Obituaries
- S -

SARTIN Infant

Weimar Mercury, 12 May 1900

An infant babe of Mr. and Mrs. Sartin of Harmony community was buried at County Line cemetery Sunday morning.

MRS. JOHN SATSKY

Weimar Mercury, January 14, 1955, page 1

Mrs. John Satsky; 55 Buried Monday At Hallettsville

Funeral services for Mrs. John Satsky, 58, who died Saturday after a long illness, were held Monday at Sacred Heart Church in Hallettsville.

Rev. A. J. Morkovsky officiated. Burial was in the church cemetery.

Mrs. Satsky was born Jan. 7, 1897, at La Grange, the granddaughter of the late Henry and Agnes Lichnovsky Janda. She was married to Mr. Satsky Sept. 16, 1919, at Hostyn, and they settled near Hallettsville.

Survivors include her two sons, Leo Satsky of Sugar Land and Johnny Satsky of Hallettsville; four brothers, Joe Janda of San Antonio, Alvin and Paul Janda of El Campo, and Louis Janda of Weimar: five sisters,  Mrs. Annie Trlicek and Mrs. Frances Cernosek of El Campo, Mrs. Cinderla Brugger of La Grange, Mrs. Martha (Willie) Kobersky of Weimar,  and Mrs. Georgie Nietschke of San Antonio: and one grandchild.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

ANNA JANEK SCHACHERL

Victoria Advocate, 9 Nov 2006

ANNA J. SCHACHERL - SHINER

SHINER - Anna Janek Schacherl, 93, of Shiner, died Tuesday, Nov. 7, 2006.

She was born Nov. 4, 1913, in Praha, to the late Frank and Matilda Grieve Janek. She was a nurse and member of SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church.

Survivors: daughter, Cynthia Chumchal of Yoakum; sons, Andrew Schacherl and Earl Schacherl, both of Shiner, and Ralph Schacherl of Victoria; sisters, Victoria Lev of Schulenburg and Bridget Lev of Flatonia; brother, Ernest Janek of Schulenburg; nine grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by; husband, Emil Schacherl; sisters, Millie Halata and Olga Masek; and brothers, Louis Janek, Henry Janek, and Emil Janek.

Visitation will be noon to 9 p.m. today at Buffington Funeral Home in Shiner.

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

Services will be 11 a.m. Friday at SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, the Rev. Bob Knippenberg officiating.

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

Pallbearers: Brent Schacherl, Bradley Schacherl, L.J. Chumchal, Steven Chumchal, Ronnie Masek, Arnold Bohuslav.

Honorary Pallbearers: Calli Schacherl, Kyla Schacherl, Kristen Schacherl, Madison Schacherl, Mallory Schacherl, Courtney Schacherl, Kelsey Schacherl, Rileigh Filip.

Memorials: donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ANNA HEHMKE SCHAEFER

1970 Victoria Advocate newspaper clipping

Mrs. Frank Schaefer

HALLETTSVILLE—Mrs. Frank A. Schaefer, 82, a life long resident of Lavaca County, died in a local hospital at 4 p.m. Saturday.

Mrs. Schaefer, who was preceded in death by her husband in 1952, was born Oct. 24, 1889 in Lavaca County.

Funeral services will be conducted at 9 a. m. Monday at the Kubena Funeral Home after which the body will be moved to Sacred Heart Catholic Church where a Mass will be said at 10 a. m. by the Rev. Stanley Petru.

Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

A Rosary will be said at 7 p. m. by the parish and at 7:15 by the societies at the Kubena Funeral Home Chapel.

Survivors include seven sons, Hilton, Harry and Weldon Schaefer, all of Hallettsville; Hilmer Schaefer of Houston; Lester Schaefer of Praha; Eldon Schaefer of El Campo and Calvin Schaefer of Runge; three daughters, Mrs. Paul Jansky of Hallettsville; Mrs. Elo Pagel of Yoakum and Mrs. Ben Hermes of San Antonio; two sisters, Miss Mary Hehmke of San Antonio and Mrs. Gussie Menning of La Marque; 22 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Anna Howard

HARRY H. SCHAEFER

Victoria Advocate, 17 Jan 1986

Harry H. Schaefer

HALLETTSVILLE — Harry H. Schaefer, 70, of Hallettsville, died at 4:30 a.m. Thursday at a Victoria hospital.

He was born April 13, 1915, in Lavaca County to the late Frank and Annie Hehmke Schaefer.

She [he] was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville.

The body will lie in state until 9 a.m. Saturday at Kubena Funeral Chapel of Hallettsvile.

Rosaries will be recited at 7 p. m. Friday at the Kubena Funeral Chapel and at 9:30 a. m. Saturday at the Sacred heart Catholic Church.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a. m. Saturday at the church, with the Rev. Celestino Say officiating. Burial will be in the Sacred Heart Cemetery of Hallettsville.

Surviving are three sisters, Mrs. Sarah Jansky of Hallettsville, Mrs. Elenora Hermes of San Antonio and Mrs. Paula Pagel of Yoakum; and six brothers, Hilton Schaefer, Weldon Schaefer and Calvin Schaefer, all of Hallettsvillle, Elden Schaefer of El Campo, Lester Schaefer of Praha and Hilmer Schaefer of Houston.

He was preceded in death by three brothers and a sister.

Harry Schaefer died January 16, 1986. Contributed by Anna Howard.

HERBERT SCHAEFER

Weimar Mercury, 12 Mar 1970, page 10

Oscar Schaefer's Brother Buried

Herbert Schaefer, 58, of Hallettsville, brother of Oscar Schaefer of Weimar, died Saturday morning, March 7, at Renger Memorial Hospital and was buried Monday in Old Kinkler Cemetery.

Mr. Schaefer was a lifelong resident of Lavaca County, son of Anton and Annie Appelt Schaefer.

Surviving are his mother, Mrs. Annie Schaefer of Hallettsville; one brother, Mr. Schaefer here; and four sisters, Mrs. Edmund Fertsch, Mrs. James Overgoner, and Miss Lillie Schaefer, all of Hallettsville, and Mrs. Philip Heiman of Victoria.

WELDON SCHAEFER

Victoria Advocate, 7 Apr 2008

WELDON SCHAEFER

HALLETTSVILLE - On Saturday, April 5, 2008, Weldon Schaefer left us to be with his heavenly Father at the age of 80 years. He was born July 11, 1927, to Frank and Annie Hehmke Schaefer in Lavaca County. When he was of age he joined the service and was a World War II veteran. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville.

On Nov. 24, 1947, he and Evelyn Machart were married in New Taiton Catholic Church near El Campo.

Weldon's life long career was a bulldozer operator. He owned his own business since the 1960's until he retired October 2005. He kept busy with his cattle & tractor since then and always enjoyed being outdoors. And most recently his greatest joy was watching and playing with his great-granddaughter, Raegan.

Weldon is survived by his wife of 60 years, Evelyn; one daughter, Diane and son-in-law Tommy Kainer; one granddaughter, Robin and husband Chuch Koncaba; and one great-granddaughter, Raegan Olivie Koncaba. He is also survived by a sister, Sarah Jansky of Hallettsville; two brothers, Calvin and wife Eleanora of Hallettsville, and Elden and wife Margaret of El Campo; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding him in death were his parents, Frank and Annie Schaefer; seven brothers, Victor, Hilton, Harry, Lester, Hilmer, William, and one infant; and three sisters, Earline Schaefer, Eleanor Hermes, and Paula Pagel.

Visitation will begin at 12 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. today at Kubena Funeral Home. Another rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. with the funeral to begin at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2008, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with the Rev. John Peters officiating. Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, or Sacred Heart Catholic Church or School.

Words of comfort and guest book entry may be shared with the family at kubenafuneralhome.com.

Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361-798-3271.

Contributed by Matt Cross

SCHENK Children

Weimar Mercury, 24 Apr 1897, page 5

The oldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jos. Schenk of Halletsville died Monday night after an illness of only a few hours. Congestion, we understand was the cause of her death. She was up in town Monday afternoon, went home, and at 4 o'clock was suddenly taken very sick. A physician was summoned at once, and although he exhausted every means for saving the little girl's life, it proved of no avail and she died at 11:30 o'clock that night. Mr. and Mrs. Schenk formerly resided in this city, where they have many friends, and all join us in extending sincere sympathy to the grief-stricken parents in their sad misfortune.

Weimar Mercury, 1 May 1897, page 5

Halletsville New Era: Again has there a dangerous disease invaded our city limits. The family of Mr. Jos. Schenk has been sorely attacked, two children have died, one as reported last week and the other died on last Sunday. There was at first some doubt as to its being diphtheria, but after being investigated by City Health Physican Newberry and county Health Physician Rabb, it is conceded to be this most dangerous of all diseases. Mayor Rees and the members of the city council decided to put a guard out at the Schenk residence to prevent contagion if possible. Anton Sikora is now on duty. So far we have not heard of any new cases, and the two surviving children of Mr. Schenk are, it is thought, improving and out of danger.

on page 8 of same newspaper

Post Specials: Halletsville, Tex., April 26.—One week ago today the 5-year-old daughter of Joseph Schenk died of diphtheria. Saturday his little boy was attacked and today he is dead. His other two children are down and not expected to live. The house has been quarantined. The attending physicians pronounce it genuine diphtheria.

These may be the three graves marked only as Schenk in the Hallettsville City Cemetery.

RUTH E. JONES SCHILHAB

Lavaca County Tribune-Herald, Tuesday, January 19, 1993

Ruth E. Schilhab

Ruth E. Schilhab, 75, of Hallettsville died Friday, Jan. 15, 1993, in the Lavaca Medical Center, Hallettsville, at 9:08 a.m.

She was born Oct. 11, 1917, in Lexington, daughter of John P. and Ruth E. Fielder Jones. She married Charles W. Schilhab on April 5, 1954, in Bay City. She was a member of Women Aglow and the Yoakum Assembly of God Church.

Surviving her are three daughters, Patricia Hanak of Brazoria, Jean Burger of Houston and Jo Ann Walker of Richmond, two brothers, Lynn W. Jones of Cat Springs and Richard W. Jones of Huntsville, Ala; 18 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, John P. and Ruth Jones; a brother and one grandchild.

Visitation took place from 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 16 until Sunday, 1:30 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 17 at Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville.

Services were conducted at 3 p.m., Sunday, at the Yoakum Assembly of God Church. Rev. Jerry E. Wise officiated.

Pallbearers were Mark David Janak, Richard K. Ward, Charles E. Cowling, Byron Wagner, Donald Vanicek and Keith Proctor.

Honorary pallbearers were Gilbert Drozd, Richard Burger, Travis Elliott, Jason McWhorter, Shawn Mullins, Mike Jones, Glenn Belote, and Bryan Janak.

Transcribed by Sandra Long Anders

LOUISE "BILLYE" SCHILLER

The Victoria Advocate, Thursday September 19, 1996

Louise Schiller

Yoakum – Louise “Billye” Schiller, 75, of Yoakum died Wednesday, Spet. 18, 1996.

She was born April 6, 1921, in Yoakum to the late Vince C. and Nell Hughes Schiller.  She was an employment interviewer at Texas Employment Commission.  She was a Presbyterian.

Services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at Buffington Funeral Home chapel, the Rev. Will Menn officiating.

Burial will be held at Restland Memorial Cemetery.  Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum, 293-2333.

Memorials: Alzheimer’s Support Group

Contributed by Regena Williamson

ANNA SCHINDLER

Weimar Mercury, July 24, 1925, page 3

MRS. ANNA SCHINDLER.

Mrs. Anna Schindler, who resided in the Shiloh Section, was found dead in bed in her home last Thursday. Deceased lived all alone and had attained the age of 67 years. Death is thought to have been due to heart failure. Deceased was in good health the night she retired. She did all her own work the day before, even milked the cow that night.

An investigation made afterwards disclosed the deceased had $500 dollars in paper and $80 dollars in gold money sewed up in her petticoat. This was only found by accident. A man who was handling the garments heard something rattle when he cast this garment aside. He investigated and found this money.

Deceased left an estate valued at around $4,000 dollars. She had no children, her husband died in 1916. She was born in Europe, coming to this country in 1887, settling near Schulenburg  where she lived ever since. —Schulenburg Sticker.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

EDWARD H. SCHLENKER

Victoria Advocate, 2 Dec 2008

EDWARD H. SCHLENKER

SHINER - Edward H. Schlenker, age 85, died on Saturday, Nov. 29, 2008. He was born on July 17, 1923, in Petersville, to Henry and Emma Rathkamp Schlenker.

He owned and operated Schlenker Dry Cleaning and Schlenker Cedar Post business for over 50 years; was a rancher; former Shiner ISD School Board member; and a Lutheran. He was a 50-year member of the Shiner Masonic Lodge.

Survivors: wife, Agnes Patek Schlenker; sons, Garland Schlenker and wife Michelle and Darrell Schlenker and wife Patricia, all of Shiner; and grandchildren, Derek Schlenker, Russell Schlenker, Julie Schlenker, Justin Schlenker, and Brady Schlenker.

Preceded in death by: sisters, Hertha Schroeder and Veiona Bishop; and brothers, Norman Schlenker and Theodore Schlenker.

Public visitation will start at 8 a.m. Friday, with family visitation from 6 to 8 p.m., at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home in Yoakum.

The funeral service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday at United Dr. Martin Luther Lutheran Church, with the Rev. Elaine Gomulka officiating. Masonic graveside services will be at Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Derek Schlenker, Justin Schlenker, Russell Schlenker, Vaughn Paul Smith, Alan Kloesel, and David Norsdstrand.

Honorary pallbearers: Julie Schlenker and Brady Schlenker.

Memorial contributions may be given to Shiner ISD Education Foundation, P.O. Box 1446, Shiner, TX 77984, Shiner Volunteer Fire Department, or United Dr. Martin Luther Lutheran Church.

Online guest book may be signed at thiele-cooper.com.

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

Contributed by Matt Cross

ADELINE SCHMIDT

Shiner Gazette, 27 Sep 1899, Local News column

Aug. Schmidt’s little child, about two years old, is very seriously ill.

Shiner Gazette, 4 Oct 1899

DIED.

Adeline, the little child of Mr. and Mrs. August Schmidt, died on Tuesday evening of last week, after a protracted illness. The burial took place Wednesday evening at the O. D. H. S. cemetery. The bereaved parents have the sympathy of all their friends and neighbors. [Burial place unknown.]

Contributed by Matt Cross

EMILIE LOUISA SCHNEIDER

Moulton News, 6 Jan 1897

Passed Away.

The heartfelt sympathies of the entire community goes out to Mr. and Mrs. Fred Schneider, in the loss of their sweet little baby girl, Emilie Louisa, which occurred Dec. 23d. She was a victim of that dread destroyer, Membraneous Croup, and had only been ill a short time. Before many of the friends of Mr. and Mrs. Schneider knew that their little girl was seriously ill, she was dead and on her way to Houston for interment. The funeral took place from the residence of Capt. E. B. Schneider, father of Mr. Fred Schneider, and the bereaved parents returned to Shiner Sunday. Dec. 27th. Little Emilie was thirteen months and thirteen days old. Mr. Schneider has requested us to tender his thanks to his friends here in Shiner for their kindness, and assistance during little Emilie’s last illness.

Contributed by Matt Cross

CHARLES SCHOENBUSCH

Weimar Mercury, 30 March 1923, page 1

FORMER WEIMAR RESIDENT DIES AT HOUSTON

From our exchanges we note that Charles Schoenbusch, a former resident of this city, died at Houston Wednesday of last week, aged 58 years. The remains were sent to Halletsvile, his home after removing from Weimar, for burial, Rev. J. D. McWhorter, Methodist minister, officiating. Decedent was born in Germany and came to this city with his parents, where they resided for a number of years, afterward moving to Halletsville. He had never married. He had lived in Houston the past few years.

ANTON W. (WILLIE) SCHOTT

Halletsville Herald, 15 Aug 1889, page 8

We regret to report the death of Wm. Schott, Jr., which occurred at the house of his parents Sunday. William was 10 years old and was an industrious youth. His death resulted from perniscious fever.

Colorado County Citizen
17 August 1889

Oakland Remarks

Death entered the family of our neighbor John William Schott, and took from them his little boy, Willie 11 years old. He was down in Lavaca County with his father and sister at her new home, had a congestive chill Sunday evening and died Monday morning at 10:00 o'clock. THe family summoned from here, but did not reach there in time to see him alive. He belonged to the Union Sabbath School here.

Anton W. Schott, 24 March 1879 - 12 August 1889, was buried in the Geiger Cemetery. Contributed by Regena Williamson.

BERTHA SCHOTT

Weimar Mercury, 4 Mar 1927

DEATH OF MRS. SCHOTT

Ms. Bertha Schott, 80 years, died at 10:50 p.m. Sunday at her residence in Humble. She is survived by three sons, A. O. Schott of Humble, F. V. Schott of Barlettsville, H. J. Schott of Oakland; three daughters, Mrs. F. A. Strunk of Yoakum, Mrs. H. B. McCance of Galveston and Miss Elizabeth Schott of Yoakum. The body will be sent to Sublime, Texas, by the Oliver Lewis Company at 8:05 a.m. Tuesday for burial. —Houston chronicle.

Many old time residents of this section will remember Mrs. Schott. Out heartfelt sympathy goes out to her bereaved ones.

Weimar Mercury, 11 Mar 1927, page 3

FUNERAL OF MRS. SCHOTT.

The funeral of Mrs. Bertha Schott, whose death occurred at Humble Feb. 27, was held from the Sublime Lutheran church Tuesday, with burial in Geiger cemetery. A selected choir sang appropriate songs and Rev. and Mrs. A. D. Rode sang sweetly, "Thy Will Be Done." The pallbearers were: Lester Schott, G. F. Schott, L. W. Schott, Wm. Fahrenthold, O. V. and V. D. Strunk. —Halletsville New Era.

Weimar Mercury, 11 Mar 1927, page 5

OAKLAND NEWS . . .

Several from here attended the funeral of Mrs. Val. Schott at Sublime last Wednesday. Mrs. Schott was 80 years of age at the time of her death, and had made her home with her son, Otto Schott, at Humble since the death of her husband, the late Mr. Val. Schoot. Mrs. Schott was a fine woman, who possessed the friendship and respect of all who knew her. Her health had been failing for some time, and her death, for one of her age, was not unexpected. She has gone to be with the loved ones who have gone on before.

EMILIE PAGEL APPELT SCHOTT

Hallettsville Herald, 10 Jan 1913

Mrs. Emilie Schott.

On Tuesday evening December 24th, at 7:35 o'clock, at her home in this city occurred the death of one of our county's pioneer residents, Mrs. Emilie Schott, beloved wife of Wm. Schott, her demise resulting from a several weeks illness of paralysis of the right side.

The funeral was held Thursday Dec. 26, at 2 p. m., interment in City cemetery, Rev. R. Becker, pastor of Lutheran church, assisted by the ladies choir of that church, conducting the services at the home and the grave, a large number of friends and relatives from over the county and elsewhere attending, despite the cold, blustery weather, evidencing the esteem with which this good lady, was held by all who had been fortunate to possess her acquaintance and friendship

Mrs. Schott was born in Kettenhagen [Kortenhagen], Pomeran, Germany, in 1848, and at the time of her death had reached the age of 64 years, 8 months and 18 days. Her maiden name was Pagel, and when a small child came to America with her parents, who first settled in Austin [Fayette] county, later moving to Lavaca county, in the early '60s, making their home a few miles southeast of the city in what is now known as the Pagel Settlement neighborhood.

She grew to womanhood here, and was married to William Appelt, the union being blessed with a family of dutiful children, who have become prominent and respected citizens of our county and state, inheriting those traits of character and possessing that energy and shrewdness which placed their parents among the most successful and highly respected people of our county. Mr. Appelt died in May, 1905, and about three years ago Mrs. Appelt was wedded to Wm. Schott, a prominent farmer citizen of the Mertz Mill neighborhood, who together with other relatives is left to mourn her demise. Mr. and Mrs. Schott have made their home in this city since their marriage.

Mrs. Schott was a member of the Lutheran church and her life was filled with deeds of kindness and charity; in her home she always had a cordial greeting for visitors, friends and relatives.

Mrs. Schott leaves the following children: Mrs Steve AIblinger, and Mrs. C. J. Elstner of Route 1, Hallettsville, W. Emil Appelt, Julius H. Appelt, Mrs. W. J. Miller, Mrs. R. D. Ragsdale. Frank and William Appelt of this city, and Oscar Appelt of Sonora, Sutton county.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson

HENRY LAWRENCE SCHOTT

Weimar Mercury, Sept 28, 1934

Henry Lawrence Schott, aged 90 years, 3 months and 20 days, a highly respected citizen of Sublime, died at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Aug. Meyer, Wednesday at 9:30 p.m. The funeral services will take place at the Meyer home Friday at 2 o'clock p.m., followed by interment in the Sublime Cemetery.

Henry Schott is buried in the Smoothing Iron Cemetery near Sublime. Contributed by Regena Williamson.

LEONA MAYES SCHOTT

Weimar Mercury, Mercury, Dec 5, 1941, page 1

Final Rites for Mrs. Leona Schott Held at Columbus

Funeral services for Mrs. Leona Schott, 66, life-long resident of the Oakland community, were held Friday, Nov. 28, from the Homer Koliba residence in Columbus, with the Rev. C. L. Boone conducting the rites. Mrs. Schott died at the Koliba home Wednesday after an illness of two months duration. Interment was made in the Sublime Cemetery.

Mrs. Schott was born at Oakland May 11, 1875, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. P. Mayes. She spent her entire life in that section, only recently going to Columbus to stay with her relatives. Her husband, the late Henry Schott, preceded her in death a number of years ago. She was a member of the Baptist Church.

Surviving are two sisters, Miss Mary Joe Mayes, Oakland; and Mrs. I. A. Smith, East Bernard; and three brothers, E. B. Mayes, Columbus; J. D. Mayes, Oakland; and J. W. Mayes, Columbus.

The Columbus Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Ther Mercury extends heartfelt sympathy to the sorrowing survivors.

ALBERT SCHRADE

Hallettsville Herald, 18 July 1889

A gloom was cast over Yoakum Saturday by the death of Albert Schrade, son-in-law of J.R. Nagle, of Cuero, and manager of Nagel’s hardware store at Yoakum.  His death was caused by and attack of billious fever.  Mr. Schrade was in the 30^th year of his age and leaves a wife and one child.  He was one of the most popular business men of Yoakum.  His remains were interred at Cuero. 

Transcribed by Regena Williamson

MRS. FRED SCHRADER

Weimar Gimlet, 6 August 1887

Recently, Mrs. Schrader was shot in the head and killed at her home at Sweet Home, Lavaca county. It seems that she had retired for the night, as she was in her night dress when shot. Her husband, Fred Schrader, was charged with doing the murder, and was arrested and jailed. Jealousy is said to have been the cause, if the husband is guilty, and the circumstances point strongly to his guilt, though he says some unknown party shot through the window.

ALFRED W. SCHROEDER

Shiner Gazette, 3 Sep 1981

YOAKUM - Funeral services for Alfred W. "Pop" Schroeder, a Yoakum resident who died at 6:50 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 26, 1981 in Huth Memorial Hospital in Yoakum, were held Saturday, Aug. 29 at 10:30 a.m. in St. Joseph's Catholic Church with the Rev. Donald Ruppert officiating.

Burial was in St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery in Yoakum.

Rosary was recited Friday at 7:30 p.m. in Buffington Funeral Home Chapel.

Serving as pallbearers were Benjamin Erdelt, Franklin Erdelt, Edmund Suhr, Larry Wenske, Hugo Schriefer and Francis Marrou.

Mr. Schroeder, a retired custodian for the Yoakum Independent School District, reached the age of 75 years, 3 months and 10 days.

Mr. Schroeder, one of seven children, was born May 16, 1906, at Cheapside, son of Max Charles and Mathilda (Boedecker) Schroeder, natives respectively of Fayette County and Witting, Lavaca, County, Texas. He was married to Elizabeth Brosch.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Schroeder of Yoakum; a son, Sylvester Schroeder of Houston; three sisters, Mrs. Frank (Tillie) Marrou of Gonzales, Mrs. August (Ann) Gerlich and Mrs. George (Lena) Edwards, both of Houston; a brother, Oscar Schroeder of Inez and two grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father, Jan. 25, 1972; his mother, Nov. 13, 1972; one son, Kenneth Schroeder, was killed in a car accident in 1954; a sister, Erna Schroeder, about 1921 at age 14 months; one brother, Max C. Schroeder Jr., Dec. 10, 1964.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ELIZABETH SCHROEDER

Lavaca County Tribune Herald, 22 Jun 1990

Elizabeth Bertha Schroeder, 85, of Yoakum, died Tuesday, June 19, 1990, at 9:15 p.m. in the Yoakum Community Hospital.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, June 22, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum with the Rev. Charles Sonnier officiating.

Burial was in the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home in Yoakum.

Rosary will be recited at 6 p.m., Thursday, June 21, at Buffington Funeral Home.

She was born March 24, 1905 in Shiner to the late Joseph and Elenora Berkenhoff Brosch.

Surviving are a son, Sylvester "Bud" Schroeder of Houston; two sisters, Isabella Stasny of Houston and Helen Hairell of Yoakum; a brother, Charles Brosch of San Antonio; and two grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Alfred Schroeder; a son, Kenneth Ray Schroeder; and six daughters.

Contributions may be made to the St. Joseph Catholic Church or to the Yoakum Community Hospital.

Contributed by Matt Cross

KENNETH RAY SCHROEDER

Hallettsville New Era Herald, Fri., 19 Nov 1954, page 1

Crash Kills Yoakum Boy, Injures Two

Kenneth Schroeder, 16, son of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Schroeder of Yoakum, was killed in a car wreck at 11:16 pm Monday near the northeast city limits.

Two other youths were injured in the same car which skidded on some loose gravel and went through a bridge railing at Supply Jack Creek on Lavaca Street.  They were returning from a basketball game at Shiner in which young Schroeder was on to the players.  Schroeder was a junior at St. Joseph's high School and an employee of the Yoakum Herald Times.

The driver of the totally wrecked car was Bill Johnson, 16, also a junior at Saint Josephs High, son of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Johnson of Yoakum.  He was treated for head and face cuts.  The third youth in the car was Charles Hercheck of Yoakum, classmate of the other two at SJ H, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hercheck of Yoakum, was treated for facial cuts.

Young Schroeder suffered a broken neck and was thrown out of the car as it fell from the bridge into the shallow creek bed.

Funeral services were held at 9:15 Thursday at Buffington Funeral Home, thence to St. Joseph's Catholic Church, the Reverends Edward Jansky, Henry Rolf and William Halata officiating.  Burial at St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery in Yoakum.  Rosary was recited Wednesday night at the funeral home.

He is survived by his parents, one brother, Sylvester Schroeder of Yoakum, college student at Victoria College, and his paternal grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Max Schroeder of Cheapside.

Yoakum Herald Times news clipping

Throngs Pay Final Respects at Rites For Kenny Schroeder

Here to pay last respects at funeral services for Kenny Ray Schroeder Thursday were visitors from Cuero, Victoria, Yorktown, Floresville, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, Shiner, Moulton, Flatonia, Hallettsville, Schulenburg, Houston, Beaumont, Sweet Home, Port Lavaca, Edna and Hostyn. They joined with a vast throng of local people in paying tribute to a splendid youth with whom it had been the privilege of the local newspaper staff to work during some six years of his industrious part-time activity.

Young Schroeder’s attainments were reviewed by Rev. Halata in a sermon at the Requiem Mass. Parishioners recalled that Kenny Ray started attending St. Joseph’s School at the age of 5 years and was absent only two days during his entire career there. He was an altar boy, for whom no time of the morning was too early to rise and fulfill a duty to his church and school.

In school, he was active in all projects of the Sodality, the Music Department, basketball teams, Cub Scouts and later the Boy Scouts with whom he reached the rank of an Explorer Scout. His musical talent won him the place of trumpet player with the Elo Muhlstein Orchestra of Moulton. He was ready at all times to sound Taps when called upon, his career making it highly appropriate for the large number of uniformed Scouts to pay last respects in a body.

At the SJH music department he had earned the reputation of becoming the best performer in whatever field he wished to enter, his attainments being a credit to the department and to his own willingness to work and to pass up all opportunities for idleness or leisure.

Pallbearers at the funeral, at which tribute was paid to a youth whose full career became an enshrined memory, were Ben Mikes, David Pulkrabek, Roger Immenhauser, Johnny McKnight, Clemmie Leopold and Frankie Raska.

Contributed by Matt Cross

SCHULTE Child

Weimar Mercury, 8 Dec 1894, page 2

Halletsville New Era:
A little child of Mr. and Mrs. Fritz Schulte, accidentally fell from a [cral?] last Wednesday night, from which it sustained a dangerous wound in the head. Medical attendance was of no avail and the child died Thursday night. It was about eight months old. We extend sympathy to the bereaved parents in the sad loss of their little one.

FRITZ SCHULTZ

Weimar Mercury, 13 Nov 1935, page 1

MR. FRITZ SCHULTZ OF HACKBERRY IS DEAD

Mr. Fritz Schultz, well known member of the Masonic fraternity and citizen of the Hackberry community, died Thursday of last week and the funeral was held, with Masonic honors, at the Old Kinkler Cemetery last Friday. He is survived by his widow and one son, Mr. Chas. Schultz of the Hackberry community.

Mr. Schultz, 77 years old, was highly regarded by his hundreds of friends throughout this section. He was related to the Breitkreuz family of this city.

Our sincere sympathy goes out to his bereaved ones.

JOSEPH SCHULTZ

Weimar Mercury, 19 Jan 1895 on page 2.

Post Special: Hallettsville, Texas January 15. Mr.  Joseph Schultz, a well to do young farmer, living about twelve miles south of here, came to town yesterday, sold cotton , bought a load of lumber and started for the home. En route he fell in with some friends; looking back and laughing and talking he did not notice his team, which ran the wagon against some obstacle in the road. The jar threw him out and he fell in such a position as to get caught under the wheel, which crushed his stomach so badly as to cause his death in a few minutes. He was buried from the Catholic Church today.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

JULIUS SCHULTZ

Weimar Mercury, 13 Jan 1894, page 2

Hallettsville New Era: As we were about to go to press, news came in that Mr. Julius Schultz, a prosperous farmer of Witting had been fatally stabbed by Charles Brudendick. Sheriff Houchin, Esquire Townsend and County Attorney Ellis went to investigate.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

MRS. JULIUS SCHULTZ

Weimar Mercury, September 1, 1894, page 4.

Hallettsville New Era: Last Wednesday Mrs. Julius Schultz of Witting whose husband was killed there last fall, was before the court as a witness. The next day she gave birth to a child and died a few hours afterward.  Thus one disaster seems to have ultimately brought on the other. A number of orphan children mourn the loss of both parents. Sad indeed.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

EILERT G. SCHUHMACHER

Shiner Gazette, 11 Aug 1897

COMMITTED SUICIDE.

BAD CROPS THE PROBABLE CAUSE

Mr. Schumacher, the Deceased, Was Well Known About Moulton.

Lying on the back in the barnyard, with his face turned toward to the blazing August sun, broiling, yet unconscious from the effects of morphine poisoning – such was the condition in which Eilert G. Schumacher, a supposedly prosperous and contented farmer of the Hochheim prairie, was found by his family on Tuesday about 1 p.m. A pill box labeled “Morphine,” almost empty, but still containing a little of the deadly powder, was found near him and told the story of his death. Medical attention was summoned at once and everything possible done, but the suicide died just twenty-four hours after he was found in the condition described. His funeral takes place at 4 p.m. to-day, the interment being the Hochheim Prairie burying ground. The sermon will be preached by Rev. William Waldorf, the German Evangelical Lutheran pastor of this city, of whose church the deceased was a member.

The unfortunate victim of his own despondency was fifty-three years of age and leaves a widow and large family of children, several of whom are grown. All live in the [“h” is upside-down] immediate neighborhood or at home. One daughter, Mrs. John Keopke, is married. Two of the elder sons, John and Herman, are well known in this city, as was their father.

About 11 o’clock Tuesday, Schumacher went out to the barnyard and when the family assembled for dinner he did not appear. After calling for him, all sat down thinking that he would soon come in. The meal was eaten in quiet and contentment, no one suspecting the awful scene that was soon to confront them, and it was not until dinner was over that search was made for the missing husband and father. Dr. A. H. Ross, of Hochheim, was at once sent for, and arrived at 3 p.m. Dr. W. T. Jones, of this city, was summoned later, and arrived at 8 p.m. Both physicians worked faithfully with the patient up to the time of his death, but their efforts were unavailing, owing to the fact that the drug was taken on an empty stomach and at least four or five hours elapsed before the arrival of the first physician. The unfortunate man never regained consciousness nor spoke a word. He left no letter or explanation of his deed.

Schumacher came here in 1888 from Bauer P. O., eight miles this side of Flatonia, and bought the farm on which he lived up to the time of his death, the old Philip R. Witte place, of 200 acres, seven miles from Yoakum and three from Hochheim, on one part of which stands the well known “Schuetzen Hall” on the road between this place and Hochheim, and erected a fine residence upon it. Like most Germans he occasionally drank a glass of beer, but he was not addicted to dridk [sic] and his reputation for sobriety was excellent. The only occasion on which he is known to have drank enough to make it perceptible, was on a visit to this city last Saturday. His relations with his family are also said to have been of the best and happiest character. He was considered prosperous by merchants of this city and was thoroughly honest. None suspected that he had financial troubles that were of a pressing character, and his credit was always good, even for large amounts. The cause of his suicide is therefore a matter of much speculation, but it seems to be conceded by those best informed that it was undue fear of inability to meet obligations. His farm bought about eight or ten years ago with only a small cash payment, the bolance [sic] being in a form of a vendor’s lien notes. It is asserted that these notes have never been paid, at least not in full, and it is known that at times he spoke of his fear of inability to meet interest on them. This year his crop, like that of his neighbors on the Hochheim prairie, is almost a total failure, owing to the ravages of cotton lice and cut worms, and it is believed that worry over this misfortune is what incited him to his rash deed. – Yoakum Herald.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOHANNE MISCHER SCHUHMANN

Moulton News, 1 Oct 1896

The Angel of Death.

Again it becomes the painful duty of the GAZETTE to chronicle a sad death, that of Mrs. Theodore Schuhmann, which took place Thursday eve. Her end was sudden and unexpected, and as the news spread over the town it created universal sorrow and regret. She left a baby but four months old. Mr. Schuhmann entered the employ of Wolters Bros. here two years ago. During the Christmas holidays, 1894, he was married and brought his young bride to Shiner and commenced housekeeping. Of a free-hearted, sociable disposition, he has made many friends, who extend to him their heart-felt sympathy in his sad loss. He had a lovely little home and was prepared to enjoy life with his young wife and little one, but now all is changed. the Angel of Death has desolated his home.

The interment took place at the O.D.H.S. cemetery at 4 o’clock Friday eve.

Johanne Schuhmann, 13 Mar 1874 - 24 Sep 1896, was buried in the Shiner Sons of Hermann Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross.

ROSALIE SCHUMANN

SCHVAB Infant

Shiner Gazette, 19 Jul 1899

The six day’s-old baby of Mr. A. Schvab, died last Thursday and was buried Friday. The parents of the little one have our deepest sympathy.

Burial place unknown. Contributed by Matt Cross

ANNA SCHVAB

Shiner Gazette, 7 Apr 1897

MORTUARY.

Mrs. Annie Schwab died Saturday morning at eight o’clock. The interment took place Saturday evening at the O. D. H. S. cemetery.

Mr. and Mrs. Schwab came to Texas about a year ago from New York city in hopes that a change of climate would benefit Mrs. Schwab, who had then been in poor health some time. They settled at LaGrange, but moved to Shiner a short time ago. Mrs. Schwab’s health grew rapidly worse after they came to Shiner and the end was not unexpected.

Anna Schvab, 12 Jan 1870 – 3 Apr 1897, is buried in the Shiner Sons of Hermann Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

ABRAHAM SCHWARTZ

Weimar Mercury, 10 Aug 1895, page 1

Hallettsville New Era:
Died, at his home in this city, on July 29th, at 1:45 p. m., Mr. A. Schwartz, aged 54 years, 5 months and 15 days. He was buried in the Jewish cemetery on July 30th. Deceased was a native of Germany and had lived in Halletsville ever since before the war. He leaves a wife and five grown children and other relatives, to mourn his loss. He was a member of the A. O. U. W. and I. O. O. F. lodges, both of which turned out to escort him to his last resting place.

JAMES SCHWARTZ

Weimar Mercury, 22 Jun 1901, page 2

Shiner, June 17. — Mr. James Schwartz, a young married man, was shot last night by John Vivial. Schwartz and Vivial had a difficulty early in the afternoon, which was renewed at night with the above result. Schwartz was dangerously wounded, being shot in the stomach with a 38-caliber Colts' pistol. Vivial surrendered right after the shooting to the local officers and was at once taken to Halletsvillle and put in jail. Schwartz died later.

EMILIE FISCHER SEBASTIAN

Lavaca County Tribune, 24 Dec 1943

Aged Resident Dies Wednesday

Mrs. Emilie Sebastian, aged 82 years, 3 months and 16 days died at her home on Route 5, Wednesday mornng at 8 a. m. Funeral services were held Thursday afternoon at 4 o'clock from the Kubena Funeral Home by Rev. Windecker, Lutheran Minister. Interment was in the City Cemetery.

The deceased was born in Colorado Co. on September 6, 1861 and 59 years ago she married Frederich Sebastian, who died in 1933.

She is survived by 3 sons, Fritz of Waco, Julius of Witting and William of Breslau and 3 daughters, Mrs. Minnie Schneider of Witting, Miss Louise Sebastian of San Antonio and Miss Emilie Sebastian of Breslau (at home). Others who survive are one sister, Mrs. Oscar Rosse of Kingsville, 3 grandchildren and 1 great-grandchild.

Kubena Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson

CHRISTIAN SEFECK

The Weimar Mercury, 20 Aug 1904, page 8

Halletsville, Aug. 16. — Late yesterday afternoon, at his home, about two miles west of town, Christian Sefeck committed suicide by taking strychnine. No cause is assigned for the act unless he was temporarily insane. He was a man of middle age.

LARRY E. SEIFERT

Victoria Advocate, 12 May 2004

Larry E. Seifert

MOULTON - Larry E. Seifert, 58, of Moulton, died Monday, May 10, 2004.

He was born Feb. 12, 1946, in Moulton, to the late Elo E. and Helen Brom Seifert. He was vice president of Lone Star Bank and a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church. He was a member of the American Legion, Hermann Sons, Moulton Chamber of Commerce, and Moulton Junior Livestock Association.

Survivors: wife, Gladys Branecky Seifert; sons, Steven Seifert and Dale Seifert, both of Moulton; and sisters, LaNell Rauschuber and Sylvia Clutter, both of San Antonio.

Preceded in death by: daughter, Melissa Seifert; and brother, Stanley Seifert.

A rosary will be recited 7:30 p.m. Thursday at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Services will be 10 a.m. Friday at the church, the Rev. Gabriel Maison officiating.

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

Contributed by Matt Cross

HERTHA ANNA WILHELMINA SEIKO [SICKO]

Weimar Mercury, 22 Nov 1918, page 6

DEATH OF LITTLE GIRL.

Mr. and Mrs Otto Seiko of near Sublime mourn the loss of their little daughter, Herta Anna Wilhemina, aged 10 months, who died of pneumonia on Nov. 12. She was born Dec. 24, 1917. The funeral occurred Wednesday aternoon at 3:30 o'clock from the family home, with interment in the Geiger cemetery near Sublime, Rev. M. Heinrichs of the Halletsville Lutheran church officiating. — Halletsville New Era.

GEORGE SELPH

Halletsville Herald, 25 Oct 1894, page 5

Sublime Locals

Sublime was treated to a little excitement the other day by the news that Frank Morris had killed George Selph. It was not a surprise to many and everybody said "I expected that a long time ago." Selph had been rather intimate at Morris' home, which resulted in the killing. A man that helped to dress the corpse said that Selph received at least 40 buckshot in his breast, neck, and head. This is the 2d man killed at Morris' home. About 2 years ago George Kinstlow [Kincheloe?] was shot and killed by George Selph in the presence of Mrs. Morris. We hope that Frank may have peace hereafter. He is now under a $200 bond, to appear before the next grand jury of Colorado county.

TAFT OVERSTREET SELPH

Weimar Mercury
May 2, 1908, page 10

Cullings from Cheetham.

We are pained indeed to chronicle the death of Mr. Toff[sic] Overstreet Selph, which sad event occurred Sunday morning at 10 o'clock. Mr. Selph's health began to fail four or five months ago. Eminent physicians were consulted and everything that medical skill and loving kindness could do was done,but to no avail. He was unable to lie down, and sat up in a rocking chair for six weeks before his death. Mr. Selph was in his 53rd year. He was twice married and a wife and four children survive him. Although he suffered greatly, he bore his affliction meekly and never complained. His remains were tenderly laid to rest in the Geiger cemetery two miles north of Sublime last Monday eve. Ye scribe tenders his heart-felt condolence to the bereaved family.

[The obituary says Selph was interred at the Geiger Cemetery, yet his marker is located at the Cheatham Cemetery in Colorado County. Was he reinterred?]

Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

Mrs. J. SELZER

Shiner Gazette, 7 Apr 1897

Mrs. J. Selzer, wife of a farmer living several miles from town, died Friday while her husband was here in town on business. She had been in poor health for some time.

Contributed by Matt Cross

CARROLL SEMBERA

Victoria Advocate, 17 Jun 2005

Carroll Sembera - SHINER

SHINER - Carroll Sembera, 63, of Shiner, died Wednesday, June 15, 2005.

He was born July 26, 1941, in Shiner, to the late Adolf and Wilma Stepan Sembera. He played professional baseball for the Astros, Expos, and Cardinals (1962-1973), was a baseball scout for the Seattle Mariners, and a Catholic.

Survivors: wife, Margaret "Margie" Sofka Sembera; daughters, Sonya Lovejoy of Burleson, Jacqueline Witte of Yoakum, Michelle Schuette of Shiner, and Lea Ann Flynn of Yoakum; son, Michael Sembera of Weimar; sister, Dorothy Seale of Shiner; and 10 grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: brother, Clarence A. Sembera.

A rosary will be recited 7:30 p.m. Saturday at Buffington Funeral Home chapel.

Services will be 2 p.m. Sunday at SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, the Rev. Robert E. Knippenberg officiating.

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

Memorial: Donor's Choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

See Victoria Advocate newspaper article

ADOLPH SENFTENBERG

Hallettsville Herald, 14 Mar 1901

A Sad Accident.

Mr. Adolph Senftenberg Accidentally Shoots Himself With His Pistol.

HE DIES INSTANTLY. IS BURIED BY THE MASONS.

Large Number Attended Funeral At City Cemetery.

Sunday morning about 7 o'clock, Mr. Adolph Senftenberg, who intended to take his family out for a picnic that morning, was standing on the gallery of his residence engaged in cleaning his pistol—a thirty-eight calibre Smith and Wesson, when the weapon was accidentally discharged, the bullet striking him in the forehead near the base of the nose, penetrating the skull, upward and to the rear, the missile being afterward found in his cap. He fell backward and died almost instantly.

Mr. Reinecke and Mr. Braunig, two near neighbors, on hearing the shot and the outcry, at once rushed over to the residence. Mr. Senftenberg was then dead, or nearly so. He was fully dressed in his hunting suit, near by was his shot gun, recently cleaned and oiled and several articles ready prepared for lunch, he having the evening before bought fishing tackle and employed a colored boy to go along as waiter. Mrs. Senftenberg, when the horrible accident took place, was only a few feet away preparing breakfast, the other members of the family, Messrs. Charley and Henry Senftenberg and little Misses Blanche and Feney were busily preparing for the days outing.

The theory of the accident is, that in cleaning the pistol, which had been loaded for some time, Mr. Senftenberg first soaked the weapon in oil and then took out all of the shells but one, which stuck; this one he tried to get out with a small wooden rod he had, with a rag on it, and that in doing so he turned the muzzle up and looked down it while trying to push out the shell, his finger may have slipped or the pistol gone off at half cock.

Squire S. J. Townsend, was called in as coroner and after viewing the body gave in the cause of death as a gun shot wound accidentally inflicted.

The burial took place from the family residence Sunday evening at 5:30 under the auspices of Murchison Lodge No. 80 A. F. & A. M. A large number attended the interment.

Mr. Senftenberg was born and raised at Baden, Germany, and at his death was 53 years seven months and twelve days old. He came to America about thirty-five years ago and first made his home in Kentucky. He moved from that State to Texas, settling at Columbus, where twenty-five years ago, he married Miss Mena Merseburger. Shortly after he entered the employ of the G. H. & S. A. Ry., with which he remained for sometime, holding positions of prominence and trust.

Afterwards he went into the merchantile [sic.] business and was for years one of the leading merchants of Columbus and LaGrange. About a [sic.] three years ago he moved to Halletsville where he has since made his home.

Mr. Senftenberg was a member of Columbus Blue Lodge A. F. & A. M. and of Boyce Chapter, R. A. M. No. 186 of Halletsville. He was also a member of the following benevolent orders and insured:
Sons of Herman . . . $$1,000
A.O. F. W. ... 2,000
K. of P's ... 3,000
K. of H. ... 2,000
He had just returned from a trip to Houston and Galveston and expected to take the road for a leading house of the latter city in a short time.

To know Adolph Senftenberg, was to like him. Always a perfect gentleman, genial, full of life and vitality, he numbered his friends by legion and if he had an enemy we never heard of it. Life to him seemed made up of a desire to be pleasant to others and to ever lend the hand of assistance where it was needed. He has gone over the dark river but ife[?] the mystic boatman reached the shore from whose sand feet that have pressed it never return, he could but have felt the glow of good friendship that always enveloped his passenger. "If within that distant aden" friends shall meet, he doubtless will be one among the throng of "other friends who have flown before: to welcome us.

A good man and true is gone, rest to his soul. To his sorrowring [sic.] wife and family the HERALD extends its utmost sympathy in their sad bereavement.

CHARLES SENFTENBERG

Weimar Mercury, 29 Dec 1905, page 1

Chronicle Specials: Halletsville, Dec. 22.—Charles Senftenberg, aged 27 years, died last night of consumption. Deceased resided in Houston until three months ago, since when he went to El Paso for his health, finally returning here, his old home, to await final dissolution. He will be interred here tomorrow.

LOUISE FAHRENTHOLD SEYDLER

Weimar Mercury, 2 Feb 1934, Page 2

SHINER WOMAN, 66, DIES

Gonzales, Texas, Jan. 27. — Mrs. Louise Seydler, 66, died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. O. G. Blohm, of Schulenburg Saturday. She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. O. G. Blohm of Schulenburg, with whom she had been making her home, and two sons, Julius R. Seydler of Baytown and George Seydler of this city. Funeral services will be held in Shiner Sunday. — San Antonio Express News Special.

Mrs. Louis Seydler, widow of the late Richard Seydler and daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Louis Fahrenthold, Sr., of this city, was well and favorable known to many of our people. With her family she lived here for a number of years after her marriage to Mr. Seydler, the family afterward moving to Shiner. Mrs. Seydler was a woman of many kindly, admirable traits, ever proving herself a devoted wife and mother, a splendid neighbor and friend, and her death is deeply and sincerely deplored by many old time friends of the family. She was a sister of Mrs. B. B. Hefner and Mrs. John Schindler, Jr., and Mr. Chas. Fahrenthold of this city. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to her bereaved ones.

ANNIE MANNING HILLMANN SHARROCK

[no obituary available]

FUNERAL NOTICE.

The relatives and friends of the family are invited to attend the funeral of 

Mrs. Annie Sharrock

Aged 70 years, 5 months and 20 days, whose death occurred at her home on Route 1, at 12:15 a. m., Saturday, May 6, 1933. The funeral will leave the home of Mr. and Mrs. John Frels on East Gonzales Street at 9:30 tomorrow (Sunday) morning for the Catholic Church where services will be conducted at 10 o'clock. Interment will take place in the Oak Grove Cemetery.

Yoakum, Texas, May 6, 1933.

Additional Information: Annie Manning is the daughter of Benedict Manning of Yoakum, Texas. She was born November 1863, Perry Co. Missouri. Annie is the second wife of Henry Hillmann. After Henry’s death, she married D.L.( David Lawton) Sharrock in Yoakum, Tx. Contributed by Carla Hillman Ratcliff

CLAUDE W. SHERRY

Victoria Advocate, 16 Feb 1995, page 10A

CLAUDE W. SHERRY

MOULTON - Claude W. "Buck" Sherry, 78, of Moulton, died Tuesday, Feb. 14, 1995.

He was born Oct. 29, 1916, in Delhi to the late James S. and Evelyn Parker Sherry. He was a house painter. He was a member of the VFW, American Legion, and Disabled Army Veterans.

Survivors: daughter, Cornelia Pohler of Moulton; son, Claude D. Sherry of Moulton; sisters, Gladys Wood of Schertz and Margie Eddlemann of Victoria; brothers, Clyde Meyer and Robert Meyer, both of Houston, and Harry Meyer of Moulton; and four grandchildren.

Preceded in death by one sister.

Services: 1 p.m. today, Smith Funeral home chapel, the Rev. Warren Baker officiating.

Burial: Old Moulton Cemetery, Smith Funeral Home, Moulton, 596-4631.

Pallbearers: Claude D. Sherry, Rebecca Sherry, Jason Pohler, Johnny Meisetschleager, Bennie Polasek, and Kenneth A. Schultz.

Memorials: Moulton Fire Department, Moulton E.M.S., or donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

THOMAS SHIMEK

Weimar Mercury, May 9, 1914, page 1

Thomas Shimek, the aged father of our townsman, J. F. and John Shimek, died at the family residence at Shimek, a few miles south of Weimar, Friday morning and was buried the following day. Mr. Shimek was about 72 years old at the time of his death. He was ever regarded as being one of our best and most substantial citizen. Quiet of demeanor, of frugel[sic] habits, honest and straightforward in his dealings with his fellow-man, he possessed the friendship and esteem of all his neighbors and acquaintances. He was regarded by all as a splendid, good citizen, and his death is deeply and sincerely deplored. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the bereaved family.

Thomas Shimek, 1842-1 May 1914, is buried in the Bila Hora Cemetery.

FERRELL BURRELL SHOEMAKE

Weimar Mercury, 8 Aug 1913

T. B. Shoemake at Sublime

Sublime Tex., July 23. —The body of Terrell Burl Shoemake, 81 years old, a confederate veteran, was buried here yesterday. He served throughout the civil war in a Texas regiment. Mr. Shoemake had lived on the same farm for forty-two years and held the highest of all who knew him. He leaves a wife and thirteen children, all residing in Texas. Mr. Shoemake had been an invalid for eight years.

Deborah Smith has provided information that Ferrell Burrell Shoemake's name was written incorrectly in the obituary above and that he was buried in the Geiger Cemetery.

JAMES FERREL SHOEMAKE

August 1968 Hallettsville newspaper clipping

J. F. Shoemake

On Thursday of last week Mr. Oscar Shoemake of Hallettsville was notified of the death of his brother, J. F. (Boss) Shoemake of San Saba. He, along with E. C. Shoemake, went to Brownwood to attend the funeral Friday. Also attending were Mr. and Mrs. A. J. Cook of Speaks, Mr. and Mrs. Fritz Grunewald of Sublime.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

EMMA ANNA BACKHAUS SICKO

Lavaca County Tribune, Tuesday, July 29, 1947

Mrs. Emma Anna Sicko Passes Away

A well known lady of Hallettsville route 1, Mrs. Emma Anna Sicko, age 53 years, 6 months and 9 days, died Friday, July 25, at her home. Funeral services will be held today, Tuesday, at 3:30 p.m, at the residence at Sublime, with interment in the Geiger Cemetery.

The deceased was a member of the Lutheran Church. She was born at Breslau in the year 1894, and before her marriage was Miss Emma Anna Backhaus. In 1914 the deceased was married to Otto Sicko, and the couple lived at Sublime all but one year since then, spending that short period at Hochheim.

Surviving are the following children: seven daughters, Mrs. C. H. (Hilda) Massey of Michigan; Mrs. C. D. (Anita) Patterson of Molden Missouri; Miss Hilda Sicko of Cuero; Miss Kathryn, Miss Lorine; Miss Pearlie Ann, and Miss Hollie, all at home; sons: Harry F. of La Grange; Fritz of El Campo; Lester at home. Two daughters preceded her in death. One brother and two sisters survive: Willie Backhaus of Roscoe, Tennessee; Mrs. Kurt Pfuhl of Shiner and Mrs. Hulda Eschenbeck of Shiner; and two grandchildren.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

FRITZ G. SICKO

Hallettsville Tribune-Herald, Wednesday, November 6, 1996

Fritz G. Sicko

Fritz G. Sicko, 75, of Hallettsville formerly of Port Lavaca died Saturday, Nov. 2, 1996.

He was born Aug. 1, 1921 in Sublime to Otto and Emma Backhaus Sicko. He was a laborer and a Lutheran.

Survivors include six sisters, Hulda Sicko of Cuero, Kathryn Sikes of Port Lavaca, Anita Patterson of San Antonio, Hallie Eiland of Rockdale, Pearlie Naumana of LaGrange and Lorene Schumacker of Ocean Springs, Miss.; two brothers, Harry Sicko and Lester Sicko, both of Hallettsville.

He was preceded in death by his parents and three sisters.

Graveside services were conducted at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 5 in the Geiger Cemetery, Hallettsville. The Rev. Herb Beyer officiated.

Pallbearers were cousins and nephews.

Richardson Funeral Home, Port Lavaca, was in charge of arrangements.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Transcribed by Sandra Long Anders

JOHN A. SICKO, SR.

Lavaca County Tribune, Friday, October 21, 1966

John A. Sicko, Sr.

John A. Sicko Sr., 74, of Cordele, passed away Wednesday, October 19, 1966, at 4:00 a.m. Mr. Sicko was born Oct. 30, 1892 in Lavaca County.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m. Thursday at the First Baptist Church in Yoakum with the Rev. G. B. Gohlson, and the Rev. W. M. Connally officiating. Burial will be in the Geiger Cemetery near Sublime, under the direction of the Buffington Funeral Home.

Mr. Sicko lived on a farm on the Navidad River between Edna and Cordele.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Rosie Sicko; four sons: Clarence of Sugarland, John Jr. of Cordele, Halton of Morales and Fred Sicko of Yoakum; four daughters: Mrs. Wilhemina Appelt of Appelt of Hallettsville, Mrs. Leroy Lemke of Sugarland, Mrs. Alton Anthony of Yoakum and Mrs. William Fitch of El Campo; one brother, Oscar Sicko; and a step-brother, Charles Meyer of Sublime; four sisters: Mrs. Ida Raab of Weimar, Mrs. Betty Sanders of Clifton, Mrs. Tina Riley of Houston and Mrs. Telma Tesch of Rosenberg; 23 grandchildren and six great grandchildren.

His nephews will serve as pallbearers.

Mrs. Wilhemina Appelt owns Appelt’s Café in Hallettsville.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

OSCAR SICKO

Hallettsville Herald-Tribune, page 11A, Wednesday, October 14, 1998

Oscar Sicko

Oscar Sicko, 99, of Hallettsville, died in Stevens Convalescent Center, Hallettsville, Monday, Oct. 5, 1998.

He was born Feb. 2, 1899, in Rabb Switch to John and Wilhemina Reimers Sicko.

On July 26, 1921 he married Hertna Schultz in Hallettsville.

He was also an avid raccoon hunter and fisherman.

Survivors include four daughters, Irene Rutledge of Hallettsville, Velma Sargent of San Antonio, Gladys Peterson of Houston and Cymbeline Mayer of Franklin, LA; a son, Myron D. Sicko of Baytown; 27 grandchildren, and numerous great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Hertna Sicko; a son Velbert Sicko; a daughter, Dorothy Hallowich; eight sisters and four brothers.

Services were conducted at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7 at Kubena Funeral Home Chapel, Hallettsville. The Rev. Terry Horton officiated.

Burial in the City Cemetery in Hallettsville, under the direction of Kubena Funeral Home.

Pallbearers were Ron Sicko, Randy Kline, Eugene Meyer Jr., Scott Peterson, David Sicko, Allen Rutledge, Todd Peterson.

Honorary pallbearers were Roy Sicko, Travis Rutledge, Vance Peterson.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

OTTO KARL DIETRICH SICKO

Lavaca County Tribune, August 19, 1947

Otto Sicko Follows Wife in Death

Otto Karl Dietrich Sicko, age 53 years and 5 days, died Thursday, August 14, at 5:30 p.m., just three weeks after the death of his wife. The deceased had been in ill health for some time, and the death of his wife was too much for him to bear. The Kubena Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Otto Sicko was born in Germany, August 9, 1890 and came to this country with his parents as a boy. During his life in this country he made his living as a farmer and stockman. In 1914 he married Miss Emma Anna Backhaus, and the couple lived at Sublime all but one year, which they spent at Hochheim.

Surviving are the following children: seven daughters, Mrs. C. H. (Hilda) Massey of Michigan; Mrs. C. D. (Anita) Paterson of Molden Missouri; Miss Hilda Sicko of Cuero; Miss Kathryn, Miss Lorine; Miss Pearlie Ann, and Miss Hollie, all at home; sons: Harry F. of La Grange; Fritz of El Campo; Lester at home. Two daughters preceded him in death.

Also surviving are two brothers: John Sicko of Garwood and Oscar Sicko of Sublime.

Funeral services were held at the family home at Sublime, Monday, August 18, at 3:00 p.m., and interment was in the Geiger Cemetery.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

WILLIE SICKO

Halletsville Herald, 18 Nov 1897, page 1

COUNTY LINE

Wiley Ceco [Sicko], a young man about twenty years, who lived on the Rabb farm, died on Wednesday and was buried on Thursday at the German church.

Willie Sicko, 1876-1897, was buried in the Geiger Cemetery.

ROSIE A. GOLD SIECKO

Lavaca County Tribune undated news clipping

Rosie A. Siecko

Rosie A. Siecko, 90 of Yoakum passed away April 1, 2002 in Yoakum.

She was born Sept. 30, 1911 in Lavaca County to Joe and Julia Gold.

Mrs. Siecko had been a resident of Yoakum since 1987. She was a homemaker and a member of the Church of Christ.

She enjoyed her family, especially her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

Survivors include three daughters, Jo Lemke of Sugar Land, Oretha Pennock and husband, Norman of San Antonio, and Rose Fitch and husband, William of Edna, a son, Fred James Siecko and wife, Nelda of Yoakum, two sisters, Alice Long of Pearland and Albina Loos of Yoakum; numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, John A. Siecko, three sons, Johnnie Siecko, Clarence Siecko, and Halton Siecko, one daughter Billie Kolos, four brothers and sisters.

The family received visitors from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 2 at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel, Yoakum.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Wednesday, April 3 at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel, Yoakum Mr. Terry Starling officiated.

Burial followed at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday at Geiger Cemetery near Sublime.

Pallbearers were Joseph Lemke, Melvin Siecko, Randy Fitch, Jerry Fougerat, Bill Benoit and Ralph McClendon, Jr.

Honorary pallbearers were all other grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to Hospice of South Texas, Yoakum Nursing and Rehabilitation Family Council or to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

TOM SIMS

Weimar Herald, May 2, 1896, pg 1

Hallettsville Herald: About 7:30 last night Tom Sims was stabbed to death by Will Attwood, in a deep ravine used for gambling down near the old ice-factory lot.

Nathan Austin, an eye witness, gives these particulars: "We were all on a rock in the ravine. Attwood owed Sims some money. Sims asked him for it, but he refused to pay it. Sims then Grabbed Attwood's hat and said he would keep it till he got his money. To this Attwood   replied: 'Give me my hat g-----d d----n you, or I'll cut you,' and at the same time cut Sims. As soon as he was cut Sims grabbed Attwood and threw him to the ground and as he bent over him Attwood reached up and cut him as often as he could reach him. Sims walked about a hundred steps, blood pouring from his wounds, sank on his knees and with the exclamation, "Oh, Lawdy!" died. Both are colored and came here from Sublime. Atwood is an ex-convict of Wharton County. He had been working in Hallettsville's street gang. Sheriff Houchins started on his trail with the hounds shortly after the killing and the dogs took the trail yelping at every jump.

The wound that killed Sims was in the right side of the neck, about four inches long and severed the jugular vein.    Attwood   came in and surrendered at about 10 o’clock. Justice Townsend held the inquest last   night. Sims was cut   five times.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

JOHN J. SITKA

Tribune Herald, 16 June 1944

Corporal John J. Sitka Killed in Action in Italy May 20^th, Parents Notified

“Washington, June 13, 1944.  The secretary of war desires me to express his deepest regret that your son, Corporal John J. Sitka, was killed in action May 20^th in Italy.  Letter follows.  The Adjutant General.”

This brief message was full of sorrow for the good parents, Mr. and Mrs. John Sitka of St. Mary’s, and the rest of the family, when received Tuesday afternoon.  The last letter from the son was of May 7^th.  They don’t know but believe he met his death on the Anzio front. 

He was in the 85^th division, in service since May 1942, first in Mississippi, then Louisiana, California and New Jersey.  From there to Ireland.  Then he saw fighting in Africa, Sicily and finally in Italy, where he laid down his life for his country.

Besides his parents he leaves to mourn him, his brothers, Alfons of Wharton, Louis and Leon at home; also three sisters, Mrs. Alfons (Mary ) Bujnoch and Mrs. Malvin (Sibyl) Janak, whose husband is also in Italy and Miss ( Leona) at home.

The fallen soldier was born at St. Mary’s Dec. 4. 1914, being not fully thirty years old, when his young life was cut down by war.

Mass will be offered at St. Mary’s Church, 8:00 a.m. Saturday, June 17, for the late Cpl. John J. Sitka who is reported killed in action in Italy on May 20. Immediately after the Mass the Rev. Father Henry F. Psencik will hold appropriate memorial services.  A Requiem High Mass will be offered for the deceased Cpl. John J. Sitka at a later date.

Contributed by Regena Williamson.

FRANK SKALICKY, Jr.

Shiner Gazette, 14 Sep 1898

A large funeral procession passed through the city last Saturday, bearing to its last resting place the remains of Frank Skalitzky [sic.], Jr., who died of consumption at his home near Shiner. He was called away in the prime of life, being only 35 years old.

Frank (Frantisek) Skalicky, 24 Feb 1864 - 8 Sep 1898, was buried in Ss. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Cemetery in Shiner. Contributed by Matt Cross

BERTHA CLAY SKELTON

March 3, 2006 newspaper clipping:

BERTHA SKELTON - HALLETTSVILLE - Bertha Clay Skelton, 93, of Hallettsville died Wednesday, March 1, 2006. She was born Sept. 6, 1912, in Hallettsville to the late Eva Kelly and William Calhoun Nolen. She was a member of First United Methodist Church. She was a Pink Lady for the Lavaca Medical Center and a volunteer driver for cancer victims.

Survivors: daughter, Peggy Kubicek of Hallettsville; son, William Skelton of Austin; two grandchildren

Preceded in death by: husband, Donald Farrell Skelton; daughter, Nita Eileen Skelton

Visitation will be 5 p.m. today at Kubena Funeral Home.

Services will be 2 p.m. Saturday at First United Methodist Church, the Rev. Lundy Hooten officiating. Burial will follow in Hallettsville City Cemetery. Kubena Funeral Home, 361-798-3271.

Contributed by Nena Smothers

JOE C. SKOPIK

Shiner Gazette, 2 Aug 1899

The funeral of Joe Scopik [sic.], took place last Saturday from the Catholic church. He died at the residence of his brother-in-law, John Mladenka, last Friday of consumption, at the age of 30 years.

J.C. Skopik, 3 Jul 1867 – 28 Jul 1899, is buried in SS. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Cemetery, Shiner. Contributed by Matt Cross.

FRANCES WOYTEK SKOTNIK

Weimar Mercury, 30 Jan 1959, page 1

Mrs. P. Skotnik, 67, Buried at Vsetin Thursday

Funeral services for Mrs. Paul (Frances) Skotnick, 67, of Hallettsville, mother of Mrs. George Muzny of Weimar, were held Thrusday, Jan. 22, at Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, and Czech Moravian Brethren Church, Vsetin.

Interment was in the church cemetery, Rev. F. J. Kostohryz of Temple officiated.

Mrs. Skotnik died Jan. 21 in Renger Hospital, Hallettsville, where she had been a patient for 5 days, after a stroke.

Born Nov. 16, 1891, on a farm near Hallettsville, she was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Woytek. She was married to Mr. Skotnik Oct. 8, 1912, at Hallettsville.

Surviving are her husband, Paul Skotnik of Hallettsville; two daughters, Mrs. Geo. (Olivia) Muzny of here and Mrs. Ernest (Miladie) Rother of Hallettsville; 11 grandhildren and one great grandchild; 2 brothers and 4 sisters. One brother did in 1929.

Pallbeares were Howard and Melvin Rother, Clarence Strauss, and Hilmer, Marvin and Paul Woytek, Jr.

WILLIAM SMEATHERS

Telegraph and Texas Register, 19 Aug 1837

DIED. At Columbia, on the morning of the 13th inst., in the 71st year of his age, Mr. WM. SMEATHERS, who was one of the earliest pioneers of this country, having resided in Texas nearly 17 years, subject to all the privations of a new, and then wild, uncultivated country, and bravely maintaining himself single handed on a frontier against the assaults of numerous hordes of predatory savages, in many a hard fought fray. But his course has finished and he has gone to his final audit. In his death his country has lost a bold and hardy defender, and his family a kind parent.

Smeathers settled a league of land in Dewitt Colony around 1828. He was married to Mary Winters of Tennessee who had died sometime around 1810, probably in Tennessee. Contributed by Nena Smothers

SMITH

Shiner Gazette, 18 Oct 1899

A Farmer Assassinated.

A farmer named Smith, who resided about twelve miles from Shiner, was assassinated about 300 yards distant from his house at 2 o’clock this afternoon. The particulars have not yet been learned. Messengers sent here for the bloodhounds have returned to the scene of the murder with the dogs to trail the assassin.

LATER – Since the above was written Deputy Sheriff Swift returned with a neighbor of deceased and complaint was lodged against him charging him with the murder. Such a charge is a surprise to everyone. The neighbor is one of the oldest families of the county.

Deceased was over 50 years of age and leaves a wife, but no children.

Contributed by Matt Cross

SMITH Child

Hallettsville Herald, 24 Oct 1889

HOPE NOTES.

. . . Two shrouds were bought at Hope Sunday. One for Mr. Rob Long, an old and [well] known citizen. The other for a child of Mr. Tilman Smith.

HILDA BUESING SMITH

Shiner Gazette, 22 March 1973

Mrs. Joe F. Smith

Mrs. Joe F. Smith, nee Hilda Buesing, of Yoakum died in Stevens Nursing Home, Yoakum, at 9:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 14, 1973 at the age of 81 years, 6 months and 17 days.

Funeral services were held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, March 17 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Yoakum with the Rev. Michael O'Shaughnessy, the Rt. Rev. Msgr. F. 0. Beck and the Rev. Henry Roff officiating.

Burial was in St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Britt Jenkins, Paul Jenkins, Jerry Richardson, Chris Smith, Jim Wilson and Lynn Porter.

Rosary was recited Friday, March 16 at 7:00 p.m. at the Buffington Funeral Home Chapel, Yoakum, where the body lay in state.

Mrs. Smith, the youngest of 14 children, was born August 27, 1891, on the Buesing family farm about 5 miles east of Shiner, Lavaca County, Texas, daughter of Charles and Kathrena (Bargmann) Buesing, natives of the Province of Oldenburg, Germany.

She was married to Joe F. Smith, native of Witting, and since 1913 was a resident of Yoakum, where her husband was operator of Yoakum Gin and Feed Mill. He died August 23, 1964.

Surviving are a daughter, Mrs Turner (Earline) Jenkins of Yoakurn; one son, J. W. Tommy Smith of, Kingsville; 10 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

She was the last surviving member of her immediate family and, besides her husband, was preceded in death by a son Stanley Smith; her mother, January 24, 1921; her father. August 30, 1932; four brothers, Oscar died in infancy, Louis H. Buesing, April 5, 1934; Emil Buesing, August 12, 1924; and Will Buesing; nine sisters, Louisa and - another girl died in infancy, Mrs Lm (Lena) Guthrie, October 31, 1961; Mrs. L. B. (Elfrieda) Richter, September 2, 1966; Mrs. A. H "'Buddy" (Minnie) Ludwig, March 13, 1965; Mrs. William (Hattie) Schornack, May 1, 1967; Mrs. Forest (Clara) Largen, Mrs. Will (Annie) Hinrichs, and Mrs. Charles J. (Emma) Koerth.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson

JOSEPH S. SMITH

Halletsville Tribune, 8 May 1942

PILOT GROVE

We are sorry to report the death of Lt. Joseph S. Smith who was killed.

OSCAR A. SMITH

Weimar Mercury, 14 Dec 1917, page 6

Oscar A. Smith, a soldier boy from Schulenburg, died of pneumonia at Camp Bowie, Fort Worth, the first of the week, and the remains were brought home for interment.

Weimar Mercury, 21 Dec 1917, page 9

SCHULENBURG SOLDIER IS BURIED

Schulenburg, Tex., Dec. 14.—The remains of Private Oscar A. Smith, 26 years of age, of Supply company of the 143rd Infantry, who was the first soldier from this place to died at Camp Bowie, was buried at Andrews Chapel Cemetery, south of Schulenburg, Wednesday afternoon. Mr. Smith was drafted in October. He leaves a wife and two children. Rev. O. C. Raeke, of the Methodist Church conducted the funeral services. Mr. Gibson of the same company, accompanied the remains to Schulenburg. The deceased had taken out insurance to the amount of $10,000 and the beneficiary is his wife.

RUFUS N. SMITH

Shiner Gazette, 26 Oct 1898, page 1

Obituary.

Died, at his home near Nickel, Texas, Oct. 7, 1898, at 8 o’clock, a. m., Mr. Rufus N. Smith, age 64 years. He had been a sufferer for a number of years, and during all this long time he bore his afflictions with patience and fortitude, receiving from the Great Comforter that consolations that sustains and consoles the heart of man as he passes through great affliction and death’s dark vale.

Mr. Smith was no member of any church, but was a good and honored citizen who always tried to live peaceably with all men, and a kind and indulgent father. He was buried at Stonewall cemetery [just inside Gonzales County] with Masonic honors of which order he had been a member for a number of years. A large concourse of friends also followed his remains to its last resting place.

Mr. Smith was a confederate soldier in the civil war. He leaves five daughters and an only brother, Mr. J. D. Smith, of Dilworth, to mourn his death, besides his numerous friends who will miss his wise counsel. I can say nothing to the bereaved family to console them in their grief but to point them to our Savior who can heal our deeply wounded spirits, wipe away our tears and soothe our sorrows, if we only trust him. “Only Trust Him.”

Contributed by Matt Cross

AUGUST SMOLIK

Shiner Gazette, 20 Oct 1921

Funeral at Worthing of Private August Smolik

The funeral of Private August Smolik, company G., Thirtieth Infantry, U. S. Army, who died overseas, October 1918, took place from St. Augustine Catholic Church at 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, October 19, with burial in the Worthing cemetery.

The body arrived here Saturday afternoon on the 3:09 p.m. train, accompanied by Private Rafeal Lara, Company F, Forty sixth Infantry, Fort Sam Houston.

The funeral of August Smolik will be in charge of Hudgeons Post No. 230, American Legion, of Hallettsville.

A number of the Shiner Legion boys are in attendance, including the firing squad, which will be in command of Mr. Henry Rogge.

FRANK SMOLIK

Halletsville Herald, 21 Dec 1893

Suicide of Frank Smolik.

Frank Smolik, a Bohemian who lived on Smothers creek, committed suicide last Sunday morning at the residence of Jan Lliberda, near the railway depot.

While Liberda and wife were absent from home Smolik procured a pistol and shot a ball into his right side. The ball passed through the body and lodged in an article of house furniture. He then made his way to the front portico and there put the pistol to his forehead and fired again, the ball penetrating and coming out on the opposite [side] of the head.

Smolik was about 40 years of age and was quite well to do in the way of property. Recently he had been in declining health and his wife had separated from him, and the two things combined, it is supposed, preyed upon his mind until it became unbalanced. On the Saturday before his suicide he went to the saloon of Anton Hradecny and conducted himself in an eccentric manner.

FREDERICK SMOOKE

Hallettsville Herald, 14 March 1889

Sublime Column

Frederick Smooke

Sunday morning Fred Smooke was found dead in his bed by his son-in-law, Wm. Seager.  Mr. Smooke had been suffering from heart disease for some time and it is supposed this was the cause of death.  He was about 70 years of age.

Buried at Smoothing Iron Cemetery. Contributed by Regena Williamson

A. J. SMOTHERS

Weimar Mercury, May 26, 1906, page 6

Later developments in the death of A. J. Smtohers, whose remains were found in a barn in the rear of his residence yesterday, point strongly to suicide. While Judge W. B. Green has not yet concluded holding the inquest the verdict, the Inquirer is informed, will be substantually as follows: "Deceased came to his death by a dose of strychnine self administered." This verdict was brought about partly by the fact that a bottle containing some strychnine was found in a stove in the barn near the body of the dead man.

The remains were carried to Halletsville today for interment. They were accompanied by Mr. and Mrs. Emmett Smothers and Mr. John Smothers, of Page. — Gonzales Inquirer.

ELSIE TURK SMOTHERS

[newspaper name and date unknown]

Elsie Smothers

Elsie Marie Turk Smothers, 91, of Wharton, died at her home, Sunday, June 15, 1997 at 12:55 p.m. She was born May 20, 1906, in Hallettsville, to William H. Sr. and Willie E. Barnes Turk. May 18, 1927 she married Robert Fey Smothers in Hallettsvile. She was a retired school teacher, having taught 37 years. She was a member of First United Methodist Church, Delta Kappa Gamma, Daughters of American Revolution, Retired Teacher’s Association and Wharton Historical Society. Survivors include a son, William Robert Smothers of Bloomington; a brother, William H. Turk Jr. of Tyler, four grand-children and four great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; four sisters, Willie Turk, Marion Turk, Frankie Biggs and Nell Greer, and a brother, Alfred Turk.

Visitation began at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, June 17 at Kubena Funeral Home Chapel, Hallettsville.

Services were conducted at 3 p.m. Wednesday, June 18 at Kubena Funeral Home Chapel, with the Rev. Stephen Smothers [son of Leon Smothers] officiating. Burial followed in the Hallettsville City Cemetery, under the direction of Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville.

Contributed by Nena Smothers

MARY ANN HINCH SMOTHERS

Hallettsville Herald, Tuesday April 6, 1926

It is with sadness that we again chronicle tht the Death Angel has visited our community and called to her reward another one of our good ladies. Mrs. Mary A. Smothers [nee Mary Ann Elizabeth HINCH] passed away at her home Sunday afternoon ad 4:45 o'clock, interment was made in the City Cemetery, the body being laid to rest beside her husband [John Bate SMOTHERS, Jr.] who preceded her in death August 1913. Funeral services were conducted at the home and the grave by Rev. J.D. McWHORTER, pastor of the Methodist Church. Song service was rendered by a selected choir. The floral offering was pretty, showing the love and esteem in which she was held by all who knew her.

Pallbearers were 6 grandsons: Garland MCELROY, Freddie TURK, Hewitt KELLY, Farley TURK, Robert Fey SMOTHERS, and Oscar KARNEY, Jr.

Mrs. Smothers whose maiden name was Miss Mary A. HINCH was a native of County, being born on Rocky Creek near Hallettsville. On October 13th 1859, she was married to John Smothers, Jr. To this union 11 children were born, eight of whom survive her as follows: Mrs. Lizzie [Smothers] MCELROY, George, Robert, and Henry SMOTHERS of Hallettsville, Rt. 5; Mrs. [Virginia Smothers] C.B. KELLY, Mrs. [Lucinda Smothers] C.C. TURK, and Mrs. [Frances Smothers] E.A. TURK of Hallettsville and Mrs. [Maggie Smothers] Oscar KARNEY of Koerth. There are 30 children and 9 great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Smothers suffered an injury in a fall about 4 years ago from which she never recovered causing her to be an invalid which confined her to her room all of the time.

She bore her affliction with a christian fortifude and was ready to answer the call of her Master when the summons came that called her home. She lived the christian life, thereby carrying out the duties of God assigned her in her home as a neighbor and a friend. The usefulness of her long life spent here is now ended and the spirit has gone to rest with the God who gave it, in that beautiful home above.

To the loved ones she has left to mourn her death we extend our sympathy.

Among the relatives from a distance that attended the funeral of Mrs. Mary Smothers Monday were, Mr. and Mrs. Garland McELROY, Mrs. J.M. MYERS, Mrs. J. BUSH, Fred TURK and Corbett McELROY of Houston; Mr. and Mrs. Kelly SMOTHERS and children of Schulenburg; Mrs. Vernon WOFFORD of Yoakum and Ed SMOTHERS of Morales.

Contributed by Nena Smothers

ADA WOOLSEY SNELL

Weimar Mercury, July 23, 1909

Galveston News Special: Yoakum, July 17—Mrs. Ada Snell, aged 33 years, died in this city last night of cancer. Mrs. Snell was the widow of the late Charles Snell, an engineer on the S&P road [sic.], who was killed on his engine near Kerrville in 1907. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Sid Woolsey and leaves a host of relatives and friends and also two small daughters to mourn her death. Funeral services will be held this evening at 5 o'clock from the Methodist church, of which she was a member.

C. J. SOFKA

Shiner Gazette, 21 Dec 1972

Impressive Church, Military Rites For WWII Veteran, Businessman, C. J. Sofka

C. J. "Sopie" Sofka died at 10:00 a.m. Friday, December 8, 1972 in the Shiner Hospital after a lingering illness.  He entered Eternal rest at the age of 55 years, 1 month and 7 days.  He underwent surgery at M.D. Anderson Hospital, Houston, on his 55th birthday and later returned home.  After three weeks, he was confined to the local hospital for 9 days before his death.

The body lay in state at the Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, where a family rosary with the Sisters of St. Paul High and St. Ludmila's Academy was recited Friday evening.  The parish rosary, led by the Rev. Msgr. John J. Hanacek, was recited Saturday, December 9 at 8:00 p.m.

Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Sunday, December 10 in Sts. Cyril and Methodius' Catholic Church with Requiem Mass offered by Msgr. Hanacek and the Rev. Thomas Collins, pastor of St. Thomas More Catholic Church in San Antonio.

Burial was in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery with Military graveside rites conducted by members of the Shiner Veterans of Foreign Wars and American Legion Posts.

Serving as pallbearers were Joe Strauss, Jerry Mikes, Ewald Erdelt, Emmett Blohm, Edgar P. Kram and Floyd Siegel.  Carrying the flag and banners were Monroe Menke, Louis Dusek and Joe Surovec; color guards were Melvin Harbers and Melvin Ahrens.

Eddie Jaks folded the flag which was presented to the widow by Chaplain George Watzlavick, who also read the graveside ritual.

"Taps" pre-recorded by Leonard Darilek concluded the military ritual.  The flag flew at half mast on the recently installed flag pole at the cemetery.

Clement Jerry Sofka, the youngest of six children, was born October 31, 1917, at Oak Grove, near Moulton, Lavaca County, Texas son of James and Johanna (Kubicek) Sofka.  He was reared on the family farm and attended elementary school at Oak Grove and St. Joseph's Catholic School in Moulton.  His high school education was acquired at the Shiner Public School, graduating with the class of 1937.  He was one of the star players on the famed basketball team of that era, coached by the renowned Milton Jowers, who died at M.D. Anderson Hospital Saturday, December 16th.

During his senior year, he worked at the Meyer Ice House and later purchased the business.  It was then that he started his trucking business.  He also operated a salvage yard for many years.  He was also the local agent for the Southern Pacific Transport Co. until a few months ago when the agency was disbanded.

During World War II, he entered the US Army December 30, 1943 at Fort Sam Houston and was assigned to Company G, 180th Infantry.  After basic training in Florida, he departed on July 26, 1944 for the European theatre of operation where he served for more than a year.  He was wounded in action April 17, 1945 and after a period of hospitalization, returned to active duty.  He returned to the States September 14, 1945 and was honorably discharged, November 11, 1945 at Fort Sam Houston with the rank of Staff Sergeant.

His qualification and citations included the Combat Infantryman's Badge, EAME Campaign Medal, with 3 Bronze Stars, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Ribbon, Purple Heart, and two Overseas Service Bars.  He participated in the Rome-Arno, Rhineland and Central Europe battles and campaigns.

On January 2, 1940, he was married to Christie Stock, daughter of Paul H. and Mary (Meyer) Stock, in the Shiner Catholic Church with the Rev. Edmund Bily officiating. The couple established their home in Shiner.  Seven children were born to this marriage union.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Christie Sofka of Shiner; six daughters, Mrs. Troy (Joyce) Johnson of Weimar, Mrs. Carroll (Margie) Sembera and the 13-year-old twins, Donna and Diane Sofka, all of Shiner, Mrs. Thomas (Paula) Korenek of Victoria, Mrs. Marvin (Cathy) Boedeker of Houston; one son, James Sofka of Houston; his mother, Mrs. Johanna Bujnoch of Moulton; two brothers, John and Otto Sofka, both of Houston; three sisters, Mrs. Adolph (Hermina) Dudik, Mrs. Johnny (Bessie) Sweeney, both of Galveston, Mrs. Michael (Margaret) Krezsi of Dayton, Ohio; and 12 grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his father in 1927; his stepfather, Frank Bujnoch, December 9, 1966; and an infant grandson, William Patrick Johnson, who died December 20, 1962 at the age of 3 months and 7 days.

Mr. Sofka was a lifelong member of the Catholic Church, a member of the American Legion Kolar-Stanek Post No. 301 and a charter member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Shiner Memorial Post No. 6209.

He contributed most of his time to sports activities and for a time assisted in coaching the basketball teams at St. Ludmila's Academy.

Peaceful death terminated his suffering, calmed his body and eased his soul into the hands of One he was prepared to meet.  His charities were many to his fellow-man, that of actual needed services and aid to those in want of help.  Nothing was too difficult for him to accomplish for others.

The hundreds of friends and relatives, who braved the bitter cold and freezing rain to attend the last rites and the bower of beautiful floral bouquets, many spiritual tributes and memorials bore mute testimony to the high esteem in which he was held.  He was a highly respected person whose memory will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him.

Contributed by Matt Cross

SOKOL Infant

Weimar Mercury, 16 Jul 1892, page 2

Halletsville New Era

Our fellow townsman, Mr. F. Sokol, had the misfortune to lose his infant son on Friday morning at 7 o'clock. The funeral took place Friday evening.

ANNA MEEK SONNTAG

Lavaca County Tribune, 24 Mar 1944

Mrs. Anna Sonntag Succumbs Wednesday

Mrs. Anna Sonntag, aged 88 years, died Wednesday March 22, at 6:50 at her home.  Rev. A.D. Klages conducted the last rites Wednesday at the Sublime Lutheran Church and interment was in the Smoothing Iron Cemetery.

Mrs. Sonntag nee Anna Meek, was born in Austria and at the age of 17 came to America.  After residing at Weimar for a short time, she moved to Sublime where she married Ernest Sonntag in 1883.  Mr. Sonntag passed away in 1932.

Those surviving are: four children, Mrs. Minnie Miller of Rosenberg, Mrs. Emilie Martens of Altus, Oklahoma, Mr. E.W. Sonntag of Shiner, and William Sonntag of Sublime; and one step-daughter Mrs. Emma Grossman of Houston, besides 9 grandchildren.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

WILLIAM P. SONNTAG

Lavaca County Tribune, 3 Jul 1970

William P. Sonntag, 73, of Sublime, nine miles east of Hallettsville, died Monday, June 29^th, at 3 p.m. in Renger Memorial Hospital here.

The remains were taken from the Kubena Funeral Home at 2:00 p.m. to the Sublime Lutheran Church where services were held at 3:00 p.m. Wed, July 1^st.  Rev. Lee Eschberger officiated.  Interment was in Smoothing Iron Cemetery near Sublime.

The deceased was a member of Sublime Lutheran Church; he was a veteran of World War II.  He was born at Sublime Nov. e, 1896 and was a rancher all his life.

Surviving are two sisters, Mrs. Hugh (Minnie) Miller of Rosenberg and Mrs. Henry ( Emilie) Martens of Altos, Oklahoma: and a half sister, Mrs. Adolph H. ( Emma) Grossman of Houston.

Parents of the deceased were the late Ernest W. Sonntag and Anna Meak Sonntag.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

ALBERT SPANN

Victoria Advocate, 24 Dec 2005

Albert Spann - SHINER

SHINER - Albert Spann, 79, of Shiner, died Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2005.

He was born Sept. 22, 1926, in Shiner, to the late Frank Sr. and Lillie Vincik Spann. He was a veteran of U.S. Navy, having served in World War II, a packer for a meat company, and a Catholic.

Survivors: daughters, Patricia Spann of San Antonio, Betty J. Fragoso of Houston; step-daughter, Kathy Haikenwaelder of Moulton; son, Albert Carl Spann of San Antonio; stepsons, Wade Peterson of Floresville, Duane Peterson of LaVernia and Tim Peterson of San Antonio; and brother, Louis Spann of Shiner.

Preceded in death by: wife, Catherine Carter Spann.

Visitation will be 7:30 a.m. Monday at Buffington Funeral Home.

Services will be 11 a.m. at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel, the Rev. Frank Lenz officiating.

Burial will be at Shiner City Cemetery (Memorial Gardens). Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, 361-594-3352.

Memorials: donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FREDERICK C. SPARKS JR.

Victoria Advocate, 4 Jun 2008

FREDERICK C. SPARKS JR.

MORAVIA - Frederick Clarence "F.C." Sparks Jr., 67, passed away on Sunday, June 1, 2008 at Schulenburg Regency Nursing Center after a courageous battle with Parkinson's Disease. He was born on Nov. 17, 1940, in Victoria, to Frederick and Jessie May McCurry Sparks.

F.C. lived where he farmed in Moravia and worked at the Moravia Cotton Gin, was an excellent carpenter, and also worked as a soft drink bottler for Better Beverages in Hallettsville.

F.C. is survived by Eunice Rybak Sparks of Moravia; son, Ronald Wayne Sparks of Moravia; daughter and son-in-law, Donna Lynn and Skip Smith of Moravia; and sisters, Caroline Sparks Hood of Victoria and Bernice Baker of Victoria.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. today at Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Chapel in Schulenburg with Chaplain Steve Borowicz of Hospice of South Texas officiating. Burial will be in Moravia Catholic Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Louis Hood, Leroy Rybak, Dennis Kloesel, Dallas Canada, Brendon Bowman, and Chris Rybak.

Honorary pallbearers are Robert Hood, Anton Orsak, Keith Martin, and Lynn Gray.

Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements, 979-743-4151.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOHNNY SPEAKERMAN

Hallettsville Herald, 17 Oct 1889

—This morning, while Johnny Speakaman, about 15 years of age, and half brother of Mr. Sam Foster, was driving a two-mule team hauling iron fro the bridge on the Lavaca at Brown's crosing, the mules became frightened and ran away, throwing him out on the single-tree, dragging him in this position for some distance. While on the single-tree the mules kicked the boy in a frightful manner, until he fell to the ground and the wagon ran over him. His right arm was broken, his head badly bruised and cut, besides other contusions. Medical aid was speedily summoned and the unfortunate lad was taken to his mother's home several miles north-east of town.

Hallettsville Herald, 31 Oct 1889

We omitted to state in our last that Johnny Speaglemann, who was so horribly mangled by a runaway team, died on the 17th inst. His remains were followed to the grave by a large concourse of sorrowing friends and relatives. Johnny was his poor mother's only comfort and support and the sympathy of this entire community goes out to her in her trying ordeal.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson

JERRY SPEARS

Weimar Mercury, 20 Jan 1894

OAKLAND REMARKS.

Died, at Shiner, Tex., last Sunday, Uncle Jerry Spears, (freedman), aged 84 years. He had lived in this place about thirty years. His remains were broughthere and buried in the Wooldridge burying grounds.

JOHN SPEARY

Halletsville Herald, August 1891

The Death of John Speary.

The announcement last Thursday afternoon that Mr. John Speary had just fallen from a tree and sustained serious, perhaps fatal, injuries, caused a sensation of painful surprise and regret. The news was brought to town as quickly as possible and sugical assistance summoned. An examination of the injured man discovered a fracture of the right thigh and wounds to the back of the head. It is thought that he received internal injuries also. Mr. Speary lingered until about 2 o'clock Friday morning, when death relieved him of his sufferings.

Mr. Speary on the day of the accident climbed a tree in his pasture near town to gather grapes. The distance of the fall is stated from twenty to twenty-five feet.

The funeral took place at 4 o'clock Friday evening from the family residence, the remains being followed to the grave by a large concourse of citizens. Rev. Mr. Geiger, a Lutheran minister of sublime, conducted the funeral exercises. Many places of business were closed in the afternoon as a mark of respec to the deceased.

Mr. Speary was one of the oldest citizens of Halletsville. There are those who knew him here in the early 50s. At the breaking out of the civil war he joined Company 8, Eight Texas regiment, Walker's division, and remained in the service until the cessation of hositllities. He then returned to Halletsville, soon commenced business in a modest way and in a few years amassed a competence. Mr. Speary was in the sixty-fifth year of his age.

WILHELMINA SPIECKERMANN

Hallettsville Herald, 1 Jun 1893

Mrs. Wilhelmina Spickerman [sic.] died Sunday night, the 28th inst., at the residence of her son-in-law, Mr. J. A. Koehler, aged 84 years. The remains were buried in the graveyard in the Pagel Settlement on Monday. Mrs. Spickerman was born in Pommern, Germany. She had a large connection, being related to the Pagel and Appelt families of this city and county.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson

WM. F. SPIECKERMANN

Hallettsville Herald, 23 Jan 1914

Wm. F. Spieckermann, 77 years of age, died on Tuesday, January 6th, at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Chas. Maecker. The funeral took place on Wednesday, January 7th, in the city cemetery in Shiner and was attended by numerous relatives and friends. Rev. Wm. Dziewas conducting the funeral services. Mr. Speakerman [sic.] was born in the year 1836 in Musherin, Province of Pommern, Germany. He served as a soldier in the Franco-German war and also in the war against Austria. After the war he emigrated to America and settled at Pagel Settlement in Lavaca county, later he moved to Bauersville, where he bought a farm. He lived in Lavaca county for about 40 years. In his last years the deceased was quite hard of hearing and decrepit. He was married in 1852 to Henrietta Spuhn, eight children were born to them, two sons and six daughters, of which five are now living, viz: Albert Spieckerman, Mrs. Chas. Maecker, Mrs. A. Hummel, Mrs. Louise Hajek and Mrs. Frank Boehm, one sister also survives Mrs. Augusta [sic.] Pagel, and numerous grandchildren. His wife preceded him in death about five years. [from Shiner Gazette]

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson

CATHERINE HELLER SPIES

The Weimar Mercury, 1 Aug 1941

Mrs. Otto Spies Dies at Breslau

Hallettsville, July 26 – Mrs. Otto Spies, a resident of Breslau since 1877, died at her home Thursday morning.  She had been in poor health for several years.

Born Catherine Heller, near LaGrange, Oct. 24, 1866, she married Charles Wolle in 1887, who passed away in April, 1898; later she married Otto Spies of Breslau who survives, together with three daughters, Mrs. Herman Fertsch of Nordheim, Hilda Wolle, R.N., of La Grange, and Clara Wolle of Breslau; two sons, Victor Spies of Victoria, and Arthur Spies of Breslau; also one stepson, Charlie Wolle of LaGrange, nine grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Thursday with services at the home at 3:30 in the afternoon and at the Lutheran church at 4 o’clock.  Burial took place in the Breslau cemetery, with Rev. Zimmermann of Sublime officiating.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

DANIEL S. SPIES

Victoria Advocate, 11 Oct 2005

Daniel S. Spies

HALLETTSVILLE - Daniel S. Spies, 59, of Hallettsville, died Sunday, Oct. 9, 2005.

He was born Feb. 4, 1946, in Hallettsville, to the late Arthur Williams and Lillie Hanslik Spies Sr. He was a member of Knights of Columbus and Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church in Moravia.

Survivors: wife, Mary Ann Stasny Spies; sons, Patrick Spies of Bryan and Brian Spies of College Station; sister, Lillie Loth of Hallettsville; and brother, Arthur Spies Jr. of Hallettsville.

Visitation will be noon today at Kubena Funeral Home chapel.

Rosaries will be recited 7 P.M. tonight at the chapel and 9:30 A.M. Wednesday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Services will be 10 A.M. Wednesday at the church, the Revs. John Peters and Charles Sonnier officiating.

Burial will be at Moravia Catholic Cemetery. Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361-798-3271.

Memorials: American Heart Association.

Contributed by Brenda Coon

ELDOR E. SPIES

Hallettsville Tribune Herald

Eldor E. Spies

Eldor E. Spies, 96, of Hallettsville, died Thursday, Feb. 21, 2008.

He was born Aug. 12, 1911 in  the Shiloh Community of Lavaca County to Richard and Ida Stratmann Spies.  He lived in Lavaca County his entire life being a farmer, insurance agent and a Lutheran and member of  St. Peter Lutheran Church in Hallettsville.   On Oct. 18, 1933 he married Laura Fertsch in New Kinkler.

Eldor was an agent and secretary for Hochheim Prairie Insurance Company, Hallettsville Branch, also being a grand board director of the company for 20 years, as that he served a district of 43 counties in the East Texas area. He retired in 1996 after 46 years of service.

Eldor is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Eldor was preceded in death by his wife, Laura Spies on Dec. 7, 2004; his parents, and  three brothers, Victor, Leonard, and Lester Spies.

Visitation began at 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 23 at Kubena Funeral Home.

Services were held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 24, at St. Peter Lutheran Church. Sister Carolyn Hellerich officiated.  Burial followed in the Hallettsville City Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Howard Spies, James Rother, Jesse Allan, Judge Ronnie Leck, Jerry Lackey, and Harvey Spies.

Memorials may be  made to Shiloh Community Center, Shiloh Cemetery Association, or St. Peter Lutheran Church.

Words of comfort and guest book entry may be shared with the family at www.kubenafuneralhome.com.

Contributed by Brenda Coon

EMIL B. SPIES

Undated news clipping

Emil B. Spies Buried In Alice

Emil B. Spies, a former Lavaca Co. resident died December 15th, in a Corpus Christi hospital following a short illness.

Born Oct. 11, 1896 in Halletsville, he was the son of the late Ernst Spies and Gesina Schmidt.  He was an employee of the M. C. Barney Truck Bids and Equipment Co. of Alice.

In the year of 1922 he united in marriage to Mis Lydia Kohlleffel.

He leaves to mourn his wife, three daughters,  Mrs. Floyd (Lorine) Kotrla of Freer, Mrs. Chester (Ruth) Gawlik and Mrs. James (Cherry) Miller both of Alice, and one son Roger Spies of Falfurrias.  Five brothers, Bill, Adolf, Ernest, Alvin and Theodore all of Houston; three sisters, Mrs. Jim (Ella) Ehler, Mrs. Otto (Hattie) Pechancek and Mrs Bruno (Selma) Lucus all of Houston, and nine grandchildren.

Funeral services were held at 2 p. m. Thursday Dec 17th, at the America Lutheran Church of Alice with the Rev. Don Vlasak Assistant Pastor, and the Rev. Kemit Menking pastor of the American Lutheran Church of Orange Grove officiating.  Burial was in the Alice Fraternal Cemetery.

Contributed by Brenda Coon

ERNEST SPIES, Jr.

Undated news clipping

Last Rites Held For E. Spies, Jr.

Ernest Spies, 57, a resident of Houston, passed away Sunday, January 22nd about 10 o'clock of a heart attack, but was not found until Monday about 1 P.M..   Mrs. Spies was not at home at the time as she had left for San Antonio Saturday morning to take care of her daughter and get acquainted with her new grandson, who was born on Friday, Jan. 20th.

Mr. Spies was born on October 1st. 1903 in Halletsville.  He had reached the age of 57 years, 3 months, and 21 days.  He was the son of the late Ernest Spies and Gesina Schmidt.  He was an employee of the Sanitary Dairy over 10 years as a Retail Salesman.

On November 8th., 1927 he was united in marriage with Miss Theresa Schulte, who survives him together with one son, Clarence Spies of Houston and one daughter, Mrs. Eric Jo Ann Eckhardt of San Antonio; three grandchildren, Billye Faye Spies of Houston and Tammy Ann and Bauren Glen Echhardt of San Antonio; three brothers, Adolf, Alvin and Theo Spies of Houston and three sisters, Mrs. Jim (Ella) Ehler, Mrs. Otto (Hattie) Pechancek and Mrs. Bruno (Selma) Lucus, all of Houston.  This makes three brothers passing away in the last 13 months.  One brother, Emil Spies of Alice passed away on December 15th, 1959 and Bill Spies of Houston died on January 25th, 1960.

Pallbearers were all nephews; Bill Spies, Clarence Ehler, Milbert Penchanek, Weldon Spies, Gilbert Marek and Charles Starcich.

Contributed by Brenda Coon

HEDWIG SPIES

The Victoria Advocate, November 10, 1970

Mrs. Hedwig Spies

Hallettsville—Mrs. Hedwig Spies, 82, died at 7 p.m. Sunday in a local hospital.

Born March 17, 1878 in Fayette County, she was married to Henry Spies in 1894 in Brenham. He died may 23, 1936.

She was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church.

The body will like in state at Kubena Funeral Home until 1 p.m. Tuesday when it will be taken to St. Peter's Lutheran Church for funeral services at 2 p.m. Burial will be in the City Cemetery.

Survivors include a son, Standly: three daughters, Mrs. Herbert Laas and Mrs. Leon Laas and Mrs. Henry Boethel all of Hallettsville: four grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Regena Williamson.

HERMINA MAREK SPIES

Victoria Advocate, 21 Mar 2006

HERMINA SPIES

HALLETTSVILLE - Hermina C. Spies, 99, of Hallettsville, died Saturday, March 18, 2006.

She was born Sept. 27, 1906, in Lavaca County, to the late William and Anna Fojt Marek. She was the secretary for 12 years for St. Peter Lutheran Church, working on quilting relief, was a Sunday School teacher for more than 25 years, taught Bible study and Vacation Bible School, did home demonstration at Shiloh's Community and was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church.

Survivors: seven grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: husband, Lester Carol Spies; daughter, Earline McGehee; son, Royce Richard Spies; sister, Albina Schumaker; brothers, Emil Marek, Eddie Marek, and Victor Marek.

Visitation will begin at noon today at Kubena Funeral Home, with the family receiving visitors between 6 to 8 P.M.

Services will be 10 A.M. Wednesday at St. Peter Lutheran Church, the Rev. Herb Beyer officiating.

Burial will be at Shiloh Cemetery. Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361-798-3271.

Memorials: St. Peter Lutheran Church or Shiloh Cemetery Association.

Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361-798-3271.

Contributed by Brenda Coon

LAURA FERTSCH SPIES

Victoria Advocate, 11 Dec 2004

Laura Spies

HALLETTSVILLE - Laura Spies, 90, of Hallettsville, died Tuesday, Dec. 7, 2004.

She was born Feb. 9, 1914, in Hallsburg, to the late Loues and Emma Buro Fertsch. She was a homemaker and a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church.

Survivors: husband, Eldor E. Spies.

Visitation will begin noon Sunday at Kubena Funeral Home chapel.

Services will be 10:30 A.M. Monday at St. Peter Lutheran Church, the Rev. Lynnae Sorenser officiating.

Burial will be at Hallettsville City Cemetery. Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361-798-3271.

Memorials: Shiloh Cemetery Association or St. Peter Lutheran Church Radio Ministry.

Contributed by Brenda Coon

LESTER CARL SPIES

Undated news clipping

Lester C. Spies Dies Suddenly

Lester Carl Spies, 51, died suddenly at his home in Shiloh, Thursday, Apr 4th., at 12:05 A.M..  He had been in ill health for some time and death was due to a heart attack.

Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, April 6th., at 9:00 A.M. at the Kubena Funeral Home, and at 9:30 A.M. at the Shiloh Lutheran Church Rev. George Krueger will officiate.  Internment will be in the Shiloh Cemetery.

Mr. Spies farmed most of his life, and had interest in cattle.  Recently he operated the Spies Grocery and Feed Store in Halletsville and he retired form this business due to his health after only a comparatively short period in the venture.

He was born in Halletsville, November 12, 1905, and lived in this area all his life.  During his active life he realized success as a farmer and rancher, and was well known and had many friends.

On Dec. 6, 1927, he married Miss Hermina Marek at Halletsville and they settled at Shiloh.

Surviving are his wife Mrs. Hermina Spies; on son, Royce Spies of Victoria; one daughter, Mrs. Earline McGehee of Victoria, and three brothers Victor Spies of Yoakum, Leonard and Eldor Spies of Halletsville.  Four grandchildren also survive.

Contributed by Brenda Coon

MARY KOEHLER SPIES

Undated news clipping

Mrs. Gustav Spies Buried Monday

Mrs. Gustav Spies, 85, former resident of Lavaca County died at Weimer, Saturday, Feb. 2nd., at 10:30 A.M.

Funeral services were held at the Kubena Funeral Home Monday, Feb. 4th., at 1:30 P.M. with internment in the Old Kinkler Cemetery.  Rev. George Kruger officiated.

Mrs. Spies nee Mary Koehler, was born in Germany, June 14, 1871, and was brought to America the same year by her parents.  They settled in this area, and in 1889 she married Gustav Spies at Gleckler, and they settled in Lavaca County.  On July 21, 1948, Mr. Spies died, and she had been living with a daughter in Weimar.

Contributed by Brenda Coon

W. O. SPIES

Undated news clippings

Funeral Rites For W. O. Spies

Funeral services were held for W. O. Spies, 65, of Houston on Wednesday, Jan 27th, 10 A.M. Pastor Reck of the Zion Lutheran Church officiated with the burial in the Brookside Park Cemetery.

The deceased was ill for some time and passed away in the Checker Cab Co. office by whom he employed and was on his way to work. 

A native of Lavaca Co., he was the son of Ernest and Gesina (Schmidt) Spies.  He was united in marriage to Miss Emma Cordes who died 20 years ago.

He leaves to mourn his passing one son, William of Houston; two grandsons,  also 4 brothers  -- Adolph, Ernest, Alvin and Theo, all of Houston; and 3 sisters -- Mrs Jim (Ella) Ehler, Mrs. Otto (Hattie) Penchacek, and Mrs. Bruno (Selma) Lucas, also all of Houston.

One brother Emil preceded him in death just 6 weeks ago.

Contributed by Brenda Coon

ROGER LEE SRALLA

Victoria Advocate, 16 Feb 1997, page 7A

Early morning accident kills one and critically injures one

SHINER - A 28-year-old Shiner man was killed in a two-car accident on Texas highway 95 early Saturday morning.

The victim, Roger Lee Sralla, was northbound in his 1991 Chevrolet with his wife, Bonnie Sralla, 27. A 1990 Ford, driven by Heath Owen Long, 20, of Yoakum, was southbound, when the two vehicles collided. The accident occurred about 12:45 a.m.

Sralla was pronounced dead at 2:04 a.m. at Yoakum University Hospital, police said. Mrs. Sralla was transported to University Hospital in San Antonio, where she was in critical condition with multiple injuries Saturday night, officials said.

Long suffered minor injuries. His passengers, 17-year-old Shane Cretors of Yoakum, and 21-year-old Robert Cowan of Shiner, also suffered minor injuries.

Victoria Advocate, 16 Feb 1997, page 19A

ROGER LEE SRALLA

SHINER - Roger Lee Sralla, 28, of Shiner, died Saturday, Feb. 15, 1997.

He was born April 22, 1968, in Shiner to Phillip Lee and Joan Marie Bujnoch Sralla. Roger was a 1987 graduate of Shiner High School. He was employed in the plastics division at Kaspar Wire Works and was a Catholic.

Survivors: parents of Shiner; sisters, Candice Marie Sralla of Salt Lake City; grandparents, Gladys Spann and Anton and Mary Bujnoch, all of Shiner.

A rosary will be recited 7 p.m. tonight at Buffington Funeral Home chapel.

Services will be 3 p.m. Monday at St. Cyril and Methodist [sic] Catholic Church, the Rev. Charles Sonnier officiating.

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

Memorials: donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ROSIE DUSEK SRALLA

Hallettsville Herald-Tribune, 1964

Mrs. Rosie Sralla

Funeral services for Mrs. Rosie Sralla, 89, formerly of Granger, who passed away at the Rest Home in Taylor, were held Sunday, September 7th at 2 pm at the Granger Brethern Church. Rev. Glenn Jurek, Rev. Frank Simicek and Rev. Albert Dusek officiated at the services and burial was in the Granger Brethern Cemetery.

Survivors include a daughter, Mrs. F. L. Hunka of Temple; a son, Edward P. Sralla of Edna; two sisters: Mrs. Albina Guenther of Weimar, and Mrs. Julia Woytek of Hallettsville; five brothers, Charles H. Dusek, Adolf Dusek, Victor Dusek, and Oscar Dusek, all of Hallettsville and Emil Dusek of Weimar. Also surviving are eight grandchildren and thirteen great grandchildren.

Rosie's parents were Josef and Rosie Pecena Dusek. Contributed by Darlene Baker

TOM SRALLA

Weimar Mercury
February 3, 1933, page 1

TOM SRALLA DEAD

Numerous Weimar friends regretted to learn of the death of Mr. Tom Sralla of Oakland, which occurred Sunday, according to report reaching us. He was about 50 years of age and his death is said to have been caused by Bright’s disease and high blood pressure. Our deepest sympathy goes out to his bereaved ones.

Weimar Mercury
February 3, 1933, page 3

NEWS OF OAKLAND SECTION

The community was shocked when news came that Mr. Tom Sralla had passed away at his home here Sunday night, after a week’s illness. He had lived here nearly thirty years and was one of our best citizens. Interment will take place at Svetin [sic.] Tuesday. He is survived by his wife and five children—Victor, Hayden, Frank, Esther Ruby and Clifton—three brothers and three sisters. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his bereaved ones.

Tom Sralla, 18 Sep 1877 - 30 Jan 1933, is buried in the Vsetin Cemetery.

ANTON J. SRUBAR

Lavaca County Tribune
March 1959

Anton Srubar, 65 died in LaGrange

Mr. Anton J. Srubar of Moulton passed away in the Fayette Memorial Hospital in LaGrange Friday morning, March 6th at 4:15 o'clock at the age of 65 years 2 months and 15 days.

Mr. Srubar had been in failing health for three years, and confined to bed for the past 5 months. He was taken to the LaGrange hospital Wednesday, where cause of death was attributed to pneumonia.

Born in Europe, he was the son of the late Anton and Antonia Srubar. At the age of 16, he cam to America with his mother and two sisters and the family settled near Hallettsville.

In 1918 Mr. Srubar was married to Agnes Orsak in Hallettsville and they made their home in the Breslau community where they farmed for livelihood until two years ago when they moved to Moulton, settling in the southern part of town.

He was a member of the SPJST and of the Lutheran faith.

Funeral services were held Saturday, March 7th at 3:00 p.m. at the Zion Lutheran Church here with the Rev. Jullius Holm officiating. The body lay in state at the Smith Funeral Home here until 1:30 p.m. Saturday, then was conveyed to church. Interment was in the Moulton City Cemetery.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Anton J. Srubar of Moulton and one half-brother, Charles Maresh of Corpus Christi. He was preceeded in death by his parents and two sisters, Mrs. Helen Savell and Mrs. Josephine Johnson.

Pallbearers were Frank Kremenek, Alfonse Kresta, James Maresh, Emmett Orsak, Edmund Valigura and Matus Cada.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

Mrs. A. C. STAHL

Weimar Mercury, 6 Jun 1908, page 8

Yoakum, May 28.—Mrs. A. C. Stahl died at her home in this city last night from typhoid fever, and this afternoon was buried in the city cemetery. Mrs. Stahl leaves twin babies who are under a year. Her husband is suffering from typhoid fever.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

Mrs. STAMPS

Colorado Citizen, 17 Feb 1881, page 3

DEATHS.—Mrs. Stamps, wife of T. J. Stamps, Esq., died at her residence one day last week.

. . . Hallettsville Herald.

CAROL ANN REEVES STANCIK

The Colorado County Citizen, November 7, 1968

Mrs. Stancik, Former Resident, Dies After Crash

Funeral services for Mrs. Edward J. Stancik of Waller were held Monday at 3 p.m. at Buffington Chapel in Yoakum, Rev. Lee Nelson of Wharton, Rev. Lowell Thomas of Waller and Dr. Farrar Patterson of Columbus officiating. Interment was in Oak Grove Cemetery at Yoakum.

Mrs. Stancik, age 25, formerly Carol Ann Reeves of Glidden, died at noon Saturday in a Hempstead Hospital from injuries received a short while earlier in an auto accident. Her 3 children who accompanied her were only slightly injured in the crash.

Mrs. Stancik was expecting another child in 6 weeks. The accident happened approximately at 11:30 a.m.

She was a member of the Baptist church in Waller and a 1961 graduate of Columbus high school.

Surviving are her husband, Edward J. Stancik, 2 sons, Edward Jr., 6 and James 5, a daughter, Cara, 3, of Waller; her mother, Mrs. Juanita Reeves and a brother, Andrew Reeves, both of Glidden.

Pallbearers were James E. Suggit, Pal Tesch and Frankie Fry of Waller, Allen Park of Hockley, Samuel McCray of Freeport and John Frnka of Columbus.

Mr. Stancik is employed with James E. Suggit, Dodge and Chrysler dealer, in Waller. The family lived in Columbus until they moved to Waller a year ago.

Contributed by Cara Canik

EDDIE STANCIK

Colorado County Citizen, September 25, 2002

Eddie Stancik, 61, of Columbus passed away Sept. 20 at Memorial Herman Hospital in Katy.

He was born Sept. 12, 1941 to Clinton and Rosie (Gold) Stancik in Shaws Bend. He married Becky Goynes on Sept. 23, 1991. He was a lifetime resident of Columbus and a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church. He served in the U.S. Army National Guard. He was retired as a shop foreman for the City of Columbus, and a mechanic.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and first wife, Carolyn Ann Reeves Stancik.

He is survived by his wife, Becky Stancik of Columbus; daughters and sons-in-law, Cara and Robert Canik of Austin and Tanya and Gary Estrada of Columbus; step-daughters, Blanche Fox of Dallas and Grace Free of Alvin; sons and daughters-in-law, Joseph and Tammy Stancik of Columbus, James and Cherie Stancik of Glidden and Aaron Stancik of Austin; step-son, Thomas Hamrick of Columbus; sister, Joyce Faldyn of Rosenberg; and 16 grandchildren.

Funeral services were held Sept. 22 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus with Father Dan Kahlich officiating. Interment followed at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery in Columbus.

Pallbearers were Lawrence Dungen, Johnie Kubicek, Ronnie Stancik, Rodney Kolb, Lloyd Clendennen and Floyd Fisher.

Contributed by Cara Canik

FLORINE FRANCES HAJEK STLUTKA

Shiner Gazette, 12 Jul 1984

Mrs. James W. Stluka

VICTORIA - Florine Frances Stluka, 62, of Victoria, died Wednesday, July 4, 1984 in a Victoria hospital following a short illness.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, July 7 at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Shiner, where the body lay in state for an hour before the time for services.

Burial followed in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner.  The Rev. Abdon Josel officiated at the Mass and graveside service.

Serving as pallbearers were her nephews, Daryl and Neal Hajek of Victoria, Donald and Patrick Hajek of Shiner, Randy Stock of Sugar Land, and Timmy Wenske of Shiner.

A rosary was recited at 7 Friday, July 6 at Colonial Funeral Home chapel in Victoria with the Rev. Peter Higgins officiating.  The body lay in state at the Colonial Funeral Home in Victoria until 8:00 a.m. Saturday when it was brought to the church in Shiner.

Mrs. Stluka was born Oct. 12, 1921 in Yoakum, daughter of Charles and Olga (Janca) Hajek, natives respectively of Praha and Plum in Fayette County, Texas.  She was a former resident of Port Lavaca and Shiner, a member of the VFW Auxiliary and the Catholic Church.

She was married to James W. Stluka.  The couple first made their home in Shiner before moving to Port Lavaca where her husband was employed at ALCOA.  After he retired, about 1976, they moved to Victoria.

Surviving are her husband, James W. Stluka of Victoria; a daughter, Mrs. Georgie Bowen of Victoria; a sister, Mrs. Willie (Evelyn) Stock of Sugar Land; two brothers, Marvin Hajek of Victoria, Laddie Hajek of Shiner; and one grandchild.

She was preceded in death by a 17-month-old son, Benjamin Stluka, Feb. 27, 1944; her father, Feb. 20, 1981; and her mother, Aug. 14, 1983.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Died, after an illness of but four days, Sunday at 3:30 p.m. , Lottie, daughter of County Commissioner H. Y. and Mrs. Lottie Strunk. Little Lottie was a member of the Oakland Union Sunday school, and was a prompt attender with good lessons. She was buried at the Lutheran church near Sublime, in Lavaca county, Monday.

Charolette J. Strunk, 16 Aug 1881-10 Aug 1890, is buried in the Geiger Cemetery Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

Victoria Advocate, 13 Oct 1988, page 12A

THERESA SUHR

YOAKUM - Theresa K. Suhr, 89, of Yoakum, died at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday in a local nursing home.

She was born Nov. 11, 1898 in Lavaca County, daughter of the late Joseph and Elenora Berckenhoff Brosch. She was a member of Yoakum Catholic Daughters of America and the Legion of Mary.

A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Thursday at Buffington Funeral Home chapel. A Catholic Daughters of America rosary will be recited at 1:30 p.m. Friday at St. Joseph Catholic Church.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday at St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Jerry Caponi officiating.

Burial will follow in the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home.

Surviving are two daughters, Elenora Ebner and Adeline Hagan, both of Yoakum; a son, Edmund Suhr of Yoakum; three sisters, Isabella Stasny of Houston, and Elizabeth Schroeder and Helen Hairell, both of Yoakum; a brother, Charles Brosch of San Antonio; nine grandchildren; three step-grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, George Suhr who died in 1953; and five sisters.

In lieu of usual remembrances, memorial donations may be made to the St. Joseph School Endowment Fund or the charity of the donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JAMES J. SURMAN

Victoria Advocate, 12 Jun 2004

James J. Surman JR.

MOULTON - James John Surman Jr., 77, of Moulton, died Thursday, June 10, 2004.

He was born June 24, 1926, in Praha, to the late James E. and Barbara Stasney Surman. He was an insurance salesman and a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

Survivors: wife, Wilma Vinklarek Surman; daughters, Elizabeth Janecka of Jemes Springs, N.M., JoAnn Gerules of Austin, Theresa Moore of Yoakum, and Elaine Massie of Shiner; sons, Vernon Surman of Giddings, J.C. Surman of Cistern, Rick Surman of Hallettsville, Gilbert Surman of Yoakum, and Timothy Surman of Harleton; sister, Marcella Langhamer of Schulenburg; brothers, Ernest Surman of Schulenburg and Joseph Surman of Houston; 22 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: sister, Norma Surman; brothers, Daniel Surman and Herbert Surman; and one grandson.

Visitation will begin 7 a.m. today at Smith Funeral Home chapel.

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

Services will be 10 a.m. Monday at St. Joseph's Catholic Church, the Rev. Gabriel Maison officiating.

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

Memorials: Hospice of South Texas.

Contributed by Matt Cross

WILMA VINKLAREK SURMAN

Victoria Advocate, 11 Sep 2006

WILMA V. SURMAN - CEDAR PARK

CEDAR PARK - Wilma Vinklarek Surman, 75, of Shiner, died Saturday, Sept. 9, 2006, in Cedar Park.

She was born July 5, 1931, in Cistern, to the late Charlie and Sofie Mares Vinklarek. She was a rancher and a member of St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Moulton. She was also a member of KJZT, American Legion and Ladies VFW.

Survivors: daughter, Elaine Massie of Shiner, Elizabeth Janecka of Jimez Springs, N.M., Jo Ann Gerules of Cedar Park and Theresa Moore of Yoakum; sons, Vernon Surman of Paige, James C. Surman of Waelder, Richard Surman of Hallettsville, Gilbert Surman of Yoakum and Timothy Surman of Harleton; seven sisters; four brothers; 22 grandchildren; and eight great grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: husband, James Surman.

Visitation will be 11 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. today at Smith Funeral Home.

A rosary will be recited 7 p.m. today at St. Joseph's Catholic Church.

Services will be 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2006, at the church with Father Gabriel Maison officiating.

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

Pallbearers: James Clayton Surman, Jon Surman, Kasey Selzer, Cody Selzer, Jeremy Massie, Wesley Janecka, Nick Hinze, Dwight Pesek.

Honorary Pallbearers: David Sawyer.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOSEPH SUSTR

Lavaca County Tribune, 16 June 1944

Joseph Sustr Is No More

Funeral services were held Tuesday, June 13, 9:30 a.m., for Joseph Sustr, aged 81 years, 8 months, and 28 days, who passed away at his home near Moulton Sunday, June 11, at 3:10 p.m. Rev. Jos. Kopp conducted the services at the Moulton Catholic Church, and interment followed in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery.

The deceased was one of the best known characters in the county as an artist in sausage making for picnics.  Always in good humor, he was well liked by all.  Born in the old country in 1862, married in 1887, he came to this country with his young wife a year later, living in this county practically all his live.  His wife preceded him in death in 1917.  He is survived by his children:  Mrs. Henry (Annie) Peters, Schulenburg:  Miss Jene at home:  Mrs. Joe ( Frances) Andrele, Moulton: Mrs. John (Agnes) Kubicek, Shiner:  sons, John, Joe E. and (Jim). May he rest in peace and sincere sympathy to the survivors. 

Contributed by Regena Williamson.

JOHN E. SVOBODA

Weimar Mercury, 12 May 1906, page 3

Yoakum, April 26. — John E. Svoboda, a successful Bohemian farmer, died at his home near here last night, aged 65. Deceased had been in ill health for several months past and his death was not unexpected. Besides a widow, several grown children survive him. The funeral took place this afternoon; interment in the Catholic cemetery.

CHRISTINA SVRCEK

Hallettsville Tribune, Friday, July 5, 1940

7^th Body Found Here Thursday

The body of Christina Svrcek, the seventh victim of the flood, was found Thursday morning about 10 a.m., by John Pineda, a Mexican, as he was walking near the washed out railroad bridge. The body was laying in the drift at the bridge. It was buried by the Kubena Funeral Home immediately after it was removed from the creek.

Identification of the body was difficult, but officials indentified it as the body of Miss Christina Svrcek.

Transcribed by Sandra Long Anders

JAMES HARVEY SWANK, SR.

undated newspaper clipping

Pioneer Engineer

Passes on today

J. H. Swank dies at Houston Hospital at 12:30 p.m., burial at Houston Wednesday.

J. H. Swank, 58, one of the oldest engineers of this division in points of continuous service passed away at Houston S. P. ( Southern Pacific) Hospital today at 12:30 p.m. following an illness of almost two months.

Mr. Swank had been an engineer on the S.A. and A.P. and S. P. for thirty years having moved to Yoakum in 1903 and entering the services of the old Sap railway as an engineer. He made a splendid record in this capacity and was well and favorably known on the routes which he piloted trains. Most of his service was on the Yoakum Waco line passing from engineer on the old coal burners to the oil burners and finally to motorman on the motor cars which are now used on this route.

Mr. Swank is survived by his wife and seven children. Funeral services will be held at Houston

Wednesday afternoon at 3 p.m. and internment will be made in the Forest Park Cemetary. Services will be under the direction of the Baptist Church, he being an active member of the Tabernacle Baptist Church of Yoakum.

Houston Post newspaper clipping:

Swank- James H. Swank, 58, of Yoakum died in a local hospital at 12: 15 p.m. Tues. He is survived by his wife Mrs. Cora Belle Swank; four daughters: Mrs. Carl Hillman (Audrey Lee Swank), Miss Gwendolin Swank, Miss Mary Sue Swank, and  Mrs. Rudolph Wukasch (Ruth Swank) of Austin. A stepdaughter Mrs. R. E. Browning of Galveston, a son James Swank of San Francisco, a brother Burt Swank of Louisville, Ky. and a grandchild. Funeral services were held at the chapel of the Fogle-West Company at 5 p.m. Wed.

Contributed by Carla Hillman Ratcliff