Obituaries
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The people memorialized in the obituaries and death notices below either lived at least part of their lives in the county or are buried here. Please contact volunteer coordinator Rox Ann Johnson to contribute obituaries and/or photographs from your research.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

ETHEL CABALLERO

The Victoria Advocate
June 1978

Mrs. Caballero

Yoakum – Mrs. Ethel Caballero, 69, died at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at her home in Yoakum.

She was born June 9, 1909, in Lavaca County and lived the the Yoakum area all her life.

Services will be Monday at 2 p.m. at the Buffington Funeral Home Chapel.

Surviving are her husband Manuel; six sons, Raymond, Lupe and Ruben, all of Yoakum, Aerencion of California, and Juan and Manuel, both of Victoria; three daughters, Mrs. Tomasita Rocha of Yoakum, Mrs. Betty Loredo of Brazoria, and Mrs. Maria Cruz of Abilene: two brothers, William Castillo of Yoakum and Rodger Castillo of San Benito; four sisters, Mrs. Mary Castillo of Harlingen, Mrs. Virginia Veltran of Yoakum, Mrs. Louise Garza of Yoakum and Mrs. Lucy Cantu of California: and forty grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. 

Contributed by Regena Williamson

ALBERT CAKA, SR.

Shiner Gazette, 18 July 1935

ALBERT CAKA SR.

The subject of this sketch was born at Netolic, Czechoslovakia, April 23d 1862. He came to America Nov. 7th 1881 and located in Fayette county, near Flatonia. On Nov. 22nd, 1887 he was married to Miss Thresia Stryk. To this union 10 children were born, 4 dying in infancy. His wife died in 1902. He later married Miss Marie Hundl and 6 children were born to this union, one son dying at the age of 9 years. Mr. Caka moved from Flatonia to Shiner in 1908 and continuously resided here until his death. The 11 living children are Mrs. Ben (Annie) Berckenhoff, Mrs. John (Frances) Zissa, Mrs. John (Kristina) Matula, of shiner; Mrs. Rudolf (Thresia) Matula of Orange Grove; John, Herman, Jim, Ludwig, Joe and Albert Jr. Caka are the surviving sons.

His grief stricken wife also survives and 28 grandchildren. One brother, Martin, died in 1923 and a sister, Mrs. John Kubena died in 1925. Three sisters survive, Mrs. Anton Jemelka Sr., Mrs. Frank Janecek Sr. and Mrs. Jim Lahodny.

Mr. Caka had been ill about 4 weeks. He passed away Tuesday July 9th, at the age of 73 years, 2 months, and 17 days. Funeral services were conducted from the family residence with Requiem High Mass at the Shiner Catholic Church conducted by Father John Anders of Praha and Father L. Blinka of San Antonio, burial was in the Catholic cemetery. The O.D.H.S. Lodge also officiated.

The pall bearers were all relatives - Anton Jemelka Jr., Emil Lahodny, Emil Stryk of Flatonia, Ludwig Jaksik of Pleasanton, Anton Pesek of Sweet Home and Anton Pavlu of Hallettsville. To all bereaved by his passing, the Gazette extends heartfelt sympathy.

Contributed by Jeanne Walshak Boothe

CAMPBELL Child

Weimar Mercury
29 Dec 1906, page 8

Yoakum, Dec. 20.—The little 3-year-old girl of Jack Campbell and wife was burned to death yesterday evening at their home. The mother was doing outside work and the child was left alone playing in the house. She got so close to the heating stove that her dress caught fire, and before the mother could reach her the garment was already burned. The child lived an hour afterward.

JOSEPH A. CAMPION

Colorado Citizen, January 7, 1886

Joseph A. Campion, the Constable of Precinct No. 1, who was shot at Witting, on Oct. 15th, lingered until Sunday morning, Dec. 17th, when he breathed his last. For nearly two months and a half, he has patiently borne his terrible sufferings, hoping all the while he might recover even when his medical attendents told him there was no longer hope for him. — Hallettsvile Herald

Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

WILLIAM J. CAMPION

Weimar Mercury, 19 Aug 1938, page 7

MAN DIES OF STROKE AFTER CAR WRECKED

Halletsville, Texas, Aug. 13. — When William J. Campion ran into a fence and wrecked his car Friday morning he and his wife, who was with him, were brought to a doctor's office for treatment of cuts and bruises, and there it was found that he had suffered a stroke. He was taken to a hospital immediately, but died in a few hours. He was 55 years of age. Burial took place Saturday afternoon.

CARNES Infant

Weimar Mercury
July 27, 1895, page 2

News Specials: Shiner, Lavaca Co., Texas July 21.—The little 4-month’s-old daughter of Mr. R. S. Carnes was killed in a peculiar manner yesterday evening. The little child was sitting in a baby carriage on the front gallery, when, by a jar, it rolled off the gallery and overturned, throwing the child on the ground and killing it almost instantly, although there are no marks visible on its head or body, nor was its neck broken.
Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

EVA CARNES

Shiner Gazette, 13 Dec 1899

DEATH OF MISS EVA CARNES.

The death of Miss Eva Carnes, the second daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. S. Carnes, was a sad blow to parents and friends. Miss Eva had just touched her sixteenth year and was beloved by all who knew her. She had been sick several weeks and the best medical skill was called in, but all to no avail, for the death angel came last Monday night and carried her off to that brighter and better shore, where all is peace and joy and love.

The stricken parents have the sympathy of all who know them, in this trying hour, but time alone and a firm reliance on him that doeth all things for the best can heal their great sorrow.

Shiner Gazette, 20 Dec 1899, page 1

The funeral of Miss Eva Carnes last Wednesday evening was largely attended. A great many of the young people who were playmates and associates of Miss Eva, attended, and brought their last offerings of flowers [.] The burial services were conducted by Rev. J. F. Perrin, the Methodist pastor. At the close of Rev. Perrin’s remarks the young people sang that beautiful and impressive hymn, “[We'll] Never Say Good-Bye in Heaven.” When the services closed there was not a dry eye on the ground. The bereaved parents have the utmost sympathy of all in this their greatest sorrow.

[page 5 of same issue]

Mr. D. C. Wheeler and sister Mrs. Sutton, of Stockdale, Wilson county, came up last Wednesday to attend the funeral of their little neice [sic], Miss Eva Carnes.

Eva Carnes, 8 Dec 1883 - 12 Dec 1899, was buried in the Shiner City Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

W. J. CARNES

The Houston Chronicle
Sunday, November 27, 1892

W. J. Carnes

Shiner, Texas, November 26, - A message from Floresville yesterday, the 25th inst., brought the sad news of the death of W. J. Carnes, Sr., a highly respected citizen of this place.

The death of Mr. Carnes was very sudden, as he was in apparent good health a few days before his death. He leaves a host of friends and relatives to mourn his loss.

Contributed by Cathy Fitch

AUDREY LEE SWANK HILLMAN CARR

Houston Chronicle
25 Jan1966

CARR- Mrs. Audrey Hillman Carr, 55, of 1961 Norfolk died 9:25 p.m., Sunday at her residence. Native of Yoakum, a Houston resident 26 years. Member of Baptist Church, bookkeeper for Fisher Construction Co. Survivors: Husband, A.E. Carr, son, Carl E. Hillman Jr., both of Houston; sisters, Mrs. Ruth Wukaush[Wukasch], Santa Barbara, Cal, Mrs. Gwendolyn Scanlin, Brownsville; two grandchildren. Services 1 p.m. Wednesday Geo. H. Lewis & Sons Mc Gowen Ave. Chapel; Rev. M. Eugene Vickery officiating. Burial- Forest Park Lawndale Cemetery. Pallbearers: Howard Kirkpatrick, Bob Chappell, Harry Clark, Pat Moroney, J.D. Harrell, Ted McCorkle. Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 400 Block, McGowen.

Contributed by Carla Hillman Ratcliff

WILLIAM CARROLL

Colorado Citizen, 2 Dec 1869, page 2

MAN KILLED AT HALLETTSVILLE. —We understand that Robert Coffee killed William Carroll, last Tuesday, in Hallettsville. The particulars of the killing have not transpired, but we understand that Coffee acted in self-defence —Carroll having first fired on him. The Sheriff promptly arrested Coffee, andd the election was not disturbed.

ETTA CARSON

Moulton News, 9 Dec 1896, Nickel Notes column

Miss Etta Carson, a most estimable young lady who made her home in our midst and taught one term of school in this district, died in Yoakum, Nov. 28th, after a lingering illness. This noble girl was a ‘shining light’ in all things that would tend to elevate those who were blessed with her friendship and love. In expressing my sympathy, I know I echo the feelings of her many friends throughout the community. I seek no more in this sad hour t han [sic] to offer this tribute and lay a flower with love and friendship upon her sacred memory.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JAMES W. CARSON

Weimar Mercury
21 Jul 1944, page 8

OAKLAND NEWS

We are sorry to pen the death of Mr. James W. Carson, which occurred Friday morning at the Renger Hospital in Hallettsville. Mr. Carson had been an unusually healthy man and was sick only a few days prior to his death, when he suffered a stroke rendering him unconscious and unable to talk. His death was a shock to the whole community as he was well known throught Colorado and Lavaca counties. He was laid to rest in the Andrews Chapel Cemetery, Saturday afternoon. Rev. Jordan performed the last sad rites. He leaves to mourn his loss, his wife and three children, all grown — Mrs. Willard Fisher of Cedar Bayou, Mrs. Houston Wade, Hackberry; one son, Simpson Carson; and two grandchildren. Mr. Carson was born and reared in Lavaca Co. and spent most of his life on his farm near Oakland. He was 73 years of age at time of his death. We extend our sincere sympathy to his loved ones, in their loss — "One by one the leaves are falling —".

MRS. L. CARSON

Weimar Mercury, 29 Feb 1896, pg 2

Hope cor. Halletsville Herald:  L Carson who moved from this county to north Texas, lost his wife 8 or 10 days ago and has two infant girls on hand. We learn that their grandfather, A. J. McDonald, is going to take the babies. The stricken family and relatives have the sympathy of this community.
Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

ED CARVILLE

Weimar Mercury
February 3, 1894, page 5.

Crushed To Death

The body of Ed Carville, who was accidentally killed in Galveston, was brought to Hallettsville Saturday for burial. The Galveston News of Saturday gives this account of the unfortunate affair:

Ed Carville, a car repairer employed in the Santa Fe shops in  this city met with a horrible death about 8:15 yesterday morning in the Santa Fe yards, about Fortieth street, by being caught between the drawheads of two cars and crushed. Carville had been at work repairing a cab window in a car standing on another truck, and having completed his work jumped to the ground and started for the shops. A long train was standing on track No. 9, and there was an opening where the cars had parted, and through this Carville attempted to pass. A Santa Fe flat car, No. 853, was on one side, and a heavy furniture car, No. 6692, on the other. Just as Carville stepped upon the track the engine “kicked” some other cars down against the train, pushing the flat car and the furniture car together and catching Carville squarely between the drawheads, crushing his body frightfully. Carville did not lose consciousness at first, and spoke several times to one of the trainmen who was giving signals for the engineer to pull up in order to release him from the awful situation. Just as soon as the cars were pulled apart, Carville dropped down a corpse. An inquest was held by Justice Friery, at which substantially the above facts were developed, and the body was turned over to J. H. Stouer to be prepared for burial. Carville was about 30 years old, and was married about two years ago to the daughter of Henry Smith a well-known Houston railroad man. The body will be taken to Hallettsville this morning, accompanied by the grief-stricken young wife. —Hallettsville Herald.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

OTHO W. CASEY

Moulton Eagle
May 20, 1955

Otho W. Casey Succumbs Sat.

Funeral services were held from the Smith Funeral Home by Rev. Jackson, Baptist Minister of Flatonia, for Otho W. Casey, a former Moulton citizen.  Interment was made in the Moulton City Cemetery following services at the Funeral Chapel at 10:30 a.m. Monday. 

Mr. Casey, 70, was born near Austin and was a retired railroad man having spent some 29 years as section foreman in Moulton.  He died at the San Antonio Memorial Hospital Saturday, May 14, after visiting his son in that city.  The deceased made his home in Houston following retirement. 

Survivors include the bereaved widow, Mrs. Leonora Casey of Houston; sons, Leonard also of Houston, and Wallis of San Antonio, and daughter, Mrs. R.E. Echols of Hobbs, N. Mexico.  One brother, Joe Wages of Houston, also survives.  A son, Maynard, preceded him in death. 

Pallbearers were members of the Masonic Order and the service was conducted under the auspices of the local Masonic Order.

May out-of-town friends and relatives of the deceased came to mourn his passing and accompany him to his final resting place on the local cemetery.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

CEJKA INFANT

Weimar Mercury
20 Jun 1919

Oakland cor. New Era: It is with sadness that we chronicle the death of the infant of Mr. and Mrs. Robt. Cejka. The little one was laid to rest in the Bila Hora cemetery Sunday morning.

EMILIE CEJKA

San Antonio Express
7 Nov 1937

WIFE OF JUSTICE DIES

HALLETTSVILLE, Tex., Nov. 6. — Mrs. Frank Cejka, wife of the Sublime justice of the peace, died suddenly Friday, and was buried Saturday. She leaves besides her husband, six children. She was born in Czechoslovakia 45 years ago.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOSEF CEJKA, SR.

Weimar Mercury, February 9, 1907

A Bohemian farmer named Joe Cejka, Sr., living in the Sublime section, south of here in Lavaca county, was buried Tuesday afternoon at St. Michael’s cemetery, in this city. His death was caused through being kicked in the stomach by a wild young horse or mule which he was endeavoring to hitch to a buggy. General peritonitis set in, and from the effects of this he died Monday afternoon.

Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

FRANK CHALOUPKA, Sr.

Hallettsville Herald, 31 Mar 1925

Funeral of Fr. Chaloupka Sr.

The funeral of Frank Chaloupka Sr., who died Thursday afternoon at 1:30 o'clock, was held from his late residence Saturday morning.  Funeral services were held in the Catholic Church at Sweet Home at 9:30 o'clock Father G. Kuratko of Koerth, Father A. Mathis of Halletsville and Father D. A. Sykora of St. Mary officiating.  The funeral service in Bohemian was preached by Father Kuratko and in English by A. Mathis.  Interment was made in the Catholic Cemetery of Sweet Home

Pallbearers were I. E. Valenta, J. J. Olsen, Anton Havel, Louis Matusek, Henry Grieve and Frank Berkovsky.  Many beautiful flowers were placed on his last resting place showing the esteem in which the deceased was held by those who knew him best.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANK J. CHALOUPKA

Lavaca County Tribune, September 29, 1961

Fr. J. Chaloupka Dies at 67 Years

Frank J. Chaloupka, 67, well-known farmer of the Moravia – St. John community, on Schulenburg, route 4, died Wednesday, Sept. 27, at 11:40 p.m., in the Renger Hospital in Hallettsville.

Funeral services will be held at the Kubena Funeral Home at 9:45 a.m., and at Sacred Heart Church at 10:30 a.m., in Hallettsville, Friday, Sept. 29, with Rt. Rev. A. J. Morkovsky officiating.

Interment will be in the Catholic Cemetery here.

Mr. Chaloupka was a member of the SPJST. He was born at Sweet Home Sept. 7, 1894 and lived in Lavaca County all his life making his living as a farmer.

On Nov. 13, 1916, he married Miss Annie Pekar at Sweet Home and they settled in this county on a farm.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Annie (Pekar) Chaloupka; six sons, Frank and Sam Chaloupka of Houston, Charles of Hallettsville, and Phillip, George, and Johnnie of the Schulenburg area; four daughters, Mrs. Annie Janak, Mrs. Irene Janak, Mrs. Lillie Woytek, all of the Hallettsville area, and Mrs. Mary Tupa of Wharton. Thirty-one grandchildren also survive.

Rosary will be recited at the Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 28th.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

MARY LOU HOUCHINS CHANDLER

Yoakum Daily Herald, Friday, Sept. 2, 1938, Vol. XLII, No. 130

PIONEER RESIDENT THIS SECTION TAKEN BY DEATH

SERVICES FOR MRS. MARY LOU CHANDLER TO BE HELD AT 4 P. M. SATURDAY

Mrs. Mary Lou Chandler, aged 79, was taken by death at 10:15 p. m. Thursday, September 1, at the home of her daughter, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. McGrew, 525 N. South street.

Mrs. Chandler was the daugther of George Washington Houchins and Sarah Reese Houchins, and was born in Washington County, March 2, 1859. She was united in marriage to Louis Clark Chandler on November 29, 1877.

Mrs. Chandler is survived by three sons, G. A. and C. H. Chandler of Yoakum, and J. W. Chandler of Houston; three daughters, Mrs. C. C. McGrew and Mrs. J. M. Taylor of Yoakum, and Mrs. Cassie Jamison of Houston; 18 grand children and 5 great grand children; four brothers, E. H. Houchins of Hallettsville, B. W. and Chester Houchins of Houston, and O. D. Houchins of Alice; two sisters, Mrs. J. F. Ponish and Mrs. A. W. Ponsh of Yoakum.

Mrs. Chandler spent her entire life in this vicinity, moving to Yoakum from Hallettsville in 1903. She became a member of the Baptist church in early life and was a constant and active church worker until her death. She was devoted to her home and family and numbered he friends by her acquantances.

Funeral services will be held from the First Baptist Church Saturday afternoon at 4 o'clock by Rev. Earl Hill and interment will be in the Oak Grove cemetery under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home.

Obituary contributed by Deborah Smith. Date and newspaper from Melissa Walcik. Photo contributed by Terry Houchins.

FELIX CYRIL CHILEK

Victoria Advocate, January 13, 2001, Page 7A.

Yoakum—Felix Chilek, 90, of Yoakum, died Thursday, Jan. 11, 2001.

He was born May 12, 1910, in DeWitt County, to the late Valentin and Emilie Koliba Chilek.

He was an insurance salesman at Hochheim Prairie Insurance for 13 years and was also a farmer and rancher. He was a member of St. Ann's Catholic Church, KJT and Herman Sons and was a Yoakum Assembly 4th degree Knight of Columbus.

Survivors: daughters, Pat Kurtz and Micki Kosler, both of Shiner and Margaret Loos of Yoakum; son, Sylvester Chilek of Houston; 18 grandchildren; and 20 great grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: wife, Mary Brezina Chilek; daughter, Agnes Chilek; son, Gratcian Chilek; parents; and great-granddaughter, Kelley Chilek.

A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. tonight at Buffington Funeral Home chapel. Services will be 2 p.m. Sunday at St. Ann's Catholic Church, the Revs. Gary Janak and Tim Kosler officiating.

Burial will be at St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery. Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum, 361-293-2333. Memorials: St. Ann's Church or donor's choice.

The Victoria Advocate, January 14, 2001 on page 7A

FELIX CHILEK

YOAKUM—Services for Felix Chilek, 90, of Yoakum, who died Thursday, will be 2 p.m. today at St. Ann's Catholic Church, the Revs. Gary Janak and Tim Kosler officiating.

Burial will be at St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery. Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum, 361-293-2333.

Pallbearers: Michael Chilek, Gary Chilek, Bobby Chilek, Randy Chilek, Jim Frank Loos Jr., Nick Kurtz, Jeff Kurtz and Matt Kosler. Honorary pallbearers: Stephen Kosler and Timothy Kosler.

Memorials: St. Ann's Church or donor's choice.

Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

FRANCES CHILEK

Victoria Advocate, Friday, September 22, 1972, p. 14A

Miss Chilek

YOAKUM -- Miss Frances Chilek, 80, a resident of Route 2, Shiner, died at 7:30 a.m. Thursday.

She was born May 25, 1892 in Lavaca County and was a lifetime resident of the area.

Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Friday at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel in Yoakum.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday from St. Joseph Catholic Church, with the Rev. Michael O'Shaughnessy officiating. Burial will be in Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Survivors include a brother, Fred, of Yoakum.

Frances is the daughter of Peter and Julie Vasicek Chilek. Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

JULIA VASEK CHILEK

Shiner Gazette, Jan 6, 1927

After a brief illness, Mrs. Julia Chilek passed away at her home on the farm where she had lived for 34 years. Her death occured on Dec 17th (1926) and the funeral the following day with burial in the Catholic cemetery. Father Netaidus and Father Benes conducted the funeral services. She was nearly 73 years old. She is survived by the following sons and daughters; Valentino, Aug., Fred, Rudolf, Peter of Hochheim and John of Floresville, Janie Vinklarek, Nonie Marsak of Hochheim, Bettie Chlastak, Yoakum, Misses Julia and Francis at the old home.

Mrs. Chilek's maiden name was Julia Vasek and she was born in Bohemia. 48 grand children also survive. The Gazette offers sympathy to the bereaved.

Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

LUDMILA (KOLIBA) CHILEK

Shiner Gazette, Sep 28, 1933

Mrs. Valentine Chilek

It is with sincere regret that we chronicle the death of Mrs. Valentine Chilek, which occurred at the local hospital late Wednesday afternoon Sept. 20th.

Just a week previous she had been brought to the hospital desperately ill and all that medical skill and professional nursing could do, proved of no avail.

Funeral services were held Friday morning from the family residence near Shiner at 9 o'clock thence the procession moved to St. Ann's Catholic Church near Hochheim where religious services were concluded and burial held in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery.

Mrs. Chilek, who was formerly Miss Ludmila Koliba, was born in Lavaca County. She was married to Valentine Chilek on Oct. 8th, 1902, in the Shiner Catholic Church.

She is survived by her devoted husband and two children - a daughter Mrs. Annie (Alfons) Hartl and a son Felix both living near Shiner; also by two adopted daughters, Sister M. Gabriel of the local Convent, and Mrs. Edna Chilek, all of Shiner.

An infant son preceded her to the grave.

One grandchild also survives and the following brothers: George Koliba of Hochheim, Louis of Corpus Christi, Henry of Robstown; one half brother Frank of Shiner and two half sisters, Mrs. Louise Janca of Cistern and Mrs. Jane Ulcak of Wied.

Most of her life was spent in DeWitt county near Dreyer.

At the time of her death, Mrs. Chilek was 49 years old. Father Beck of Yoakum and his assistant pastor conducted the Mass while Very Rev. L. P. Netardus preached the Bohemian Sermon.

Pall bearers were Willie Becka, John Dolezal, Adolf and Jim Pesek, Frank Dusek and John Hartl.

The Gazette offers abiding sympathy to all who mourn her loss.

Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

MILDRED PANUS CHILEK

Victoria Advocate, 13 Feb 2009

MILDRED (PANUS) CHILEK

SHINER - Mildred (Panus) Chilek, 78, of Shiner, passed away on Feb. 11, 2009. She was the daughter of the late Frank Sr. and Emilie (Hanzalik) Panus. She was married to Sylvester Chilek on Sept.17, 1955, in Shiner.

She was preceded in death by parents and two brothers, Frank Jr. and Joe Panus. She is survived by husband; two sons, Michael and Gary; one daughter, Cynthia; three sisters, Elizabeth Brosch, Georgia Wenske and Edith Hirsch; six grandchildren.

Visitation will be Thursday, Feb. 12, 2009, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. with rosary at 7 p.m. at Buffington Funeral Home in Shiner. Services will be Friday, Feb. 13, 2009, at 10 a.m. at S.S. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, Shiner, with Father Tommy Chen presiding. Interment will follow at Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

RUDOLPH T. CHILEK

San Antonio Light, Monday, Dec 25, 1950, Page 5C

Yoakum, Dec 25 - Funeral services for Rudolph T. Chilek, 53, were held at St. Ann's Catholic church with Msgr. Joseph A. Pustka officiating. Burial was in St. Ann's cemetery.

He leaves his widow, Mrs. Edna Chilek, Shiner; 6 daughters, Mrs. Clara Kasparek, Miss Dorothy Chilek and Miss Rosa Chilek, all of Yoakum; Miss Lorene Chilek and Miss Helen Chilek, all of Shiner; four brothers, Valentine, Shiner; John, Floresville; Gus, Wharton; and Fred, Yoakum; three sisters, Mrs. Barbara Chlastak, Yoakum; Miss Julia Chilek and Miss Frances Chilek, Shiner, and one grandchild.

Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

VALENTINE CHILEK

Shiner Gazette, January 11, 1962

Funeral Rites For Valentine Chilek

Funeral services were conducted for Valentine Chilek of Route 2, Shiner, Tuesday, January 2, 1962 at 9:00 a.m. from the Buffington Funeral Home Chapel in Shiner and continued with Requiem High Mass at St. Ann's Catholic Church at 9:30 with the Rev. Father Edward Jansky officiating. Interment was in the St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery near Yoakum.

Rosary was recited at the funeral home Monday, January 1 at 7:00 p.m.

Mr. Chilek passed away in the Frank Wagner Memorial Hospital Tuesday, December 30, 1961 at 11:40 p.m. at the age of 82 years, 10 months and 22 days. He had been a patient in the hospital for 53 days.

Mr. Chilek, a retired farmer, was born in Moravia, Czechoslovakia, February 9, 1879, son of Peter and Julia (Vasek) Chilek. When two years of age, he came to America with his parents. He was one of the oldest pioneers of the Dreyer community, moving there at the age of 12 and having been a resident there for 70 years. His stories were many and interesting of the early days in this sparsely populated community. For the past 23 years he made his home with his son, Felix Chilek and family at Dreyer.

In 1902 he was married to Emily Koliba. She passed away in 1933. He was then married to Mrs. Frances Richter in 1939. She also preceded him in death on April 24, 1943.

He is survived by one son, Felix Chilek of Route 2, Shiner; one daughter, Mrs. Alfonse (Annie) Hartel of Route 2, Shiner; two foster daughters, Sister M. Gabriel of Nazareth Convent, Victoria, now teaching at St. Agnes School, San Antonio, and Mrs. Rud. (Edna) Chilek of Yoakum; two brothers, August Chilek of Wharton, Fred Chilek of Yoakum; one sister, Miss Frances Chilek of Route 2, Shiner; seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren; also one step-son, Johnny Richter of Yoakum; two step-daughters, Mrs. J. A. (Helen) Janssen of Yoakum and Mrs. Charlie (Lillie) Adamek of Kerrville.

Besides his wives he was preceded in death by his father in October 1913, his mother, who died December 18, 1925; two brothers, John and Rudolph Chilek; half-brother, Peter Chilek; three sisters, Mrs. Vinc (Barbara) Chlastak, Mrs. Richard (Janie) Vinklarek, Miss Julia Chilek; a brother and sister died in infancy; and a step-son, Edwin Richter, died about ten years ago.

Serving as pallbearers were his grandsons, Sylvester and Rudy Chilek of Houston, Gratcian Chilek of Edna, Jimmy Loos and Raymond Richter of Yoakum and Anthony Hartel of Shiner.

Mr. Chilek was a devout and lifelong member of the Catholic Church and also held membership in the KJT Lodge. A devoted husband and father, a kind and generous neighbor, he will always live in the hearts and memory of his loved ones and many friends.

Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

EUGENE CHRISTEN, SR.

Weimar Mercury
September 16, 1955

Eugene Christen Sr., Hackberry Farmer, Buried Saturday

Funeral Services for Eugene Christen Sr., 79-year-old retired farmer of the Hackberry community south of here, were held Saturday at St. Rose Catholic Church with burial in the church cemetery at Schulenburg.

Mr. Christen, who was born near Columbus, had lived at Hackberry for about 50 years. He had been ill for some time when he suffered a heart attack in his home Friday.

Surviving are his wife Mrs. Mary Christen, of Hackberry; three daughters, Mrs. Robert Raabe of Freyburg, Mrs. Victor Smajstrla and Mrs. Geo. Schimeck: two sons, John and Gene Jr. of Hackberry; a sister, Mrs. Julius Heinsohn of Hallettsville; four brothers, Joe of Moravia, Frank and Otto of New Biclau, and Leo of Hallettsville. Eight grandchildren also survive.
Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

JOHN ADOLPH CHRISTEN

Weimar Mercury
20 Feb 1920

DEATHS REPORTED WEDNESDAY

A three months old son of Emil Christen and wife died Wednesday, after a brief illness. The infant child of Eli David and wife of the Bila Hora community also died same day. Our sympathy goes out to the bereaved parents.

EMILY AGNES MORISAK CHUMCHAL

Victoria Advocate, 11 Mar 2009

EMILY AGNES CHUMCHAL

YOAKUM - Emily Agnes Chumchal, age 84, died on Monday, March 9, 2009.

She was born on May 19, 1924, in Gonzales, to Anton and Veronica Chilek Morisak. She was a homemaker and a Catholic.

Survivors: daughter, Margie Ann Chumchal of Yoakum; sons, Edward Chumchal Jr. and Gene "Chumpy" Chumchal and wife Nancy Ann, all of Yoakum; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; brother, Cyril Morisak of Gonzales; and sister, Monica Morisak Machacek of Shiner. Preceded in death by: parents; and husband, Eddie Chumchal.

A rosary will be recited at 7:30 p.m. today at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home. The funeral will be at 2 p.m. on Thursday at the funeral home with the Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating. Interment will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Ricky Chumchal, Ervin Chumchal, Emil Chumchal, Joe Machacek, Butch Machacek, and Pat Machacek.

Honorary pallbearers are her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

CLAUDIE M. CLARK

Hallettsville Tribune-Herald, February 25, 2009

Claudie M. Clark, 92, of Hallettsville, passed away Monday, Feb. 16, 2009 in Hallettsville.

Visitation began at 10 a.m. and continued until 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 21 at Eastside Church of God in Hallettsville.

Funeral Services followed at 11 a.m. Saturday at Eastside Church of God.

Interment followed in the Breslau Cemetery, under the direction of Paradise Funeral Home, Hallettsville.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

SYLVIA KUBENKA CLARK

Victoria Advocate, 3 May 2005

Sylvia K. Clark—MOULTON

SPEAKS—Sylvia K. Clark, 82, of Moulton, died Sunday, May 1, 2005.

She was born March 29, 1923, in Moulton, to the late Anton and Adela Barta Kubenka. She was a homemaker.

Survivors: daughters, Brenda Joyce Little of Inez and Becky Polasek of Speaks; sons, T.L. "Tim" Clark Jr. of Lubbock and Richard John "Rick" Clark III of Grants Pass, Ore.; sisters, Virginia Gerald of Edna and Lony Popp of Sommerville; brother, Tony Kubenka of Edna; 11 grandchildren; and 22 great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: husband, Thomas Lamar Clark Sr.

Visitation will be tonight at Slavik Funeral Home chapel.

Services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at the funeral home, the Rev. Rick DuBroc officiating.

Burial will be at Speaks Cemetery. Slavik Funeral Home, Edna, 361-782-2152.

Memorials: Hospice of South Texas, Hallettsville office, Speaks Community Center, or Speaks Cemetery Association.

Contributed by Matt Cross

THOMAS LAMAR CLARKE, Sr.

Victoria Advocate, 4 Jan 1995, page 8A

THOMAS L. CLARK SR.

SPEAKS - Thomas Lamar Clark Sr., 76, of Speaks died Monday, Jan. 2, 1995.

Mr. Clark was born April 15, 1918, in Seclusion to the late Richard Jones Clark Jr. and Ruby Bishop. He married the former Sylvia Kubenka, Oct. 14, 1940, in Ganado. He was a former resident of Corpus Christi for 47 years. He was active in scouting for many years and a mechanic for Corpus Christi Army Depot and a Baptist.

Survivors: wife; daughters, Brenda Clark Little of Inez and Becky Clark of Louise; sons, Richard John Clark of Boerne and Thomas L. Clark Jr. of Lubbock; eleven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Services: 10 a.m. Thursday, Slavik Funeral Home, the Rev. Jim Gilbert officiating.

Burial: Speaks Cemetery, Speaks, Slavik Funeral Home, Edna, 782-2152.

Pallbearers will be grandsons: Howard James "Butch" Houck Jr., Glen Jamerson, John Clark IV, Tom Clark, David Houck, Ricky Boone and Scott Turk.

Honorary pallbearers: Dr. Rouchy Shenouds, M.O. "Butch" Houck Sr., William Guy Horton, Douglas Clark, Anthony Gerald, Jimmy Garner, Andrea Boone, Vicki Jamerson, Beth Ann Turk, Joyce Clark, JuJu Polasek and Becky Horton.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ROBERT CLEIN

Weimar Mercury, 25 Apr 1889, page 2

Not until yesterday have we been able to learn the particulars in regard to the recent hanging at Dreyer's or [Charlottenburg]. It is a story of unrequited loved. Rob't Clein was an industrious young man and a renter on Mr. Dreyer's farm. Clein was in love with the daughter of another farmer in the same neighborhood and made known his feelings to both the young lady and her parents. The young lady, however, did not reciprocate the affection of her ardent young admirer and informed him of the fact; but nothing daunted and the parents promised Clein their daughter's hand. Upon seeing that the young lady persisted in rejecting his advances, Clein became despondent, and going to the crib he sought solace in death by ranging himself to a rafter.—Hallettsville Herald.

J. JACK CLOUTIER

Victoria Advocate, 10 Feb 2007

J. JACK CLOUTIER

SHINER - J. Jack Cloutier, 84, of Shiner, died Feb. 8, 2007. He was born Nov. 28, 1922, in Natchitoches, La., to the late L. Philip Cloutier and

Cecile Prudhomme Cloutier. He was an Architect and a member of the Catholic Church.

He is survived by his wife Madlyn Hajek Cloutier of 56 years; son, J. Madison Cloutier of Costa Rica; daughters, Jacquelyn Glomb of Buda and Mona McKinnerney of Sugar Land; and eight grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his mother in 1930; his father in 1983; his sister Marie Greene in 1982; his step-mother Geneva Burns Cloutier in 1997; and his brother L. P. Cloutier in 1999.

He graduated from St. Mary's Academy in Natchitoches, La. and received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Architecture from the University of Texas in 1950. He married Madlyn Hajek on June 17, 1950. They moved to Baton Rouge, La. where Jack worked for J. Roy Haase - Architect. Jack later joined Walker and Walker Architects where he was an associate and moved to Shiner in 1960 to open his own Architectural office.

Jack was a member of the Texas Society of Architects, a member and past president of the Chamber of Commerce, Shiner Rotary Club, Shiner Gaslight Theatre, and Dewitt-Lavaca-Gonzales Texas Exes Club. He served as Trustee and past president of the Shiner ISD, director of the Shiner Hospital Foundation, a Friend of the Shiner Public Library, and was a life member of the American Legion. He was active in Boy and Girl scouting and Little League. He was the first Rotary Bulletin editor and first chairman of the Rotary Art and Hobby Show. In the Chamber of Commerce, he re-activated the parade float and had it enlarged and redecorated for the bicentennial in 1976.

Jack served on the original planning committee for the Wolters Museum and directed the relocation and conversion of the old Texaco Building into the Old General Store and developed the master plan for the Green Dickson City Park, including the layout for the baseball fields, designed the original dam, and assisted in planning and development of the Comanche Football. His contribution to the Shiner Veterans Memorial included recommendations for the platform with fossil tiles, selection of the site and design for the foundation for the monument.

Local buildings he designed included the First United Methodist Church and Parsonage, St. Paul High School, Shiner Hospital, Gonzales County Savings and Loan (Guaranty) now the City of Shiner building, Williford Drug (now privately owned), First National Bank - expansion and renovations, additions to Trinity Lutheran Home, American Legion expansion and Dining Hall and numerous residences.

His art work included the bicentennial commemorative coin, Shiner centennial logo, cover picture for the Shiner History Book, Rotary Bulletin logo, and Pilot Club of Shiner logo. He designed award patches, medals, sun-catchers, and t-shirts for the Shiner Half Moon Walkers and Volkswalks in Buda. He sketched five drawings of historical sites in the Buda area for the Buda Friends of the Library Historical calendar. He received the Rotary Roll of Fame honor in 1977, the Rotary Paul Harris Fellow in 1999, retired in January 2001 - Member Emeritus of the American Institute of Architects, and was recognized by the Chamber of Commerce for dedicated service to Shiner C of C in 2000.

Jack served four years and ten months in the Army Air Corps during World War II with the 5th Air Force in the Southwest Pacific in Australia, New Guinea, Biak Island, and the Philippines.

Visitation will begin after 7 a.m., Sunday at Buffington Funeral Home Chapesl. The family will receive friends 2-3 p.m. Sunday at the chapel. A rosary will be recited 3 p.m. Sunday at the chapel.

There will be private graveside services.

Pallbearers are Steve Glomb, Rick McKinnerney, Dustin Cloutier, Michael McKinner-ney, Matthew McKinnerney, Dennis Mraz, Bill Bradfield, and Gus Kubecka.

Memorials may be given to the charity of your choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

PHYLLIS COATS

Weimar Mercury
9 Mar 1907

Phyllis Coats, typical colored "mammy" of slavery times, liked and respected by both white and black, died here yesterday morning, aged about 78 years. She came with her master's family from Tennessee to Colorado county, Tex., in the latter forties and with the exception of the last fifteen years, had lived there ever since. The original slave bill of sale in which she is transferred to her last master, T. C. Coats, is still in possession of her son, Jim Coats, and reads as follows: "Received of Caswell Coats five hundred & 25 dollars, it being in full payment for a certain negro woman named Phyllis about 18 years old. The said negro woman I warrant sound both in body and mind and slave for life. I also warrant the claim to said negro against all persons. Feb. 13, 1848." This is signd by William A. Moore. The "slave for life" clause is especialy unique, since it failed to come true by far. —Halletsville New Era.

ELLEN COCKE

Weimar Mercury, 2 Nov 1895

Mrs. Ellen Cocke, wife of Mr. N. H. Cocke of Yoakum, died at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. James Malone, at San Marcos, on Oct. 18th, 1895. Mr. N. B. Cocke was one of Weimar’s merchants in the early days of that city and many friends and acquaintances will be pained to learn of the death of Mrs. Cocke. Deceased leaves a husband and four children, who have the sympathy of a large circle of friends.—Schulenberg Stickler

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

OTTO COLLE

Weimar Mercury
31 May 1935, page 3

YOAKUM RANCHER SLAIN SLEEPING BESIDE WIFE

Yoakum, Texas, May 26. — Otto Colle, 50, married rancher, stockman, farmer and rodeo promoter, was assassinated this morning at 3:45 at his home while asleep beside his wife. A small caliber bullet had entered his left breast, lodging in the back, causing instant death. Coroner A. Whitckey pronounced death by gunshot wound by an unknown person. His pistol and money from Saturday's rodeo were in the room untouched. The motive has not been ascertained.

FREDERICH (FRITZ) CORDES

Weimar Mercury, 3 Nov 1911

Fritz Cordes, one of Sublime’s oldest citizens, died last Sunday evening. Mr. Cordes had been in bad health for a long time. He was laid to rest in the Smoothing Iron cemetery, Monday evening at four o’clock. Mr. Cordes leaves, to mourn his loss, a wife, several children and a host of friends.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

JULIUS CORDES

Tribune Herald, July 8, 1949

Julius F. Cordes Taken by Death

At the age of 69 years, 5 mos. and 2 days, Julius Fritz Cordes of Sublime passes away, Saturday, July 2nd, at 5:00 a.m., in the Dufner Hospital here. Death followed a lingering illness.

Funeral services were held at the Kubena Funeral Home, Tuesday, at 2:00 p.m., followed by interment in the Smoothing Iron Cemetery east of Sublime. Rev. Zimmermann of Orange Grove conducted the last rites.

The deceased was born at Sublime and made his living during his lifetime as a farmer. As a young man he married; his wife passing away in 1919.

Surviving are one son, Delmar Cordes of the Sublime community; one brother, Fritz Cordes of Bay City, and one sister Mrs. Anna Proctor of Houston.

Pallbearers were: Raymond Johnson, John Menke, Victori Muenster, William Cordes, Manley Fisher and Arthur Weber.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

COX

Colorado Citizen, 7 Jan 1874, page 2

We learn that a Mr. Cox was dangerously and he is supposed fatally wounded by Mr. Webb at or near the residence of Mrs. Williams in the lower part of the county three days since. Of the origin of the difficulty which resulted thus the . . . or the circumstances . . . we have learned nothing. Mr. Webb has not yet, we learn been arrested—though the active and vigilant officers of Precinct No. 4 are making every effort to . . . that end.—Hallettsville Herald, 31st.

REBECCA MINERVA JANE BELL COX

Colorado County Citizen, May 18, 1944

Funeral Services Held Saturday for Mrs. Rebecca Cox

Funeral services for Mrs. Rebecca J. Cox, 83, were held here Saturday with interment in Odd Fellows Rest, Rev. L. M. Chapman officiating. Columbus Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Cox died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. B. B. Beck Friday after a long illness. She was born in Lavaca county on February 10, 1861, a daughter of George and Martha Bell. The family later moved to Hayes county where she was reared and where she was married in 1881 to W. A. Cox. Mr. Cox died in 1922.

Mrs. Cox had been a member of the Baptist church for 50 years. She had lived with her children in Columbus for the past nine years.

Survivors include three daughters, Mrs. Beck and Mrs. W. M. Hill of this place and Mrs. J. W. Edwards of Hempstead; two sons, H. A. and J. T. Cox, both of Phoenix, Ariz., and one sister Mrs. Tom Ford of San Antonio. Fifteen grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren also survive. Two sons and a daughter preceded her in death.

Pallbearers were E. G. Miller, Fred Woodard, J. V. Frnka, W. G. Clayton, W. H. Hargrove and R. R. Hadden.

Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

MARY MLYNAR CULAK

Weimar Mercury, Jan 23, 1920, page 7

MRS. MARY CULAK.

Former Resident of This Section Dies Near Moulton.

Mrs. Mary Culak, nee Mlynar, died at her home near Nickel Friday afternoon, January 9, following a several days' illness.

Interment was made in the S. P. J. S. T. cemetery west of Moulton Saturday afternoon. The pall bearers were: Ignac Vita, John Jirkovsky, Frank Klozik, Alois Stavinoha, Joe Kolar and Herman Rarilek.

The decedent was born in Tycha, Moravia, Austria, February 2, 1845, and was at the time of her death 74 years, 11 months and 7 days old. She was married to Mr. John Culak in 1871 and came to Texas in 1873; located at Weimar and removed to this section in 1881. Mr. Culak died fifteen years ago.

Surviving are eight children — Frank Culak of Moulton, John Culak of Dixon School, Joe Culak of Moulton, Anton Culak of Nickel, Mrs. Anton Svoboda of Nickel, Mrs. Mary Cernoch of Weimar, Mrs. Charles Welfl of Moulton and Mrs. Andrew Taraba of Baursville.

The Eagle tenders its sympathy to the bereaved survivors. —Moulton Eagle.

B. F. CULPEPPER

Weimar Mercury
June 13, 1896, page 2

Hallettsville New Era: Last night at about 9 o’clock, Tax Collector B. F. Culpeper [sic.], committed suicide by shooting himself with a 45 caliber revolver. He had just returned from Sublime, and after eating his supper retired to the front porch. His family shortly afterwards heard the report of a pistol and ran to investigate, finding him sitting in a rocking chair with his brains blown out. He was killed instantly. Cause unknown.

Weimar Mercury, 26 Sep 1896, page 2

Hallettsville New Era: Mrs. Johnnie Culpepper received last week a check for $2,000 from the Woodmen of the World in payment of the policy of her late husband, B. F. Culpepper.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

ROBERT RAY CULPEPPER

Shiner Gazette, 7 Apr 1897

As the GAZETTE goes to press the condition of Frank Culpepper’s little seven-month-old boy is critical, and his death may occur at any time. He has been sick several weeks.

Robert Ray Culpepper, 6 Sep 1896 – 9 Apr 1897, was buried in the Mt. Olive Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

ANTHONY CUNNINGHAM, JR.

Weimar Mercury
27 Jun 1919, page 5

SOLDIER SHOT AT JUAREZ IS BURIED AT SHINER

Shiner, Texas, June 22.—The body of Anthony Cunningham, Jr., negro, a member of company C, 47th infantry, who died of wounds received at Juarez in a clash with Villa troops, arrived here Friday and was interred in the negro cemetery. Cunningham, whose parents reside here joined the army from this county. He served on the Mexican border, being stationed at Columbus and Demning, N. M., most of the time. Cosby Cunningham, a cousin of the dead soldier and a member of the same company accompanied the remains here.

Anthony Cunningham, aged 25, was buried in the Bluebonnet Hill Memory Garden.

CUNNINGHAM

Galveston Daily News, 14 Jan 1884

LAVACA.

Herald: One day last week the daughter of John Cunningham was burned to death at the school-house of Brushy. It seems she had been sweeping the house, the scholars and teacher having gone away, and her dress took fire from the stove and she, becoming frightened, rushed through the woods. Her burns were found to be fatal.

JOHN CURRY

Weimar Mercury
18 Jan 1929, page 2

Confederate Veteran Dead.

Moulton, Texas. Jan. 11.—John Curry, 88, was buried in the Thompson cemetery, west of here. Wednesday afternoon under the auspices of Moulton Lodge No. 298. A. F. & A. M. He had been a member of the Masonic lodge for 58 years. Curry was a Confederate veteran and the Confederate monument in the city of Gonzales was draped on the day of his death in his memory. He is survived by three sons and four daughters.

Curry is buried in the Stonewall Cemetery in Gonzales County.

There are over 4,000 obituaries of Central Texans with Czech roots at Steve Alvarez's TXBHS web site. These include many people from Lavaca County and some with German surnames.