly loved her family, the Lord, Church, dancing, flowers, baseball and traveling with her husband. She took pride in making quilts for her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, parents, parents in law and sister. Surviving and mourning her loss are daughters and son in law, Susie and Wade Seidel, Pat Jaeger Ehlert, grandchildren Sarah and Arty Brieden, Sam and Lainey Seidel, Anna and Ian Molyneux, Chip and Danielle Ehlert, great grandchildren Elizabeth and Alldyn Schroeder, Evelyn Brieden, Ann Margaret Brieden, Margaret (Greta) Seidel, Barbara Seidel, Susan Seidel, Mary Elaine Seidel, Emerson Ehlert, Ezra Ehlert, Hunter Molyneux and Aubert (Aubie) Molyneux. She received her education in Harrisburg School and Blinn College. In 1963 she and her husband formed the first Mechanical Contracting Company in the city of Brenham. They owned and operated Majer Inc. for 36 years and worked together until they retired in 1999. Pallbearers are Sam Seidel, Arty Brieden, Ian Molyneux, Chip Ehlert, Alldyn Schroeder, Douglas Borchardt, Don Studhalter, Craig Reddehase and Robert Ziese. Honorary pallbearers are Bobbie Ising, Elvera Drews, Vera Lehde, Birdie Sommerfeld, Marie Fitzgerald. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St, Brenham, Texas. A visitation will be held one hour before the service with family present. Services are scheduled for Sunday, August 25, 2024 at 2 pm at Zion Lutheran Church of Zionsville with burial to follow in the church cemetery. The family wishes to thank Hospice Brazos Valley for their care and service. They also want to thank special caregivers Carolyn Coleman, Equilla Parker, Ca Torrie Fielder and Kimberly Love. Memorials may be made to Hospice Brazos Valley, 302 E. Blue Bell Rd, Brenham, TX 77833, or Zion Lutheran Church, Cemetery Fund, 1800 FM 2679, Brenham, TX 77833.
Daryl Wayne Hueske
Daryl Wayne Hueske of Brenham Texas went to be with his Lord and Savior on August 9th 2024 after a lengthy hard-fought battle with Cancer. Wayne leaves behind, a brother Roger Hueske (Marla Hueske), sister-in-law, Jahnelle Hueske, 3 amazing children, John Scott Hueske (Tracey Hueske), Jason Wayne Hueske (Melissa Hueske) and Jennifer Kay Hueske- Fleetwood (Stewart Fleetwood), 5 precious grandkids, Micah Contreras, Makayla Hueske, Jaycee Hueske, Noah Hueske and Serick Larson. He also leaves numerous wonderful loving nieces and nephews, Dawn Smith (Melissa Kendrick), Shan Smith, Mark Smith (Libby Smith) Kiley Munslow (Gregg Munslow) Hayley Hueske and Roger Hueske (Laura Hueske) Wayne loved and cared for his family more than anything in the world. Wayne was born in Brenham Texas on January 6th 1948 to Norbert Gus Hueske and Norma Louise Spinn. Wayne went to Fur High School in Houston Texas and met Jacquelyn Kay Smith, the love of his life for 51 years. During his high school years Wayne was the lead singer and guitar player in a Country and Western band. The band had a contract to play at Mickey Gilley’s in Pasadena Texas. Wayne had many stories of playing in his band around Houston. After he graduated High School in January of 1968 Wayne immediately joined the Navy to fight in the Vietnam War. His service to our country was very important to him and he talked about it often. He had many stories about being on a River Patrol Boat, being a cook on the U.S.S Galveston and U.S.S HB Wilson and loading artillery shells into the guns on the ships during battle stations. Wayne proudly served on the U.S.S Galveston March 1969 to May 1970 and spent time on the U.S.S HB Wilson from June 1970 to December 1970. He was extremely proud to be a veteran. Wayne and Jackie got married when he was in the Navy and moved to San Diego Ca. Wayne and Jackie moved back to Houston Texas in 1970 where he served the remainder of his military service in the reserves until 1974. When he moved back to Houston he started a road oiling company where he would oil gravel roads throughout the Houston area for oilfield companies to keep the dust down. He ultimately sold the oil truck and started an oilfield service company called Tubular Pipe Maintenance Inc (TPMI). He built TPMI from the ground up to eventually employ several hundred employees. He was also instrumental in starting American Pipe Inspection (API). Wayne was very proud of his business accomplishments and bestowed the wisdom, knowledge and work ethic he learned and had during his business career to his kids. It was very important to Wayne that he prepared his kids for the business world and to provide them with the business knowledge and work ethic that he had so they could be more successful than he was, and his kids think he did a fantastic job. Wayne and Jackie lived in Humble Texas until they moved back to Brenham in 1998, when Wayne then started Hueske Tree Farm and grew primarily Live Oak Trees. Wayne loved to cook, dance, tell stories and jokes, and loved to go to the casinos! He will be missed by all, and we all look forward to seeing him once again. A visitation will be held from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 18, 2024 with family present from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel. A Funeral Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 19, 2024 at Memorial Oaks Chapel. Pallbearers are Micah Contreras, Noah Hueske, Serick Larson, Allen Peacock, Jose Gil Armenta and Lee Dudinsky. 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
William "Bill" Thomas Brooks
William “Bill” Thomas Brooks, after a full and happy life, went to be with Jesus while surrounded by love and family. He left this life at the age of 85, on August 11, 2024. Bill, son of Benjamin Brooks and Adele Wheeler, was born on April 28, 1939, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where he grew up as one of seven children. Bill graduated from LaSalle College High School in 1955 and from the United States Naval Preparatory School in 1957. From there he went on to study aeronautical engineering at the United States Naval Academy and graduated with a PhD equivalent in 1961. In 1963 he completed his Attack Squadron Training in Florida. Upon completion of his flight training, he was stationed on several aircraft carriers and made over 1000 carrier landings during the Vietnam War. He earned several medals of valor including, but not limited to, The Air Medal, and The National Defense Medal. After serving in the Navy for 13 years, Bill joined Delta Airlines and was quickly promoted as a pilot to the rank of Captain. He spent 30 years at Delta and wore many hats including being the top training officer and check pilot. During his time with Delta, he also served as President of the Humble ISD School Board. On April 28, 2003 he met Betty Carolyn “Carol” Mann Brocato in Conroe, Texas. They began attending church together at the Ark in Conroe and later that year Bill gave his life to Jesus Christ. Five years to the day, on April 28, 2008 he married the love of his life in the home they purchased together in Brenham. Bill and Carol became active in the Brenham community serving on several non-profit boards and they both received the Paul Harris Fellowship Award through the Rotary Club of Washington County. Bill and Carol joined Champion Fellowship in 2008 and Bill was baptized there. He was preceded in death by his brothers: Benjamin Brooks, Michael Brooks and Richie Brooks, sister Linda O’Donnell and two brothers-in-law, Charlie Cooney and Charlie O’Donnell. He is survived by his loving wife Carol; sisters Adele Cicciarelli and husband Jake, and Terri Clooney; sons Bill Brooks Jr. and wife Claudia, Christopher Brooks, Corbin Brooks, Jonathan Brocato and wife Mechele, Jason Brocato and wife Ashley, and James Christian Brocato; grandchildren Jocelyn Brooks, Annie Watson and husband Devis “Toro”, Sophie Brooks, Jack Brooks, Abby Brocato, Jaden Brocato, Bailey Rae Brocato, Brailen Brocato, Emma Brocato, Azic Brocato; great grandchild Thiago Watson; special family Cheryl Dillon and husband Mike, Jennifer Greenlee and husband Chuck and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 14th from 5:00pm until 7:00pm at Brenham Memorial Chapel. A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, August 15th at 2:00pm at Champion Fellowship. A private family burial will be held Thursday morning. The service will be live streamed and available to view at ChampionFellowship.org. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Collective Academy of Christian Music c/o Champion Fellowship, 1801 S Market Street, Brenham, TX 77833. Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979 836-3611. Share condolences at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com
Ronald Paul Haren
Ron is now playing golf on the most perfect golf course. Tee time was 3:30 pm on July 7, 2024. This course has long, wide fairways, no roughs, no water hazards, no sand traps and the greens are well manicured. Drives are always straight and he will always ‘one putt’ the greens. There are never any rain-outs because the weather is always perfect. Along his journey, he may stop to catch a fish or two and pet his dog, Fritz. Ronald Paul Haren, husband, father, grandfather, brother-in-law, uncle, friend, golfer, bowler, card shark, Citizens for Animal Protection volunteer, Home Depot greeter, President of Latium Fire Department passed away on July 7, 2024. Ron was a member of an elite club, “An Ohioan transformed to a Texan, lifelong Houstonian and rancher”. He was born on April 27, 1942, at Dayton Osteopathic Hospital in Dayton, Ohio. He graduated from Beavercreek High School, went to Marion University and proudly served in the US Army. He married the love of his life, Loretta Vierus, on October 7, 1967. They shared 57 years together travelling, bowling, farming, laughing, always hosting dinners and parties. Ron was a devoted Catholic. He served as an altar boy at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Latium until his death. Ron will forever be known as such a character. He always had a way to make everyone laugh except for the guys and gals he would beat at cards and dominoes. Ron always had fun and was the life of the party. He loved all the family gatherings and never met a stranger. Ron worked many places in his life. Starting out at Price Brothers in Dayton, Ohio; Cameron Iron Works for 23 years, Church Oil Tool, Schumacher, Bear Creek Golf Course as course manager and part-time at Home Depot as a Greeter all in Houston. He was on the Board at Price Brothers Credit Union and Lake Crest Townhomes. He decided to stay busy after he retired, volunteering at CAP (Citizens for Animal Protection) as a surgery assistant to Dr. Malinsky. (He could tell you some stories about those dogs, cats, rabbits and feral cats when he was in the operating room.) He loved to play golf so he joined Bear Creek Country Club as an Ambassador and later was promoted to Course Manager trying to manage over 100 old retired men; each had their opinion on how to do things. He bowled most of his life and received a 300 ring for a perfect game bowled. Every weekend he would be at the country talking or yelling to his cows, getting on his tractor or 4- wheeler looking for deer. In 2022, it was time to move to his ranch in Latium with his wife. He became President of Greenvine/Latium/Wesley Fire Department and received the Member of the Year Award. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Loretta; daughter, Kimberly and her husband, Rick Overgaard, granddaughter, Kirsten and husband Luke Davis; son, Brian, grandson, London; his advisor and dear friend, Lee Grote; numerous nieces and nephews; his golfing, bowling and card buddies, Home Depot employees, Latium Literary Group, members of the Latium Fire Department and lastly his dog, Rocky. Waiting to welcome him to his Heavenly home are his parents, Paul and Elizabeth Haren, father and mother-in-law, John and Mary Vierus; brothers-in- law: John (Sonny) Vierus, Jr.; David Vierus, Daniel Vierus, Leo Mueller, Fred Imhoff and Lenny Konieczny, sisters-in-law: Valeria (Vierus) Mueller, Natalie (Vierus) Imhoff and Clarice (Vierus) Konieczny; niece Michelle (Vierus) Garcia and nephew Dennis Mueller. In lieu of flowers you may contribute to Sacred Heart Cemetery Fund, POB 2074, Brenham, Texas 77834, Latium Fire Dept, 12255 FM 389, Burton, Tx 77835 or your local charity. Mass will be at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Latium on August 10 at 10:00 AM with a rosary at 9:30 AM, burial at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Latium. Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com
Aubrey Lee Harmel
Surrounded by the love of his family, Aubrey Lee Harmel, 85, of College Station, passed away peacefully on the evening of Friday, July 26th. Aubrey will be lovingly remembered by his devoted wife of 65 years, Evelyn; daughters: Debbie and husband Randy Hoefler, Kim and husband Lloyd Graham, and Tammy and husband Bill Conrad; son: Rocky Harmel and partner Heather Burton; grandchildren: Justin and Jordan Graham, Jeremy and Jillian Wilke, Cash and Aly Conrad, and Jackson and Taylor Conrad; ten beautiful great-grandchildren; sister and sisters-in-law: Sharon Giles, Allyne Sillavan and Gloria Zwahr; and numerous relatives and dear friends. Aubrey is preceded in death by his parents: Walter and Nellie Harmel; mother and father-in-law: Herbert and Adela Zwahr; sister and brothers-in-law: Brenda and Joe Goodson, Herbert Zwahr, and Clarence Giles; and his nephew, Spencer Scott. Aubrey enjoyed farming and ranching, hunting and fishing, having coffee with his friends, and watching football and racing. Above all things, he loved spending time with his family and shared close relationships with his lovely wife, children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Visitation with the family will be held Wednesday, July 31st from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at the Memorial Oaks Chapel in Brenham, Texas. Funeral service will be held on Thursday, August 1st at 11:00 am at St. John’s United Church of Christ in Burton, Texas. Memorial donations may be made to the Bryan Community Church in Bryan, Texas or St. John’s United Church of Christ in Burton, TX. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main St., Brenham. To view the obituary online and post a tribute to Aubrey’s family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com.
Mary Louise Hoff
Mary Louise Hoff, age 96, formerly of Brenham, passed away July 27, 2024 in Lakeway, TX. Mary was born in the Rehburg community outside of Burton, Texas on August 24, 1927 to Gustav and Alma Fischer. Mary was baptized and confirmed in her Christian faith at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Mary wed Edward Hoff also at St. Paul Lutheran Church on June 8, 1947. Mary is preceded in death by her husband, Edward Hoff, parents Gustav and Alma Fischer, sister, Elverna Mayer and husband John, sister Adele Kunkel and husband Alfred and son-in-law Randy Reese. Mary is survived by her brother Travis Fischer and wife Margie; daughter, Sandra Stepan and husband Ray, grandson Darren Stepan and wife Kimberley, their sons Trevor and Ethan, grandson Chris Stepan; daughter, Donna White and husband Darelle, grandson Jason White and wife Rebekah, their daughters, Hannah and Clara, grandson, Nathan White and wife Aspen, their children Peter, Noah and Evelyn; daughter Debra Newton and husband Brian, granddaughter Brooke Harper and husband Cole, their daughters, Ellis and Bennett, granddaughter Nicolette Newton and husband Erich Nieberding. Mary was a stay-at-home mom until her children were teenagers. She then pursued a career first as a Medicare clerk for Waller County Memorial Hospital. Then she accepted a position as a deputy county clerk for Waller County. When she and Edward moved to Brenham, she continued her career as a deputy county clerk for Washington County until retiring in 1992. Even though Mary suffered from macular degeneration, she continued to read her Bible daily using a specially designed magnifying machine. Her greatest joy was being with her large family. She often shared her faith with everyone she met. A visitation will be held on Friday, August 2, 2024 from 1:00 until 7:00 pm with family present from 5:00 to 7:00 pm at Brenham Memorial Chapel. Funeral services will be held Saturday, August 3, 2024 at 10:30 am at St. Paul Lutheran Church of Rehburg 4450 FM 1948, Burton, Texas 77835 with Rev. Dr. Alvin Luedke officiating. Burial will follow at the church cemetery. The family would like to extend a special thanks to all the nurses and staff of Belmont Village Lakeway and Comforts of Home Hospice Care for the compassionate care that was shown to Mary and her family. Memorials may be donated to Big Springs Ranch for Children, Leakey, TX, or a Foster Organization or favorite charity of choice. 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
Virginia Thompson
Virginia Thompson passed away on July 20, 2024 at the age of 98. She was born on July 11, 1926 to Leonard and Ruth (Frank) Jones in Vernon, Texas. Virginia was baptized in the Christian faith In Fargo Methodist Church at age 15. Virginia, her two sisters and brother grew up happy and healthy, helping their parents on the farm. Virginia enjoyed cooking. She especially loved baking pies, cakes and cookies. She loved gardening and always had space for a few tomato plants where she lived. On October 1, 1954 she married Charles V. Thompson. Virginia, Charlie and John David made their home in South Houston, Texas. They enjoyed family gatherings of which there were many. After retiring in 1978, they moved from the Houston area to their small farm in Burton. They joined Bethany Christian Church and became active members. Virginia’s husband Charlie passed away in May 1990. She lived on their farm another 12 years before moving to her home in Brenham. Virginia visited shut in’s, nursing homes and became a regular at the senior center. At age 91, she moved to Argent Court Assisted Living, where she lived for over 6 years before her death. Her family would like to thank all the staff and attendants at Argent Court Assisted Living, Brenham Nursing and Rehab, as well as Hospice Brazos Valley. She is preceded in death by her husband, Charles Thompson, Leonard and Ruth (Frank) Jones, Floyd and Verna Thompson, brother A.J. Jones, sisters, Jerry Sauer and Geneva Wagner, brothers-in-law, Herman Sauer, R.B. Wagner and sister-in-law Mary Jones. She is survived by her son and daughter-in-law, John David and Carole Gammage and many nieces and nephews. Memorials may be made to Bethany Christian Church, 8955 Christian Cemetery Rd., Burton, TX or Hospice Brazos Valley, 902 E Blue Bell Rd., Brenham, TX 77833. The funeral is 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 23 at Bethany Christian Church in Burton, 8955 Christian Cemetery Rd. with Pastor Bob Hofmann officiating. The visitation will begin at 10 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow in Oak Hill Cemetery in Burton. 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
Jimmie Allen Eckert
Jimmie Allen Eckert, 82, of the Burton community passed on to his heavenly home on July 17, 2024. Visitation will be held from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, 2024 with the family present from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, July 21, 2024 at Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Greenvine with Pastor Cindy Robles officiating. Jimmie was born on February 21, 1942 to Harold and Ruby Wickel Eckert in Burton, TX. He served in the U S Army in Vietnam. On December 10, 1966 he was united in marriage to Billie Jean Heath. He was a retired dozer driver for Robert Lange Construction and was later self-employed. Jimmie was a member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church of Greenvine, serving on the Church Council and Cemetery Committee. He was a member of the Burton American Legion, Latium-Greenvine-Wesley Fire Department and the Wildlife Society. Jimmie is survived by his wife, Billie Heath Eckert; daughters and sons-in-law, Ruby and Michael Wagner and Carol and Billy Clow; daughter, Kathy Baily. Brother and sister-in-law, Gene and Ina Eckert; sister-in-law Mona Eckert; sisters, Joyce Gouldson and Patrica Shahani. Grandchildren, Jessie Fritz, Kaitlyn Fritz, William Clipp (Kristen), Jennifer Guroad, Kimberly Hendrick (Jon Eric Coonse) Susan Pratt (Austin), Rene Luebke (special friend David Morales). Great-grandchildren, Alexis Fritz, Jeremiah Gurode, Zariah Guroad, Jordan Guroad, Aden Clipp, Nicholas Clipp, Emily Hendrick, Tristen Hendrick, Lily Hendrick, Eric Morones, Jasmine Morones, Braden Morales, Scarlett Morales, Henry Pratt. Great-Great-grandchild, Braxton Guroad. He was preceded in death by his parents, mother-in-law and father-in-law, Fred and Mary Heath; son, William Eckert; sister, Joan Eckert (deceased at birth); brother, Jerry Eckert; brothers-in-law, Harry Heath and Freddy Heath; sister-in-law, Mary Hudspeth. In lieu of flowers the family ask that memorials be made in Jimmie’s name to the Emmanuel Lutheran Church Organ Fund. 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