Obituaries

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.

Ida Mantey

Ida Jean Mantey, 88, of Somerville, TX passed away on September 25, 2024 at her home.  Ida Jean was born in Independence, Texas on September 3, 1936 to Fritz and Louise (Schnieder) Moehlmann.  Ida Jean was married to the love of her life, Herbert Mantey on November 27, 1955 at the First Lutheran Church in Somerville, Texas. They were blessed with four sons and one daughter along with many grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved her role as a housewife, mother and grandmother. She was a member of First Lutheran Church of Somerville and the American Legion Auxiliary in Somerville.  Ida Jean was preceded in death by her parents; son, Ricky Mantey Sr.; daughter-in-law, Connie Mantey; brother, Harlin Moehlmann; sister and brother-in-law, Mary Nell and Darvin Mantey; father and mother-in-law, Toney and Adeline Mantey; brothers-in-law, Edwin Mantey, Clarence and Delia Mantey; sisters-in-law, Mildred Moehlmann, Esther and Waldo Nienstedt and Mary Lou and Lonnie Schulz.  She is survived by husband; her sons and daughters-in-law, Robert and Janet Mantey, Michael and Julie Mantey, Mark and Karen Mantey; daughter and son-in-law, Connie and Kenneth Sebesta; brother, Freddie Moehlmann; sister-in-law, Dorothy Mantey and grandchildren, Kimberly Sebesta, Ricky and Kara Mantey, Jr., Rachael and Brent Sears, Justin and Hannah Mantey, Cindy Roosevelt, Patrick and Tiffany Mantey, Cortney and Orry Randermann, Matthew Mantey, Adam Mantey, Larissa Mantey, Jessica and Andrew Maale and 16 great-grandchildren along with numerous nieces and nephews.  Serving as pallbearers were Kim Sebesta, Ricky Mantey, Jr., Patrick Mantey, Matthew Mantey, Adam Mantey, Justin Mantey and Rachael Sears.  The funeral service for Ida Mantey was held at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 30, 2024 at First Lutheran Church in Somerville, with burial in the Oaklawn Cemetery in Somerville.  In lieu of flowers memorials can be given to First Lutheran Church of Somerville or Hospice Brazos Valley.  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

Willie C. Kubeczka Jr.

Willie C. Kubeczka Jr., 79, of Brenham, Texas, passed away on Thursday, September 26, 2024, with his beloved family by his side. Born on December 17, 1944, in Chappell Hill, Texas, Willie was the 10th of 11 children born to Willie Sr. and Agnes Kubeczka.  On November 7, 1964, Willie married the love of his life, Mary Ann Majewski. Together, they built a beautiful life and raised a family in Houston, Texas. Willie was a dedicated and hardworking man, founding Weldfit Corporation, where he built a successful business over 40 years. Upon retiring, Willie and Mary Ann settled at their cherished ranch in Brenham, Texas, where he found joy in the simple pleasures of ranch life.   Willie was a man of many passions. He loved tending to his cows, riding his tractor, and bailing hay on the ranch. He was happiest surrounded by his family and took great pride in his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. A skilled woodworker and avid gardener, Willie spent much of his time creating, building, and caring for his home and land. His sharp mind was always at work with crossword puzzles and books, and his wisdom and sense of humor were ever-present. Willie had a way of making everyone laugh, leaving those around him with fond memories and words of wisdom to carry forward.   Willie is survived by his devoted wife of 59 years, Mary Ann Kubeczka; daughters Brenda Annis and Sandy Stewart, along with her husband Brad; grandchildren Megan Hrebicek and her husband Justin, Cody Annis and his wife Chelsea, Shelby, Kacey, Jake, and Ryan Stewart; and great-grandchildren Vaughn and Peyton Hrebicek. He is also survived by his sisters Dorothy Haba, Mary Ann Guidry, and Rita Burke, as well as his brothers Edmund, Harry, and Johnny.   Willie was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Sr. and Agnes Kubeczka; brothers Alphonse and Raymond; sisters Clara Gurney and Gertrude Swierkowski; and nephews Mark and Michael Kubeczka.   Visitation will be Friday, October 4th at 10AM at St. Mary's Catholic Church. Rosary will be recited at 10:30AM. Funeral Mass will begin at 11AM. A reception will follow. Interment will be in Calvary Catholic Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations in Willie’s memory be made to either St. Mary Immaculate Catholic Church in Brenham, Texas or to Latium Wesley Greenvine Volunteer Fire Department, Burton, Texas.  Willie’s legacy will live on through the love he shared, the laughter he inspired, and the wisdom he imparted to those lucky enough to know him. He will be deeply missed.  Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611   Share condolences at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com  

Maxwell Weidner

Maxwell Weidner, 92, of Brenham passed away on Monday, September 23, 2024 at Brenham Nursing and Rehab. Visitation will be from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, September 30, 2024 at Memorial Oaks Chapel. The Funeral Service will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 1, 2024 at Eben Ezer Lutheran Church with Pastor John Van Haneghan officiating.  Burial will take place at 2:00 p.m. at Prairie Lea Cemetery. Maxwell was born to Max and Meta (Lorenz) Weidner on November 23, 1931 in Fort Bend County in the Beazley – Needville area where his family resided on a cotton farm.He and his family worshiped and attended Sunday School at Hope Lutheran Church in Beazley, Tx. He attended Modena School located between Beazley and Needville Tx. He was a graduate of Blinn College majoring in Business Administration and Finance. He also attended Sam Houston college in Huntsville. He worked at the US Post Office for 33 years and after retiring he and his wife did landscaping for individuals and Germania.  Some of his favorite things to do were traveling, camping, fishing. He loved music and enjoyed attending sporting events of his children and grandchildren and watching the Brenham Cubs play Baseball. He and  his wife loved to collect antiques. Maxwell married his love Martha Jean Seidel on November 25, 1955 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. They raised a family of 3, Allan, Mark and Donna. He served his country in the military for 2 years during the Korean War where he was a cook. Maxwell was a Sunday School Teacher at Eben Ezer Lutheran Church where he served as Superintendent for 8 years. He along with his wife Martha were instrumental in helping organize Lake Somerville Christian Ministry and served as Coordinator for 10 years. Doing the outdoor worship services provided an opportunity to have a beautiful service with prayer, scripture, bible message and joyful singing at both Yegua and Rocky Creek Parks during the months of June, July and August. He is survived by his wife of 67 years , Martha Jean; sons and daughters-in-law, Allan and Heidi Weidner, Mark and Diane Weidner; daughter and son-in-law, Donna and Greg Bridges. Brother and sister-in-law, Harold and Ida Mae Weidner; sister-in-law, Grace Behnke; grandchildren, Madison Bridges and special friend, Favio Nazareno, Eric and Lexie Bridges, Matthew and Amy Cox;  great-grandchildren, Eloise Bridges, Courtney Cox and Ty Cox  and great-great-grandchild, Joy Zamara, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Max and Meta Weidner; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Arnold and Alvina Seidel and brother-in-law, Sam Behnke. Pallbearers will be Robert Warmke, Matthew Danesi, Peyton Hauerland, Donnie Johnson, Brian Fritz and Jon Perkins. In lieu of flowers memorials to honor Maxwell can be given to Eben Ezer Lutheran Church or a charity of your choosing.

Alan Blaine Runge

Alan Blaine Runge was born in Brenham, Texas on June 28, 1962 to Vernon Runge and Nina (Zibilski) Runge. He was a 1981 graduate of Burton High School and attended TEEX Law Enforcement training.  A visitation will be held from 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 26, at Memorial Oaks Chapel with the family present from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.  A funeral service will be held Friday, September 27, at 2 p.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel in Brenham. A reception will follow at Memorial Oaks. A private burial will be held at the Zionsville Lutheran Church Cemetery.  Growing up, Alan enjoyed all things outdoors, projects for the Washington County Fair, 4-H, FFA, and cuttin’ up with his running buddies. (Most would consider his career in law enforcement a surprise.)  He was a proud father of his daughter, Megan, and his son, Blaine. He was also a loving grandfather to Christopher, Braeden, Gunner, and Evie. They enjoyed spending time having “samples” around his barrel pit and learning to shoot in the backyard. They loved hunting, fishing, long drives down backroads or “his office,” and having Saturday lunches at Mama’s Kitchen. Alan looked forward to “Dad Days” when Blaine came home for leave.  Alan served the Washington County Sheriff’s office for over 20 years. He worked his way from Jailer, Patrol Deputy, Narcotics Task Force, Jail Administrator, to Investigation Lieutenant. His grandsons enjoyed hearing stories of the investigative prowess of their “Real American Hero.”  Everyone enjoyed spending time with Alan, his conversations and his outstanding nature. From jokes to witty comebacks, he was always quite a story teller.  Alan left this world peacefully in the early morning hours of September 23, 2024 with his daughter and son-in-law by his side.  He leaves behind to cherish his memory, his mother, Nina Runge of Burton; daughter and son-in-law, Megan and Christopher Brewster of Brenham; son, Staff Sergeant Blaine Alan Runge of LaGrange, NC; grandchildren, Christopher Thomas Brewster, Jr., Braeden Alan Brewster, Gunner Paul Brewster, and Evelynn Grace Brewster; sister and brother-in-law Laurie and David Kirts; niece and nephews Kayla and Cameron Gros, and Kyle Kirts along with numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.  He was preceded in death by his father, Vernon “Bubba” Runge.  Serving as pallbearers will be Kyle Kokemoor, Jamall Lewis, Justin Royall, Mike Krueger, David Thompson, Duane Houston, Cameron Gros, Kurt Roemer, and Michael Brewster. Serving as honorary pallbearers will be Kyle Kirts, Kayla Gros, Fred Rau, employees and friends at Mama’s Kitchen, and his law enforcement friends.  Memorials may be directed to Wounded Warrior Project or Zion Lutheran Church.  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

Sylvia Ann Meschewitz Jurica

Sylvia Ann Meschewitz Jurica, of Brenham, TX, passed away surrounded by her family on Saturday, September 14, 2024.   She was 73. Sylvia, affectionately known during her years as Cookie and later as Grandma, was a native Texan, born on September 3, 1951 to Edward and Annie Houdek Meschewitz. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Mary’s in Brenham. Sylvia was united in marriage to George Joe Jurica, Jr. on November 11, 1972 at St. Mary’s in Brenham. George and Sylvia made Brenham their home in 1977 in Sandy Creek Estates, where they built their family home and raised their two children, Holly and Brett. Sylvia spent many years working at numerous Brenham businesses including: Toy Box Daycare, Sears, Bode and Tonn, and Brenham ISD. She loved being able to help take care of her grandchildren in their early years and could be found supporting them in all their extracurricular activities. Sylvia leaves behind her husband of 51 years, George, her son and daughter-in-law, Brett and Elizabeth Jurica, daughter, Holly Jurica, and 5 grandchildren, Juli Jurica, Sarah and Zein Fakhri, Eleanor and Bridgette Jurica, brother and sister-in-law, Glen and Gayle Meschewitz, sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Mary Ann and Laddie Barcak and Maragret and Joe Koudelka along with numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Visitation with the family will be from 5:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 18 with a Rosary beginning at 6:30 p.m. The funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Thursday, September 19 at Memorial Oaks Chapel in Brenham with Darrin Holub, Officiant. Burial will follow in Calvary Cemetery. Pallbearers include: Juli Jurica, Sarah Fakhri, Zein Fakhri, Luis Cutz, Michael Long and Danny Matthews. Honorary Pallbearer are Grant Meschewitz, Lori and John Wessinger and Neighbors of Sandy Creek Estates. The family would like to thank Fresenius Dialysis, SMS Home Health, Washington County EMS and the staff at Baylor Scott and White for their continued care of Sylvia over the years. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Washington County EMS. 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

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 7^th, 10:30 a.m. with Visitation to be held at Memorial Oaks Chapel on Friday, September 6^th, 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 23^rd at Brenham Memorial Chapel with family present from 5-7pm. Services will be on Saturday, August 24^th, 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