IGNAC BACA

Moulton News, 25 Nov 1896

Passed Away.

Ignaz Baca died at his home a few miles from Shiner Wednesday evening at 3 o’clock of consumption. He had been in poor health for a long time and his death was not unexpected. His wife died two years ago. The deceased left seven children; three boys and four girls. His eldest daughter is Mrs. John Kaspar. Mr. Baca was 48 years of age. He moved to this country in 1866 and settled in Fayette county. From there he moved here about eight years ago and bought one hundred acres of land. This he improved until now it is a valuable place.

Mr. Baca was a man of thorough integrity and he was highly respected by all who knew him.

Shiner Gazette, 20 Jan 1897, page 1

Judge Haidusek was here from LaGrange last week probating the will of his deceased brother-in-law, Mr. Baca, of Shiner vicinity.

Ignac Baca is buried in the Baca Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

BALLARD Infant

Colorado Citizen, 24 Dec 1891, page 3

WEIMAR LOCAL MATTERS

A feeling of deep sorrow came over many citizens of Weimar who on last Sunday morning met Mr. Wm. Ballard, formerly of Sublime, at the depot with the corpse of his baby girl. Mr. Ballard moved from Sublime sometime last September with an invalid wife and several children to San Antonio, in hope of regaining health for his wife, but of no avail. She grew worse and died in May. He was then left alone in a great city without friends and very little money with two boys and two girls, all too young to be any assistance to him and it was hard to make ends meet, when a few days ago he was stricken with another blow by his youngest girl taking sick and although all was done that could have been done she died. He determined to return to his his home in Sublime and brought the reamins of his daughter with him. Mr. B. secured a hack and left with the corpse and his three chidlren and will bury the deceased near Sublime and will make that place his future home.

JOHN W. BALLARD

Weimar Mercury
27 Aug 1898

Hallettsville, Tex., Aug. 23—County Judge Paulus was yesterday telephoned from Oakland that a man by the name of Ballard, who resided near Oakland, but in Lavaca county, was suffering from hydrophobia and needed attention. He at once sent Deputy Sheriff Rees to attend him, but was later telephoned that Ballard had died in great agony, and that the county would have to bury him.

Several week since Ballard, who farmed on the place of B. Miller, had a terrible fight with a dog, which attacked and severely bit him before he could kill it with an axe. he then said he was afraid he would go mad and requested to be killed as soon as hydorphobia developed. After he became sick, people in the neighborhood were afraid of him, and yesterday requested the county authorities to take charge of him.

Since Ballard was bitten several other people, including four small children, in almost the same neighborhood, were bitten, and although a madstone was procured and used by them, much uneasiness is now felt on their account.

OAKLAND NEWS

John W. Ballard, a workman on Ben Miller's farm two miles south of here, in Lavaca county, died from hydrophobia Monday night. He was bitten by a mad dog six weeks ago, and suffered intense agonies during his last few hours.

Weimar Mercury, 3 Sep 1898, page 6

BALLARD'S DEATH

Halletsville, Texas, August 25. John W. Ballard, the man who died from hydrophobia in the upper part of this country, was a stranger and nothing of his previous life is known. He was woring on the farm of B. Miller as a day-laborer and lived in a cabin on the place, cooking for himself. He was about 37 years of age and a big, healthy man; he had tattooed on his left arm a Texas star with saber struck through a heart and on his right arm a United States flag, ship and anchor.

Among his effects was found a certificate showing that he had joined the Woodmen of the World order in Yoakum last January.

While cooking his breakfast in the yard nine weeks ago he was attacked and severely bitten by a strange dog, which he caught and held until a neighbor came and killed it.

Last Thursday he began to complain, but said he had chills and fever. A physician was called to see him and he was up and about his cabin until Monday, when he began to have spasms. A negro woman, who was waiting on him was told by him to leave the place, but she waited until he in a spasm grabbed her and tore fom her most of her clothes. Several people went near the house, but feared to go to him. He in his spasm broke up and threw out of the house most of its contents in the last spasm he fell out of the house and rolled some hundred yards into an ant-bed, where he died. Just before having the last spasm he wrote a note, which he waved at the parties who were watching near the house. The note said: "Goodbye, darling Mollie; meet me in heaven."

same issue on page 7:

Horrible Hydrophobia.

John Ballard was an industrious farmer of the County Line or Wellersburg neighborhood. One day about two months ago while he was working in a field a stray dog came by and attacked him, biting him severely. Ballard caught the savage dog and held it, and the animal lacerated on of his hands fearfully. A man near by heard Ballard's cry for help and he killed the dog with an ax. The dog was promptly killed (a grave mistake) and Ballard's wounds healed rapidly. No evil results were apprehended, and the man resumed his work. Monday afternoon Ballard was picking cotton in the old Miller place north of Sublime, when suddenly those near him noticed he was acting strangely. He looked vicious and gave utterance to a sound that was like the growl of a dog. Without saying a word he started on a run across the field, and after running several hundred yards he fell dead, his features showing all horrible convulsions of hydrophgobia. The dog belonged to Will Dillard. Gus Miller killed the animal. This is another solemn warning to those who persist in having a lot of worthless dogs on their premises. —Halletsville Herald.

on same page:

Hallettsville, Texas, Aug. 24.

. . . Ballard, the man who died from hydrophobia, was yesterday buried by the county. No one knows anything about him or his relatives. Among his effects was a certificate of membership in the Woodmen of the World, showing that he joined said order in Yoakum last January.

FRANK BALUSEK

Weimar Mercury, 13 Oct 1921, page 3.

Old Settler of Sublime Section is Dead

Mr. Frank Balusek Sr., one of the oldest residents of our section, died last Monday, Sept. 26, and was buried Tuesday, the 27th, at 2 p. m. in the Vsetin cemetery, John Mocek officiated. He was born in Meheren, Austria, and came to the United State, in 1851, settling in Washington county, Texas. In 1871 he came to Lavaca County to the Vsetin section. Mr. Balusek has been in ill health for several weeks and due to his old age he became very weak and death resulted. At the time of his death he was aged 87 years. He was twice married, his first wife (nee Miss Maria Hutka), preceding him in death some 27 years; also one son Thomas died about 3 years ago. In 1894 he was married to Miss Annie Blaha, and besides his griefstricken wife he leaves to mourn his death six sons and four daughters.— Sublime cor. Hallettsville New Era.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

LOUIS BALUSEK

Weimar Mercury, 7 Jan 1988

Louis Balusek Funeral Held, Vsetin Church

Funeral services for Louis P. Balusek, 83, of Hallettsville were held Thursday, Dec. 31, at the Czech Moravian Brethren Church in Vsetin, with burial in the Vsetin Cemetery. Rev. Henry Beseda officiated.

Balusek died Tuesday, Dec. 29, in Colorado-Fayette Medical Center.

Born Jan. 5, 1904, in Lavaca County, he was a son of Frank and Annie Lee Balusek. He was a member of the Czech Moravian Brethren Church.

Surviving are his wife, Hermina Balusek of Hallettsville; a son, Eugene Balusek of Weimar; a sister, Mary Fojt of Hallettsville; and one grandchild.

Two daughters and a grandson preceded him in death.

Serviving as pallbearers were Marvin Fojt, Delmar Fojt, Joe Balusek, Erwin Holy, Alton Sevcik and Clifton Sevcik.

ANTON BANNERT

The Shiner Gazette, Thursday, April 27, 1939

Anton Bannert

Anton Bannert, aged 81 years, 1 month and 17 days, passed away Thursday, April 20, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Anna Drozd in Agua Dulce, Texas.

He lived in Shiner for about 35 years, moving to Agua Dulce 4 years ago where he made his home.

Funeral services were held in Agua Dulce in the Catholic Church and burial took place in Bishop.

Mr. Bannert is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Anna Drozd of Agua Dulce, two sons, Adolph of El Campo and Joe of Rowena, 18 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Those who attended the funeral from Shiner were:  Mrs. Herman Weitzel, Mrs. Henry Weitzel and children, Louis Bannert and family, Mrs. and Mrs. Frank Bannert, and Mr. August Lindberger.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

EDDIE LEE BANNERT

The Shiner Gazette, April 17, 1941

EDDIE LEE BANNERT

Our hearts go out in sympathy to Mr. and Mrs. Louis Bannert in the loss of their darling little baby son, Eddie Lee, who passed out of this world last Thursday, April 10, at 9:30 a.m.

The little boy was 1 month and 13 days old, having been in this world just long enough to endear himself to his parents, brothers and sisters. His little soul has gone to live with its Maker, forever spared of the trials and sorrows which await everyone in this Vale of Tears.

The funeral was held Friday, at 2 p.m. from the Eschberger Funeral Parlor, Rev. Schuetze officiating. The Lutheran Choir sang beautifully. Interment was made in the Shiner City Cemetery.

Eddie Lee is survived by his parents, three sisters and one brother, Laverne June, Willie Hazel, Eileen and Louis Jr., also his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Aug. Linbrugger of Moulton and Mr. and Mrs. H. Weitzel of Shiner.

We extend our heartfelt sympathy to those grieved by the loss of their little darling. May the good Lord comfort them.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

LOUIS ANTON BANNERT, SR.

The Shiner Gazette, Thursday, September 25, 1941

LOUIS A. BANNERT

Funeral services for Louis A. Bannert, who met accidental death, on Thursday, September 18, at 1:20 a.m., were held at the Eschenburg Funeral Parlor, Friday, Sept. 19 at 3 p.m. Rev. R. Schuetze was in charge of the religious rites. The Lutheran Choir rendered hymns at the funeral home and the Shiner City Cemetery where interment was made.

Pall bearers were:  Fred Cook, Walter Paul, Gus Seim, Otto Turek, Wm. Goetz and Ike McElroy.

Louis A. Bannert was born near Weimar and at the time of his passing had attained the age of 35 years and 5 days. At the age of 3 years his parents moved to Moulton, where they remained for 7 years and since then have made their home in Shiner. He attended the convent school at Moulton and at Shiner.

On Sept. 12, 1928 he was united in marriage to Miss Elsie Linbrugger at Moulton. Five children blessed their home, one son, Eddie Lee, aged 1 month and 13 days passed away 5 months ago. Surviving children are:  Willie Hazel, Laverne June, Eileen Lois and Louis A. Jr. Other survivors besides his wife and children are: his mother and step-father, Mr. and Mrs. Herman Weitzel, his sister, Mrs. Henry Weitzel, one half-sister, Bernice Weitzel and one step-brother, Henry Weitzel, all of Shiner; one brother, Frank Bannert of Victoria and one step-sister, Mrs. J. W. Sconyers of Nordheim.

A large concourse of relatives and friends accompanied the remains to the grave, where a beautiful blanket of floral tributes covered his last resting place.

Deceased was a man of genial disposition, a hard worker, devoted to his family and his death will be keenly felt.

We extend sincere sympathy to the bereaved. May God comfort them in their sorrow.

Among the out-of-town who attended the funeral were: Mr. and Mrs. Frank Bannert and children, Victoria; Mr. and Mrs. Raymond Drozd and children, Agua Dulce; Mrs. Frank Futschik, Mr. Julius Futschik, Rosebud; Mr. and Mrs. Adolf Bannert, Mrs. Elizabeth Rossmussen El Campo; Mrs. Emil Kainer, Miss Mary Louis Bludau, Mr. Alfred Rabbe, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Otto and children, Mr. Julius Haas and daughters Miss Helen and Marie, Weimar; Mr. J. W. Sconyers, Mr. B. Meinert, Nordheim; Mr. and Mrs. Leon Linbrugger, Mr. August Linbrugger Jr., Houston; Mrs. L. J. F. Meyer, Galveston; Mr. and Mrs. Gus Zeimer, Mr. and Mrs. H. F. Sauermilch, Mr. and Mrs. Johnnie Zaiontz, Yorktown; Mrs. Annie Neimeyer and Ada, Mr. Louis Neimeyer, New Braunfels, Texas; Mr. and Mrs. William Hoffman, Cuero; Mr. and Mrs. W. H. Kuhn, Yoakum; Mr. and Mrs. August Linbrugger, Moulton; Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Havemann, Mrs. Hattie Bartos, Mr. Frank Friebel, Orange Grove, Texas; Mrs. Louis Schulenburg and son, Kenedy, Texas; Mr. and Mrs. F. F. Wotipka, Flatonia, Texas.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

RUD. BANNERT

Weimar Mercury
3 May 1918

DEATH OF RUD. BANNERT

The little son of Mrs. Bannert died last Saturday night after a short illness, aged only two years. The little one was laid to rest Sunday evening in the Catholic Cemetery, the burial service being performed by Rev. Father Wolf. A goodly number of relatives and friends were present to witness the last sad rites. We extend sympathy to the bereaved family.—Shiner Gazette.

PERMELIA JANE BARNETT

Weimar Mercury, 11 Apr 1891, page 2

Died, at the residence of W. P. Ballard, in Halletsville, at 2:15 o'clock a. m., Saturday, April 4, 1891, Mrs. Permelia Jane Barnett, aged 64 years. The burial services were held at the Methodist church at 4 o'clock Saturday evening. The interment took place at the city cemetery. Mrs. Barnett had been seriously ill for some time back, suffering with general debility. The news of the tragic death of her son Thomas was announced to her the day before her death. The New Era extends sympathy to the bereaved relatives.—New Era.

ANNIE BROSCH BAROS

Victoria Advocate, 12 Mar 1972, page 6A

Mrs. Baros

Advocate News Service

YOAKUM -- Mrs. Annie Baros, 84, of Route 3, Yoakum died at 4:35 p.m. Saturday in the local hospital.

Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Sunday at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday from St. Ann's Catholic Church with the Rev. Michael O'Shaughnessy officiating.

Burial will be in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery.

Survivors include the husband, Englehard Baros of Yoakum; three sons, George Baros of Poteet, Gerharde and Richard Baros of Yoakum; six sisters, Mrs. Charles Stasny of Houston, Mrs. George Suhr Mrs. Alfred Schroeder and Mrs. Mihilda Wendel of Yoakum, Mrs. Gladney Hariell and Mrs. Richard Zerr of San Antonio; and a brother Charles Brosch of San Antonio.

Contributed by Matt Cross

BERNICE E. TILL BAROS

Victoria Advocate, 25 Jan 1997, page 14A

BERNICE E. BAROS

YOAKUM - Bernice E. Baros, 76, of Yoakum died Friday, Jan. 24, 1997.

She was born Dec. 30, 1920, in DeWitt County to the late John J. and Alma Eschenburg Till. She was a homemaker and a retired sales clerk of Marek Cleaners and Dwight Cleaners. She was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

Survivor: husband, Gerharde J. Baros.

Services will be 3 p.m. Sunday at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, the Rev. Tim Van Antwerp officiating.

Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery. Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum, 293-2333.

Memorials: Holy Cross Lutheran Church or donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

GEHARDE J. BAROS

Victoria Advocate, 23 Apr 1998, page 12A

GEHARDE J. BAROS

YOAKUM - Geharde J. Baros, 83, of Yoakum, died Tuesday, April 21, 1998.

He was born Oct. 6, 1914, in DeWitt County, to the late Englehart and Annie Brosch Baros. He served in the U.S. Army in World War II. He was a grocery store clerk for Boysens, Wittes, and Elo's stores and was a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

Survivor: brother, Richard Baros of Yoakum.

Preceded in death by: wife, Bernice E. Till Baros; infant sister, Gladys Baros; and brother, George Baros.

Services will be 10 a.m. today at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, the Rev. Tim Van Antwerp officiating.

Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery. Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum, 293-2333.

Pallbearers: Alfred Baros, Wayne Ramert, Larry Jirkovksy, J.T. Byrnes, Dwight Byrnes and Alan Jirkovsky.

Contributed by Matt Cross

GRACE TURK BAROS

The Shiner Gazette, Oct 27, 1983

Mrs. Grace Baros Rites Held

Mrs. Grace Baros of Gonzales died at 12:02 p.m. Tuesday, October 18, 1983 in the Shiner Hospital at the age of 87 years, 9 months and 22 days.

Funeral services were held Thursday, Oct 20, at 3 p.m. at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel in Shiner. The Rev. Warren Hornung officiated.

Burial followed in the Shiner City Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Jake Turk, George Herder, Harry Meyer, Roger Dreyer, John Michalec and Buddy Lindeman.

Mrs. Baros was born on December 26, 1895, to George and Sadie Ella (Cole) Turk. She was reared on the family homestead farm in the Dreyer community and attended the Dreyer School.

On Nov. 4, 1919, she was married to John Baros at Gonzales and the couple first made their home in the Dreyer area. In 1929 they moved to Moulton where they resided continuously with the exception of a few years in Gonzales. her husband, a retired rancher, died 22 years ago on Oct 14, 1961.

She is survived by a daughter, Mrs. C.J. (Ethel) Logan of San Antonio; four sons, Clyde and Bob Baros of Gonzales, Dr. James A. Baros of San Antonio, Gordon W. Baros of Shiner; one sister, Mrs. Ida Wendel of Shiner; 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her father, Oct. 8, 1918; her mother, May 2, 1947; two sisters Mrs. Walter (Gertrude) Wendel, June 13, 1969; Mrs. Walter (Eva B.) Herder, Mar 17, 1980; four brothers, Frank Turk, Sept. 23, 1943; James Turk, Jan 29, 1969; and Johnnie E. Turk, Jan 13, 1976; and Sam F. Turk, July 29, 1983.

Contributed by Rebecca Herder

ANTON BARTA

Weimar Mercury
November 16, 1896, pg 4

Mr. Anton Barta, aged about 19 years, brother of our Mr. John Barta, jr., died at Hackberry, Lavaca county, and Monday night after a brief illness of typhoid fever. His remains were brought to Weimar Tuesday afternoon and laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery, Father Bruklen performing the burial services. Our sincere sympathy is extended the bereaved relatives in the loss they have sustained.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

MAYME FALTISEK BARTA

Victoria Advocate, 2 Feb 2003

Flatonia - Mayme Faltisek Barta, 91, of Flatonia, died Friday, Jan. 31, 2003.

She was born Aug. 13, 1911, in Moulton, to the late Frank and Mary Brosch Faltisek. She was a seamstress and a Catholic.

Survivors: daughter, Earlene Cushman of Muldoon; son, Harvey Barta of Pinehurst; sister, Evelyn Antrich of Houston; brother, Jerry Faltisek of Flatonia; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: parents; sisters, Lillie Greive and Viola Bonorden; and brother, Ted Faltisek.

Visitation will be noon today at Smith Funeral Home chapel in Flatonia.

A rosary will be recited 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home chapel.

Services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the Rev. Charles Carolan officiating.

Burial will be at Moulton Catholic Cemetery in Moulton. Smith Funeral Home, Flatonia, 361-865-3311.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MACKENZIE BARTEL

Weimar Mercury
August 31, 1895 pg 2

NEIGHBORHOOD NOTES.

News Specials: Shiner, Lavaca Co., Tex., Aug. 27—Mackenzie Bartel , a Bohemian farmer about 50 years old, was run over and instantly killed by a freight train one mile west of Shiner at about 8:30 o’clock last night. The body was horribly mangled, the legs, arms, and head being cut off. Mr. Bartel had been in town yesterday and walked home along the track and  is supposed to have sat down and gone to sleep, and as the accident occurred on a curve on an upgrade the engineer could not see him until he was right upon him and it was too late to stop.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

FRANK W. BARTHELS

Victoria Advocate, 13 Jan 1966, page 16A

Frank W. Barthels

Advocate News Service

YOAKUM - Funeral will be held Thursday morning for Frank William Barthels, 47, an employe of To'Rel Leather Industries, who died at 8:30 p.m. Tuesday in a local hospital.

Services will be at 9 a.m. from Buffington Funeral Home and at 9:15 a.m. from St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. John Matocha officiating.

Burial will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

A rosary was recited Wednesday night.

Mr. Barthels was born Nov. Nov. 20, 1918, in Yoakum.

Survivors include the wife, Lillian; a son, David of Houston; a daughter, Nancy, of the home; his mother, Mrs. Emil Els, also of Yoakum, and a brother, Eddie, of Gonzales.

Contributed by Matt Cross

LAVADA SMOTHERS CHAPPELL BARTLETT

[newspaper name and date unknown]

Obit-LaVada Smothers Chappell Bartlett died in Houston on Feb. 17, 2005. She was born to Stepp and Gennieve Smothers in Hallettesville, TX on Feb. 5, 1924. She married Jeter Dee Chappell on March 11, 1945. They had three daughters, Vada Kay, Kem Dee, and Koy Vee Chappell. My mother has left two daughters behind and 6 grandchildren. My sister, Kay, preceded her in death in August, 1968. Her grandchildren are: Heidi Anne Barlow, James Eric Barlow, Joseph Thomas Murphy, Timothy Michael Murphy, Grace Anna Barlow, and Madeline Denise Murphy.

Contributed by Nena Smothers

ANGELIA BARTSCH

Moulton News, 27 Jan 1897

DEATH OF MRS. BARTSCH.

Mrs. Frank Bartsch of Dilworth, died Saturday night at eight o’clock of pneumonia. She had been suffering from an attack of grip and pneumonia followed with fatal results. She was twenty-eight years old and leaves a husband and four children to mourn her loss. Her youngest child is only eight months old. The funeral took place from the Catholic church at Shiner, Monday.

Angelia Bartsch, 29 May 1868 – 27 Jan 1897, is buried in Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Cemetery, Shiner. Contributed by Matt Cross

KAROLINE BARTSCH

Moulton News, 10 Feb 1897

MRS. KAROLINE BARTSCH.

Mrs. Karoline Bartsch died Tuesday of last week after about a months illness of the grip. She was born June 21st 1832. She leaves a husband and five children.

Contributed by Matt Cross

GEORGE E. BASHAM, JR.

Victoria Advocate
2 Jul 2007

GEORGE E. BASHAM JR.

YOAKUM - George E. Basham Jr., age 75, of Koerth, died on Saturday, June 30, 2007.

He was born on Dec. 21, 1931, in San Antonio, to George E. and Myrtle Thompson Basham.

He was a painter and a member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church.

Survivors: children, Sharon L. Jemelka of Koerth, Larry Basham and wife Mary of Yoakum, Karen Green and husband Larry of Yoakum, Kathy Hollingsworth and husband Corbert of Forest, Miss., Diana Darilek and husband Donald of Yoakum, Anna Frazer and husband Tim of Koerth, Susan Hermes and husband Butch of Ezzell, Theresa McGee and husband Russell of Lake, Miss., and James Basham of Yoakum; 23 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren; brothers, Glen Thomas Collier of Koerth, Carroll Donald Basham and Charles Basham, both of San Antonio; sisters, Margaret Horejsi and Betty Pollock, both of San Antonio, Darlene Underwood of Sacramento, Calif., and JoAnn Neal of San Antonio; special caregivers, Bernice Sevcik, Audrey Loos, and employees of All Med Sales & Rental.

Preceded in death by: father, George E. Basham Sr; mother, Myrtle Basham Collier and stepfather, Glen Robert Collier; and wife and soulmate, Martha Lee Frazer Basham (they married on Aug. 28, 1952 and she died on March 8, 2004); brothers, Henry "Hank" Basham and Jarrell Basham; sisters, Patsy Engle, Doris Collier; and grandson, Jason Frazer.

Family visitation will be at 5 p.m. on Tuesday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Koerth. A wake service will be at 7:30 p.m. at the church.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church with the Rev. Charles Sonnier officiating. Burial will be at Koerth Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Shane Jemelka, Brett Hollingsworth, Darrell Frazer, Bruce Collier, John Frazer, Edward Jemelka, Westley Ferry, Michael Guajardo.

Honorary pallbearers: Glen Thomas Collier III, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, Dr. John McNeill, Dr. Juan Llompart, Dr. Joseph E. Burks, Staff of Citizens Medical Center emergency room, Medical ICU, 6 floor north.

Online guestbook may be signed at www.thielecooper.com.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, Yoakum, 361-293-5656.

Submitted by Regena Williamson

MARY BAUMANN

Shiner Gazette, 21 Nov 1906

-- Two deaths occured [sic] last Wednesday; Mrs. Mary Baumann, wife of Henry Baumann and daughter of Mr. Frank Stock, died at the age of 23 years. The same day Mr. Mathias Grill died, aged 78 years. Both of the deceased were buried in the Catholic cemetery by Rev. Father Hudecek. The bereaved ones have the sympathy of all relatives and friends.

Contributed by Matt Cross

PHOEBE EINKAUF MILLER GREER BAZAR

Tribune
7 Jul 1967

Mrs. Phoebe Bazar

Mrs. Phoebe Miller Bazar, 83, died at 6:30 a.m. Saturday in a Houston nursing home.

Mrs. Bazar was born Aug 17, 1883 in Lavaca County. She was a member of the Aldine Baptist Church in Houston.

Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Sunday at Kubena Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Harold Adams of Houston officiating. Burial was in the Pagel Settlement Cemetery near Hallettsville.

Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Willie Mae Hilton of Simonton and Mrs. Johnnie Mae Rice of Houston; two sons, Jesse Miller of Houston and J. D. Miller of Falls River, Mass.; a sister, Mrs. Henry Pagel of San Antonio; a brother, Henry Einkauf of Bay City; ten grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson.

W. H. BEAUMIER

Weimar Mercury, 11 Jan 1908, page 1

The deplorable tragedy at Hallettsville Thursday afternoon of last week, in which Editor W. R. Beaumier of the Hallettsville Herald was shot and killed by his wife, was a shock to the Mercury editor and to this community where the deceased visited recently on a prospecting trip. The cause of the tragedy is alleged to have been insane jealousy on the part of the wife. She was arrested, admitted the killing (particulars of which are given on another page of this issue), and at her examining trial was released under $2000 bond to await the action of the grand jury. Editor Beaumier was a genial, wholesouled man, a versatile business man and a natural friend-maker.  His tragic death is deeply deplored. Considerable sympathy is felt at Hallettsville for Mrs. Beaumier, so we understand, many people feeling that her action was not without cause.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

FANNIE MAE BECK

Undated newspaper clipping

Mrs. Fannie Beck Rites Held Here

Funeral sercices for Mrs. Fannie Mae Beck, 62, were held here Friday, Nov. 11, 3 p.m. at Buffington Chapel, the Rev. Wayne G. Smith officiating. Burial was in Oak Grove Cemetery.

Mrs. Beck, widow of the late Frank Beck, former operator of the Beck Funeral Home in Yoakum, died here Nov. 9, 7:40 p.m.

She is survived by one sister, Mrs. Philip Grifno of Yoakum; two brothers, Henry W. Hale of Port O’Conner and Andrew G. Reeves of Glidden; two nephews and three nieces.

Pallbearers were Tom Ridgeway, Monroe Rinn, Sid Lowrance, Harry Thiele, Scott Moore and I.M. Stout.

Contributed by Cara Canik

FRANK XAVIER BECK

Undated newspaper clipping

Services for Frank X. Beck to be Held HereAt 3 p.m. Thursday

Well-Known Local Mortician Stricken by Death Tuesday

[Illegible] of Yoakum was shocked by the sudden and unexpected death of one of its best known and [illegible] beloved citizens the passing of Frank Xavier Beck aged 47 years, 10 months and11 days.

Interment will be in Oak Grove Cemetery Thursday with services at 3:00 p.m.

Mr. Beck was stricken with a heart attack five miles from Shiner while conducting a funeral shortly before 4 p.m. Tuesday. The funeral procession had just driven onto the highway off a wet country road and Mr. Beck had stopped his car to remove the mud chains. As he stooped down to unfasten the chains, he was stricken and died immediately. He was rushed to Shiner for medical attention, but was pronounced dead by the examining physician. Father Bily, assistant pastor of the Catholic Church in Shiner was with him at the time of death.

Services for Mr. Beck will be conducted from the Beck Chapel at 3 p.m. Thursday and at the Methodist Church immediately following, Interment will be made in Oak Grove Cemetery.

Mr. Beck came to Texas with his parents in 1909 at the age of 16 years, from Port Clinton, Ohio. The family settled at Rock Island, but moved here to Yoakum one year later. He was married to Miss Fannie Mae Hale at the Methodist Church here on February 18, 1914 by Rev. Joe F. Webb.

Throughout his many years in the undertaking business, Mr. Beck has been well known and beloved for his sympathetic and consoling attitude and straightforward character. He was an active member of the Rotary Club, being president of the organization since last July, after being a former vice president and member of the Board of Directors.

He was a member of the Methodist Church and for many years has been on the board of Stewards of the church. For several years, he served as secretary of the Board.

He has long been a member of the Knights of Pythias and at the time of his death was Chancellor Commander of the organization. He has also long been a member of the local Woodmen of the World and was active in the affairs of that order.

Taking an active interest in civic activities of the city, Mr. Beck has served for some time as a member of the Yoakum Municipal Utilities board of directors.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Fannie Mae Beck, one brother, John Beck of Yoakum; one sister, Mrs. Clara M. Priesmeyer of Garwood; his stepmother, Mrs. A. E. Beck of Hallettsville and many other relatives.

Pall bearers will be: Henry Hale, William Priesmeyer, Edward Priesmeyer, Frederick Priesmeyer, Jack Priesmeyer, Ray Wisdom, Philip Grifno, and Alvia Mudd.

Members of the Rotary Club who will act as honorary pall bearers are: Geo. P. Barron, Rev. Paul Bechter, H.C. Byler, F.O. Crawford, J.K. Elkins, A.E. Evans, Capt. Nick V. Fletcher, Homer Frady, W.J. Gise, Rev. R.K. Heacock, J.C. Hoffman, Dr. E.H. Marek, H.D Meister, E.L. Merrem, M.A. Meyer, Durell Miller, Scott Moore, E.A. Palmer, Henry Paulus, Cliss Pool, Monroe Rinn,  Arno Rudolph, L.W. Scheckles, O.C. Wagner, C.C. Welhausen, Herman Witte and George Young.

Board of Stewards, Methodist Church, who will also be honorary pall bearers are: A.V. Williams, C.R. Lawrence, Daniel Smith, M.E. Rinn, J.O. Barnett, F.O. Crawford, F. W., Herder, A.J. House, H.G. Lane, E.R. McCloskey, Joe Machac, E.L. Merrem, C.S. Morgan, J.G. Morrow, H.E. Riemenschneider, E.S. Winfree, Frank Pettit, J.S. Schumacher, Cleo Hagan, J.K. Wlkins, Melvin Brandl, C.L. Shaw, Charles Munson, Yoeman Plum and Monte Miles. Other honorary pall bearers will be Thos. Ridgway and Hugo Buehring.

Contributed by Cara Canik

L. C. BECKMAN

Colorado Citizen
February 12, 1885

OAKLAND NOTES

Died at his residence, two miles west of Oakland, at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 4th, 1885, Mr. L. C. Beckman, aged 89 years. He was a good citizen, a kind neighbor, an affectionate father, and an upright Christian gentleman, whose death will be sadly regretted by all who knew him. He leaves a son, two daughters and a host of friends to mourn his loss. He was interred in the Simons’ burial ground near county line Thursday evening.

Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

JOHN BEHLEN, SR.

Weimar Mercury
4 March 1927

Death of a Mighty Good Man Friday

We were surely sorry to learn a few days ago of the death of our old time friend and former fellow citizen, Mr. John Behlen, Sr., which occcurred at his residence in Shiner last Friday, at the age of 77 years. The funeral took place at Shiner Saturday, and was attneded by a very large crowd of mourning relatives and friends from various points. This section was represented by Chas. Rahlewes and wife, Emil and August Beken and their wives, Dick Beken, D. Schroeder, wife and son, Charles, Otto Koehn, and possibly others.

Mr. Behlen lived in this section for many years, removing to Shiner from here. He was a good, useful citizen, an honest, straightforward man in every way, a man in whom the public and friends placed implicit confidence, a devoted husband and father, and his death has caused genuine regret in the hearts of all who knew him. Many old time friends in this section join with us in expressions of sympathy to his bereaved family.

ALBERT BEIER

Weimar Mercury, 31 Jul 1897, page 8

Shiner Gazette: Frank Gallia received a sentence of five years in the "pen" in district court at Gonzales last week for killing Albert Beier at a dance west of here a couple of years ago. He was satisfied with his sentence and announced that he would not appeal, but would go and serve out his time. If Frank behaves himself he will be a free man again in 1901.

FRANCES BELL

Hallettsville Herald
16 May 1907, page 2

DEATHS.

Frances Bell, aged 90 years; died April 27 at Halletsville; cause heart failure.

MARJORIE ANN BENES

Victoria Advocate, 12 Oct 1967, page 1

Two Teen-Age Girls Die in Shiner Crash

SHINER - Two teen-age girls from Shiner and Yoakum died in a Shiner hospital after a car and pickup truck crashed at an intersection near the top of a hill at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday.

The dead are Jeannette Dornak, 19, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. William Dornak of Yoakum, and Marjorie Ann Benes, 18, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Benes of Shiner.

They were passengers in a car driven by Robert T. Wendel, 17, a Yoakum High School student.

Highway Patrolman R. L. Whitcomb said Wendel was driving south on State Highway 95 a mile south of Shiner when the car crashed into a pickup truck driven by Walter H. Paul Sr., 68, of Shiner.

Whitcomb said Paul, who had been headed north on Highway 95, was attempting a left turn onto a country road when he drove into the path of the car. Whitcomb said both cars were demolished.

He said Wendel was in critical condition in Wagner Memorial Hospital in Shiner with a brain concussion and fracture of the right leg. Paul was in satisfactory condition with minor lacerations and fractures.

Wendel is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Travis Wendel of Yoakum.

Whitcomb said Miss Benes died at 1:45 p.m. and Miss Dornak at 3 p.m.

Services for Miss Benes will be conducted at Buffington Funeral Home in Shiner at 9:15 a.m. Friday and at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church at 9:30. Burial will be in Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Besides the parents, Miss Benes is also survived by a brother, Patrick Benes; three sisters, Helen, Dorothy and Dolores Benes, and grandparents, Mike Benes and Mr. and Mrs. Frank Kramitbarer, all of Shiner.

Services for Miss Dornak are pending at Smith Funeral Home in Flatonia. Miss Dornak and her parents moved from Flatonia to Yoakum several months ago.

See a second article about the accident in which Jeannette Dornak was also killed. Contributed by Matt Cross

ANTON BENKOVSKY

Shiner Gazette, 20 Oct 1897

Cut to Pieces.

Saturday night Anton Binkowsky, a Bohemian farmer living one mile east of Halletsville, was run over by a freight train and both feet cut off. He was still alive when found but soon died. He was on his way home when the accident occurred.

Weimar Mercury, 23 Oct 1897, page 8

News Specil: Halletsville, Tex., October 17.—Last night A. Binkowsky, a farmer, who resides near the railroad track, one mile east of town, failed to get home, and at an early hour this morning his little son went to look for him. At the place where he crossed the track in going to town he found the body of his father, with both feet cut off between the ankles and knees and with a bruise on the head. Binkowsky lived several hours after being found.

Gazette obituary contributed by Matt Cross

L. BENTHALL

Colorado Citizen, 19 Nov 1885, page 2

Died, at the residence of J. C. Benthall in Lavaca county, Texas, on November 4th, 1885, Mr. L. Benthall, after an illness of two days, at the advanced age of 85 years and 23 days. His remains were interred in Odd Fellows cemetery at Schulenburg with masonic honors. —Argus.

AGNES SOFKA BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 16 Oct 1980

Mrs. Emil Berckenhoff, nee Agnes Sofka, of Moulton died Thursday, October 2, 1980 in the Shady Oak Nursing Home in Moulton at the age of 80 years and 18 days.

Rosary was recited at 7:30 p.m. Friday, October 3, at Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Moulton where the body lay in state.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 4 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Patrick Fidgeon officiating.  Burial followed in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery.

Mrs. Berckenhoff was born Sept. 14, 1900 near Moulton, Lavaca County, Texas, daughter of Vince and Anna (Dudik) Sofka.

In 1922, she was married to Emil Berckenhoff in the St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Joseph Kopp performing the ceremony.  They made their home on a farm west of Moulton.

She is survived by two sons, Eugene and Alvin Berckenhoff, both of Moulton; a sister, Mrs. Frank (Sophia) Rosenauer; and two grandchildren.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Apr. 3, 1957; a son, Daniel Berckenhoff, Nov. 14, 1975; half brother, Vince "James" Sofka in 1927; one brother, Frank Sofka; two sisters, Mrs. Joe (Mary) Papovsky and Mrs. Frank (Annie) Nagelmueller.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ALBERT J. BERCKENHOFF

Lavaca County Tribune, 27 Nov 1945

A.J. Berckenhoff Dies Thursday

Albert J. Berckenhoff, aged 74 years, nine months and 8 days, of Shiner died Thursday, November 22nd at 10:30 PM.

Funeral services were held at the family residence Saturday at 9:00 AM then to the Shiner Catholic Church were a Requiem Mass was said by Rev. Moczygamba assisted by Rev. E. J. Bily as deacon and Rev Hoffman as sub-deacon.

The deceased was born on February 14, 1871 at Praha, son of Bernard and Theresa Berckenhoff.

He married Augusta Eschenberg on June 5, 1900, who survives him along with three children, namely Mrs. Leon Maeker, Earline and Florence of Shiner. Internment was in Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers were nephews Ben Victor and Joe Janecek of Runge, Frances and Ben Berckenhoff of Shiner and Aug. Dolejsi of Victoria.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ALVIN FRANK BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 20 Oct 1927

In Loving Remembrance Of Alvin Frank Berckenhoff

The sudden death of Alvin Berckenhoff was the occasion of much sorrow, not only to his household, but to numerous friends throughout this section.

He was born in Shiner and with the exception of seven years spent in Goliad county, lived all of his 24 years in this community. He was married April 17th, 1923 to Miss Ella Jahn, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Theo Jahn, and the young couple made their home with his parents Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Berckenhoff, until his death.

Surviving him are his beloved wife and little daughter, Viola. His grief stricken parents, two sisters, Mrs. Frank Derrick of Moulton and Mrs. Fred Frieda of Poth. Three brothers, Henry of Runge, Edmund and Rudolph of Shiner.

One sister preceded him to the grave in infancy.

For some time deceased had been suffering from heart trouble, though his robust physical condition did not indicate ill health. In his efforts for relief he had gone to the La Grange hospital where he passed away Tuesday night.

The remains were brought at once to the family home, where funeral services were conducted Thursday morning, thence to the Catholic Church.

Father Netardus conducting the funeral services, with interment in Catholic cemetery. The pall bearers were Gus Flessner, Willie Aschenback, Frahk [Frank] Derrick, Harry Wagner, John Koehler and Otto Jahn, all brothers-in-law of deceased.

To those who are so greatly bereaved over his death, the Gazette extends sincere and heart felt sympathy.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ANNA CAKA BERCKENHOFF

Lavaca County Tribune, 14 Oct 1947

Funeral Held for Mrs. Berckenhoff

Funeral services were held in Shiner Friday October 10 for Mrs. Ben Berckenhoff who died Wednesday October 8th at 3:45 PM in the Shiner hospital.  Her death came suddenly at the age of 54 years, four months and seven days.  Services were held at the family residence and at the Shiner Catholic Church where a Requiem High Mass was offered at 9:00 AM.  Internment was in the Catholic Cemetery there.

The deceased was born in Fayette County and was married in 1915 to Ben Berckenhoff.  She lived most of her life near Shiner.

Survivors include the husband; children, Mary and Frank; sisters, Mrs. John Zissa of Shiner and Mrs. Rudolph Zissa of California; half- sisters, Mrs. John Matula, Mrs. Julius Zissa of Shiner; brothers, John, Herman, and Jim Caka of Shiner: half-brothers Ludwig, Joe and Albert Caka of Shiner; step-mother Mrs. Mary Caka of Shiner and five grandchildren.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ANTONIE KARASEK BERCKENHOFF

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 18 Feb 1966

Mrs. A. Berckenhoff

Funeral services for Mrs. Antonie Berckenhoff of Shiner were held Tuesday, February 15, 1966 from Buffington Funeral Chapel at 9:15 a.m. and the Shiner Catholic Church at 9:30 the Rev. John Hanacek officiating.  Burial was in Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Mrs. Berckenhoff, who was 83 years, four months and 18 days of age, died in the Wagner Hospital February 12, 1966.

Rosary was recited at the Funeral home chapel Sunday at 7:30p.m. by the Catholic Daughters, Monday at 7:45 by the Altar Society and 8 p.m. by the parish.

Born in Fayette County September 24, 1882 the daughter of the late Cyril and Anna Holchak Karasek, she was married to Felix Berckenhoff who died in 1936.

She was preceded in death by two sons, Dr. Fred Berckenhoff of Yoakum and Edward Berckenhoff of Shiner and one daughter Milada Berckenhoff.

She is survived by two sons, Paulie Berckenhoff of Shiner and Francis Berckenhoff of Austin, two daughters, Mrs. Isolde Dreyer and Miss Anne Berckenhoff, both of Shiner.

Contributed by Matt Cross

AUGUSTA ESCHENBURG BERCKENHOFF

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 7 May 1965

Mrs. A. Berckenhoff of Shiner Dies

Funeral services were held from the Buffington Funeral Chapel and the Shiner Catholic Church for Mrs. Augusta Berckenhoff Monday, May 3 starting at the chapel at 9 a.m. and continuing at the church at 9:30 a.m. Burial was in Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Born December 19, 1877, Mrs. Berckenhoff died May 1, 1965 at the age of 87 years, four months and 12 days.

She was born in Middlecreek in Fayette County the daughter of Charles and Annie Herder Eschenburg. She was married to A. J. Berckenhoff, who preceded her in death.

Mrs. Berckenhoff is survived by three daughters, Mrs. Leon (Cora) Maker, and Miss Florine Berckenhoff of Shiner, Mrs. Ewald (Earline) Effenberger of Edna and three grandchildren.

Contributed by Matt Cross

BEN BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 15 Sep 1988

Church Rites For Ben Berckenhoff, 95

Ben Berckenhoff of Shiner died at 6:50 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 8, 1988 in the Yoakum Community Hospital at the age of 95 years, 6 months and 17 days.  He was a resident at Trinity Lutheran Home in Shiner since Dec. 8, 1980.

He was born Feb. 21, 1893 in the Praha-Novohrad community, son of the late Fritz and Anna (Kobza) Berckenhoff, both natives of Praha.  He was baptized in St. Mary's Catholic Church at Praha.  He spent all of his adult life in the Shiner area and was a retired farmer.

He was a life-long member of the Catholic Church and was a member of the St. Isidore Society.

On October 26, 1915, he was married to Anna Caka in Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church with the Rev. Francis R. Machan officiating.  His wife died Oct. 8, 1947.  After her death he made his home for a short time with his son and then went to live with his daughter and her family.

A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 9 at Buffington Funeral Home chapel in Shiner, led by Father Donohue.

The body was taken to Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10 where a rosary, led by Tom Hajek, was recited at 2:30 p.m.

The funeral Mass followed at 3:00 p.m. celebrated by the Rev. Sean Donohue.  Altar attendants were Jeffrey Dierschke and Corey Vana of Shiner.

Gwendolyn Dierschke of Shiner served as lector and the offertory participants were Marion Pustka and Brian Kutach, both of Shiner.

Mrs. Elvera Jaks presented the organ prelude and postlude and accompanied members of the adult church choir as they sang several selected hymns.

Graveside services and burial took place in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery.  Serving as pallbearers were his grandsons, George Bujnoch of Luling, Frankie Berckenhoff of Tomball, Ronnie Berckenhoff of Shiner; great-grandsons, Jason Bujnoch of Bay City, Roger Lee Sralla of Shiner and Eugene Kremling Jr. of Hallettsville.

Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Anton (Mary) Bujnoch of Shiner; a son, Frank Berckenhoff of Shiner; two sisters, Mrs. Toby (Flora) Kracner of West, Mrs. Joe (Alexa) Holub of Moulton; 16 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren and a great-great-grandchild.

In addition to his wife and parents, he was preceded in death by five brothers, Ewald Berckenhoff, Aug. 28, 1987; Liberat Berckenhoff, Mar. 29, 1987; Fred Berckenhoff, Feb. 26, 1956; Emil Berckenhoff, Apr. 3, 1957; Pius Berckenhoff, Jan. 23, 1969; four sisters, Mrs. Anton (Angelina) Koncaba, Sept. 23, 1984; Mrs. Adolph A. (Jaromila) Nesrsta, Jan. 23, 1976; Mrs. Charlie (Julia) Nesrsta, Jan. 19, 1978; Mrs. Vaclav (Emma) Welfl, Aug. 7, 1979; and an infant granddaughter, Delores Berckenhoff.

Contributed by Matt Cross

BERNHARD BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette
29 May 1901

Death of B. Berckenhoff

It becomes the sad duty of the Gazette to chronicle the death of another one of Lavaca county's old citizens, Mr. Bernhard Berckenhoff, who died very suddenly last Thursday morning, at about eleven o'clock.

Mr. Berckenhoff had been sick for some time but was recovering and was thought to be out of danger. He was up and was walking about the tard apparently in the best of spirits, when the hand of death was laid upon him and he fell to the ground and breathed his last.

The immediate cause of death was said to be dropsy of the heart. Mr. Berckenhoff was 67 years old, was born in Germany and came to this country at the age of 19 years. He settled first at Frelsburg in Colorado county, moved from hence to Praha in Fayette county, where he resided for thirty years. Came to Shiner in 1893 and settled on a farm about 5 miles south of town where he resided up to the time of his death.

He leaves a wife and eight children, four boys and four girls, to mourn his demise. The universal verdict of all who knew him is: Another good man has gone.

The funeral took place Friday evening from the Catholic church and was very largely attended.

The bereaved wife and children have the fullest sympathy of all relatives and friends.

"May he rest in peace."

Contributed by Matt Cross

CHRISTINA KOUDELKA BERCKENHOFF

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 16 Jul 1954

Mrs. F. Berckenhoff Expires

Funeral services were held for Mrs. F. Berckenhoff, Moulton, Wednesday morning, July 14th at 8:30 at the Smith Funeral home and continuing at St. Joseph's Catholic Church with Rev. John Matchoda officiating.  Internment was in the Catholic Cemetery, Moulton.  Mrs. Berckenhoff died at Shiner Hospital Monday July 12.  At the time of her death she had reached the age of 53 years, one month and two days.  Rosary was recited Monday and Tuesday evening at 8 o'clock.

Contributed by Matt Cross

DANIEL BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 27 Nov 1975

D. Berckenhoff

Daniel Berckenhoff, a lifelong resident of Moulton, passed away early Friday morning, November 14, 1975 at the age of 52 years and 10 days.  He became suddenly ill at his home and died of an apparent heart attack.

Funeral services were held Saturday, November 15 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Moulton with Father Robert E. Schmidt officiating.  Graveside services, under the auspices of the Moulton American Legion and the VFW Posts, were conducted at the Moulton Catholic Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers were members of the two veterans organizations.  Taps were sounded by Michael Meyer.

Rosary was recited at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel led by Willie Novosad.

He was born in Moulton November 4, 1923, the son of Mrs. Agnes Sofka Berckenhoff and the late Emil Berckenhoff.  He grew up in this community and on October 27, 1956 was married to Miss Mary Surovec in Gonzales.  The couple settled in Moulton, where Mr. Berckenhoff had employment as mechanic at the Ford Motor Co., Ad. Petrek Garage and for the past six years at Beran Garage.

He was a veteran of World War II, having entered the U.S. Army March 4, 1943 and July 26, 1944 he left for overseas duty on foreign land for one year and seven days.  He received his honorable discharge March 18, 1946.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Mary Berckenhoff; his mother, Mrs. Agnes Berckenhoff; and two brothers, Alvin and Eugene Berckenhoff, all of Moulton.

He was preceded in death by his father April 3, 1957.

Contributed by Matt Cross

DELORES BERGER BERCKENHOFF

Victoria Advocate, 18 Oct 2003

Delores Berckenhoff

SHINER - Delores Berckenhoff, 70, of Shiner, died Thursday, Oct. 16, 2003.

She was born April 3, 1933, in Shiner, to Della Berger of Shiner and the late Edwin Berger Sr. She was a homemaker and a Catholic.

Survivors: husband, Jimmie E. Berckenhoff; daughter, Barbara J. Mattiza of Houston; sons, Randy J Berckenhoff and David Berckenhoff, both of Waller; sisters, Joyce Kram and Darlene Pokluda, both of Shiner, and Shirley Phillips of Waller; five grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: brother, Edwin Berger Jr.

Services will be 10 a.m. today at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, the Rev. Robert Knippenberg officiating.

Burial will be Shiner Catholic Cemetery. Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, 361-594-3352.

Pallbearers: Jake Berckenhoff, Jim Phillips, John Phillips Jr., Mark Kram, Keith Kram, and Michael Bujnoch.

Honorary pallbearers: Ryan Mattiza, Jayson Gouldman, and Jerame Redden.

Memorials: Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church or donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

DONALD O. BERCKENHOFF

Victoria Advocate, 3 Apr 2003

Donald O. Berckenhoff

MOULTON - Donald Otto Berckenhoff, 50, of Moulton, died Wednesday, April 2, 2003.

He was born March 25, 1953, in Houston, to Otto A. and Margaret Satsky Berckenhoff of Moulton. He was a loader for Central Freight Lines in Houston and a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Moulton.

Survivors: daughter, Brenda Sue Berckenhoff of Jacksonville, Fla.; parents; and brother, Greg Berckenhoff of Moulton.

A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. tonight at Smith Funeral Home chapel in Moulton.

Services will be 10 a.m. Friday at the funeral home chapel, the Rev. Gabriel Maison officiating.

Burial will be at Moulton Catholic Cemetery. Smith Funeral Home, Moulton, 361-596-4631.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EDWARD F. BERCKENHOFF

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 30 Oct 1964

E. F. Berckenhoff Buried at Shiner Monday Morning

Funeral services for Edward F. (Bacon) Berckenhoff of Shiner wee held Monday October 26, 1964 from Buffington Funeral Chapel at 9 a.m. and at Shiner Catholic Church at 9:30 with Rev. John J. Hanacek officiating.  Burial in Shiner Catholic Cemetery

Born in Shiner March 18, 1903, he died at Wagner Hospital October 24, 1964 where he had been a patient for five days.  He was 61 years 7 months and 6 days.

Berckenhoff was a veteran of World War II and a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion and Knights of Columbus.  A pharmacist by trade, he was an employee of Kahanek and Renger drug store in Halletsville after the war, later moving back to Shiner.  He was brother of the late Dr. Fred Berckenhoff an optometrist at Yoakum.

He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Felix Berckenhoff of Shiner, two brothers, Paulie Berckenhoff of Shiner and Francis Berckenhoff of Austin, two sisters, Mrs. Isolde Dreyer and Miss Anne Berckenhoff, both of Shiner.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EMIL BERCKENHOFF

Lavaca County Tribune, 12 Apr 1957

Emil Berckenhoff Dies Suddenly

Moulton, TX, Apr 10

While attempting to pull a tractor out of the Lavaca River bed with a county maintainer, Emil Berckenhoff, 62, of here died suddenly as a result of heart failure.  The incident occurred on the Victor Buzek farm seven miles southeast of here Wednesday evening April 3 around 6:10 o'clock.  Dr. Robert Wagner of Shiner was summoned to the scene.

Mr. Berckenhoff was born here on October 27, 1894 the son of the late Fritz and Annie Berckenhoff.  He attended Bauersville and Moulton schools and in 1922 married Miss Annie Sofka in St. Joseph's Catholic Church with Rev Joseph Kopp performing the ceremony.  They were making their home on a farm west of here.

For the last 17 years Mr. Berckenhoff was employed by the county as a tractor maintainer.  He was a member of the VFW and American Legion, having served in World War I for two years.

Funeral services were held Friday morning, April 5 at 9:15 at Smith funeral chapel and continued at St. Joseph's Catholic Church at 9:30 with Rev Bernard Goebel officiating

Graveside services were under the auspices of the VFW and American Legion posts.

Survivors are his wife, of Moulton, three sons, Daniel, Alvin and Eugene Berckenhoff of Moulton, six sisters, Julia Nesrsta of Shiner, Jaromila Nesrsta of Shiner, Emma Welfl, Lexie Holub and Angeline Koncaba of Moulton and Flora Kracmer of West, four brothers Pius and Ben Berckenhoff of Shiner, Ewald and Liberat Berckenhoff of Moulton, one brother, Fred Berckenhoff, preceded him in death 13 months ago.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EUGENE (GENE) BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 9 Jan 1992

Gene Berckenhoff, 58 years, 4 months and 3 days, of Moulton, died Tuesday, Dec. 31, 1991, following a sudden illness.

Rosary was recited at 7 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 2, at Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Moulton.

Services were conducted at 9 a.m., Friday, Jan. 3 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Moulton, with the Rev. Gabriel Maison officiating.

Burial followed in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery, under the direction of Smith Funeral Home, Moulton.

Pallbearers will be James Neskora, Larry Joe and Leon Berckenhoff, Kubicek, Jimmie Ray Hairell Jr., Darrin Foster and Gerald Fisbeck.

Mr. Berckenhoff was born Aug. 28, 1933, in Moulton, son of Emil and Agnes (Sofka) Berckenhoff.  He was a Korean War veteran, a self-employed carpenter and a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, Moulton.

Surviving him are his wife, Georgia (Dlouhy) Berckenhoff; two daughters, Carla Meitsetschlaeger and Carol Dvorak, both of Moulton; a brother, Alvin Berckenhoff of Moulton; and three grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Aug. 3, 1957; his mother, Oct. 2, 1980; and a brother, Daniel Berckenhoff, Nov. 14, 1975.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EVALD J. BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 3 Sep 1987

Evald Berckenhoff Rites Sunday

MOULTON - Evald J. Berckenhoff of Moulton died at 2:20 p.m. Friday, Aug. 28, 1987 in Shady Oak Nursing Home in Moulton at the age of 81 years, 3 months and 8 days.

He was born May 20, 1906, at Novohrad, Lavaca County, son of Fred and Anna (Kobza) Berckenhoff.  He attended Baursville School.  A retired farmer and employee of Southern Pacific Railroad, he was a member of the St. Joseph Catholic Church.

In October, 1930, he was married to Frances Firasek at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Praha with the Rev. Marcus Valenta officiating.  The couple first farmed near Moulton.  He then worked for the railroad and later moved to the present residence in Moulton.

Funeral services were held at 11:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 30 at the St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Rev. Monsignor Robert Schmidt officiated.

Burial followed in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.  Smith Funeral Home of Moulton was in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Frances Berckenhoff of Moulton; two sons, Raymond Berckenhoff of Moulton and Jimmie Berckenhoff of Houston; a brother, Ben Berckenhoff of Shiner; two sisters, Mrs. Joe (Alexa) Holub of Moulton, Mrs. Toby Kratchmar of West; and three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by four brothers, Liberat Berckenhoff, Mar. 29, 1987; Fred Berckenhoff, Feb. 26, 1956; Emil Berckenhoff, Apr. 3, 1957; Pius Berckenhoff, Jan. 23, 1969; four sisters, Mrs. Anton (Angelina) Koncaba, Sept. 23, 1984; Mrs. Adolph A. (Jaromila) Nesrsta, Jan. 23, 1976; Mrs. Charlie (Julie) Nesrsta, Jan. 19, 1978; Mrs. Vaclav (Emma) Welfl, Aug. 7, 1979.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FELIX BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 11 Jun 1936

Shiner Loses Pioneer and Representative Citizen

Following an illness extending over a period of three years, Felix Berckenhoff passed away at his home in Shiner Thursday night June 3d, about 11 o'clock.

He had been given constant care by his devoted wife and children and was given every attention that medical science could provide. He was born at Praha November 7, 1877. He came to this section in 1893, farming in the Midway community four years, then he purchased and operated a gin at Dreyer. On June 10, 1902 he was married to Miss Antonia Karasek, who survives him. About 1903 they moved to Shiner. Mr. Berckenhoff first worked for August Schramm, later accepted a position with J.C. Blohm, which he held for 31 years. The last 10 years he had been with C. B. Welhausen & Co.

He is survived by two daughters, Mrs. E. A. Dreyer and Miss Anne Berckenhoff and four sons Edward, Paul, Fred and Francis and one grand daughter Patricia Ann Dreyer, all of Shiner. Preceding him to the grave was a daughter, Milada, who passed away in her young girlhood.

Surviving are two brothers A. J. Berckenhoff of Shiner and Wm. Berckenhoff of Yorktown and three sisters Mrs. Joe Brosch of Yoakum, Mrs. Anton Bleir and Mrs. Frank Dolejsi of Shiner. He was a member of the O.D.H.S. and S.P.J.S.T. orders.

Funeral services were held from the family home Friday morning at 9 o'clock, thence to the Shiner Catholic Church for Requiem High Mass, all religious rites being conducted by Rt. Rev. Monsgr Netardus. The pallbearers were Chas. Longorio, Joe Koncaba, Frank Jaks Sr., A. L. Valek, J. M. Canon and W. C. Schmidt.

The funeral was one of the largest ever held in Shiner and myriads of gorgeous flowers attested the affectionate esteem in which he was held.

For more than 40 years Felix Berckenhoff had merited the confidence and esteem of a large circle of friends. In various business associations he was ever faithful to the trust imposed in him by his employers. Their interests always came first. Of a quiet, unassuming disposition, he attracted many to him through his just dealings, unimpeachable honesty and integrity. The firm of C. B. Welhausen & Co. closed at the hour of the funeral and Elkin's, of which store his son Paul is manager, was closed all Friday forenoon.

The O.D.H.S. Lodge gave their ritualistic service at the conclusion of all religious rites. As the shadow of his years lengthened slowly to the West, he was most patient in his affliction. To his devoted grief stricken wife and children we can but point to the noble heritage he left them. In life, sorrows ever come, we feel at times we would like to stay their approach, and yet, we bow in humble submission and cherish the thought that our dear ones are granted a new lease, a lease on immortal life, in that Great Beyond and they now see Him face to face. May those left to mourn his loss, when waiting for the boatman's call to go, in the hushed silences, be as prepared as was this good man, to meet their Creator. Peace and rest to his soul.

Among out of town relatives attending the funeral of Felix Berckenhoff Friday were Emil Karasek of Lockhart, Frances Dolejsi, Mr. and Mrs. J. Moran, Mrs. S. Long of San Antonio; Mrs. and Mrs. Aug. Dolejsi of Victoria; Mr. and Mrs. John Janecek and Miss Theresa Janecek of Runge; Mrs. Julia Nesrsta, Mrs. Mary Berckenhoff and Pius Berckenhoff of Hallettsville; Mr. and Mrs. Joe Holub, Jr., Emil, Fred, Ewald and Lee Berckenhoff, Jim Welfl, Anton Koncaba, Adolf Nesrsta and their families of Moulton; Felix Janecek and wife, Ben Janecek and family, Henry and Victor Janecek of Charco; Wm. Koch, Misses Hattie and Emma Koch of Flatonia, Mrs. Wm. Kutac, Poth; Norbert Kalich, Floresville; Wm. Berckenhoff, Mrs. Ed Berckenhoff, Yorktown; Geo. Suhr, Adam Wendel, Edwin Regner, Joe Erdelt and their families, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Brosch, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Baros of Yoakum.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FLORINE BERCKENHOFF

Victoria Advocate, 18 Aug 1999

FLORINE BERCKENHOFF

SHINER -- Florine Berckenhoff, 86, of Shiner, died Monday, Aug. 16, 1999.  She was born Oct. 9, 1912, in Shiner, to the late Albert J. and Augusta Eschenburg Berckenhoff. She was a teacher and taught school at Rosenberg, Menger School, Moulton Elementary, Victoria and Shiner. She was Catholic and was a member of Catholic Daughters, Altar Society, Delta Kappa Gamma and taught CCD and was a former church council member.  Survivors: sister, Earline B. Effenberger of Edna; nieces, Sara Doerning of Alexandria, Va., and Cynthia Mosley of San Antonio; and nephew, Michael Effenberger of Houston.

Preceded in death by: sister, Cora Maker.  A memorial service will be 5 p.m. today at Buffington Funeral Home chapel by Shiner Alpha Phi Chapter members of Delta Kappa Gamma.  A rosary/wake will be 7:30 p.m. today at the funeral home.  A Catholic Daughter and Altar Society rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. Thursday at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church.  Services will be 10 a.m. Thursday, at the church, the Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating.  Burial will be at Catholic Cemetery. Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, (361) 594-3352.  Memorials: Hospice and Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANCES FIRASEK BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 31 Dec 1992

Frances F. Berckenhoff, age 84 years, 7 months and 10 days, of Moulton passed away Sunday, Dec. 27, 1992.

A rosary was held at Smith Funeral Home, Moulton, Tuesday, Dec. 29.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 30 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Moulton with the Rev. Gabriel Maison officiating.

Burial was in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Smith Funeral Home, Moulton.

Mrs. Berckenhoff was born May 17, 1908 in Praha, Texas to the late Ludwig and Bertha (Simecek) Firasek.

She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, the SPJST and KJZT.  She was a clerk at a dry goods store in Moulton.

In October, 1930, she married Evald Berckenhoff in St. Mary's Catholic Church at Praha, Texas with the Rev. Marcus Valenta officiating.

The couple first farmed near Moulton.  Her husband then worked for the railroad.

She is survived by two sons, Raymond Berckenhoff of Moulton and Jimmie Berckenhoff of Houston; one sister, Agnes Heyer of Moulton; three grandchidlren [sic] and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Aug. 28, 1987; her father in 1937; her mother, July 23, 1962; and two brothers, one of whom was Joe Firasek, Nov. 14, 1968.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANCIS F. BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 2 Oct 1969

Military Rites For WW II Veteran, F.F. Berckenhoff

Francis "Breezy" Berckenhoff, 47 years, 2 months and 27 days, died at 9:15 p.m. Wednesday, September 24, 1969 at his home in Shiner after several months illness.

Funeral services were held from the Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, Friday, September 26, at 3:15 p.m. and continued at 3:30 p.m. in Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church with Requiem Mass offered by the Rev. Patrick Maron.

Burial was in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery.  Serving as pallbeares were his cousins, Marvin Adamek, Raymond Kloesel and Melvin Roeder of Shiner, James Morin of San Antonio, Harvey Du Priest of Dallas, Ewald Effenberger of Edna.

Military honors were accorded the World War II veteran by Shiner Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion Posts, a large number of whom attended in a body.

Participating were Adolph Seidenberger, Laddie Stluka, Herman Krause, Adolph Pesek and Raymond Kocian, who served as color-bearers and color guards.  Chaplain Curt Messer read the graveside ritual and presented the flag to Paul Berckenhoff, brother of the deceased.  Ed Jaks folded the flag and "Taps" were sounded by recording.

Rosary services were held Thursday evening at the Buffington Chapel where the body lay in state.  The parish rosary at 7:30 p.m. was led by the Rev. Emmett Kolodzie, pastor of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church at Koerth and Grand Knight Louis Dusek led the Knights of Columbus rosary at 7:45 p.m.

Frank Felix Berckenhoff, one of seven children was born June 27, 1922, at Shiner, Lavaca County, Texas, son of Felix C. and Antonia (Karasek) Berckenhoff, natives respectively of Praha and Fayetteville in Fayette County, Texas.  He was reared in Shiner, attended St. Ludmila's Academy, and graduated from Shiner High School, May 17, 1940.

He entered the armed forces August 24, 1942 and served with the US Navy until October 15, 1945 when he was honorably discharged at the USN Personnel Separation Center, Camp Wallace, Texas.  He attained the rank of Aviation Storekeeper First Class and his foreign duty took him to the Southwest Pacific Theatre of Operations.

He attended Southwest Texas State College, San Marcos; Trinity University, San Antonio; and received his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Houston on August 29, 1953.  He taught in the Yoakum Public Schools for five years.

In 1957, he entered Curlee's Barber College in Austin and worked for a short time in New Braunfels and Seguin.  Since September 15, 1957, he was associated with the Sulphur Wells Barber Shop in Austin.  He received his Masters License in 1967 and became manager of the shop when the owner, Earl Smith, retired.

He was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church and was a member of the Knights of Columbus and Veterans of Foreign Wars.

Survivors include his brother, Paul C. Berckenhoff; two sisters, Mrs. Isolde Dreyer and Miss Anne Berckenhoff, all of Shiner; two sisters-in-law, Mrs. Paul C. (Mary Koncaba) Berckenhoff of Shiner and Mrs. Fred (Martha Taylor) Berckenhoff of Yoakum.

Preceding him in death were his father on June 3, 1936; his mother on February 12, 1966; a sister, Milada Berckenhoff, August 5, 1927; two brothers, Dr. Fred Berckenhoff, June 5, 1964; Edward "Bacon" Berckenhoff, October 24, 1964; brother-in-law and niece, Emmett and Patricia Dreyer, died June 7, 1946 in a plane crash.

Those who were touched and benefited by his kindly deeds and influence will always revere his memory.  His untimely departure is lamented, not only by his immediate family, but by a host of friends.  There is a vacancy in the home and hearts of his loved ones, to all of whom, the Gazette joins with countless friends in extending sympathy.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANK JIM BERCKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 17 Feb 1994

Frank Jim Berckenhoff, age 77 years, four months and 22 days of Shiner, died Wednesday, Feb. 9, 1994.

Rosary was recited at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 11 at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday Feb. 12 in Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church with the Rev. Jerry Caponi officiating.  Organist Elvera Jaks played a prelude of sacred hymns and accompanied the special occasion choir in family selected hymns, including two Czech hymns.

Burial was in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner.

Pallbearers were: Eugene Kremling Jr., Andrew Marcak, David Boedeker, Rodney Spann, R. B. Patterson and Cliff Horton.

Honorary pallbearer was Tim Bruns.

He was born Sept. 17, 1916, in Lavaca County to the late Ben and Anne Caka Berckenhoff.  He was a farmer and rancher and was a member of the Catholic Church and St. Isidor Society.

He is survived by four daughters, Betty Pustka, Erline Kutach, Paula Pekar, and Patricia Kremling, all of Shiner; three sons, Frank Berckenhoff Jr. of Tomball and Ronnie Berckenhoff and Larry Berckenhoff, both of Shiner; one sister, Mary Bujnoch of Shiner; 15 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Pauline Berckenhoff on May 11, 1982, his mother, Oct. 8, 1947; his father, Dec. 8, 1980 and a daughter, Delores Berckenhoff.

FRED BERCKENHOFF

Lavaca County Tribune, 2 Mar 1956

F. Berckenhoff Dies

A native and life long resident of Moulton, Fred Berckenhoff, 55, is dead.  He passed away in the Shiner Hospital Sunday.  Tuesday was his funeral from the Catholic Church.  The Rev Bernard Goebel officiated while the Rev Victor Raska delivered the sermon.  His wife passed away in July of last year.  Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Alfred (Sophie) Barta and Miss Rosemary of Moulton, Mrs. Edwin (Ida) Hemmi and Mrs. Dorothy Meazle of Houston; sons Rudy, Dennis, and Billy Ray of Moulton and Otto of Old Kinkler, six sisters, Mrs. Joe Holub, Mrs. Ad. Nesrsta, Mrs. Anton Koncaba and Mrs. Jim Welfl of Moulton; Mrs Julie Nesrsta of Shiner and Mrs. Toby Kracmer of West; brothers Ewald, Liberat, and Emil of Moulton; Pius and Ben of Shiner; also nine grandchildren.  Nephews of the deceased served as pallbearers, Robert and Raymond Beck, Gus Welfl, Jim Holub, George Migl and Eddie Koudelka.

Dr. FRED BERCKENHOFF

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 9 Jun 1964

Rites held for Dr. Berckenhoff

Dr. Fred Berckenhoff, 51 a Yoakum optometrist, died following a sudden illness at 2:30 p.m. Friday in a Yoakum hospital.

Funeral services were held at 2:45 Saturday from Buffington Funeral Chapel and at 3 p.m. from St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Yoakum with the Rev John Matocha officiating.  Burial was in Shiner Catholic Cemetery. Rosary was recited at 8 p.m. on Wednesday.

Dr. Berckenhoff was born in Shiner September 14, 1912, he had an office there before moving to Yoakum.

Survivors include his wife Martha, his mother, Mrs. Fred Berckenhoff of Shiner, two sisters, Mrs. Isolde Dreyer and Miss Anne Berckenhoff, both of Shiner and three brothers, Edward and Paul, both of Shiner and Francis of Austin.

Contributed by Matt Cross

WILLIAM BERNARD BERCKENHOFF

Yorktown News
4 Mar 1944

Last Rites Held Saturday For William Berckenhoff

Funeral services were held Saturday morning for William Bernard Berckenhoff, 74, who died Thursday, Feb. 24, 1944 at nine o'clock p.m. at the home of his son, Henry, in this city.

The funeral procession left the Molenhauer Mortuary for Holy Cross Catholic church where requiem high mass was held by Rev. E. C. Kaminski. The remains were taken to Shiner for interment and were laid to rest beside those of his loving wife.

Pallbeaers were: Frank Derrick, Fred Frieda, Albert Baumann, Herbert Frieda, A. J. Kalinek, and Walter Berckenhoff.

Ed Molenhauer, Yorktown undertaker, had charge of funeral arrangements.

William B. Berckenhoff was born on May 13, 1869, at Praha, Texas. On August 5, 1890, he was united in marriage with Miss Annie Brosch, who preceded him to the grave on Dec. 16, 1939. Since the death of his beloved wife, he made his home with his children and at the time of his death resided with his son, Henry.

He lived at Shiner the greater part of his life, and for the past eight years lived at Yorktown and Floresville. He was recognized as a useful and honorable citizen.

Surviving are two daughters and three sons: Mrs. Frank Derrick of El Campo; Mrs. Fred Frieda of Floresville, Henry of Yorktown, Ed of Floresville and Rud. of Moulton. Two children, Ida and Alvin, preceded him in death.

He is also survived by a brother, A. J. Berckenhoff of Shiner, three sisters, Mrs. Joe Brosch of Yoakum, Mrs. Frank Dolipsi of Shiner and Mrs. Anton Blier of Shiner; 28 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren.

The News extends sympathy to the bereaved family.

Shiner Gazette
2 Mar 1944

William Bernard Berckenhoff Passes Away Feb. 24

William Bernard Berckenhoff, son of the late Bernard and Teresa (nee Hajek) Berckenhoff, was born May 13, 1869 at Mulberry, Texas, and died Feb. 24, 1944 at the home of his son, Henry in Yorktown, Texas.

He spent his early years in Praha and it was here that he married Annie Brosch. The young couple moved to Lavaca county. Seven children blessed their union, two preceding him in death, one in infancy, and Alvin in 1928.

He formerly lived in the Shiner community, but for the last fifteen years he had made his home near and in Yorktown, and it was here that his wife died in 1939.

He is survived by the following: two daughters, Mrs. Frank Derrich of El Campo; Mrs. Fred Friedel, Poth; three sons, Henry of Yorktown; Edmund of Poth; and Rudolph of Moulton; twenty-six grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; three sisters, Mrs. Joe Brosch, Yoakum; Mrs. Anton Bleier, Shiner; Mrs. Frank Dolejsi, Shiner; and one brother, Albert Berckenhoff, Shiner.

Funeral services were held in the Yorktown Catholic church Saturday morning. The funeral cortege arrived in Shiner at 11 o'clock and burial took place in the Shiner Catholic cemetery. Rev. B. J. Kaminski officiated.

The Gazette extends sincere sympathy to those who mourn his passing.

Contributed by Matt Cross

AGNES HOFFER BERKENHOFF

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 16 Jun 1950

Mrs. Berckenhoff [sic.] Expires at Koerth Tuesday

Funeral services and a Requiem High Mass were held at Koerth Catholic Church and cemetery Wednesday at 9 AM for Mrs. Emil Berckenhoff, 47 who died unexpectedly at her home near Koerth at 4:00 AM Tuesday, June 13th.  A long illness had proceeded her death.  Rev Ignathis Kopczynski officiated in the mass and at graveside rites where the pallbearers were Freddie and Billy Hoffer, Jack Nolen, Kenneth Ray Hoffer, Roland Tuttle and Leonard Matejek.

Born near Koerth, Mrs. Berckenhoff was baptized at the church where she was married some 30 years ago, the same church was the scene of the funeral rites.  Nee Agnes Hoffer, she was the daughter of Fred Hoffer of Koerth and the late Mrs. Fred Hoffer who died four years ago.

Surviving are her father, husband, Emil Berckenhoff, of Koerth and their four sons, Wesley and Thomas of the home, Emil Andrew and Charles Berckenhoff of Houston; four sisters, Mrs. John Matejek and Mrs. George Tuttle of Halletsville, Mrs. Henry Young of the community and Mrs. Harry Carpenter of Salem; three brothers, Alfred Hoffer of Koerth, Fred Hoffer of Pettus and Thomas Hoffer of Corpus Christi; four half- brothers, Leo Hoffer of Sweet Home, Eugene of Falfurias, Alfonse Hoffer of El Paso and Andrew Nolen of Cuero.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ANTOINETTE MOELLER BERKENHOFF

Hallettsville Semi-Weekly New Era, 30 Jan 1920

Jan 2, Antoinette Berckenhoff, aged 87 years, 9 months and 13 days, senility, Halletsville

Mrs. Antonette Berckenhoff, one of the oldest residents of this section died, Friday, January 2nd, 1920 at 5:15 o'clock a.m. at the home of her daughter, Mrs. L Hemmi of near our city.

Mrs. Berckenhoff was aged 87 years, 10 months, and 14 days, have been born in Westphalen, Germany, in 1832 [1833? or 1838?], a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Moeller, with whom she came to Texas, in 1846 when 14 years of age, the family landing at Houston after a stormy voyage of several weeks across the ocean. From Houston they went to Cummings Creek, now Frelsburg, Colorado county, making this trip in an ox wagon. At that time the country was very sparsely settled and these pioneer people underwent many hardships incident to those times. Indians were plentiful and it was necessary to keep a constant watch that they did not lose homes and lives from the raidings of hostile Indians. Mrs. Berckenhoff oft-times spoke interestingly to friends and relatives of these early days and marveled at the many changes she had witnessed in the development of this section from a practical wilderness to a modern, thickly peopled community, with fine farms, other homesteads, and growing cities.

She lived at Frelsburg for 45 years, moving in 1890 to Hallettsville where she made . . . [incomplete]

Obituary contributed by Matt Cross. Photo contributed by Cullis Holub

EMIL BERKENHOFF

Lavaca County Tribune-New Era Herald, 31 May 1974

Emil Berkenhoff, 86 years, of Houston, formerly of Koerth, Texas, died Sunday, May 26 in Houston, Texas.

Interment was in Koerth Catholic Cemetery, Tuesday, May 28.

Survivors include two sons, E. A. Berkenhoff of Houston and C. E. Berkenhoff of Arlington.

Pallbearers were Luther Parr, John Edward Carpenter, Henry Young, Kenneth Hoffer and Fred W. Hoffer.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EMILY MATEJEK BERKENHOFF

Hallettsville Tribune-Herald, 30 Oct 1996

Emily Berkenhoff

Emily Berkenhoff, 91, of San Antonio, died Wednesday, Oct. 16, 1996.

She was born June 21, 1905 in Lavaca County.

She was united in marriage to William V. Berkenhoff.  He preceded her in death on Nov. 22, 1971.

Survivors include a daughter, Mary K. Nelson and son-in-law, Thomas Nelson of San Antonio; a sister, Lena Bolom of Yoakum; eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents, two sisters and four brothers.

Graveside services were conducted at 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 18 at St. John the Baptist Cemetery in Koerth.  Rev. Charles Sonnier officiated.

Memorials may be made to St. John the Baptist Cemetery Association.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANCES ZATOPEK BERKENHOFF

Hallettsville Tribune, 31 Aug 1937

Mrs. Fritz W. Berkenhoff

Mrs. Fritz W. Berkenhoff of Koerth passed away in a San Antonio hospital Sunday p.m. at 6:30 at the age of 40 years, three months and two days. The body was brought here and prepared for burial by Kubena Funeral Home. Funeral services will be conducted this Tuesday a.m. at 9:00 with a Requiem Mass celebrated by father G. Kuratko of the Koerth Catholic Church. Burial Catholic Cemetery at Koerth.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRITZ W. BERKENHOFF

Hallettsville Tribune, 22 Jan 1937

Fritz W. Berkenhoff

Fritz W. Berkenhoff, prominent farmer of Koerth, passed away at his late home there at 8:30 a.m. Tuesday after an illness of only a week's duration.

Funeral services were held at Koerth Catholic Church Wednesday morning at 10:00 a.m. Rev. G. Kuratko officiating.  Burial was made in Koerth Catholic Cemetery.  The son of a blacksmith, Mr. Berkenhoff was born and raised at Koerth, Lavaca County.  During the World War he entered the services of the Army on December 20, 1917 and within a month was on his way overseas where he remained for a year returning in January of 1919.  Upon his return he married and resumed farming at Koerth.

He leaves to mourn his going his wife, two brothers, Willie Berkenhoff and Gus of near Halletsville and one sister Mrs. Laura Ponton of Koerth.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRITZ W. BERKENHOFF

Shiner Gazette, 11 Jan 1934

F. W. BERCKENHOFF

Our entire community was grieved and shocked Friday afternoon when the announcement was made that Fritz W. Berkenhoff had died at his home at 4:20 PM.  He had been at his post of duty during the day on the CWA work.  On returning home he told his wife he did not feel so well and retired to his room where the good companion administered to his wants but death soon relieved him of his sufferings and he passed on to his eternal reward.

The funeral was held at the home at 2:45 PM Sunday with services at the Sacred Heart church.  Internment was made in the Catholic cemetery.  Impressive services were held at the home and church by the Rev Victor Raska of El Campo (nephew of the deceased) with the Rev E. B. Kolodzie of Saint Mary's assisting.  A very impressive and appropriate sermon in German was preached by his pastor Rev A. Mathis.  Pallbearers were Frank Matula, Frank Grafe, H. C. Randow, Henry Muenster, H. J. Strauss and N. A. Moreland.

Deceased was a member of the Catholic Knights of America, Sohns of Hermann, and the fire department.  He was president of the fire department for 16 years, having been elected each year by acclamation due to service and the confidence of the boys of his department.

Mr. Berckenhoff was born in Frelsburg, Colorado County.  He came to our county with his mother and sister 40 years ago where he lived up to the time of his death.  He was in the general merchandise business here for 21 years. He was married 36 years ago to Miss Mary Koenig in the Sacred Heart Parish of our city by the Rev Neubert.

He leaves to mourn his death his wife, three sisters, Mrs E. H. Mitchell of San Antonio, Mrs. Adolph Pechacek of Houston, and Mrs Peter Raska of Yoakum, besides other relatives and a host of friends.

The members of the organizations of which he was a member attended in a body.  The many pretty flowers that mark his last resting-place gave evidence of the love and esteem in which he was held by his many friends.

Mr Berckenhoff at the time of his death had reached the age of 65 years, 10 months and 6 days.

He is gone but as a husband friend and citizen his memory shall ever live with us all.  Peace to his ashes.

Among those from Shiner attending the Fritz Berckenhoff funeral in Halletsville were Mr and Mrs A. J. Berckenhoff and family, Mr and Mrs Felix Berckenhoff and family, Wm Wendtland Jr and wife, Ed Koenig, C. Koerner and wife, M. Vogelsang and wife, C J Garbade and wife, Max, Edwin, Elo and Edgar Wolters, R J Strauss and Wm Zappe.

Obituary contributed by Matt Cross. Photo contributed by Cullis Holub

GUS BERKENHOFF, Sr.

Hallettsville Tribune, 3 Dec 1940

Gus Berkenhoff Succumbs Saturday

Gus Berkenhoff Sr., well known Lavaca County rural resident of Halletsville route one, died at his home Saturday November 29 at 12:10 p.m. after a serious illness of about a year.

The deceased had lived in this county all of his life, making a living through farming.  About 25 years ago he married Mrs. Lula Rice at Koerth.

Besides the widow, the deceased is survived by one son, Gus, the only child born to the union.  Two brothers, Emil of Koerth and William of San Antonio and one sister Mrs. Ponton of Ezzell also survive.

Funeral services were held Sunday morning at the Koerth Catholic church. Rev E.B. Kolodzie conducting the services.  Internment was in Koerth Catholic Cemetery.  The Geiger-Beck Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Matt Cross

GUS BERKENHOFF

Lavaca County Tribune, 16 Sep 1975

Mr. Berkenhoff

Gus Berkenhoff, 56, of Port Lavaca, died at 9:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 11, 1975 in a Victoria hospital.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Saturday at Kubena Funeral Home Chapel Hallettsville with the Rev. Robert Holbrook officiating.  Interment was in Willow Creek Cemetery.

Mr. Berkenhoff was born July 2, 1919 in Lavaca County.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Joyce Judd Berkenhoff of Port Lavaca; two daughters, Miss Tammy Berkenhoff of Port Lavaca, and Mrs. Weldon Briscoe of Robstown; three sons, Larry and Gary Berkenhoff of Port Lavaca and Gus Berkenhoff, Jr., of Hallettsville; a step-daughter, Mrs. Larry Meyer of Cuero; a step-son, Franklin Filla of Bryan and a half-sister, Mrs. Marie Sieber of Baytown.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HENRY BERKENHOFF 

Hallettsville Semi-weekly Herald, 23 Oct 1925

Henry Berkenhoff, a highly respected citizen of Koerth, died at the home of his son Fritz Berckenhoff Thursday evening at 6:30 aged 72 years.

The funeral will be held from his late residence this Friday afternoon at 4:00 o'clock, internment in the Koerth Catholic Cemetery Father G. Kuratko officiating.

Deceased leaves to mourn his death four sons, Gus of Branon, Willie of San Antonio, Emil of Yoakum, and Fritz of Koerth, one daughter Mrs. Grover Ponton of Koerth, one brother F.W. Berckenhoff of Halletsville, three sisters, Mrs. E. H. Mitchell of San Antonio, Mrs. Peter Raska of Yoakum, Mrs. Adolph Pechacek of Halletsville other relatives and a large circle of friends.

Mr. Berkenhoff was a native of Colorado County but came to this county 25 years ago and settled at Koerth where he resided up to the time of his death. He was a man mindful of his own affairs, thereby making many friends who will be saddened to learn of his death. May his soul rest in peace.

Hallettsville Herald, 27 Oct 1925

Funeral of Henry Berkenhoff

The funeral of Henry Berkenhoff, who died at the home of his son Fritz at Koerth Thursday evening, was held from his late residence Friday afternoon at 4:00 o'clock at the Koerth Catholic Church where services were conducted by Father G. Kuratko of Koerth and father V. Raska of El Campo.  The funeral service was preached in English by Father Kuratko.  Interment was in the Koerth Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers were J. R. Mladenka, Louis Kupka, Andrew Nolan, Freddie Hoffer, John Belcik and John Wick.

The flowers brought and placed on the grave were pretty and gave evidence of love and esteem in which he was held by them.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MARY KOENIG BERKENHOFF

Lavaca County Tribune, 5 Sep 1946

Mrs. Mary Berkenhoff Dies in Shiner

Mrs. Mary Berkenhoff, 76 years of age died at the home of her sister in Shiner Saturday morning at 11:15.  Her health had been failing the last few years.  The deceased was born in Germany in 1870 and had been a resident of our city for many years.  Her husband Fritz Berkenhoff preceeded her in death about 12 years ago.

Survivors are three sisters, Mrs. Laura Koehrner and Mrs. Hattie Vogelsang of Shiner and Mrs Hilda Schlavack of Round Top, two brothers, Edwin Koenig and Paul Koenig of Round Top.

Rev. Victor Raska of Flatonia officiated at Requiem Mass at Sacred Heart Church here, Monday, September 2 at 9:30 AM.  Rev Alois Markovsky preached the sermon.  Pallbearers were Christian Hemmi, Lutzie Hemmi, Forrest Mitchel of Victoria, Emil Berkenhoff, Adolph Pechacek and Elo Raska of Yoakum.

Obituary contributed by Matt Cross. Photo contributed by Cullis Holub

TOMMY (BILLY) BERKENHOFF

Lavaca County Tribune, 10 Aug 1956

Billy Berckenhoff Buried at Koerth

Tommy (Billy) Berckenhoff, 22, whose home is at Koerth died in a sanitarium in Wichita Falls, Monday, August 6th following a lingering illness.

Everyone in the Koerth community knew him as Billy, He was born there where he grew up on his father's farm.  Billy attended Gephart school and St. Joseph's school in Yoakum.

His mother died some time ago.  Surviving are his father, Emil Berkenhoff of Koerth: two brothers Emil Jr. Berckenhoff of Houston and Charles Berckenhoff, whereabouts unknown.  Funeral services were held Wednesday, August 8th at 10:00 at the Koerth Catholic Church.  Rev E. B. Kolodzie offering a Requiem High Mass.  Burial was in the Catholic Cemetery.

Contributed by Matt Cross

WESLEY JEROME BERKENHOFF

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 17 Nov 1950

Rites Held for W. J. Berckenhoff at Koerth CemeterY

Funeral Services for Wesley Jerome Berckenhoff, 28, were held at the Koerth Catholic Church and Cemetery with the Rev. I. S., Kopczynski officiating.  Pallbearers were Leo Hoffer, George Tuttle, Thomas Hoffer, Henry Young, John Matejek and Harry Carpenter.

Berckenhoff died unexpectedly at his home on Nov. 8.  Born in this county he is survived by his father Emil Berckenhoff of San Angelo: three brothers, Thomas Berckenhoff of Halletsville, Charles and Emil Berckenhoff Jr. of Houston.  His mother preceded him in death recently at Koerth.

Contributed by Matt Cross

WILLIAM V. BERKENHOFF

Lavaca County Tribune, 4 Dec 1970

Wm. Berkenhoff

Mr. William V. Berkenhoff of 319 East Woodlawn, San Antonio, Texas died Sunday, November 22 at a local hospital after a long illness.  He was a former resident of Koerth, Texas and married the former Miss Emily Matjek on February 17, 1925 and had lived in San Antonio since 1945.

He is survived by his wife, one brother Emil Berckenhoff of Houston and one daughter, Mrs. Mary Katherine Nelson of Dallas; 8 grandchildren and several nephews.

Rosary was recited by Father Andrews at Zizik-Kearns-Downing-McClaugherty Chapel on November 23 and funeral services were held at the Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church in San Antonio on November 24.  Interment was in Koerth Catholic Cemetery.

Contributed by Matt Cross