Matagorda County Obituaries
K
Raymond "Ray" John Kacal
September 25, 1927 - August 26, 2019
Raymond “Ray” John Kacal, 91, of Bay City, entered into eternal rest on Monday, August 26, 2019. He was born in El Campo, Texas on September 25, 1927 to Joseph and Mary Sliva Kacal.
On June 20, 1950, he married Elizabeth Marie Merta and the two of them began their life together. After working at Phillips Petroleum for 33 years, he and Elizabeth continued to enjoy dancing every weekend with close friends, visiting their relatives and watching their grandchildren grow up. They traveled to Europe on three occasions, going to the Czech Republic, Germany, Italy and France. They also took bus trips through many states with their group of friends.
Raymond was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus Council #3070. He was also in the St. Vincent de Paul Society.
He enjoyed vegetable gardening, woodworking, repairing engines and floundering. He restored a 1954 Chevrolet, and would often pick up his retired friends for a trip to Shipley’s for coffee and donuts. He loved listening to Czech polka music and had an extensive collection of tapes and CDs. His grandchildren enjoyed it when Paw Paw played his accordion for them and made his famous breakfast pancakes and homemade ice cream.
Ray is preceded in death by his parents, his son Stephen, his brothers Clement (Clem) and William (Bill) Kacal, and sisters Adella (Della) Ehler, Evelyn Bartlett and Martha Sekula.
He is survived by his wife; sons Kenneth (Melodie) Kacal of Bay City, and Ronnie (Cheryl) Kacal of Brazoria; daughters Sandra (John) Reed of Houston and Diana (Edward) Gurecky of Blessing; eight grandchildren; great grandchildren Mariel, Mya, Macee and Miles Kacal, Townes Smith, Emma Gurecky and Bennett Gurecky; brother Joe Kacal of Alvin, and sisters Mary Warneke of San Antonio, Lucy Sydow of Pontonoc, Texas and Mildred (Mille) Burt of Marble Falls.
Visitation will be held Friday, August 30 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City from 5pm to 7pm with recitation of the Holy Rosary at 6pm. A Mass of the Resurrection will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church Saturday, August 31, 2019 at 10am with graveside services to follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. Pallbearers are grandsons, Matthew Kacal, Lee Gurecky, Adam Gurecky, Cory Kacal, Mike Smith and Kyle Hart. Honorary pallbearers include granddaughters Kari (Kacal) Smith, Allison Frazier, Brittany (Kacal) Hart, Rachel Reed; his nephews and nieces, and the Knights of Columbus Council #3070.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations be made to Holy Cross Catholic School.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Photo courtesy of Susie Adkins
Thomas Patrick Kain
December 23, 1933 - September 28, 2020
Thomas Patrick Kain, of Matagorda, Texas, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 28, 2020, at the age of 86.
Thomas was born in Gulf, Texas on December 23,1933, to father Thomas Kain, Jr. and mother Pauline White Kain. He was the youngest of four children and went by Tommy or Tom. Tommy married his childhood sweet-heart, Carolyn Coolidge on December 11, 1954. He served his country faithfully in the branch of the Army Infantry Medics where he was stationed at San Antonio, Texas. After serving his country, he went to work for Texas Gulf Sulfur Company in Old Gulf, Texas where he and Carolyn raised their 4 children. Tommy ran a cattle ranch and had shrimp boats as his way of life. He loved his family, but fell deeply in love with Jesus and gave his life to him at an early age. Tommy served Jesus and had one goal in life; to spend eternity with Jesus and take as many people with him that he could. His love and passion from Christ Jesus was known and felt by many. Today, Tommy is with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Tommy was preceded in death by his parents and by his sisters Virginia Kain Grisham, Bernice Kain Dodd, Mamie Kain Littlejohn and great-grandson Eli Joshua Beauchamp.
He is survived by his wife Carolyn Coolidge Kain and 4 children; Susan Kain Wood and husband Mike Wood, Janet Kain and husband Bernard A. Reiter, Patty Kain, and Thomas Patrick Kain Jr. and wife Leah Michalec Kain; grandchildren; Khara Wood Eaddy, Kheli Wood Paul, Natali Wood, Heather Wood, Kendal Frick, Keith Frick, Katie Frick, and Thomas Patrick Kain III; and 14 great-grandchildren.
Graveside service for Tommy is planned for Saturday, October 3, 2020, at 3 pm and will be held at the historic Matagorda Cemetery. All are invited to attend.
People wishing to honor Tommy’s life-long commitment to family and community, in lieu of flowers the family has requested that you make a donation to the Alzheimer’s Association at https://act.alz.org/donate.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
Teresa Carol Kauffman
September 22, 1967 - January 10, 2021
On Sunday, January 10, 2021, Teresa Carol Sandlin Kauffman, loving mother of three daughters and grandmother of two granddaughters and one grandson passed away.
Teresa was born September 22, 1967 to Larry and Margaret Sandlin. Teresa was preceded in death by her grandparents Joe and Callie Sandlin and O.B. and Iva Lockard as well as her sisters Rebecca Sandlin and Pamela Johnson. She is survived by her parents Larry & Margaret Sandlin; daughters Kellie, Kimberly, and Jessi, her grandchildren Madison, Emma, and Blake, sisters Virginia and Darline and their respective spouses, her nephews and their respective families, and her many friends.
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die. --Mary Elizabeth Frye
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorials be made to The Crisis Center of Wharton and Matagorda Counties; P.O. Box 1820, Bay City, TX 77404
Teresa’s daughters have each put together something for their mother to allow everyone to see just how special she was.
From Kellie:
What my mom valued most in life wasn’t something you can purchase or hold in your hand; it was her children. Even when we thought it was too much at times I can appreciate her so much for that now, and there the memories I keep of her. She loved to sing anywhere and everywhere, music was her passion. I think half my memories are of her singing the other half laughing and loving being with her family. She always kept her door open no matter how old we got we knew we could call and come home. She made holidays and birthdays a huge celebration, I think she just got excited it was extra time with us, so she went all out. There was never a dull moment with my mom and no one who loved me so much. I know she’s watching over us without pain; smiling and laughing again!!
From Kim:
Mom, thank you so much for loving me as much as you did. Thank you for braiding my hair, for loving and always welcoming my friends as your own kids, thank you for supporting me in everything I chose to do from gymnastics, to karate, to horseback riding. You always had my back. Thank you for introducing me to new music and for showing me how important music is to your soul. Thank you for always protecting me and my sisters. You always put up a fight from anyone and everyone who tried to hurt us. We may have not gotten along all the time, but you've always loved me unconditionally. You let me stray and would always welcome me home no matter our differences. You were such a beautiful and loving mom. You always made me laugh, held me when I cried, and didn't judge me when I messed up. You were such an amazing mother and I’m trying to instill all those beautiful things to my kids. Teaching them how to make chocolate oatmeal cookies and that our memories are more important than anything we could buy. I hope I can love my kids as much as you loved us. You are missed more than you know but I know you’re watching your ladies and smiling because you did such a good job. Your grandbabies will know your traditions, they will cook your recipes, and they will love music because you were the best mom for me. I love you and I pray you are finally at peace.
From Jessi:
I knew my mother the shortest amount of time out of my sisters. I knew her smile and laughter the least, I only briefly held her hand. Being the youngest, I used to cling to her when I was small. She would hold me every night, whisper stories and read books with me. She'd count the piggies on my feet and eat my play-dough food. She told me the stories of NASA that sparked stars in my eyes, tales of spacemen that walked in my dreams. We'd play pretend and dress up with all our fancy clothes, we'd invite all the snails from the garden. She taught me to be kind to animals. Every bug had a name, every stray kitten had to have a home. My dad would catch us even feeding roaches in the backyard, we had every kind of pet. I have her hair, her eyes. I hope I have her kindness and her love. Her sense of humor and her wonder. Her extroverted personality and determination are what I need the most. I want to take that with me, to lead me through life like she would if she was here. I wanted more time with her. To share more with her. I know we'll meet again beyond the shore, but it’s hard not to want her with me. I'll carry what I have of her with me, to the place we'll all meet in the end. I love you more, you love me most. Love, Jessi Bear.
Taylor Bros.
Funeral Home
Edward Luther Kelley
May 13, 1933 – October 26, 2019
Funeral services for Edward L. Kelley will be Wednesday, October 30, 2019 in the Chapel of Green's Mortuary in Bay City, Texas at 1 p. m. with the Rev. Terry Stephens, officiating.
Burial will follow immediately after the service at North Cedarvale Cemetery.
Edward L. Kelley was born in Foreman, Arkansas, on May 13, 1933, to John and Dovie Kelley.
Edward lived in Bay City, Texas for 55 years and the last year in Markham, Texas. He worked for the State Highway Department for 15 years and retired from BASF in Freeport, Texas as a millwright.
He is preceded in death by his parents; son, Randy Edward Kelley; granddaughter, Amanda Kay Kelley; brothers, Billy Kelley and Charles Kelley; brothers-in-law, Robert Stephens, Jessie Fair, Lindel Fair, and L. C. Jordan; and sister-in-law, Francis Jordan.
Edward is survived by his devoted and loving wife, Wilma Ruth Kelley of 65 years; daughter, Carol Crow and husband, Dick Crow; daughter-in-law, Linda Kelley; grandchildren, Heath Kelley and wife, Christina Kelley, Haley Crow and fiancé, Cory Fairbanks; great grandchildren, Brody Kelley and Briley Fairbanks; sister, Patsy Stephens; nieces, Theresa Brown and Donna Stephens; nephews, Rev. Terry Stephens, Joe Fair and Macky Fair.
Final arrangements are entrusted with Green's Mortuary, Bay City, Texas; 979-245-3489; online condolences may be sent to greensmortuary.com
Bay City Tribune, October 30, 2019 Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Mr. William E. Kelly, Aged 81 years, 4 months and 12 days, died at the home of his son, Walter A. Kelly, this morning and will be buried in Cedarvale Cemetery tomorrow, Wednesday, morning at 10 o'clock, following religious services at the Walter A. Kelly home.
Matagorda County Tribune or Daily Tribune, Friday, April 30, 1926
[Note: obit gives name as Kelly, but surname is spelled Kelley on son's
marker.]
Kimberly Rose Kieler
October 17, 1959 - September 1, 2020
Kimberly Rose Kieler, 60 of Wharton, Texas passed away at her residence following a lengthy illness on Tuesday, September 1, 2020. She was born on October 17, 1959 in Port Lavaca, Texas to the late Clarence Lee Tolleson and Margaret Ann Barnett Hassell.
Kim worked at STP as a Quality Control Supervisor for 42 years. She married William Kieler in 1985 in Lake Tahoe and he preceded her in death in 2017. She loved her family and enjoyed spending time with her grandkids. Kim loved to work in her garden and have lots of pretty flowers in her immaculately kept yard. Her other love was animals, she spent countless hours volunteering with Wharton County SPOT. In addition to her parents and her husband, William, she was preceded in death by her brothers, Sammy Lee “Barney” Tolleson and Vincent Dale Tolleson.
Left to mourn her loss are her daughter, Amanda Tolleson Lay and husband Sereal of Wharton; grandchildren, Derek Jackson, Keah Jackson, Jacques Jackson, Trey Jackson and Jayrod Jackson; great grandchildren, Jerimee Hall and Jayce Hall; sister, Lisa Perez and husband Robert of Ganado; and brother, Jeffrey Dean Tolleson of Rockport, Texas.
Donations may be made to Wharton County SPOT.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2020 starting at 1 p.m. with a Funeral Service to follow at 2 p.m. at the Chapel of Wharton Funeral Home with Bill Bullard officiating. Burial will follow at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery. A dinner reception will follow at the Holy Family Catholic Church Life Center in Wharton, Texas. Pallbearers will be Marty Harris, Dave Whiddon, Scott Wagner, Troy Wacker, Dave Wiegand, Randy Mumme and Chuck Spraggon.
Funeral Services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home, Wharton, Texas.
Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com
Wharton Funeral Home
Lois Jean King
January 27, 1930 - December 03, 2019
Lois Jean King, 89, of Bay City, Texas, passed away Tuesday, December 3, 2019. She was born January 27, 1930 to the late K. P. Garfield, Sr., and Eula Mae Vance Garfield in San Juan, Texas.
She taught elementary school for Bay City Independent School District from 1958 until she retired in 1985.
She is survived by her brother, K. P. (Bud) Garfield, Jr.; daughter, Celeste Courville; grandchildren, Teanna Tomlin Kasarda, husband Jim, and JD Tomlin and fiancée Becky Hernandez; greatgrandchildren, Tucker and Ty Kasarda, and Cheyenne and Hunter Tomlin. Lois is preceded in death by her parents K. P. Garfield, Sr., and Eula Mae Garfield; first husband, Dempsey Courville; second husband, Joe T. King; daughter, Melissa Jane Courville Tomlin; brothers, John Garfield, Bob Garfield, Jim Garfield, and Bill Garfield.
Services for Ms. King will be 2:00 pm Saturday, December 7, 2019 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City, Texas, with Matt Springfield officiating. The family will receive friends and relatives for visitation at 12:00 pm in the funeral home chapel.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made in Lois’ name to the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org
Taylor Bros.
Funeral Home
Mrs. Pamela Spiller King
June 17, 1957 - November 09, 2020
Funeral service for Mrs. Pamela Spiller King, 63 of Giddings, TX will be held Friday, November 13, 2020, 11:00 a.m. at Bethel St. Paul United Baptist Church in Giddings, TX. Burial will follow the service at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery in Killeen, TX.
Viewing will be held one hour prior to the service (10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.) at the church.
Mrs. King passed away November 9, 2020 in Giddings, TX.
Pamela Spiller King was born on June 17, 1957 to the late Floyd Spiller, Sr. and Gladys Beller Spiller in Bay City, Texas. She attended Prairie View A&M and received her BS in Biology and competed in track and field. While attending PV she met her husband, Anthony, and they were married in 1979. To this union four children were born. Pamela enjoyed life to the fullest, devoting herself to God, her family, friends, community and anyone who needed her time and assistance. She was very competitive in everything she participated. She loved playing softball, running track, bowling, teaching but most of all singing.
She leaves to cherish her spirit and memory, her husband Anthony King, Sr., mother Gladys Spiller, two sons – Anthony King Jr. and Andre King (Juanita), two daughters – April Grant (James) and Alecia King; one sister – Patricia Jackson (Earl); four brothers – Floyd Spiller Jr. (Louise), Billy Spiller (Christy), Kenneth Spiller, and Samuel Spiller (Carol); 5 grandchildren, 10 step grandchildren, one uncle – Terry “Jack” Spiller (Naomi), one aunt – Jennie Durham, stepson – James King (Delilah), stepdaughter – Cherese King, step father-in– law Mark Harkins, brother–in–law Bert King (Meoshia); adopted dad, Felton Greer, Sr.; adopted son, Tomathan McGinnis; Godbrothers – Rev. Pleas Mayfield, Aaron Green, Dexter Hines and Pastor J.R. Roberson, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family, and loving friends.
Bay City Tribune, November 15, 2020
T. Irving King
July 19, 1927 - April 07, 2019
Irving King, 91 of Lampasas, TX died Sunday April 7, 2019 at Gateway Gardens in Marble Falls.
He was born July 19, 1927 in San Antonio, TX to parents Thomas Irving King Sr. and Erna (Vogapole) King. Irving grew up in San Antonio and graduated from high school there. As WWII was coming to a close, Irving joined the U.S. Navy. After the Navy he attended Southern Methodist University and earned his Bachelor’s degree. He continued his education and received his Master of Divinity degree from SMU Perkins School of Theology. Irving married Margie Whitman June 6, 1955 and they served together many churches in Texas over his long tenure as a pastor. Towns in which he served as pastor includes; Agua Dulce, Industry, Blanco, George West, Hallestville, Karnes City, Cuero, Palacios, San Angelo (Day Memorial), San Antonio (Bethany), Bronte, Miles, Smithville, Crystal City, Taft, Lometa and Bend. He retired and then “unretired” when he was asked by the Conference to serve a very small parish in Oakalla.
Irving was TRULY a servant of God. He loved the Lord,
his Country, his Community and his family. He served as a Lion and a
Rotarian and on many church and community boards and committees and was
always active in the local Ministerial Alliance. His favorite community
“job” was working with the CAPS Childrens After School Program at the
Methodist Church where he would ring the bell of welcome and play games with
the children there. He loved Gospel music, singing in the choir and making
a joyful noise to the Lord. He never complained once about interrupting his
schedule to go to the aid of others in need. He lived by Faith every day of
his life.
He is survived by his Daughter, Martha King Logan (Brad)
Sons, Timothy King and Philip King
5 grandchildren; Paige, Ian, Kristi, Roxanne and Alyssa..
12 Great-Grandchildren and 1 Great Great Grandchild
Irving was preceded in death by his parents, by wife Margie King, by son, Thomas David King and by sister, Dorothy L. Kammer.
Funeral service will be Saturday April 13, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at Sneed Funeral Chapel. Burial will follow in Pleasant Valley Cemetery near Marble Falls. Visitation will be Friday evening from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Sneed Funeral Chapel. Memorials may be sent to the Methodist Children’s Home, Kindred Hospice or the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
Sneed Funeral Home, Lampasas, Texas
Gloria Dean King-Watson
January 11, 1933 - January 24, 2020
Gloria Dean King-Watson, 87, of Palacios, Texas passed away on January 24, 2020 in Palacios, surrounded by a loving family.
She was born in Houston, Texas on January 11, 1933 to William "Sonny" King and Gussie Hayes King.
Visitation and guest book registry will be on Friday, January 31, 2020 from 2 p.m. until 8 p.m. at the Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home Chapel in Bay City, Texas.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the Agape Family Outreach Church, 1811 Newsome Blvd., Palacios, Texas 77465, with her son, Pastor Eric Young, as eulogist.
Burial will follow at Palacios Cemetery.
Survivors include a loving and devoted family; and many, many friends.
Condolences may be shared with the family online at duncanrobertsfh@ gmail.com.
Arrangements with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas; 979-245-5197.
Bay City Tribune,
January 29, 2020
Mrs. T. A. McFarland sends in the following obituary of H. L. Klennert, husband of her daughter, the former Honor McFarland.
Herman Ludwig Klennert was born Aug. 4, 1890, the son of Mrs. Christina Gray Klennert and John Henry Klennert, both of Frankfort, Germany. He was an employee of the Texas and Pacific Railway Co., and had been a resident of Marshall since 1940. Prior to that he lived in Big Spring, where he was employed by the railway company.
Mr. Klennert is survived by his wife, Mrs. Honor Glyn Klennert; three children, Ethel Elaine Klennert, Marshall; Bonnie Cleo Klennert, Dallas; and Wendell True Klennert, Baytown, Tex.; his mother?, Mrs. Fred Buser, Dayton, Ohio; a brother, E. F. Klennert, Dayton, Ohio; and a granddaughter, Linda Diana Klennert.
He was a member of the Church of Christ and funeral services held Saturday afternoon were conducted by the Rev. Merle Bryant, minister of the Church of Christ in Marshall.
Palacios Beacon, July 25, 1946
Sharline Klimple
July 28, 1938 - November 7, 2019
Sharline Klimple, 81, of Wharton passed away on Thursday, November 7, 2019 in a Richmond hospital following a lengthy illness. She was born in Matagorda, Texas on July 28, 1938 to the late Hugo and Mary Chudalla Breithaupt.
Sharline was raised in the Matagorda and Boling areas. She attended and graduated from Boling High School. On June 1, 1957, she married Joe Frank Klimple in Wharton. He preceded her in death on February 28, 2004. Sharline enjoyed going to Bingo, working crossword puzzles, loved her dogs, going shopping and telling stories about her childhood. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sister, Dorothy Mae Breithaupt brothers, Lester and Leroy Breithaupt and grandson, William Kendziora.
She is survived by her daughters, Bonnie Gurecky and husband, Daniel of Needville, Barbara Jalowy and husband, Hank of Kentucky, and Nancy Kendziora and husband, John of Eagle Lake and son, Joe Klimple and wife, Sherryl of Katy, sister, Wilma Faye Jochec, brothers, Butch Breithaupt, Hugo Breithaupt, Jr., Melvin Breithaupt, and Henry Breithaupt and granddaughters, Allison Klimple and Jessica Westfall, great grandchildren, Christopher and Tyler Westfall and numerous friends.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, November 12, 2019 at Wharton Funeral Home after 6 pm. Funeral services will be at the Chapel of Wharton Funeral Home on Wednesday, November 13, 2019 with Rev. Lutjens officiating. Burial will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery in Wharton.
Funeral services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home. Condolences can be left at whartonfuneralhome.com
Wharton Funeral
Home
Irene Knebel
May 21, 1941 - December 21, 2020
Irene (Bludau) Knebel, 79, of Hallettsville, passed away on December 21, 2020, surrounded by loving family and friends. She was born in Hallettsville, Texas on May 21, 1941, to Andres and Annie (Friesenhahn) Bludau. She was a member of the Lavaca Medical Center Auxiliary serving as President, Christian Mothers, Republican Women, Sacred Heart’s Bereavement Committee, Catholic Daughters of the Americas serving as Regent & District Deputy, and Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville.
As the youngest child in a large family of eleven, Irene would love to play with her small nieces and nephews and tell them to call her “my favorite Aunt Irene”. Some do to this day. She attended Sacred Heart Church and graduated Sacred Heart School in 1959.
While living in Bay City, TX, Irene attended Holy Cross Catholic Church and her children attended the school. She was highly active as PTA president and loved working concessions stands for the various events, additionally, she spear-headed the church’s raffle for their annual picnic for several years. She loved bowling weekly in the business league.
In 1984, Irene and George purchased Pointer Drapery. Irene successfully operated the business for 20 years. In 2005, they retired to Hallettsville, TX. She enjoyed her time by gardening, taking RV trips, playing cards with friends, and daily mass followed by coffee with friends at the local bakery.
In October 2016 Irene was diagnosed with cancer. She was very appreciative of the care she received at MD Anderson as they tried various treatments.
Irene is survived by: her husband George Knebel Jr.; her children, Keith Kridler (Mary) of Stanwood, WA, Rosalyn Williamson (Johnnie) of Troup, TX, Greg Kridler of Humble, TX; stepdaughter Kristi Knebel of New Braunfels, TX; 7 grandchildren; 1 great-grandson; brothers, Frank Bludau (Bernadette) and Winfred ‘Wink’ Bludau (Ida) both of Hallettsville, TX; sisters, Mary Ann Murphy (Toby) of Dallas, TX and Sister Bernarda Bludau of Victoria, TX; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Irene was preceded in death by: her parents; three brothers, Leroy, Ervin, and James Bludau; five sisters, Lillian Besetzny, Delrose Sandelovic, Marcella Janak and infants Mildred and Rosalyn Bludau; and two daughters-in-law, Laura Kridler and Jodi Kridler.
Special thanks to Crown Hospice.
Funeral Mass Service (All attendees must wear masks): 11:30 am, Monday, December 28, 2020; with Visitation starting at 10 am; and Rosary starting at 11 am; at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville. Pallbearers: Andy Besetzny, Bruce Bludau, Ryan Kridler, Chase Hrncir, Blake Janak and James Herrington. Officiant: Msgr. John Peters. Memorials (in lieu of flowers): Sacred Heart School Operating Fund in Hallettsville, TX, Holy Cross School in Bay City, TX, MD Anderson, or Donor’s Choice. Entombment: Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery of Hallettsville.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.kubenafuneralhome.com
Kubena Funeral Home
Linda Kay Seerden Knezek
January 31, 1942 ~ June 23, 2020
Linda Kay Knezek, 78, of Sweeny, passed from this life on Tuesday, June 23, 2020. She was born on January 31, 1942 in Bay City, Texas.
Linda lived most of her life in Bay City and worked as a local realtor and taught school at Bay City ISD. She graduated from SW Texas State University and also earned her Master’s from the University of Houston.
She is preceded in death by her son, Joe Ted Evans.
Survivors include her husband, Frank Knezek, and daughters, Katherine Ann Vern and Susan Claire Thompson; stepdaughter, Lori Jo White; and stepsons, Lee and Travis Knezek. She also has many loving granddaughters, grandsons, step-granddaughters, step-grandsons, great-grandchildren, and step-great-grandchildren.
The family will hold a memorial service at a later date due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Triska Funeral Home
Georgie Ida (Grace)
Smith Knight
January 7, 1919 - August 7, 2020
Georgie Ida (Grace) Smith Knight, lovingly referred to as Gigs by her siblings, was born to George and Vola Smith on January 7, 1919 in Texarkana, Arkansas and passed away on August 7, 2020 in Bay City, Texas.
Her father was a tenant farmer so as a child, they traveled around from farm to farm picking cotton and struggled to keep food on the table. They lived through the depression but never lost their spirit and always seemed happy. Her brothers all played instruments (fiddles, guitars, banjos) and they all sat around singing and she was a fantastic yodeler. She was a homemaker and a seamstress and was dedicated to her children. Once her children moved out and started families of their own, she moved to Houston and won every chili cook-off within a 100-mile radius. She made many friends and danced with any good looking man that would ask her. She had a motto, “Life is too short to dance with an ugly man”. She retired from the Smiley Independent School District at the age of 75 and continued to work in her garden until she moved to Bay City in 2002. Her favorite place to be before dementia took hold of her was the Neon Moon in Bay City. She loved beer (Bud Light in a can only, no bottle please!!), playing dominoes, country western music and dancing. She was dancing until she was in her late nineties and singing and yodeling up until this past February. We wish to apologize to any and all bartenders that mistakenly opened her beer for her. She would give them hell for that and send the beer back.
She is preceded in death by her parents; 10 siblings; sons, Dennis and Roland Callaway; son-in-law, Bruce Broussard; daughter-in-law, Vickie Callaway; grandson, Bryan Callaway; and great granddaughter, Cassidy Rockwell.
She will be greatly missed and is survived by her only living sibling, her sister, Shirley Barfield; daughters, Amy Callaway, Sharon Broussard, Charlene Rendon and Shirley Owens and husband Mike; grandchildren, Russell Haydel, Rachel Rockwell, Michael Broussard, Melanie Budd, Mark King, Amanda Patton, Douglas Mulvaney, John Mulvaney, Heather Owens, Michael Owens, Donnie Rae Owens, Alex Owens, Dawnielle Westerman and Rebecca Callaway; great grandchildren, Jordan, Kennedy, Adam, Jacie, Brent, Alexis, Brenna, Michelle, Lizzy, Aubree, Mikayla, Emma, Kyra, Tori, Shane, Elijah, Skyy, Noah, Ryan and Presley; great-great grandchildren, Kalila and River; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
The family will receive friends and memories in Sweeny, Texas at the home of Amy Callaway and Charlene Rendon on Saturday, August 15, 2020 between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. The memorial will be held outdoor and all guests are asked and strongly encouraged to practice social distancing.
In lieu of flowers, please donate to help fight Alzheimer’s disease with the Alzheimer’s Association.
Special thanks to the Matagorda Nursing &
Rehabilitation in Bay City for their compassion and caring of
our dear mother for nine years.
Perry Dwayne Knight
May 24, 1974 - July 28, 2020
Funeral services for Perry Dwayne Knight, 46, of Bay City formerly of Wharton will be 11:00 AM on Monday, August 10, 2020 at St. James Missionary Baptist Church, 815 Mattie Street, Wharton, Texas 77488. Burial will follow at Sandridge Cemetery in Egypt, Texas. Due to Federal and Local guidelines, Face coverings/Mask and social distancing are required.
Visitation will be on Sunday, August 9, 2020 at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, 2500 Ave C, Bay City, Texas 77414 from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM.
Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home
Edith Evelyn Shimek Kocurek
Edith Shimek
Kocurek of Palacios died November 15, 2019 at the age of 90. She
was born May 2, 1929 in Hillje to the late Sigmund and Eunice
Dornak Shimek.
She survived by her daughters Freda Schneider and husband Roger
of El Maton and Dorene Kocurek of Freeport, daughter-in-law Jan
Kocurek, son Glenn Kocurek and wife Lana of Carthage,14
grandchildren, 38 great grandchildren, and 13 great great
grandchildren as well as a host of nieces and nephews. She was
preceded in death by her parents, husband Pete Kocurek, sons
Gary and Derrill Kocurek, sisters Martha Kutac, Lois Vasicek,
Elenora Collins Hunt, and Adeline Krenek.
Visitation will begin 4 pm Monday, November 18, 2019, at Triska
Funeral Home with a rosary being recited at 6 pm. The Funeral
Mass will be 10 am. Tuesday, November 19, 2019, at St. Philip
Catholic Church with Rev. Michael Rother officiating. Interment
will follow at Holy Cross Memorial Park.
Serving as pallbearers are Ricky Kocurek, Gaven Schneider, Derin
Schneider, Thomas Kocurek, Jerome Kocurek and Victor Eggemeyer.
Honorary pallbearers are Carl Sexton, Lloyd Kocurek and Peter
Sneden.
Memorial donations in memory of Edith Kocurek are the donor’s
choice.
Triska Funeral Home
In Loving Memory
Of
Lessie B Kocurek
October 18, 1924 ~ December 30, 2020
Lessie B Kocurek passed into the arms of the Lord on December 30, 2020 at Country Assisted Living in Danevang, TX. She was born October 18, 1924 in Weeks, AR to the late Stella & Charlie Sherrill. She was 96 years young.
Lessie along with her loving husband of 51 years, Stanley, was a longtime resident of Pledger, TX. After he became bedridden she took care of him at home for three years until his passing in 1997. She stayed in Pledger for 14 more years before moving to Wharton in 2011. Lessie is fondly remembered for always tending to her yard, picking up sticks, raking leaves and even cutting the grass well into her 90’s!
Lessie and Stanley enjoyed fishing as much as possible. She spent many hours washing oysters and cleaning shrimp at her kitchen sink. She also loved to quilt and embroider but, what she loved most was taking care of her daughter, Donna with downs syndrome. In addition to her parents and her husband Stanley, she was predeceased by her daughter Donna and her siblings Wilma Thurmund, Charlene Kocurek, Lula Mae Sherrill, Verlie Sherrill, Harold Sherrill and Charles Sherrill.
Lessie is survived by her children, Joyce Salas and her husband, Paul of Bryan, TX and Stanley Ray Kocurek of Wharton; brother, James Sherrill of Pledger; grandchildren, Matthew Salas of Bryan and Jenny Salas of Franklin, and 6 great grandchildren.
There will be a graveside service on Tuesday January 5, 2021 at 1:00 P.M. at Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery, Wharton.
Funeral services under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home.
Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com
Wharton Funeral Home
Richard Anthony Kocurek
July 07, 1954 - August 25, 2019
Richard Anthony Kocurek, 65, of Sweeny, passed away August 25, 2019. He was born July 7, 1954 in Palacios, TX to Paul M. and Dorothy Shimek Kocurek.
Richard is preceded in death by his father, and brother David Kocurek. He is survived by his mother; sisters Deborah (Glen) Barnett, Margaret (Fred) Pena, Angelina (Isidro) Castanon, and Melissa (Mike) Brown; brothers Jerome (Jackie) Kocurek, Thomas (Debbi) Kocurek, Andrew (Theresa) Kocurek, Timothy Kocurek, Patrick (Linda) Kocurek, Christopher (Ana) Kocurek; sister-in-law Rita Kocurek, and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends and relatives 5:30pm-8:00pm Wednesday, August 28 at Palacios Funeral Home. The Rosary will be 6:30pm that evening. Funeral services are 10:00am Thursday, August 29, 2019 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Palacios. Interment will follow at St. Peter’s Catholic Cemetery in Blessing. Pallbearers are Trent Kocurek, Nathan Kocurek, Kevin Kocurek, Christopher Kocurek, Nicholas Castanon, Arthur Castanon, Thomas Castanon, Daniel Castanon and Matthew Brown.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Richard’s name to Volunteer Services RSSLC, 2100 Preston, Richmond, TX 77469.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
Bettye Jean Koontz
December 25, 1927 - February 05, 2020
Bettye Jean Koontz, 92, of Palacios, passed away February 5, 2020. She was born December 25, 1927 in Minco, Oklahoma to Otto Horace Rogers and Sylvia Harris Rogers.
Bettye attended high school in Kansas, after which she moved to Chicago. She got into the newspaper business where she was able to socialize with celebrities including Cassius Clay, Sonny & Cher and Frank Sinatra. Bettye came to Texas in 1960 to visit family, and met and married Jim Koontz. She decided to leave the glamour of the big city, to stay in small-town Texas.
Bettye is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; daughter Kathy Laslie, and siblings Willa Koontz, Earl Rogers, Don Rogers, Wayne Rogers and Gary Rogers. She is survived by her children Pam Cornett, Scott Arndt (Seresa), Andy Arndt (Lana) and Becky Avila (Jose); siblings Patricia “Sissy” Mayo (Ted), Katherine Miller, Marshall Rogers (Georgia), and Rita Nauman (Barry); grandchildren Brandon Rupert (Dorcas), Jared Arndt, Adam Arndt, Steve Gullett (Jayme), Leashia Kruse, Crystal Allison (Eddie), Eric Arndt (Angela), Christian Arndt, Tawny Birzer (Adam), Tamika Arndt, Leah Arndt, Alex Frausto (DeAndra), Jimmy Frausto, Jacob Frausto, Ty Sidney and Andrea Avila, and 16 Great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held Monday, February 10, 2020 at Palacios Funeral Home with Rev. Shan Jackson officiating.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
March 18, 1940 - October 13, 2019
Joseph Victor “J.
V.” Korenek, 79, of El Campo, passed away October 13, 2019. He
was born on March 18, 1940 in El Campo to the late Joe and Alma
Urbanovsky Korenek. J.V. was a barber in El Campo for 59 years.
He is survived by his special companion of 35 years, Lillian
Strnadel of El Campo; brother, Alvin Korenek and wife Marilyn of
El Campo; daughter, Leslie Riedel and husband Ricky of Bay City;
sons, Mark Korenek and wife Jessica of Lake Jackson, Keith
Strnadel and wife Lynette of El Campo and Jared Strnadel and
wife Kelly of Richmond; grandchildren, Buck Brady and wife
Chrissy of Lake Jackson, Susan Fehmel and husband Jonathan of
Bay City, Robyn Mielsch and husband Trey of Sugar Valley, R.J.
Riedel and wife Wittney of Bay City, Marshall Sivills of San
Antonio and Blake, Blaine, Reid and Emily Strnadel, all of El
Campo and 12 great-grandchildren.
J.V. was preceded in death by his parents and son, Jay Korenek.
Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Tuesday, October 15 at Triska
Funeral Home. A Rosary will be recited at 1:30 p.m. Wednesday,
October 16 at St. Philip Catholic Church. Funeral Mass will
follow at 2 p.m. with the Rev. Michael Rother officiating.
Burial under the auspices of the American Legion Post 251 will
follow at Holy Cross Memorial Park.
Pallbearers will be Mike Watz, Keith Strnadel, Jared Strnadel,
Lane Brady, R.J. Riedel and Marshall Sivills. Honorary
pallbearers will be Jearle Lewing and Marc Welfel.
Memorial donations may be made to St. Philip Catholic Church.
Triska Funeral Home, El Campo, 979-543-3681
Sandra Diane Kovar
Thursday, May 18th, 1950 - Sunday,
July 28th, 2019
Sandra Diane Kovar, 69, of
Angleton, Texas, passed away on Sunday, July 28, 2019. She
is preceded in death by her parents Charles and Rosemary
Boatwright and parents-in-law, Emil G. and Frances Kovar.
Left to cherish her memory is her loving husband of 51
years, Ben Kovar; sons, Chuck Kovar and wife, Tonia, and
Matthew Kovar; brother, Gregory Boatwright and wife Julie;
sisters, Sherry Palat, Tammie Lopez and husband, Marcos;
grandson, Jensen Kovar, numerous nieces and nephews, and a
host of other family and dear friends.
Sandra was born on May 18, 1950, in Wharton, Texas. She
enjoyed going to game rooms, listening to country gospel and
going dancing whenever she could convince Ben. Strong in her
faith, Sandra would share the word of the Lord with anyone
who would listen. She was a loving wife, mother, and
“Meemaw” to her grandson Jensen. She will be greatly missed
by all who knew and loved her.
A visitation for Sandra will be held at Palms Funeral Home,
on Sunday, August 4, 2019, from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The
graveside service will take place at
Hawley Cemetery,
Blessing, Texas, on Monday, August 5, 2019, at 10:30 am.
Online condolences can be left for the Kovar family at www.palmsfuneralhome.com.
Palms Funeral Home
Billy Joe Krenek
December 03, 1949 - October 01, 2019
Billy Joe Krenek, of Bay City, passed away at the age of 69 on October 1, 2019. He was born December 3, 1949 in Wharton, TX to Billy Ray and Betty Sue Krenek.
B.J. is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife Celine Krenek; daughter Shelley Grant and husband Bryan of Pasadena, TX; sons Chad Krenek and wife Mayra of Bay City, TX, and Scott Covell of Houston, TX; sister Sue Krenek Milberger and husband Arthur of Bay City, brother Gary Krenek and wife Carlisa of Bay City, and grandchildren Haylee, Samantha, Savannah, Francisco, Jose, Leelonnie, Hunter, and Shiloh.
B. J. was an agent for Farmer’s Insurance Group in Bay City for over 30 years and was active in the Lion’s Club. He was an avid outdoorsman and could often be found wandering the surf or fishing in Matagorda Bay when he was not in the woods hunting. B.J. was always at his best when he was with his family and spending time with his grandchildren.
The family will receive friends and relatives 5:00 pm-7:00 pm Friday, October 4 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Services are 2:00pm Saturday, October 5, 2019 at St. Peter Lutheran Church (3000 9th Street), with Vicar Cassandra Borges officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers are Danny Gerken, Mark Giese, Brian Sulak, Ryan Thomas, Tommy Thomas, and Harvey Horelica. Pallbearers were hunters at Troy Krenek’s Sheridan Hunting Lease where B.J always said was his favorite place away from home. Honorary pallbearers are Vernon Sulak, Tommy Sulak, Stephen Sulak, Steven Kunz, Brad Acenzi, and Brad Klepac.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Peter Lutheran Church or M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Frank Krobot &
Josephine Krobot - Roselawn
Memorial Park - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Josephine Krobot
Funeral services for John Wesley Krobot, 50, of Wadsworth will be held at 10 am Friday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home with the Brother Rod Tate officiating. Burial will be in Roselawn Memorial Park, Van Vleck.
Mr. Krobot was born June 24, 1936, in Boling to Frank and Josephine Kostelnik Krobot and died May 26, 1987.
A former resident of Bay City, he resided in Wadsworth for 15 years.
Survivors include his wife, Billie Jean Krobot of Wadsworth; two sons, John David Krobot of Wadsworth and Richard Neil Krobot of Bay City, Dorothy Beard of Bay City; two brothers, William F. “Bill” Krobot of Van Vleck and Irvin F. Krobot of Bay City; and two granddaughters.
Pallbearers include Sidney Armatt, Rick White, Rick Miller, Glen McCarthy, Clark Gray and Curtis Dykes.
Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home.
Daily Tribune, May 1987
Obituary courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Irvin F. Krobot
- Roselawn Memorial Park - Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Adelia Kubeczka
May 11, 1921 - October 2, 2019
Funeral Mass for Adelia Kubeczka, 98, of Rosenberg, Texas will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, October 7, 2019 at Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Rosenberg, with interment following at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Rosenberg.
Visitation will be held from 8:30 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. followed by a rosary, and then mass on Monday at the church.
Adelia was born May 11, 1921 in Pleak, Texas to Joe and Ludmilla Novak Barcak. She married her husband of 66 years in 1941 and together they owned successful restaurants in the local area including KFC and K-2 Steakhouse in Bay City, Texas, which is still in operation.
Adelia’s passions in life included her family, her Catholic faith, fashion, The Nutcracker Market, playing dominoes and Chinese checkers, politics, ladies’ luncheon, and her beloved Houston Texans (football season). She was known for her infectious smile and resemblance to Queen Elizabeth which she would respond, “I’m older. She looks like me”. Adelia went to be with the Lord on October 2, 2019.
Survivors include three children, Beverly Shelton and husband Boyd, Gary Kubeczka and wife Briseida, and Patricia Kubeczka; six grandchildren, Adam Kubeczka, Claire Carter, Kyle Kubeczka, Jordan Kubeczka, Briauna Lopez, and Allan Kubeczka; three great grandchildren, Seth Carter, Mason Kubeczka and Jase Kubeczka.
She was preceded in death by her parents, John and Ludmilla Barcak; husband, Adam Kubeczka; sister, Alma Lee Mensik; two sons, Daniel and Glenn Kubeczka; and grandson, Aaron Kubeczka.
In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to one of the following: WoundedWarriorProject.org; stjude.org; or shrinershospitalforchildren.org.
Tributes and words of condolence may be left for the family at www.davisgreenlawnfh.com
Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home, 3900 B.F. Terry Blvd., Rosenberg, Texas 77471.
Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home, Rosenberg, Texas
John Henry Kubosh
December 23, 1957 - August 23, 2020
John Henry Kubosh, 62, passed away August 23, 2020 at his home in Pledger. He was born December 23, 1957 in Wharton, TX to the late Henry John Kubosh and Connie Kubosh.
He is survived by his loving wife Stella Kubosh; siblings Connie & Richard Kalkomey, Craig & Irene Kubosh and Peggy & Gene Tumlinson; his step-children, who adored him, Jennifer & Joel Mejias, Sandy & Juan Cruz and Damacio & Sabrina Vargas III; grandchildren Chris Mejias, John Vargas, Justen Mejias, Jordan Mejias, Sandra Cruz, Jayson Mejias, Juliana Cruz, Emmalea Vargas, Alayna Cruz, Kristy Vargas and Dilen Vargas and great-grandchildren Xavier Vargas and Elena Vargas.
John will be missed dearly. He was a very generous man who loved life. He loved nature and taking rides on the beach. He had a family that loved him more than anything. He was “Our John”.
Visitation will begin at 1:00 PM Wednesday, August 26, 2020 at the Apostolic Pentecostal Church. Funeral service will be at 2:00 PM with Rev. Kevin Blake officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Juan Cruz, Russell Peterson, Brian Benavides, Larry Dye, Paul Bickham, Robert Tabares and Charlie Tabares.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Marker photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Leo Joe Kucera, 83, passed away Thursday, January 2, 2020. He was born in Ganado, Texas on July 25, 1936 to Joe and Agnes Kucera.
He is preceded in death by his parents, his brother Johnny Kucera, step-son Steven Wyer, and his grandson Colt Straley.
He is survived by his wife JoAnn Kucera, his children David Largent, Lee Ann Miller, Randy Kucera, and Neva Garnette-Kucera, as well as his step-children, Todd Garnette, Monte Garnette, Toni Deanne Hubbard, Tracey Red, and Terry Garnette. In addition, he is also survived by his siblings, Emil Kucera, Jody Kucera, and Rose Tupa-Piegsa.
He is also survived by numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
In his honor, a celebration of life will be held at 2 p.m. on January 18, at the First Baptist Church of Inez.
Cremation Services Entrusted to Victoria Mortuary & Cremation Services, 361-578-4646.
Jackson County Herald-Tribune, January 15, 2020
Virginia Lee Kutach
December 11, 1942 - February 25, 2021
Virginia age 78 passed away peacefully at Matagorda Regional Medical Center on Feb. 25, 2021. She is survived by her sons Stephen and wife Christie of Richmond, Michael of Richmond and Brian and his wife Patty of Pottsville Arkansas. Grandchildren Krystal Garza of Wharton, Kathleen Crayton and husband Kevin of Friendswood, Zachary Zepeda of Boling, Katelyn Micak and husband Jacob of Bellville, Brittany Sabula and husband Nick of Katy and Jessica Hake and husband Justin of Conway, Arkansas, her great grandchildren Kendra Garza, Penelope and Axel Crayton and Copeland and Keegan Mlcak.
She is also survived by her sisters Barbara Kain and husband George, Peggy Pooley and husband Henry, Debbie Stephens and husband Michael and Carolyn Noessel. Mrs. Kutach was preceded in death by her husband Ervin, her daughter Carol Zepeda, her brother Harold White and her parents Herschel and Annie Newlin. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
Services under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home, 515 E. Boling Hwy. Wharton, TX 77488 (979) 532-3410
Wharton Funeral Home