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Robert "Pops" Howell Becker

July 17, 1931 - September 9, 2025

Robert “Bobby” Becker, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully after a long, full life. Born in Luling, Texas, on July 17, 1931, Bobby was the son of the late Rudolph Robert and Alice Bolton Becker.

Bobby left school after the eighth grade to work on the family farm, embracing a life of hard work from an early age. In 1948, he enlisted in the United States Army, serving proudly during the Korean War and stationed in Alaska until 1952.

Upon returning home, he married the love of his life, Mae Johanna Raabe, on September 14, 1953, in Inez, Texas. Together they shared 57 wonderful years of marriage and raised three children: Jean Marie Becker, James Lee Becker, and Debra Ann Becker Hensley.

Bobby worked for TXDOT for 30 years before retiring in 1982, then served another 10 years with Victoria County before retiring again in 1992. A lifelong resident of Inez, he was deeply rooted in his community—serving with the Inez Volunteer Fire Department and as a faithful member of Emmanuel Lutheran Church.

Known for his sweet tooth, love of an ice-cold beer that he may or may not have stollen from his grandkids, his love of Farrah Fawcett, and a free cap – that he never left the house without. Bobby also played guitar with the Inez Polka Boys for many years, filling dances and gatherings with music and joy. He loved polka music and listening to the Trading Post with Clinto Robinson. He was one of the hardest workers around, and he found peace in his enormous seasonal garden where he would grow squash, okra and his famous 8-foot tomato plants. Donating all the vegetables to family, friends and members of the church. 

Bobby had a knack for keeping life lively. He was quick with humor, stubborn headed German in the best ways, and always the happiest when surrounded by family. Though a grown man in years, Bobby carried a childlike streak his whole life- mischievous, playful, and sometimes just ornery enough to talk himself out of trouble. Like when he drove his truck into Bryan and Debra’s house but swore up and down that it wasn’t him…. Even when everyone knew better. He rarely sat still—unless wrestling or westerns were on TV—and while he had little patience for waiting, he took all the time in the world to slow-cook his famous briskets.

He was a spirited sports fan, especially when it came to watching his grandchildren play. Though eventually “banned” from games for his enthusiastic critiques of referees—affectionately called “zebras”—he still found ways to listen on the radio or watch Friday night football fever highlights. Occasionally, he’d sneak into a game until Mae heard him in the bleachers yelling and sent him back home, so she thought. He would just move further down the bleachers or along the fence and made sure to beat her home so he wouldn’t get in trouble.

Bobby had many nicknames—Bat, The Beer Bandit, Nine Toes, and more but most knew him simply as Pops. His popularity reached unexpected heights thanks to his Facebook appearances, where family and friends tuned in weekly for his adventures: doing things he wasn’t supposed to, his witty one-liners, his outfits of the day and his H-E-B trips with Tristin or Debra to get his frozen burritos, pizza, Icehouse beer, ice cream and his one onion. He never knew just how loved he was by everyone who followed along on “Face place”. Pops never met a stranger and was a friend to all. 

Bobby is preceded in death by his parents, Rudolph and Alice Becker; his beloved wife, Mae J. Becker; daughter, Jean Marie Becker; daughter-in-law, Tami Brandon Becker; and sister, Loma Ann Becker Goodin.

He is survived by his son, James Becker, and daughter, Debra Hensley (Bryan), both of Inez; grandchildren, Toby Stary, Brian Rozner (Christy), Brent Rozner (Megan), Blaine Rozner (Courtney), and Tristin Kallus (David John II); and 11 great-grandchildren, Tobyn Stary, Kendall, Wyatt, Johanna, Owen Rozner, Cooper and Casey Rozner, Cohen Janecek, River Rozner, Presley Kallus, and Lainey Kallus. 

He also leaves behind his brother-in-law, Fred Goodin of Lago Vista, TX; nieces, Stephanie Roznovsky (Danny) and Tena Goodin; nephews, David Goodin (Diana) and Daniel Goodin (Melissa); as well as numerous great-nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers: Toby Stary, Brian Rozner, Brent Rozner, Blaine Rozner, David J. Kallus II, Tobyn Stary. Honorary Pallbearers are David Goodin, Daniel Goodin and his 11 Great Grandchildren. Pop’s legacy is one of love, laughter, hard work, and unwavering devotion to family and friends. His stories and spirited presence will be deeply missed—but his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Memorials may be made in Robert’s name to Houston Hospice, 1102 N. Mechanic St., El Campo, Texas 77437 or Vanderbilt Baptist Church, 191 Victoria St., Vanderbilt, Texas 77991. 

The family of Robert will accept visitors from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 11, 2025, in the Oaklawn Funeral Home Chapel. 

Oaklawn Funeral Home
 


Sipriana "Sippie" Beltran

May 6, 1932 - November 22, 2025

Sipriana “Sippie” Beltran, passed away on November 22, 2025, at the age of 93. She was born May 6, 1932, in Runge, Texas, to Veterro Arredondo and Julia Vasquez Castillo. 

Sipriana lived in the Cuero, Tx and Yoakum, Tx area most of her early adult life. She worked as an attendant at a Chicken Butcher Shop. Sippie was a loving mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend who will be missed dearly.
 
Sipriana married Alfonso Ansaldua in 1948 and had 2 sons, Felix and Frank Ansaldua and 1 daughter, Valerie Ansaldua. She later divorced and remarried to Augustine Beltran Sr. in 1957. 

Sippie and Augustine had 4 children, Augustine Beltran Jr., Edmund Beltran, Sipriana Garcia and Sylvia Beltran, and in 1976 they adopted their grandchild, Lawrence Beltran.

Sippie worked for many years as a nurse’s aide at Caney Valley Hospital in Wharton, Tx. She then worked at Garden Villa Nursing home in El Campo, Tx. until she was 84 years old. The only reason she retired was because her doctor ordered her to. She loved her work! 

She is survived by her sons, Augustine Beltran Jr., Edmund Beltran, and adopted son, Lawrence Beltran, and her daughters, Valerie Ansaldua Rangel, and Sipriana Beltran Garcia, several nieces and nephews and grandchildren, great grandchildren, cousins, aunts and uncles, and many friends. 

Sippie is preceded in death by her husband; Augustine Beltran Sr., parents, Julia Vasquez Castillo and Veterro Arredondo, sons, Felix Ansaldua and Frank Ansaldua and daughter, Sylvia Beltran. 

Sippie loved her flowers, she was always planting her flowers, especially Hydrangeas and any kind of indoor plants. She loved sewing in her spare time. She was always making PJ’s for her grand babies.

Services will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025, in the Oaklawn Funeral Home Chapel. Memorial service will begin at 12:00 p.m. 

Oaklawn Funeral Home
 


Molly Lou Newell Boepple

September 17, 1938 – April 14, 2026

Molly Lou Newell Boepple, 87, was born at home in Little Kentucky, Jackson County, to Lonnie Judson Newell Sr. and Louie Elizabeth Parker Newell on September 17, 1938. She went to be with the Lord on April 14, 2026, surrounded by her children and her adoring husband of nearly 72 years, Mitchell Boepple.

Molly, known by many as “Nana,” lived a vibrant and full life. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, sister, and friend—filling each role with love, strength, and her unmistakable spirit. Although she was known for her strong will and larger-than-life voice, she was equally known for her unconditional love, unwavering loyalty, and deep devotion to her family and friends.

A fiercely driven woman, Molly believed she could accomplish anything she set her mind to—and she did. She had an entrepreneurial heart, opening Sports World in Ganado, Texas, where she sold sporting goods and crafted custom fishing rods, and was co-owner of Bep’s Auto Supply who celebrated their 100th anniversary this year. She was a dedicated volunteer, serving as an EMT with the Ganado Ambulance Service, a long-time Ganado Athletic Booster Club member and was instrumental in the creation of Devers Creek Park. She also shared her musical talents through the church choir and by playing baritone in the Texana Community Band.

Molly’s talents were ceaseless, and she shared them freely with those around her. She loved hunting and fishing, crocheting, crafting and woodworking, and was an excellent home cook and baker. She had a gift for making everyday moments feel special, especially during the holidays. Christmas was her favorite, and she delighted in orchestrating plays and productions for her grandchildren, complete with dress rehearsals, costumes, and plenty of laughter.

She also had a gift for entertaining and found joy in bringing people together. Whether it was a holiday gathering or a simple get-together, she set her tables with china and crystal and added thoughtful touches that made every occasion feel warm, welcoming, and unforgettable.

On Independence Day 1954, Molly and Mitch married—a day Mitch lovingly refers to as “the day he lost his independence.” They shared the kind of love that most people only hope to find—steady, adventurous and deeply rooted in lifelong friendship. Together, they explored the world, visiting Africa, Ireland, Spain, Portugal, South America and so many others, and they spent countless memorable summers in Alaska and Colorado. They also shared a love of golf. Molly competed in the Myrtle Beach World Amateur Championship and together they attended The Masters – a bucket list experience. Their life together was a beautiful testament to a partnership and a love that only grew stronger with time.

While she treasured those experiences with her husband, she also loved to travel the world with her “girlfriends”—making memories and searching for antiques, particularly her coveted five-finger vases. 

No matter where life took her, it was never about the destination—it was about the love she shared, the memories she made and the legacy she built, which will continue to be treasured for generations and by all who were blessed to be loved by her. 

She is survived by her loving husband, Mitchell Boepple; her children Sandra Green (Phillip), Tommy Boepple (Bettie), Robby Boepple (Penny), and Cammie Pearson (Scott); and her sisters-in-law, Marie Newell, Judy Liberda and Jane Clingingsmith. Her legacy continues through her 11 grandchildren: Clay Green (Jenny), Josh Green (JaNel), Jacquelynn Chumchal (Douglas), Christopher Green (Jessica); Stephanie Majewski (Shawn), Matthew Boepple (Angela), Meghan Raybon (Quincy), Whitney Martignoni (Kody), Sarah Atkinson (Grady), Aimee Blakely (Bill), and Lauree Tomas (Ryan); and her 25 great-grandchildren: Luke and Andrew Green, Peyton, Fynlee, Kooper and Maddox Green, Ruger, Madison and Destiny Chumchal, Douglas and Dalton Brooks, LynnLee and Remington Green, Peyton Miles, Layla and Lexie Majewski, Evlynn Beopple, Benjamin Raybon, Mila, Kallen and Ella Martignoni, Siena, Isla and Urijah Atkinson, and Greta Tomas.

Molly was preceded in death by her parents, Louie Elizabeth Parker Newell and Lonnie Judson Newell Sr.; her brother Lonnie Judson Newell Jr., wife Barbara and children Anna Marie, Mary Lou and Craig Judson Newell and brother Gerald Francis Newell; and her great-grandson, Landon Clay Green.

Services will be held on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Ganado, TX, with Visitation at 9 a.m., Rosary at 9:30 a.m. and Mass at 10 a.m. 

Pallbearers will be Clay Green, Josh Green, Chris Green, and Matthew Boepple. Honorary pallbearers include Burene Spalek, LaVerne Swank, Willie Mae Edwards, Rosalie Williams, and Lucille Klekar.

The family would like to extend their most sincere appreciation to the staff and nurses of Ganado Nursing and Rehab Center, Jackson County Hospital, Citizens Medical Center and the Hospice of South Texas’ Dornburg Center of Compassion for the loving care they provided. 

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Molly’s memory can be made to Hospice of South Texas’ Dornburg Center of Compassion, 1005 Mallette Dr. Victoria, TX 77904-3318 and the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church, 108 6th St. Ganado, TX 77962.

Slavik Funeral Home
 


Charles Edward Born

December 1, 1959 – March 25, 2026

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Charles Edward Born, who departed this life and into the arms of his Savior Jesus on March 25, 2026, at the age of 66. Charles was a beloved husband, son, brother, and friend, described by his family as considerate, sweet, thoughtful, funny, jolly, comical, unique, soft-spoken, wise, kind, a friend, charismatic, authentic, and passionate (especially about Aggie football and the Lord).

Born December 1, 1959, in Ganado to Elmer and Vera Born of Edna, baptized January 10, 1960, and confirmed June 30, 1974, at St. Paul Lutheran Church Edna. Charles graduated from Industrial High School, graduated from Texas State Technical Institute studying diesel mechanics, and graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in mechanized agriculture. His career included working for Jackson County Equipment in Edna, Westlake Farms in Lemoore, California, farming in Jackson County, Hlavinka Equipment in Bay City, and lastly worked for the US Postal Service in Bay City.

On September 23, 2005, Charles married his beautiful wife, Audrey Partlow Born, to whom he was devoted. Charles and Audrey were blessed with 20 years of a loving and faithful marriage. In addition to his wife, Charles is survived by his mother, Vera Born Rogers of Edna; sisters, Glenda Born of Austin, Joyce (David) Sappington of Edna; brothers, Raymond Born of Edna, Clifford (Janet) Born of Vanderbilt, and Steven Born of Edna; and much-loved nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father Elmer Born and sister-in-law Gail Born.

The family will receive relatives and friends for visitation at 9:30am Tuesday, March 31, 2026, at Harvest Time Church, 42 FM 2540 S, Bay City, TX 77414. Funeral Service will begin at 10:30am with Don Reed Officiating. Graveside services will begin at 3:00pm at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Edna. Pallbearers will be Raymond Born, Clifford Born, David Sappington, Nathan Sappington, Lance Berry, Clinton Shutt, Harry Engelmohr, and Michael Tatum. Honorary pallbearers are Steven Born and Luke Wright.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Angels Care Hospice of Bay City in gratitude for their compassionate kindness.

Psalm 27:1 “The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas
 


Hazel Elba Brast

December 9, 1933 ~ July 5, 2025

Hazel Elba Brast, age 91, passed away peacefully on July 5, 2025, in the very home where she was born in Louise, Texas—a full-circle journey that speaks to her deep roots and devotion to family and faith. 

Born on December 9, 1933, to Charlie Clark Sims and Rosie Hassett Sims, Hazel was one of nine siblings and grew up with a strong sense of community and resilience. After marrying and raising her family in the Houston area, she returned to Louise to spend her life nurturing others with quiet strength and compassion. 

Hazel was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 55 years, Weldon Brast; her parents; two cherished sons, Stanley Warren Brast and Russell Owen Brast and one grandson, Erik Brast. She is lovingly survived by her daughter, Rhonda Brast Turney of Louise, and her son, Kendall Brast of Goliad, TX. She also leaves behind two siblings, Eileen Dearen of Bryan, TX and Floyd Sims, of Louise. Additionally, Hazel leaves behind nine grandchildren, twenty-eight great-grandchildren, and twenty-seven great-great-grandchildren. 

A devout Christian, Hazel was a faithful member of the First Baptist Church of Ganado, Texas, where her presence was a steady source of grace and wisdom. Her life was defined by unwavering love, enduring faith, and an unshakeable sense of home. 

She will be remembered not only for the legacy of family she built and nurtured, but for the warmth of her spirit and the quiet dignity with which she carried herself throughout her 91 years. 

A visitation will be held at Ganado City Cemetery on Saturday July 12, 2025 at 2:00pm followed by a graveside service at 3:00pm. After-service fellowship and dinner will follow at First Baptist Church of Ganado.  Services are entrusted to the Todish family of Ganado and Slavik funeral homes.

Slavik Funeral Home
 


Weldon Brast

Louise – Weldon Brast, 74, of Louise, died Wednesday, Feb. 15, 2006.

He was born Aug. 14, 1931, in Nelsonville, to the late Fritz G. and Helen Sincl Brast. He was a retired pipefitter/welder, a 32nd degree Mason, a member of VFW Post No. 8556 of Lolita, a veteran U. S. Marine having served in the Korean War, a member of Masonic Lodge No. 1298, Hillyard-Yost American Legion Post No. 346, Chosin Few, Texas Lone Star Korean War Vets, the Scottish Rite of Freemasonry of Houston and a member of Baptist Church of Ganado.

Survivors: wife, Hazel Elba Brast of Louise; daughter, Rhonda Lynn Turney of Rusk; sons, Kendall Brast of Spring, Stanley Warren Brast of Maydlle; and Russell Brast of Pasadena; sisters, Helen Cobia of Katy and Janis Davlin of Grapevine; brothers, David Brast of Katy, and Lawrence Brast and Dempsey Brast, both of Wallis; six grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: one grandson.

Graveside services will be 2 p. m. Saturday at Ganado Cemetery, the Rev. Matthew VanHook officiating.

Memorials: Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital or Ganado Baptist Church.

Pallbearers: Robert Mott, Jason Mott, Stanley Brast, Russell Brast, Kendall Brast, Weldon Myles Brast, Rhonda Turney.

Victoria Advocate, February 17 & 18, 2006
 


Final Rites Held for Elizabeth Brown, 65

Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at St. Agnes Catholic Church for Elizabeth Brown, 65, who passed away July 11 at the hospital in Ganado. Father Balthasar Janacek officiated and interment was in the Edna Cemetery. Rosary was said Tuesday evening at Slavik’s Funeral Home.

Elizabeth Brown had resided in the county three years, and was a former resident of Yoakum. She was born Oct. 28, 1890 in DeWitt County. Pallbearers at her funeral were Phillips Kneblick, Edward Kneblick, Paul Kneblick, Tom Franz, Edwin Montage and Milford Steinman.

Children surviving are Tom Garvel of Inez, F. J. Jentry of Aransas Pass, F. W. Jentry and G. A. Jentry. She leaves these brothers and sisters: Martin Kneblick and John Kneblick of Edna, Paul and Joe Kneblick of Victoria, Sid Wood and Alfred Matecek of Yoakum, and Fannie Casal of Uvalde.

Edna Herald, July 14, 1955
 


James Martin Browning
September 16, 1941 - April 14, 2026

James Martin Browning, aged 84, of Ganado, Texas, passed away on April 14, 2026, entering into eternal rest with the Lord. Born on September 16, 1941, to Zenora (Harral) and James Harvey Browning of Edna, James grew up rooted in the values of family and community. On January 21, 1964, he married Jeannie Browning (Ellison), and together they welcomed their daughter, Charolette Browning-Whitley, on October 31, 1964.

James proudly served in the United States Army as a member of the 643rd Engineer Battalion from January 1959 to December 1964. His dedication to his country was evident during his years of service.

After completing his military service, James began a distinguished career in the oil industry, dedicating 54 years to the field. He started as a roustabout and eventually became an independent drilling consultant, owning his own business. James was passionate about mentoring and sharing his knowledge of geology and oil exploration with younger generations.

James was an avid outdoorsman, enjoying hunting, fishing, gardening, Bar-B-Qing, and tinkering with projects outside. His deer collection grew beyond his den and into the rest of his home, reflecting his enthusiasm for hunting. He cherished watching old westerns, wrestling, and rodeos, and achieved his dream of attending the National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas after years of supporting his nephews behind the scenes at local rodeos.

Known as a fierce protector and loving man, James deeply cherished his family, especially his "family of girls." He frequently made quick trips to support them during his demanding days in the oilfield, always prioritizing their well-being and happiness.

He is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Jeannie; daughter, Charolette (Vince); Granddaughters, Kollette (Wesley) and Jaiden (Joshua); Great-Granddaughters, Bryleigh, Alexa, and Irelyn, and many more loving family members. He was preceded in death by his parents, Zenora and James; sisters, La Verne and Wanda; Brother-in- Laws, CD and Buster; and Great Granddaughter, Landyn.

A service in memory of James will take place on Monday, April 20, 2026, at the Oaklawn Funeral Home Chapel. Visitation is scheduled from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with the funeral service commencing at 1:00 p.m. Pastors Bill Shaw and Ruben Castillo will officiate the ceremony. Burial will follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery in Edna.

Serving as pallbearers for the service will be Spud Ellison, Craig Hayden, Clinton Hicks, Jeff Hicks, Wesley Jenkins, Joshua Harrison, Johnny Coleman, and Kevin Stevens. These individuals have been chosen to carry out this important duty in honor of James Martin Browning.

The honorary pallbearers are Charles Coleman, Clayton Hayden, Cory Ellison, Blake Carroll, Cole Hicks, and Luke Hicks. Their inclusion recognizes their special relationship and respect for James.

Flower deliveries can be made to Oak Lawn Funeral Home in Edna, Tx. For those wanting, in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Christian Cowboys Who Care Ministries Inc. by Bill and Karen Shaw at PO Box 99, Douglass, Tx 75943.

Oaklawn Funeral Home vet
 


Roy Douglas Budd

March 3, 1938 ~ September 14, 2025

Roy Douglas Budd, 87, passed away Sunday, September 14, 2025.  A visitation will begin at 9:00am on Friday September 19, 2025, at Slavik Funeral Home chapel with a funeral service beginning at 10:00am.  A private family burial will be held at a later date.  Services are entrusted to the Todish family of Slavik Funeral Home.

Slavik Funeral Home
 

 

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