Obituaries
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The people memorialized below either lived at least part of their lives in Lavaca County or are buried here. Please contact the volunteer coordinator to contribute obituaries, death notices, and/or photographs from your research. Most of the linked contributors will be happy to share information from their family files. Please note that obituaries with a transcriber's name are not related to the transcriber's personal research. Obituaries without a contributor's or transcriber's name were provided by the volunteer coordinator.

EMMA S. NEUMANN WADE Yoakum Herald, November 1979 Emma S. Wade Emma S. Wade passed on at Huth Memorial Hospital shortly before noon, November 10, 1979. She was 89 years old on January 4, would have been 90 years old. She was born January 4, 1890 in the community of Industry in Austin County. At the age of 2 years she and her family moved to Yoakum, traveling in a covered wagon. Except for a brief period of time when she was about 19 years old, when she lived briefly in Cuero and San Antonio, she lived the rest of her life in Yoakum. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Herman Neumann, had three daughters, no sons. The first daughter, named Cora, died an infant. The second daughter's name was Alice. Emma was the third and youngest daughter and her mother died at the age of 24 years, when Emma was only 6 months old. Some time later Herman married the sister of his deceased wife and they had two children, namely daughter named Annie and a son named Jesse. During the railroad boom era in Yoakum, Emma's father, Herman Neumann, was an outstanding civic and industrial leader in Yoakum, engaging in many civic and industrial activities. For about 25 years he was a member of the DeWitt County Commissioners Court from Yoakum. For many years he was the president of the Yoakum School Board. In the Yoakum Municipal Government he was Alderman from Ward No. 1. In industrial activities he operated a brick factory, a blacksmith shop and was engaged in manufacturing furniture. Later he was engaged in production of cottonseed oil. His popularity in Yoakum was such that many people referred to him as "Mr. Yoakum". When he died at the age of 49 years about the close of 1918, a movement was underway by a group of Yoakum citizens who wanted to draft him to be the mayor of Yoakum. On October 7, 1914, Emma was married to Leonard George Wade of Yoakum. They had two children, namely a son, Leonard G. Jr. and a daughter, Dorothy Elaine. Emma's husband, Leonard Wade, served almost 50 years with the United States Post Office Department. He also was widely known for certain views and theories of a scientific nature which he held pertaining to gravitation and the location of petroleum deposits. Leonard Wade died on January 17, 1968, at the age of 76 years. Emma Wade for many years was a member of the First Presbyterian Church of Yoakum. She was a believer in Christian principles and she believed in being of help to others whenever possible. Funeral services were held Monday, November 12, 1979, 2:00 p.m. at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel, Rev. Justin Hemenway officiating. Pallbearers were as follows: David Braley, a great nephew from Lockhart; Caleb R. Clark from Yoakum; Ralph Mobly from Yoakum; Crockett McManus from Yoakum; Gerhard H. Mueller from Cuero; and Gerhardt H. Witte from Yoakum. Interment was in Oak Grove Cemetery, Yoakum. Emma Wade is survived by her two children, namely Leonard George (L. G.) Wade, Jr. of Yoakum and Mrs. J. C. Piland of San Antonio. Also she is survived by nephews, nieces and other relatives. Contributed by Deborah Smith FORREST WADE The Victoria Advocate, 16 Feb 1973 Forrest Wade YOAKUM-Forrest E. Wade, 83, former resident of Yoakum, died at 1 a.m. Thursday al the home of a sister, Mrs. Virginia Beard, in Houston. Mr. Wade, who was born Dec. 2, 1889 in Oakland, also had previously lived in Corpus Christi, but had resided wilh his sister for the past eight years. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Friday at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel, with the Rev. Joseph M. Ray officiating. Burial will be in Oak Grove Cemetery. Survivors include two other sisters. Mrs. Mildred Kelly and Mrs. Lillian Tuffly, both of Houston; three brothers, Everett and John L. Wade, both of Houston; and Aubrey Wade, of Ashevillc, N. C. Pallbearers will be John T. Beck, Henry Riemenschneider, Caleb Clark, Gerhard Witte, Joe Brown and L. A. Dyer. Photo and obituary contributed by Deborah Smith ROPHILA WADE Weimar Mercury, April 25, 1958 Golden Locks and "better half", accompanied by Mrs. Nuddie Lessing and Miss Lillian Reese of Columbus, attended the funeral of their relative, Mrs. Rophila Wade, in Yoakum Thursday. Mrs. Wade formerly lived in the County Line community and will be remembered by all her old friends. Contributed by Deborah Smith WADSWORTH INFANT Weimar Mercury, March 16, 1901 The infant son of Mr. Tom Wadsworth died in this city, at the residence of Mrs. B. W. Payne, Wednesday morning, after an illness of several weeks, and was buried in the County Line cemetery. The baby’s mother died a few months ago, and although it had the best of care and attention, it was not for this world and quietly passed away to seek its mother in the heavenly hosts above. Our sincere sympathy is extended the bereaved family. Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht ROY WADWORTH Weimar Mercury, 17 Feb 1900 SHIMEK. Little Roy, infant child of Mr. and Mrs. T. D. Wadsworth, died last Friday and was buried in County Line cemetery Saturday eve. The many friends of the family were present to witness the sad event. To the bereaved parents we extnd ourheartfelt sympathy in the loss of their little one. LIZZIE PAYNE WADSWORTH Weimar Mercury, January 19, 1901 Mrs. Lizzie Wadsworth, the beloved wife of Mr. Tom Wadsworth of Shimek community, died Thursday night at the family residence, of heart disease, and was laid to rest in the County Line cemetery the folowing day. Mrs. Wadsworth was a daughter of Mrs. B. W. Payne of this city, and was a most excellent and highly estimable lady, possessing traits of character which endeared her to all who met her. Our sincere sympathy is extended the bereaved relatives and friends. Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht KATE WALCHAR The Weimar Mercury, June 24, 1910 Mrs. Kate Walchar, one of the oldest and most respected residents of Bila Hora died at the home or her daughter Mrs. Mat Mucala, at Hackberry. The funeral occurred Thursday afternoon in the Bila Hora cemetery in the presence of many sorrowing relatives and friends. She had been ill for several months and the end was not unexpected. Mrs. Walchar has a reward for a clean and useful life, full of trials and tribulations lived to an advanced age. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended the bereaved. Contributed by Regena Williamson Mrs. E. A. WALKER Colorado Citizen, 2 Jan 1879, page 2 Mrs. E. A. Walker, consort of Dr. James Walker, died at Hallettsville on the 17th. ANNA WALLA Weimar Mercury, December 8, 1922 Rev. J. C. Wilson was called to the Bila Hora community Wednesday to officiate at the funeral of Mrs. Anna Walla, aged 84 years. The funeral was largely attended. Mrs. Walla was born May 3, 1838, in Vsetin, Moravia, and came to Texas in 1879. She was a member of the Lutheran Church. She leaves three daughters, Mrs. Mary Konarik, Mrs. Annie Orsak and Miss Veronica. Also three brothers, John Walla of Oklahoma, and Martin and Paul Walla of Bila Hora. Our deepest sympathy goes out to the bereaved family. Transcribed by Sharon Sutton ROBERT E. WALLACE Houston Chronicle, March 15, 2009 ROBERT E. WALLACE, 74, passed away on Sunday, March 8, 2009 at his residence in Cut and Shoot, Texas. He was born June 15, 1934 in Lavaca County, Texas to Cliff and Hulda Wallace. Bob served in the U.S. Navy for 4 years and worked for the Houston Chronicle for 29 years until his retirement. He enjoyed going to the Trinity River Camp in Leon County to hunt and fish with his family and friends. Bob was loved and survived by his wife of 40 years Gail Wallace; his sister Judy Owens; daughter Robin Wallace; son Robert Wallace and wife Trina; grandchildren, Darlene Bilden (Nick), Jessica Plaster, Justin Wallace and Tiffany Wallace; great-grandchild Addison Plaster; several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. Bob will be missed but not forgotten. A Graveside Memorial Service with Military Honors will be held at 11:00 AM on Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at Brookside Funeral Home, 13401 East Tex FRWY at Lauder Exit, Houston, Texas (281) 449-6511. In lieu of flowers donations may be made to St. Luke's Episcopal Hospital Philanthropy, P.O. Box 20629, Houston, TX 77225. Please indicate on face of the check: In memory of Bob Wallace. Contributed by Rebecca Herder SEBA WALLACE Schulenburg Argus, June 8, 1877 Died,—of Consumption. On the 4th inst. at the residence of her parents in Schulenburg, Texas, Mrs. Frank Wallace. Wife of Mr Frank Wallace, yard conductor of Columbus of the G. H. & S. A. Railway Company. Schulenburg Argus June 15, 1877 Obituary DIED. — in Schulenburg, Texas June 4h 1877, Mrs. Seba Wallace, Wife of Mr. F. L. Wallace aged 24 years 11 months and 25 days. She was an only child, the only hope of parents for a home of happiness in this world. Their hearts were entwined about her as though their destiny was linked with hers; they expected her to live to bless their declining years. Parental love had used every means to fit her for a life of usefulnes[sic], and she returned their love as a dutiful daughter; but when the grim tyrant Death came to claim its own, she was prepared and willing to go. She was conscious to the last. She called her weeping friends to her side and bid them kiss her good-bye. She leaves her aged parents, a kind husband, two small children, and a large circle of friends and acquaintances to mourn her loss. Seba Wallace is buried in the Andrews Chapel Cemetery. Contributed by Dorothy Wallace Albrecht CHARLES WALLE & Infant Shiner Gazette, Moulton News, 10 Mar 1897, page 1 We regret to report the news that the little baby of Mrs. Chas. Walle died yesterday. Mr. Chas. Walle, father of the child, died Saturday a week ago, la grippe being the cause. Contributed by Matt Cross ADOLPH G. WANGEMANN Weimar Mercury, March 3, 1911 A. G. Wangemann Dead. Conductor and Mrs. Emmett May received a message Sunday from their sister, Mrs. C. K. Wangemann, announcing the death of A. G. Wangemann at Oklahoma City Thursday of last week. Mr Wangemann had been sick but a short while, at first being attacked with paralysis and developing an attack of pneumonia. He leaves five children, Mesdames Flem Houchin of Halletsville, C. F. Pagel and W. R. King of San Antonio, and Messrs. Chas. K. Wangemann of Oklahoma City and Adolph Wangemann of Philadelphia. C. K. Wangemann and wife have been living in Oklahoma City about four months and were with their father when he died. A. G. Wangemann was well known in Yoakum, at one time having been one of our leading merchants. He built the Wangemann building on Grand Avenue and also the J. M. Haller home on May Street. His wife who was a daughter of the lamented C. A. Kessler of Schulenburg, died here some thirteen years ago. Shortly after her death Mr. Wangemann left Yoakum and has resided in Oklahoma a good portion of the time since. — Yoakum Herald Contributed by Deborah Smith ERNST WANGEMANN Weimar Mercury, 22 May 1897, page 1 Yoakum, Texas, May 16.—Ernest Wangeman, a well known fresh meat dealer of this city, was shot and killed here tonight at 8:30 by D. E. McGrew. The trouble arose in Guthrie's saloon. The ball entered the right breast and came out at the left of the spinal collumn, death resulting in a few minutes. McGrew was arrested. Shiner Gazette, 26 May 1897 The Yoakum Herald in speaking of the funeral of Mr. Ernest Wangemann, who was killed by D. McGrew last Sunday week, says that the procession that followed the remains to their last resting place was one of the largest that was ever seen in Yoakum. Exclusive of the members of the lodges of which he was a member, 140 buggies were in the cortege. Ernst Wangemann, 28 May 1869-16 May 1897, was buried in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery at Yoakum. Contributed by Matt Cross JULIUS JOE WANJURA Victoria Advocate, July 7, 1980 Julius Joe Wanjura AUSTIN — Funeral services for Julius Joe Wanjura, 74, of Austin, and a native of Hallettsville, will be conducted in St. Mary's Cathedral at 2 p. m. Monday. Burial will be in Austin. Mr. Wanjura died in an Austin hospital Saturday following a long illness. He was born in Hallettsville Aug. 19, 1905, son of Joe and Antonia Henke [Hehmke] Wanjura. Surviving are two daughters, Mrs. Nancy Towery and Mrs. Hazel Floor of Austin; a sister, Mrs. Julia Morris of Cuero; two brothers, Oscar Wanjura and Leslie Wanjura of Cuero and three grandchildren. Julius Wanjura died July 5, 1980. Contributed by Anna Howard. LUCINDA ROLLAND WARBURTON 1946 newspaper clipping Mrs. Warburton Passes Away Mrs. Lucinda Rolland Warburton passed from this life June 25th, 1946 about 1:15 p.m. at her home east of Hallettsville. Mrs. Warburton was born Dec. 16, 1861 in Lavaca County near Mont. She was united with the Church of Christ at about (illegible) years of age.  In Sept. of 1880 she was married to Philip Warburton. To this union were born 4 sons, one of whom died in infancy. She was preceded in death by her husband who passed away Jan. 3, 1934. The deceased was laid to rest in the Fuller cemetery near her home June 26th at 4:00 p.m., with Brother Little of Hallettsville officiating. She is survived by 3 sons, Till Warburton of Yoakum Rt. 4; Sam and L. A. Warburton of H’ville, 3 granddaughters, Mrs. H.L. Ford of Lufkin, Mrs. Arria Hairrell,  Mrs. A.G. Reeves of Yoakum, 4 grandsons, Leon and William Warburton of Houston, (illegible) Warburton of Bryan, Lester Warburton of Hallettsville and (illegible) great-grandchildren. Contributed by Cara Canik CHARLES (CHARLIE) WARD Weimar Mercury, 9 Apr 1898, page 8 Moulton, Texas, April 5.—Monday morning at 11:20 a. m. the editor of the Shiner Gazette died at his home in Shiner with consumption. He will be buried Tuesday evening at 4 o'clock. He leaves a sorrowing wife and one child. He was a successful business and newspaper man, and had a great number of friends in this county, especially in Moulton and Shiner. He wrote his own farewell in his last week's paper, which was as follows: "The five years that I have been the editor of the Shiner Gazette have been the happiest years of my life, and it is with deep regret that I close up my work and bid you, my readers, farewell. I trust that you will all remember me kindly. "Charlie Ward." Shiner Gazette, 4 May 1898, Nickel column The many friends here of Mr. Ward, our estimable editor and friend, lament his death and extend to the bereaved wife our deepest condolence. Weimar Mercury, 25 Jun 1898, page 3 Halletsville New Era: Several wills have been admitted to probate in the county court this term, among the number being those of the late S. D. Peterson and Chas. Ward. Strange to say, it has developed that Chas. Ward was an assumed name, and that the real name is Thompson. The change in name was made on account of religious differences in the family. Charley Ward, 20 Jul 1865-4 Apr 1898, was buried in the Shiner City Cemetery.The April 1898 issues of the Gazette, which might have included a more complete obituary, are missing. Contributed by Matt Cross CLYDE WARD The Victoria Advocate, 26 May 1986 Clyde V. Ward Yoakum – Clyde V. Ward, 71, died Sunday, in a Yoakum hospital after a long illness. He was born May 19, 1915, in Riesel to the late Thomas J. Ward and Nancy Burney Ward. He was retired from Dow Chemical. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday at 2 p.m. at the Buffington Funeral Home Chapel in Yoakum.  Interment will follow in the County Line Cemetery, with the Rev. Howard MacAllister officiating.  Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Mary Thompson Ward of Yoakum; two daughters, Mrs. Martha Jean Stanley of Yoakum and Mrs. Reta Sue Beaver of Angleton; a son Thomas Henry Ward of Lake Jackson; a brother Arthur Ward of Shiner; two sisters, Mrs. Marie Rice of Angleton and Mrs. Margaret Mueller of Houston; and three grandchildren.  Note that Clyde Ward was buried in the County Line Cemetery in DeWitt County. Contributed by Regena Williamson GEORGE WARD Weimar Mercury, May 6, 1927, page 1 FUNERAL IN COUNTY LINE COMMUNITY George R. Ward, who some time ago moved from the Sheridan section to make his home with his brother, John N. Ward of County Line on account of continued ill health, died late Friday evening and the remains were laid to rest in the County Line Cemetery the following day. Weimar Mercury, May 6, 1927, page 3 OAKLAND - COUNTY LINE . . . We are indeed sorry to chronicle the death of Mr. Geo. Ward, which occurred Friday, April 29, at his home on the Sandies. He was a victim of that dreadful disease, tuberculosis. He was buried at the County Line Cemetery Saturday afternoon at 4 o'clock, Rev. C. E. Bludworth officiating. He leave[sic.] to mourn his death two brothers and one sister. JOHN N. WARD Weimar Mercury, 26 Oct 1928, page 1 Aged Recluse Found Dead In His Home An aged white man named Ward, who lived in seclusion by himself at his home several miles south of Weimar, was found dead upon his floor one day last week. The aged man had evidntly been dead for several days. He had fallen out of bed and laid there and died all alone. We understand that a party in passing the home noted the old man lying on the floor, but thought he was taking a nap and did not stop. We know very little about the man, and could ascertain but little, although we made numerous inquiries. We were told that the man possessed considerble money and property, but preferred to live the life of a recluse, and died alone and unattended. Neighbors saw to it that he was given a decent burial. Officers from the Oakland precinct held an inquest and determined that the man died from natural causes. on page 3 of same issue NEW BIELAU NEWS Death of John Ward. Mr. John Ward, a resident of this county for many years, was found dead in his home near County Line last Friday by Oscar Addicks. He had been dead for about two days, it is believed. An inquest was held by Justice of the Peace W. O. Obenhaus of Oakland. Mr. Ward was buried in the County Line Cemetery Saturday morning. Mr. Ward had no relatives in this part of the country. We understand he had a sister living in the Rio Grande Valley, and other relatives. He was about 74 years old at the time of his death. Rev. Bludworth officated at the funeral. R. on page 4 of the same issue OAKLAND NEWS Justice of the Peace W. D. Obenhaus and Constable W. L. Scott were called to hold an inquest over the body of Mr. Ward of the Harmony section. His neighbors found him dead in his home Wednesday. The doctor pronounced his death due to natural causes. He was buried in the County Line Cemetery Thursday morning. Rev. C. E. Bludworth conducting the funeral services. He was a good man. JOAN BRATRICH WARNER San Antonio Express-News, 28 May 2008 Joan R. Warner, born August 18, 1933, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, May 25, 2008 at the age of 74. Mrs. Warner was born in Moulton, Texas and lived in San Antonio for the past 64 years. She was a longtime member of Holy Name Catholic Church. Survivors include her loving husband of 55 years Nelson A. (Jim) Warner, daughter Anne M. Warner, sons Daniel S. Warner and wife Chrissie, Joseph P. Warner and David A. Warner, grandchildren Catherine Cueva, Danny Warner, Nathan Warner, Christina Presas, Lauren Warner and Erin Rodriguez, great-grandchildren Natalia Cueva, Chloe Cueva, Arianna Araiza and Aiden Araiza. SERVICES Visitation will be held Wednesday, May 28, 2008 from 5:00 until 7:00 P.M. with a rosary recited at 7:00 P.M. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels South. Funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, May 29, 2008 at 10:00 A.M. at Holy Name Catholic Church. Graveside services and interment will be held Thursday at 2:00 P.M. at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Moulton, Texas. For personal acknowledgment you may sign the guest book at www.missionparks.com in the obituary section. Mission Park Funeral Chapels South. Daughter of Joseph C. Bratrich (1905-1934) and Della Brosch Bratrich (1907-1964). Contributed by Matt Cross JOHN WASHICHEK[?] Shiner Gazette, 5 Jan 1898 Otto Koehler was over from Witting New Years day and brought the news of the suicide of John Wasecek [sic.] last Friday. Wasecek was a renter on the Henry Valentine land and had a large family. Friday evening he blew his head off with a double barreled shot gun. No cause assigned. Contributed by Matt Cross PAULINE REBECEK WASHICHEK Victoria Advocate, 12 Sep 1974 Mrs. Washichek SHINER - Mrs. Ed Washichek, 68, of Shiner died in a local hospital at 11:45 p.m. Tuesday. Funeral services will be held at 4 p.m. Thursday at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church with the Rev. Patrick Fidgeon officiating. Burial under direction of Buffington Funeral Home will be in Moulton Catholic Cemetery. Survivors include her husband, Ed Washichek of Shiner; a son, Steve Kubicek of Shiner; a brother, Adolph Redecek [Rebecek] of Flatonia; five sisters, Mrs. Julia Michalec of Delhi, Calif., Mrs. Bessie Bartos, Mrs. Rosie Tousek and Mrs. Millie Wagner of Moulton, and Mrs. Annie Sulak of Waco; and two grandchildren. Contributed by Matt Cross MARY WATSON Colorado Citizen, January 3, 1889, page 3 OAKLAND NOTES Died in Lavaca county, near Oakland, December 27, 1888, Mrs. Mary Watson, consort of Mr. S. J. Watson, after only a few days’ illness. She leaves a husband, a little boy and girl, and an infant only four days old. In so sore a bereavement the whole community sympathises with the family. Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht HOWARD BERNARD WAUSON Victoria Advocate, 30 Jan 1987, page 12A H. B. Wauson YOAKUM - Howard Bernard Wauson, 73, of Yoakum, died Wednesday in a local hospital following a long illness. Born June 24, 1913, in Lavaca County, to the late Clarence and Elvira Moore Wauson, he had been a saddle maker before his retirement. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Friday at St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Jerry Caponi officiating. Burial will follow the services in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home. A rosary was recited Thursday evening at the funeral home. Pallbearers will be Shannon Bucek, Jimmy and Kenneth Mikulenka, and Gary, Dennis and Kenneth Wauson. Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Judy Ponton, of Yoakum; Mrs. Sherry Hagen and Mrs. Betty Ann Darest, of Victoria; a son, Johnny Wauson, of Yoakum; two sisters, Mrs. Almarene Bucek, of Yoakum; Mrs. Audrey M. Bradford, of Victoria; two brothers, Gilbert and Fred Wauson, of Yoakum; and 11-grandchildren. Contributed by Matt Cross WILL WEBBER Weimar Mercury, June 20, 1908, page 1 From the Houston Chronicle Sunday we noted the death of Will Webber, a former resident of this section, his death occurring at Halletsville the day previous. The account, as published in the Chronicle, is as follows: Will. Webber, 32 years old, died here at the home of his mother, Mrs. Szmeiderski, of typhoid fever. He was working on the rice farm near Eagle Lake, for several months and three weeks ago was taken sick and was brought here for treatment. Mr. Webber was married to Miss Richter of Weimar, who died about nine years ago. AUGUSTA RINDORF WEISS Weimar Mercury, Friday, April 19, 1918 DERANGED FARMER CUTS HIS WIFE’S THROAT Hallettsville, Texas, April 15—Joe Weis, a farmer residing near Sublime, 10 miles east of this city, cut his wife’s throat Saturday about sunset, almost severing the head from the body. Weis is in jail at Halletsville, having been arrested by Sheriff Houchins. Weis told the officers that his father gave him a German newspaper to read and that he read in the paper where the Kaiser was going to kill him (Weis), and that he just thought he would kill himself, but before doing so he would kill his wife, so they could both go together. The 12-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Willie Koehn of New Bielau, who was visiting the Weiss home at the time, being a nephew of Mrs. Weiss, heard the threat and ran to John Weiss’ home for help, but before anyone could get there, Mrs. Weiss had been murdered. Weis made an attempt to poison himself about ten days ago. He has been in melancholic state of mind for some time, but his condition was not considered dangerous. The family had three children, the oldest about 6 years of age. Weis will be tried on a charge of insanity. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders (No copies of the Hallettsville area newspapers for that time exist to find an obituary.) JOE WEISS, SR. Weimar Mercury, 4 Apr 1924, page 3 JOE WEISS, SR. DIES. Mr. Joe Weiss, Sr., aged 81 years, 5 months and 24 days, a highly respected resident of Sublime, died Saturday at the home of his daughter, Mrs. Emlie Fernau, after a continued illness. The funeral took place Sunday afternoon with interment in the Smoothing Iron cemetery, Rev. A. D. Rode of the Lutheran church officiating. Mr. Weiss was born Sept. 30, 1842, in Heinzendorf, Austria, Europe. In 1868 he was married to Miss Theresia Blaschke. Eight children were born in this union, three of whom died in infancy. In 1881 the family came to America, to Weimar, Texas, and the same year moved to a farm near Sublime which Mr. Weiss bought later. For the past six years the deceased and his wife have been making their home with their daughter in Sublime. Mr. and Mrs. Weiss became members of the Sublime Lutheran church in 1904. Mr. Weiss also was a member of the Sublime Hermann Son lodge. Surviving the deceased are his sorrowing widow and five children: Mrs. Marie Koehn of New Bielau, Mrs. Emilie Fernau of Sublime, Mrs. Otto Emken of Shiner, Mrs. Joe Reinhardt of Hochheim and Joe Weiss of San Antonio. Also eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild survive. The New Era joins the many friends of the deceased in offering [sympathy] to the relatives in their bereavement. — Halletsville New Era. JOHN WEISS Hallettsville Herald, Tuesday, March 25, 1924 John Weis John Weis a highly respected citizen of Sublime died at his home Saturday afternoon at 3 o’clock, aged 81 years, 5 months and 24 days. The funeral occurred Sunday afternoon at 2:30 o’clock from his late residence. Interment was had in the Old Smoothing Iron Cemetery east of Sublime. Rev. A. D. Rode officiating.  Pall bearers were Frank Shillab, Paul Wenzel, Joseph Woytek, Paul Skotnik, Fred Cordes and L. Kartman. Mr. Weis is survived by his wife, Mrs. Theresia Weis, four daughters, Mrs. Marie Koehn of Weimar, Mrs. Emilie Fernau of Sublime, Mrs. Anna Emken of Shiner, Mrs. Caroline Reinhardt of Yoakum, and one son Joseph Weis of San Antonio. Mr. Weis was born in Austria, but had been a resident of this country for 43 years the most of this time being spent in Lavaca County in the Sublime section, he was a charter member of the O. D. H. S. Lodge of Sublime and for thirty years had been one of its valued members. The death of this time honored citizen closes another chapter of a useful life, making the world better by his passing this way. Grant unto him, O Lord, eternal rest and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul rest in peace. To those who are left to mourn the death of their loved one the Herald extends sympathy. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders JOSEPH WEISS Hallettsville Herald, Tuesday, Sept. 2, 1924 Joseph Weiss Joseph Weiss died at San Antonio, Wednesday afternoon, August 27th at 6 o’clock. Aged 45 years and 6 months. The remains were taken to Sublime his former home from where the funeral occurred from the home of his sister, Mrs. William Fernau, Friday morning at 10 o’clock, interment was made in the Smoothing Iron Cemetery. Rev. Roth officiating. Mr. Weiss is survived by three children, two sons and one daughter, his mother Mrs. Theresia Weiss of Sublime four sisters, Mrs. William Koehn of near Weimar, Mrs. Otto Emken of Shiner, Mrs. Joe Reinhardt of Yoakum and Mrs. William Fernau of Sublime. To the bereaved ones the Herald extends sympathy. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders THERESIA BLASCHKE WEISS Hallettsville Herald, Friday, May 8, 1925 Mrs. Theresia Weis Mrs. Theresia Weis (nee Miss Blaschke) was born in Heinzendorf Germany December 29th 1841 and died at Sublime, Texas, Wednesday morning May 6th, 1925 at 7:20 o’clock aged 83 years, 4 months and 7 days. In 1881 with her husband she came to America and was met at Weimar Texas by her father and from there they went to Sublime where they settled on the farm of her father which they purchased later where they lived until April 15th 1918, when they moved to the town of Sublime to make her home with their daughter Mrs. Amelia Fernau. In March 1924 her husband passed away, after which she continued to make her home with her daughter up to the time of her death. The funeral was held Thursday morning at 10 o’clock interment was made in the Smoothing Iron cemetery, Rev. A. D. Rode conducting the last sad rites, song service was rendered by a selected choir. Mrs. Weis leaves to mourn her death four daughters, Mrs. Amelia Fernau of Sublime, Mrs. Mary Koehn of Weimar, Mrs. Anna Emken of Shiner and Mrs. Karoline Reinhardt of Yoakum. There are eleven grandchildren and one great grandchild. For twenty years Mrs. Weis was a devoted member of the Lutheran Church and lived a noble Christian life ever mindful of her duties she owed to her God, her church and humanity, her labors in this life are over, she has gone to her reward, may her soul rest in peace. To those who are left to mourn her death we extend sympathy. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

ANNIE MARIE BANNERT WEITZEL Hallettsville Tribune-Herald, February 23, 2000 Annie Marie Weitzel Annie Marie Weitzel, 92 of Shiner, died Tuesday, Feb. 15, 2000. She was born Jan. 25, 1908, in Borden, to Anton and Emilie Haas Bannert. She was the owner of Weitzel Bar and was a Catholic. Survivors include two daughters, Dolores Joseph of Cuero and Dorothy Cunningham of Plainview; three sons Robert J. Weitzel of Gonzales, Patrick J. Weitzel of Midland and Henry C. Weitzel Jr. of Long Beach, Calif.; one sister, Bernice Whiston of Houston, and six grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Henry C. Weitzel Sr.; her parents, and two brothers, Frank Bannert and Louis Bannert. Rosary was recited 7 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18 at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel, Shiner. Services were conducted at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 19 at Saints Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, Shiner. The Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiated. Burial followed in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers were Henry Weitzel Jr., Bill Cunningham Jr., Frank Bannert Jr., Patrick Weitzel Jr., John Vincik, Rusty Walls, Coy Ellis and John DeJarnett. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders BERNARD HERMAN WEITZEL The Lavaca County Tribune, Tuesday, February 10, 1953, page 3 Funeral Saturday For Shiner Man Saturday funeral services were held for Bernard Herman Weitzel, 78, from the Shiner Catholic Church. He died Thurs. at his home. Born in Cologne, Germany, the deceased came to this country in 1896. Surving are his wife, and son Henry, one stepson, Frank Rannert; two daughters, Mrs. J. W. Sconyers of Ft. Worth and Mrs. E. S. Whilton of Houston; one stepdaughter, Mrs. Henry Weitzel, and one brother lives in Germany. The Lavaca County Tribune, Friday, February 13, 1953, pages 1 and 4 Herman Weitzel Dies at Shiner Herman Weitzel, 78, well known Shiner citizen, died Thursday, February 5th, at 9:00 a.m., at the home of his son, Henry Weitzel. Last rites were held at the Buffington Funeral Home in Shiner, Saturday, February 7, at 9:15 a.m., and at the Shiner Catholic Church for Requiem High Mass at 9:30 a.m. Rev. Tom Collins officiated. Interment was in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery. The deceased was born in Cologne, Germany, April 18th, 1874. As a youth he served in the German Navy. In 1896, he came to the United States, landing in New York, and continued westward to settle in Shiner, where he lived for the past 33 years. In 1900 he married Miss Alma Katherine Winters at Dreyer; she died in 1908. To this union two children were born, Mrs. J. W. (Alma) Sconyer of Fort Worth, and Henry Carl Weitzel of Shiner, both living. At Shiner, in 1923, Mr. Weitzel married Mrs. Emelie Haas Bannert, and to this union were born one daughter, Mrs. E. S. (Bernice) Whiston of Houston. Surviving Mr. Weitzel also are his wife; a step-daughter, Mrs. Henry (Annie) Weitzel, Shiner; a step-son, Frank J. Bannert, Shiner; 17 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and a brother, Karl Weitzel, living in Germany. Pallbearers were J. R. Stuber, Albert Kurtz, Oscar Lichey, Albert Muenich, Joe Sustr, and Henry Neuman. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders EMILIE (HAAS) BANNERT WEITZEL Obits from May 1957-May 1969 Lavaca County Tribune, 1966 Mrs. E. Weitzel Mrs. Emily Weitzel, 82, of Shiner, passed away Tuesday, July 12th, in the Wagner Hospital. Funeral Services were held Friday at 9:45 a.m. from the Buffington Funeral Home, and at 10:00 a.m. at the Shiner Catholic Church.  Burial was in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery. Survivors include a son, Frank Bannert of Shiner, a step-son and son-in-law, Henry Weitzel of Shiner; two daughters, Mrs. Henry Weitzel of Shiner, Mrs. Edmund Whiston of Houston; step-daughter, Mrs. James Walter Sconyers of Fort Worth; sister, Mrs. Frank Futschik of Weimar; seventeen grandchildren; two step-grandchildren and one step-great-grandchild. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders HENRY C. WEITZEL Lavaca County Tribune, 1966 Henry C. Weitzel Mr. Henry Weitzel, 64, of Shiner, passed away in the Wagner Hospital, Saturday, August 6, 1966. Funeral services were held Wednesday, Aug. 1 at 9:45 a.m. from the Buffington Funeral Home and at 10:00 a.m. at the Shiner Catholic Church.  Burial was in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery. Henry Weitzel was born at Nordheim, DeWitt County, on July 6, 1902.  In 1926, he was married to Annie Bannert at Shiner. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Annie Weitzel of Shiner; two daughters, Mrs. Wm. D. (Dorothy Mae) Cunningham of Plainview, Mrs. Fred (Dolores) Joseph of Cuero; three sons, Henry Jr., Yeoman third Class, USN of Long Beach, Calif., Robert of Houston, Patrick Weitzel, Postal Clerk Third Class, USN of London, England; one sister, Mrs. James Walter Sconyers of Fort Worth; half sister, Mrs. Edmund Whiston of Houston; stepbrother, Frank Banner of Shiner and five grandchildren. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders JOHN WELCH Weimar Mercury, 11 Aug 1889, page 2 Yesterday an engine ran over two section hands, Thomas Maher and John Welch, near the Front street crossing in Yoakum, killing Maher instantly, and lacerating Welch fearfully. Welch's right are and shoulder-blade are frightfully mangled, the bones being mashed litterally to atoms. His head is also hurt, and his spitting blood gives evidence of internal bruises. The Drs. Boyd dressed his wounds, but say he will probably died. No blame is attached to any one. Later, —John Welch died Friday evening.—Yoakum Graphic. AUGUST (GUS) WELFL Shiner Gazette, 5 Nov 1983 MOULTON - August "Gus" Welfl, 56, of Moulton, died at 7 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 30, 1983 at his home. Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Moulton with the Rev. Robert Schmidt officiating.  Full military honors were accorded him in the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery at the graveside. A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 1 at Smith Funerl [sic] Home Chapel in Moulton where the body lay in state. Mr. Welfl, one of six children, was born May 13, 1927 at Witting, Lavaca County, Texas, son of Vaclav and Emma (Berckenhoff) Welfl.  He was a carpenter for Mraz Lumber Co. in Shiner and an Army veteran of World War II. He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Krauskopf Welfl of Moulton; a daughter, Cheryl Pilat of Moulton; a son, Daryl Welfl of Moulton; a brother, Fred Welfl of Moulton; two sisters, Mrs. Henry (Agnes) Kresta of Moulton, and Mrs. Floyd (Marietta) Siegel of Shiner, and a granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his father, Mar. 5, 1975; his mother, Aug. 7, 1979; one brother, Louis Welfl, died at age 22 years; and a sister, Sophia Welfl, died in infancy. Contributed by Matt Cross EMMA BERCKENHOFF WELFL Shiner Gazette, 16 Aug 1979 Welfl Rites Mrs. Vaclav Welfl, nee Emma Berckenhoff, of Moulton, died Tuesday, August 7, 1979 in the Shady Oak Nursing Home in Moulton at the age of 83 years and 4 days. Services were held Thursday, August 9 at 2 p.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Moulton with the Rev. Robert Schmidt offering the Holy Mass.  Burial followed in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery. A Rosary was recited Wednesday, August 8 at 8:30 p.m. in Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Moulton. Pallbearers were her grandsons, Michael Siegel of Shiner, Louis and Fred Welfl, Henry, Jimmie and Daniel Kresta, all of Houston. She was born Aug. 3, 1896 in the Praha Community, daughter of Fritz and Annie (Kobza) Berckenhoff.  On Nov. 19, 1914, she was married to Vaclav Welfl in the St. Joseph Catholic Church at Moulton by the late Rev. Schindler.  The couple settled on a farm near Moulton, then moved to Novorhad and Witting, farming for a livelihood.  They retired in 1965 and moved to Moulton. Mrs. Welfl had been a resident at the Shady Oak Nursing Home for the past three months. She is survived by two sons, Fred and August Welfl, both of Moulton; two daughters, Mrs. Henry (Agnes) Kresta of Moulton, Mrs. Floyd (Marietta) Siegel of Shiner; three brothers, Liberat and Ewald Berckenhoff, both of Moulton, Ben Berckenhoff of Shiner; three sisters, Mrs. Joe (Alexa) Holub of Moulton, Mrs. Anton (Angeline) Koncaba of Hallettsville, Mrs. Toby (Flora) Kretchner [Kracmer] of West; 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Mar. 5, 1975; a son Louis Welfl, who died at the age of 22 years; a daughter, Sophia Welfl died in infancy; three brothers, Fred Berckenhoff, Feb. 26, 1956, Emil Berckenhoff, Apr. 3, 1957, Pius Berckenhoff, Jan. 23, 1969; two sisters, Mrs. Adolph A. (Jaromila) Nesrsta, Jan. 23, 1976, and Mrs. Julia B. Nesrsta, Jan. 19, 1978. Contributed by Matt Cross DARYL WELFL Victoria Advocate, 20 Dec 2008 DARYL "SQUEEZY" WELFL MOULTON - Daryl Wayne "Squeezy" Welfl, 42, of Moulton left our world to be with the Lord on Dec. 16, 2008. He is survived by his mother, Dorothy Welfl; sister, Cheryl Pilat and husband Harvey; two nieces; one great-niece; and longtime friend, companion and girlfriend, Patti Smith of Deer Park. Visitation will begin 4 p.m., Dec. 20, 2008, at Smith Funeral Home in Moulton. Rosary will be at 6:30 p.m., Dec. 21, 2008, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Moulton. Services will be at 2 p.m., Dec. 22, 2008, at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Moulton with burial to follow in St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery with the Rev. Tim Kosler officiating. Smith Funeral Home, 404 W. Bobkat, Moulton, Texas, 361-596-4631. Contributed by Matt Cross LOUIS WELFL Lavaca County Tribune, 19 Nov 1943, page 1 Louis Welfl Loses His Life in Tractor Accident Louis Welfl, 22, son of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Welfl of the Witting community, was crushed to death beneath a tractor shortly after noon Monday. The tragic accident occurred on his father's farm. Louis was plowing with the tractor. As he was going along a branch the tractor struck a soft shoulder. The ground gave way and the machine and all rolled over and came to rest at the bottom of the branch. Louis fell off but the tractor rolled over him breaking a leg, his back and otherwise mangling him. Apparently it was the plows that went over his body the fatal injuries showed. Louis was born at Witting where he attended school and grew to young manhood. He had been in the Army but was recently given an honorable release, probably to help his parents on the farm. Besides his parents he is survived by two brothers and two sisters. Funeral services were held Wednesday morning at Moulton Catholic Church with internment in the Catholic Cemetery. Reverend Joseph Kopp officiated at the last rites. Contributed by Matt Cross VACLAV WELFL Shiner Gazette, 20 Mar 1975 Vaclav Welfl of Moulton passed away in the Shiner Hospital Wednesday morning, March 5, 1975 following a two-day confinement.  He attained the age of 81 years, 5 months and 15 days. Funeral services were held Friday, March 7 at 3:00 p.m. at the St. Joseph's Catholic Church with Father Robert Schmidt officiating.  Interment was in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery.  Serving as pallbearers were his grandsons, Daniel, Jim and Henry Kresta, Jr., Fred Jr. and Louis James Welfl and Michael Siegel. Rosary was recited at the Smith Funeral Home, Moulton, Thursday, March 6 at 8 p.m. A native of Fayette County, he was born at Praha Sept. 20, 1893, the son of John and Margaret (Cinadr) Welfl.  On November 19, 1914, he was married to Emma Berckenhoff at the St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Moulton by the late Rev. Schindler.  Following their marriage, the couple settled on a farm near Moulton for a short time, then moved to Novohrad where they resided for a number of years, then to the Witting community where they settled and lived for many years.  Mr. Welfl retired from farming and in 1965 they moved to Moulton where they have made their home.  He was a resident of the Shady Oak Nursing Home in Moulton for the past two months. Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Emma Welfl of Moulton; two sons, Alfred and August Welfl, both of Moulton; two daughters, Mrs. Floyd (Marietta) Siegel of Shiner, Mrs. Henry (Agnes) Kresta of Moulton; sixteen grandchildren; 9 great-grandchildren; two brothers, Nick Welfl of Yoakum, John Welfl of Moulton; and one sister, Mrs. Edmund (Mary) Kubicek of Moulton. He was preceded in death by son, Louis Welfl, who died at the age of 22 years; a daughter, Sophia Welfl died in infancy; three brothers, August Welfl, January 31, 1973; Michael Welfl in 1918; Adolf Welfl, died in infancy; and one sister Mrs. Jerry (Christina) Bender in April 1947; his father in 1950; and his mother in 1908. Contributed by Matt Cross HENRIETTA RICHTER WELHAUSEN Lavaca County Tribune, 16 June 1944 Prominent Shiner Woman Died. Mrs. C.B. Welhausen, respected Shiner resident, died at the Shiner hospital early Sunday morning, June 11, at 4:30 o’clock. Rev. A.C. Peterson, assisted by Rev. M.T. Jenkins, conducted the funeral services at the Shiner Methodist Church, of which the deceased was a fervent member, and interment took place in the Shiner City Cemetery.  Pallbearers were Glade and Phillip Welhuasen, John Beal, George Valis, E.J. Kempe, Thomas Hughs, Emmett Busch, and Paul Otto. The deceased, nee Henrietta Richter, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Moritz Richter, was born on Nov. 17, 1877.  As a child, she moved with her parents to Shiner and attended the local schools.  On Nov. 15, 1898, she became the wife of C.B. Welhausen and three children, one daughter and two sons, blessed their happy home, the daughter dying at the age of thirteen years. Those left to mourn her death are:  her husband; two sons, C.C. of Yoakum, and Sgt. Ray with the army in Maryland; four grandchildren, one sister, Mrs. W.R. McComas of San Antonio and two brothers, Ad Richter of Shiner and Otto Richter of Spokane, Washington. Contributed by Regena Williamson AUGUST WELLER Colorado Citizen, 13 Dec 1888, page 3 OAKLAND NOTES. We are sorry to record the death of Mr. August Weller, Sr., whom we have known for several yearss, which occurred at his residenceon the 9th inst. He was an old resident, having settled Wellersburg, the place of his late home, and was the father of Mrs. H. J. Strunk, of this place. He leaves a host of relatives and friends to condole with the family in the death of this man, who was esteemed for his many good traits of character. Last Monday his remains were committed to the dust by the Masons of this place, at the old family rest in Lavaca. Colorado Citizen, 20 Dec 1888, page 3 TRIBUTE OF RESPECT. In fond memory of AUGUST WELLER, SR., who died at his home in Lavaca county, Texas, December 6th, 1888, and buried with Masonic honors, and a large host of friends in attendance, near his home. He was born at Salzufel, Prussia, Germany, February 1, 1829, came to America and Texas in 1846, and lived a short time in Colorado county; then moved to Lavaca county, on the Navidad river, where he has resided to the day of his death. Brother WELLER was a remarkable man, of energy and indomitable perserverance. He founded the town of Wellersburg, where he carried on a large business in store, gin and mill, shop and postoffice. He was the father of twelve children, eleven of whom survive him, and were all at his bedside when he died. BROTHER WELLER was a member of Oakland Lodge, No. 238, of Ancient Free and Accepted Masons, and a man of great devotion and affeection for his family. A man ever ready to contribute to the needy, and to every worthy cause and enterprise. The community has lost a good friend and kind neighbor, the counties of Colorado and Lavaca one of the best citizens, and the Lodge a good member. AND WHEREAS, The Grand Master above has removed from us our beloved brother, and we bow in humble submission to His will, imploring His blessings upon the bereaved family. Resolved, 1. That the members of this Lodge wear the usual badge of mourning for thirty days. Resolved, 2. That these precedings be published in the COLORADO CITIZEN, and spread upon our minute book, and a copy furnished the family of our deceased brother. J. M. WOOLSEY, J. W. CARSON, J. H. MULLIN, Committee Oakland, Colorado Co, Tex, Dec. 17. GEORGIA ANN HOUCHINS WELLER Weimar Mercury, October 28, 1910 Galveston News Special: Yoakum, Oct 24—After an illness of ten days, Mrs. G. A. Weller of this city died Sunday afternoon from blood poisoning. The deceased was about 47 years of age and was the mother of ten children, eight of whom are living. The malady which was the cause of Mrs. Weller's death was contracted from doctoring a milch cow which was supposedly infected with charbon[sic]. Georgia Ann Houchins was the wife of Charles H. Weller. Information and obituary contributed by Deborah Smith. JOHNNIE CLARK WELLER Hallettsville Herald, 18 Jul 1889 The Angel of Death Johnnie Clark Weller Born March 21st, 1889, died July 8th, 1889 The subject of the foregoing note was the little son of Mr. and Mrs. C.H. Weller, of Sublime.  The remains were interred by tender and loving hands in the Bock cemetery at Wellersberg.  Little Johnnie had been sick but a few days and his demise was sudden, and unexpected by his doting parents.  The father’s pride, the mother’s idol: he was the cheer of the household; and as that dear form lay before her eyes we should wonder not if the heart-broken mother had thought in vain whispered these touching lines: Wake but a little, for a last, last, kiss;     Be it the last, but warm with life,           As this, That through my lips I may thy      Spirit drain,   Suck they sweet breath, drink love         Through every vein; This kiss shall serve me ever in they        Stead,    Since thou thyself, sweet one, art fled” See an earlier mention of Johnnie Weller's death Interred in the Bock Cemetery. Contributed by Regena Williamson ROBERT WELLER Weimar Mercury, September 8, 1894, page 2 Halletsville New Era: Died, at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. John F. Houchins Monday evening at 5 o’clock, little Robert Weller, aged 9 months, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Weller of Sublime. The funeral took place at Sublime yeserday. We extend our sympathy to the heart-stricken parents. Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht OSCAR WELLER Weimar Mercury, August 19, 1893, page 2 Hallettsville New Era: Friday night Mr. A. Weller, a member of the grand jury, was summoned to his home in Sublime by the sad intelligence that his only son, Oscar, a boy of 12 years of age, had been killed. The little fellow had started out in the afternoon about 2 o’clock to catch a horse. It would seem he endeavored to rope the horse, having one end attached to the saddle, and at the time of throwing the rope he must have been brushed out of the saddle by an overhanging limb and in falling to the ground was caught in the loop of the lasso. His horse ran several hundred feet, dragging him against stumps and trees, bruising him terribly. Not returning at sundown, search was made for him. The horse was found with the rope tangled in the brush, with the dead body on the end of it. Mr. and Mrs. Weller have the deep sympathy of many friends. Transcribed by Sharon Sutton ALBERT H. WEMKEN Shiner Gazette, 15 Dec 1897, page 1 A. H. WEMKEN A Good Citizen Departed This Life. A. H. Wemken died Thursday night about 3 a.m. The particulars as learned from John Wemken of Valley View, who was present at his father’s death, are as follows: John had been moving a renter and was stopping all night with his parents. His father appeared to be in excellent health and spirits and ate a hearty supper, after which the family sat around the sitting room and Mr. Wemken laughed and joked with them. It was very late when they all retired and Mr. Wemken complained that he could not sleep. After lying down an hour or two he got up and dressed and laid down and asked his wife to close a door leading into another room saying that the draught was blowing on him. She closed the door and returned to her chair and sat down. At once she noticed that he was breathing heavily and going up to the bed said, “are you asleep already?” He gave no answer and being thoroughly alarmed she ran out and called John and Willie to come in. When they reached his bedside he was dead. A. H. Wemken was seventy-two years old and had been in America twenty eight years – nineteen in Fayette county and nine here. He leaves a wife and eight children. Of his children John is living at Valley View, Henry at Henrietta, and Willie, the youngest boy, is at home. The daughters are Mrs. A. and Mrs. Rob. Herms, Mrs. Joe Koenning, and Minnie and Lillie, who are still at home. Mr. Wemken was an excellent citizen and his loss will be severely felt by our community. The funeral took place Saturday. Albert H. Wemken, 10 Sep 1826 – 10 Dec 1897, was buried in the Shiner City Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross CLEMENT J. WENDEL Victoria Advocate, 3 Apr 1997, page 10A CLEMENT J. WENDEL YOAKUM - Clement Joseph Wendel, 81, of Warrensburg, Mo., and formerly of Yoakum, Port Lavaca, and Victoria, died Tuesday, April 1, 1997. He was born Sept. 3, 1915, in Hochheim to the late Adam and Mathilda Brosch Wendel. He was a retired welder from Alcoa and he was a Catholic. Survivors: daughter, Clemmie Jo Chanek of Victoria; sons, Donald J. Wendel of Windsor, Mo., Richard A. Wendel of Teague, Lawrence W. Wendel of Cole Camp, Mo., and Gerald L. Wendel of Greensboro, N.C.; sisters, Alice Aschenbeck and Irene Rohan, both of Cuero; 14 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren. Preceded in death by: wife, Pearl Berger Wendel. A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. today at Buffington Funeral Home chapel. Services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum. Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum, 293-2333. Memorials: St. Joseph Catholic Church Building Fund. Contributed by Matt Cross MATHILDA WENDEL Victoria Advocate, 22 Dec 1974, page 12A Mrs. Wendel YOAKUM—Mrs. Mathilda Wendel, 78, of Yoakum died Saturday at 3:45 a.m. in a Cuero hospital. She was born July 24, 1896, in Shiner. Her husband, Adam Wendel, died in 1940. Funeral services will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. from St. Joseph's Catholic Church with the Rev. Michael O'Shaughnessy officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery. Survivors include son, Clem Wendel of Port Lavaca; two daughters, Mrs. Jack Roha and Mrs. Wilbert Aschenbeck, both of Cuero; a brother, Charlie Brosch of San Antonio; five sisters, Mrs. Richard Zerr, Mrs. Gladney Harrell of San Antonio, Mrs. Charles Stasney of Houston, Mrs. Alfred Schroeder and Mrs. George Suhr of Yoakum; 12 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Contributed by Matt Cross PEARL T. BERGER WENDEL Victoria Advocate, 18 Jan 1996 PEARL T. WENDEL Pearl T. Wendel, 78, of Warsaw, Mo., and formerly of Victoria and Port Lavaca died Wednesday, Jan. 17, 1996. She was born May 31, 1917, in DeWitt County to the late Ferdinand and Ida Rollins Berger. She was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Victoria. Survivors: husband, Clem J. Wendel; daughter, Clemmie Jo Chanek of Victoria; sons, Donald Wendel of Windsor, Mo., Richard Wendel of Teague, Lawrence Wendel of Warsaw, Mo., and Gerald Wendel of Greensboro, N.C.; sisters, Ella Mae Granberry of Houston and Maudie Christian of Conroe; brothers, Homer Berger of Yoakum, Roland Berger of Houston and Douglas Berger of Nacogdoches; 14 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Friday at Buffington Funeral Home. Services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum. Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum, 293-2333. Memorials: American Diabetes Association. Contributed by Matt Cross REV. WILLIAM WESTERHOFF The Houston Chronicle, Friday, June 22, 1906 Rev. Westerhoff Dead Special to The Chronicle Brenham, Texas, June 22, - Rev. Wm. Westerhoff, pastor of the German Lutheran church at Rehburg, in this county, died at that place on Friday, June 15. His remains were embalmed and sent to his former home in Lavaca county for interment. Contributed by Cathy Fitch DORATEA FINK WESTPHAL Shiner Gazette, December 6, 1934  Mrs. Dora Westphal The subject of this sketch was born Oct. 21, 1849 at Mecklenburg, Germany.  It was there she was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church and it was in the old country in 1870 that she was married.  In 1884 they emigrated to America first settling in Weimar.  Mr. Westphal died 32 years ago.  Surviving are 5 children:  W. Westphal of Shiner, Carl of El Campo, Mrs. Louise Kuck of Dallas, Mrs. Otto Tesch of New Bielau and Mrs. D. Brunkenhoefer with whom she made her home.  A daughter, Mrs. Emil Raabe died about 18 years ago.  Also surviving are 28 grand children and 14 great grand children.  Deceased was 85 years, 1 month and 11 days old at the time of her death early Sunday.  Funeral services were conducted form the Brunkenhoefer home.  Monday forenoon by Rev. Richard Schuetze with burial in the City Cemetery.  The Gazette extends sincere sympathy to all in their sorrow. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders EMMA NOVAK WESTPHAL Victoria Advocate, 5 Feb 2007 EMMA WESTPHAL SPRING - Emma Westphal, 89, of Spring, died Saturday, Feb. 3, 2007 at Unlimited Care in Spring. She was born Sept. 16, 1917, in Shiner, to the late Frank and Annie Hajek Novak. She was a retired factory worker with Casper Wire Works. She was a Catholic. Survivors: daughter, Dody Goldmeyer of The Woodlands; sisters, Adel Henkhaus of Shiner and Edith Studeny of Houston; brother, George "Red" Novak of Houston; four grandchildren; and five great-grand-children.  Preceded in death by: husband, Milton Westphal; son, Gerald Westphal; and sister, Mildred Zaruba. Visitation will be 5-6:30 p.m. today at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel in Shiner. A rosary will be recited 7 p.m. tonight at the chapel. Services will be 1 p.m. Tuesday at SS Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, Father Bob Knippenberg officiating. Burial will be at Shiner Catholic Cemetery. Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, 361-594-3352. Contributed by Matt Cross MILTON WESTPHAL Shiner Gazette , March 5, 1964  Sudden Death Of Beloved Citizen, Milton Westphal, Deplored By Many The sudden and unexpected passing of Milton Westphal brought sorrow to many hearts. Throngs of deeply grieved friends and relatives attended the impressive services held at 9:30 a.m. Friday, February 28, 1964 from the Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, and continued at United Dr. Martin Luther Church with the Rev. F. E. Eilers officiating. His consoling words of comfort were chosen from favorite scripture passages. Mrs. Wilma Stindt, organist, played a prelude of familiar and favorite hymns, and accompanied those in attendance as they sang "More Love To Thee" and "I Know That My Redeemer Lives." Private Rosary services were held at the Buffington Chapel at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday. Burial was in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery. Rev. Eilers, Reverend Fathers John J. Hanacek and Alphonse Padalecki conducted the graveside rites. Named as casket attendants were Arthur Kaspar, Don Kaspar, Max Schroeder, Alphonse Jaks, Leonard Dreyer and John O. Cook. Death came suddenly and without warning to Milton Westphal at 1:55 a.m. Wednesday, February 26, 1964 at his home. He reached the age of 48 years, five months and 17 days. He was born at Breslau, Lavaca County, July 9, 1915, son of Willie and Selma (Koenning) Westphal, natives of Germany and Breslau respectively. During infancy, on October 17, 1915, he received the rite of Holy Baptism in St. Peter's Lutheran Church in Hallettsville administered by the Rev. O. T. Kluge. He confirmed his faith in United Dr. Martin Luther Church May 27, 1928, with the Rev. J. C. A. Pfenninger as his pastor and had been a member of this church ever since. In 1919, he moved with his family to Shiner where he grew to manhood and received his formal education. He was united in Holy Wedlock with Miss Emma Novak on November 23, 1938 in the Shiner Catholic Rectory by the late Msgr. L. P. Netardus. They made their home in Shiner where he was employed with the Kaspar Wire Works, and where he continued working faithfully for 27 years. At the time of his death he was serving this firm as Project Supervisor and assistant Shop Superintendent and was also in charge of research engineering, creating a vacancy which will be indeed difficult to fill. In his brief span of life, he devoted much time to worthy causes. During the last 10 years he was particularly active in Scouting. He served as Cubmaster for Pack 232, as Assistant District Commissioner of Roundtables for the Live Oak District and was serving as District Commissioner of Boy Scouts for the Live Oak District at the time of his death. Among the large number in attendance at the final rites were the uniformed Cub Scouts of Pack 231 and 232, Boy Scouts of Troops 231 and 232, Explorer Scouts, their leaders, local and District Scout Executives. They were joined in a reserved section of the church by members of the senior class of St. Paul's High School. This entire group formed an honor guard on each side of the walk at the church entrance as the body was being moved to its final resting place. He was a former member of the Board of Directors of the Shiner Game and Fish League and was also one of the founders of the Shiner Clippers Baseball team. His interest in the sport of baseball earned for him the nickname of "Lou" by which he was affectionately known by his fellow-workers and close friends. His untimely departure will be keenly felt, not only by his devoted family, but also by the entire community. Survivors include his grief-stricken wife, Mrs. Emma Westphal; one daughter, Dolores, a senior at Incarnate Word College, San Antonio; one son, Gerald, a senior at St. Paul's High School; one brother, Honter Westphal of Houston; two sisters, Mrs. Robert (Amanda) Freye of Yoakum, Mrs. Homer D. (Irene) Smith of Houston; step-mother, Mrs. Willie (Ida Weber) Westphal of New Braunfels; two step-sisters, Mrs. Elton Koch of New Braunfels, Mrs. Wesley Moeller of San Antonio; other relatives and a host of friends. Mr. Westphal was known as a good neighbor and friend to all. He was a devoted husband, a kind, companionate and indulgent father, as well as a kind and generous brother. After the last word was spoken, hands that were guided by love, placed on the grave a most beautiful bank of flowers. These were only feeble expressions of the love that lingers in the hearts of the many friends that remain and of the sympathy that is felt for the bereaved family. Contributed by Matt Cross SELMA KOENNING WESTPHAL The Lavaca County Tribune, Friday, February 9, 1962 Shiner Lady Passes Away Funeral services were held at the Buffington Chapel in Shiner on Monday, February 5th at 2 p.m. for Mrs. Selma Westphal, 77, who passed away at the Wagner Hospital on Saturday, Feb. 3rd at 4:35 p.m. She had been in ill health for about a year.  The Rev. Edwin J. Oehlke of United Dr. Martin Luther Church officiated at the last rites. Interment was in the family plot at Breslau. Serving as casket bearers were Bill Loewe, Adam and Mason Brunkenhoefer, Walter Koening, Arthur Kaspar, Louis Meinke, Gerald and Shelton Westphal and Jerome Drozd. Mrs. Westphal, nee Selma Koenning, was born on August 11th, 1884 at Breslau, the daughter of Frederick and Caroline (Busse) Koenning. She was married to William Westphal on October 27th, 1908, at Breslau. In 1919 the family moved from Breslau to Shiner, where she was living at the time of her death. She is survived by four children: Mrs. Robert (Amanda) Freye of Yoakum, Milton Westphal of Shiner, Honter Westphal and Mrs. Homer (Irene) Smith of Houston. Other survivors include her four grandchildren, Shelton Wayne and Karen Jo Ann Westphal of San Antonio; Dolores Ann and Gerald William Westphal of Shiner. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders SUSAN ELVIRA GILBERT WHEELER Yoakum Herald Times, May 30, 1912 Mrs. A. J. Wheeler Dead After a lingering illness extending through eleven weeks, Mrs. A. J. [Andrew Jackson] Wheeler died at the family home in the northeastern portion of the city at 11 o’clock Friday night.  Mrs. Wheeler was said to have been suffering from an attack of spinal meningitis when she first became ill and for several days her life was despaired of.  But the fact that she has survived so long rather discounts that notion. She is the widow of the late Jack Wheeler who was a resident of Yoakum for many years and who for a number of terms was Night Marshal and Deputy Sheriff. The deceased has lived in Yoakum for the past twenty years with the exception of a few years interim spent in Cuero.  She has raised a large family of children most of whom are grown and quite a number of them are now married. The funeral arrangements had not been made at last reports to the Herald office as some of the children had not been heard from and it was desired to have them present at the burial if they could be informed in time to get here. Mrs. Wheeler was between fifty and fifty-five years of age at the time of her death. Contributed by Carla Hillman Ratcliff             LUCIAN WHITEHEAD Hallettsville Herald and Planter, 26 Dec 1877 ALL persons having claims against the Estate of LUCIEN WHITEHEAD, deceased, will present them for payment, at once, to the undersigned. D.B. HOWERTON, Halletsville, Dec. 24th, 1877. and farther down the page in the same newspaper: $100 REWARD. ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS will be paid for the recovery of the body of Lucian Whitehead, who was drowned in the Lavaca River, near the Hinckley place, on Thursday, Dec. 20, 1877. D. B. Howerton, Esq., to be notified immediately if the body is found. H. S. WHITEHEAD, Halletsville, Dec. 2?, 1877. Contributed by Penny Odom Colorado Citizen, 27 Dec 1877, page 3 DROWNING.—Mr. Lucian Whitehead, son of Professor H. S. Whitehead, was drowned in the Lavaca river, while attempting to swim it on horseback on the 20th inst. Although citizens dragged the river and searched for it for several days, his body was not recovered until the 24th inst. His father left Columbus on the 21st to attend the last rites. Mr. W., was a young man about twenty five years of age, industrious, energetic and much esteemed. Colorado Citizen, 10 Jan 1878, page 2 The body of Lucien Whitehead was found on Monday morning of last week, near the spot where he was seen to sink. A Coroner's Inquest was held, and the verdict rendered of accidental drowing.—Halletsville Herald, 2d. Lucian Whitehead was buried in Lavaca County, but soon reinterred at the Whitehead Cemetery near Liberty Hill in Williamson County. See notes for displaced markers. MARTHA MARIE DILL WHITELY Houston Chronicle, Friday, January 18, 2008, Page B7 Martha Marie Whiteley Martha Marie Whiteley a longtime resident of Seabrook, Texas, passed away Wednesday, January 16, 2008. Mrs. Whiteley was a resident of Corpus Christi for the last seven years. She was born November 7, 1924 in Yoakum, Texas to Almott and Ethel Dill. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband Bill Whiteley. Marie, as she was known by most, owned and operated Bill And Marie's Place in Seabrook for many years. Although Marie retired and closed the doors to Bill and Maries, she continued to cherish the many memories of her friends in Seabrook. The family will receive friends Saturday, January 19, 2008 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM with the Funeral Services beginning at 1:00 PM at SouthPark Funeral Home in Pearland, Texas. Interment will follow at SouthPark Cemetery. Please visit www.southparkfunerals.com and sign the guest book. Contributed by Rebecca Herder ELLERY WHITFIELD Weimar Mercury, April 27, 1895, page 4 Yoakum Graphic: Ellery, the little nine weeks' old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thad Whitfield, died Friday afternoon at 6 o'clock. It had been sick almost ever since its birth, but the grief to the parents is none the less great at this, the loss of their first born. The burial took place from the residence at 10 o'clock Saturday morning, and the remains were followed to their last resting place by quite a crowd of sorrowing friends. Transcribed by Sharon Sutton GILFORD WHITFIELD Weimar Mercury, 30 Nov 1917, page 9 YOUNG WHITFIELD ACCIDENTALLY SHOT Sunday afternoon, about 5 o'clock, while Gilford Whitfield and Kendall Bailey were returning from a day's hunt, and when they reached the Hunter place below the old Catholic church, young Bailey, who was handling an old-time gun, seeing a bird he jmped a small ditch and as he did the gun was discharged, the whole load together with the gun wadding entered the fleshy party of Whitfield's leg just below the knee. The unfortunate young man was at once taken home from which place he was transferred to the Yoakum Hospital for treatment. Gilford is doing nicely and the chances for saving his leg are good.—Yoakum Times. Weimar Mercury, 30 Nov 1917, page 9 YOAKUM YOUTH DIED FROM WOUND Yoakum, Tex., Nov. 24.—Gilford A. Whitfield, 17-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Thad Whitfield, who was accidentally shot in the left leg last Sunday afternoon, died at the local hospital Thursday afternoon. The wound was not thought to be serious but blood poison developed. Interment was made in Oak Grove Cemetery Friday. Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht SIDNEY WHITFIELD Weimar Mercury, 12 Nov 1909 Houston Post Special: Hallettsville, Nov. 6.—While hunting deer one day last week on the ranch of Ragsdale Bros., in the lower part of this county, Mr. Sidney Whitfield died of heart failure. He with other friends had taken stands and when a large buck came by he shot and killed him. Other partiries hurried when they heard the shot and found Whitfield lying on the ground with the gun by his side with the empty shell in the barrel. It is believed that as he was of nervous temperament the shock caused his death. He was a boiler maker by trade and employed in the San Antonio and Aransas Pass shops at Yoakum, where his body was taken on the night train. He was 48 years of age. MARY ANDERSON WHITLEY Weimar Mercury, April 29, 1938, page 2 SHERIDAN WOMAN KILLED, TUP SHERIDAN SERIOUSLY INJURED Mrs. Charlie Whitley, 65, of Sheridan was fatally injured, and Tup Sheridan seriously injured in an automobile accident in Rock Island while rain was falling at 6 p.m. Tuesday. The Sheridan car, a model T Ford without top, was driven by Lester Tesch of Sheridan. The accident occurred on the corner south of the Baptist Church, near the home of Mrs. H. F. Carter. The car struck a trailer attached to a car driven by Oliver Wegenhoft of Columbus, turning over the Ford car, and jarring loose the trailer from the Wegenhoft car. Both Mrs. Whitley and Sheridan were thrown from the car, Mrs. Whitley’s head striking a cement culvert projection. She died within twenty-five minutes, before medical aid could reach her. Tup Sheridan suffered injuries to his neck, head and shoulders and is hurt internally. He was taken to the home of Bill Eaton in Rock Island, and his condition is said to be serious. Funeral services for Mrs. Whitley, who is survived by five sons and three daughters, were held at Sheridan Wednesday.--Eagle Lake Headlight. Mary Anderson Whitley, Jan 29, 1883 - April 19, 1938, is buried in the Willow Creek Cemetery.

JAMES WYATT WHITTINGTON Weimar Mercury, 26 Oct 1923 Yoakum Section Pioneer Succumbs Yoakum, Tex., Oct. 28.—Captain James Wyatt Whittlngton, one of this section's old-timers, died Wednesday evening after a lingering illness at the age of 70. Surviving him are his wife and two daughters and a son, Mrs. H. E. Hinds of Yoakum, Mrs. A. E. Lewis of Houston and C. P. Whittington of Yoakum. Captain Whittlngton had served the state, county and city in various capacities. The funeral was held Thursday afternoon, Rev. G. B. Strickler, Presbyterian minister, San Antonio, officiating. The Knights of Pythias had charge. Burial was made in Oak Grove Cemetery. Contributed by Deborah Smith MINERVA DeWITT WHITTINGTON Gonzales Inquirer, December 1978 Whittington services Funeral services were held in Yoakum Sunday for Mrs. Minerva DeWitt Whittington, 92, who died Friday in a Yoakum hospital. Mrs. Whittington was a direct descendant of Green DeWitt, founder of DeWitt's Colony and Gonzales. She was born and reared in Gonzales and moved to Yoakum after her marriage. She is survived by a daughter, Nance [sic. –Nina] Vance of Houston. Minerva Whittington was the wife of Calvin Perry Whittington, and the mother of Nina Eloise Whittington Vance. Minerva Whittington is buried in Oak Grove Cemetery, Yoakum, Texas. Contributed by Deborah Smith WILLIAM "TURNER" WHITTINGTON Weimar Mercury, October 25, 1918, page 1 Turner Whittington Dead Elsewhere in this issue is an item from the Yoakum Times in which it is stated that Turner Whittington, youngest son of J. W. Whittington and wife of Yoakum, had been very ill with pneumonia at a training camp in Philadelphia, but was improving and that his brother, Perry, was at his bedside. Relatives here received advices Monday that Turner had died and that the remains would be brought to Yoakum for interment about the middle of the week. Turner was a very bright young man, standing deservedly high in his home community, and his death is sincerely regretted by the many friends of the family throughout this section. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the bereaved ones. Weimar Mercury, November 1, 1918 William Turner Whittington The funeral of William Turner Whittington, son of Mr and Mrs. J. W. Whittington, were consigned to mother earth in the Oak Grove Cemetery yesterday afternoon. Rev. G. R. Strickler of the Presbyterian church officiating. Turner died in Philadelphia, Pa., on Wednesday, October 16, 1918, at 7:30 p.m. at the age of 32 years, 3 months and 29 days. He was born in Borden, Colorado county, Texas, June 17, 1886. At the time of his death, he was employed by Stone & Webster, contractors in the shipbuilding yards in a clerical position and had been in the employ of the above firm for the past 18 months, first in San Antonio, from there to Waco, and about a year ago, in Philadelphia, Pa. His parents moved from Borden to Yoakum when he was 3 years old. After finishing school here, he worked at Graves Dry Goods Co., for two years, then for the S.A. & A.P. Ry. Co., for 4 years in a clerical position, after which he went to Eagle Pass for about 6 months, from there he joined a company going to Brazil, South America, remained there 11 months and owing to the climatic conditions, he had to return to the United States. Worked again for the S.A. & A.P Ry. for about 2 years, then went to San Antonio and was employed by the Stone & Webster Co. He is survived by a mother and father, J. W. Whittington, one brother, C. P. Whittington, two sisters, Mrs. H. E. Hinds and Miss Louie Whittington. Turner, as he was called by his friends in Yoakum and everywhere he went was a young man that made friends with whom he came in contact with and who will bow in sorrow to learn of his death. Yoakum Times Contributed by Deborah Smith ALOSIA WICK Shiner Gazette, 30 Mar 1898, Wied column Mrs. Wick, an aged lady who lived near here, died Saturday afternoon and was buried Sunday at St. Mary’s graveyard near Halletsville. We extend our sincere condolence to the bereaved relatives. Alosia Wick, 17 Jul 1845 – 26 Mar 1898, was buried in St. Mary’s Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross HENRY WICK Weimar Mercury, December 21, 1907, on page 2 Shiner December 10.—Henry Wick, 19 years old, and a son of Mr. Frank Wick, a prominent German farmer, who lives about six miles east of here, committed suicide by shooting himself with a shotgun at an early hour yesterday morning. Young wick was missed at the house yesterday morning and search was made for him, when his body was found a short distance from the house in the pasture. The deed was done with a shotgun, which he had placed between the eyes. His head was literally blown off, only the front part of the face being left. A few months ago a good friend of Henry committed suicide by shooting, and this matter had preyed heavy on his mind ever since, until his mind gave way and he followed his friend to the grave. Transcribed by Sharon Sutton CAROLINE FISCHER GAUTEL WIECHRING Shiner Gazette, 30 Mar 1933 Mrs. Caroline Wiechring The subject of this sketch was born Sept. 5, 1858, in the Pagel community settlement in Lavaca County. On Dec. 17, 1884, she was first married to Charlie Gautel, who died Dec. 9, 1904. On Dec. 6, 1905, she was married to Henry Wiechring, who also preceded her to the grave. In 1915 she moved to Shiner. She was a faithful member of the United Dr. Martin Luther Church and also fo the Ladies Aid. Six sisters and three brothers also preceded her to the grave. Those who survive are two sisters and one brother as follows: Mrs. Frederick Sebastian of Hallettsville, Mrs. Oscar Rosse of Kingsville and Frank [Fischer] of Shiner. Deceased was 74 years, 6 months and 19 days old. She was taking care of her aged mother, who survives at the age of 93 years. Funeral services were conducted at the Lutheran Church Saturday afternoon, conducted by the pastor, Rev. Schuetze. Burial was in the community cemetery at Pagel settlement. Pallbearers were all nephews of the deceased lady: Julius and W. F. Sebastian, George Schneider, Otto Gerdes, Ad. [Schultz] and Leander Fischer. To those who mourn her loss the Gazette offers sympathy. [Note: Caroline's baptismal record states that she was born at Frelsburg in Colorado County to Friedrich Fischer and Wilhelmine Pagel.] Obituary and photograph contributed by Rox Ann Johnson SALLIE R. FARRAR WILBORNE Yoakum Weekly Herald, July 6, 1911 Mrs. Sallie R. Wilborne, 50, died Thursday. Her first husband, Allen Farrar, died when Yoakum was young, and then she married June Wilborne. Transcribed by Carla Hillman Ratcliff GEORGE WILLIAMS Weimar Mercury, 1 Apr 1899 Shiner, Tex., March 28.—At an early hour this morning shorlty after the arrival of the mixed train on the Aransas Pass, a tragedy occurred in which Geo. Williams, colored, was shot and killed by another negro. Family trouble was the cause of the tragedy. The assailant escaped. J. E. WILLIAMS Halletsville Herald, 12 Oct 1893 J. E. Williams, colored, died at his home near Hackberry last Thursday, of paralysis, after a long confinement. Williams was a power in politics among the members of his race. He formerly held a place in the government service at Washington. JOE WILLIAMS Weimar Mercury, 20 Apr 1928, page 2 NEGRO KILLED. Thursday night Joe Williams (colored) was shot and killed in a difficulty with Bishop Woodson (also colored). The difficulty occurred at the home of a negro named Mayo in the Brown Chapel section near Hackberry and there seems to be a difference of opinions of the witnesses as to what caused the trouble. We understand that a number of shots were fired by Woodson with a Winchester rifle. When Sheriff Greer and Deputy McElroy went to the place of the shooting, Woodson had gone to the home of an uncle nearby, who came to town with him and he surendered to Deputy McCord, who placed him in jail. Williams and Woodson, both unamarried, are said to have had a falling out over a married negro woman. Woodson several years ago took a shot at Prof. Newton, colored, while going to school at Hackberry, it will be remembered. Newton escaped unhurt. The date of the examing trial has not been set. The funeral of Williams was held with burial in the Brown Chapel cemetery. — Halletsville New Era. JOHN D. WILLIAMS Unidentified newspaper clipping Died, at his home in this city March 12, John D. Williams, in the 32d year of his age. The burial took place at Mossy Grove Thursday afternoon. John was well-known and like by his many friends. He leaves a wife and several children to mourn his loss, to whom we extend our sympathy in their great affliction.—New Era. MOSE WILLIAMS Weimar Mercury, December 23, 1893, page 3 Hallettsville, Texas. Dec. 20.—Last night, as Mose Williams, colored, was sitting in his house, about 7 o’clock, some one slipped up to the window and shot a load of buckshot into his body,  killing him instantly. Williams owned a good place here in town and was one of the very best negroes in the county. Although it was not dark and he had several close neighbors, no one saw the murderer, who made his escape. ‘Squire Townsend held an inquest, which developed no testimony as to the murderer. Sheriff Houchins was away from his home, and no particular effort was made to track the assassin until this morning, when Sam Kelly was arrested and jailed on suspicion, he having a few days since had some trouble with Williams. Transcribed by Sharon Sutton OCTAVIA WILLIAMS & INFANT DAUGHTER Weimar Mercury, 18 March 1927, page 2 A TERRIBLE TRAGEDY. A terrible tragedy occurred Sunday night about 10 o'clock at the home of Theo. Williams, colored, living with his family on the Rheinstrom farm three miles south of Halletsville. The incubator in the house exploded, setting the house on fire and burning to death the wife, Octavia Williams, aged 25, and a 3-months-old baby girl. No remains could be found of the baby and the woman was burned to a cisp. Williams and his 4-year-old son were also badly burned. Everything they had was lost. —Halletsville New Era. CAROL ANN WOLFSDORFF WILLIAMSON Colorado County Citizen, March 21, 1985, page 2 Williamson Funeral services for Carol Ann Williamson, 41, of Columbus, were held Monday, March 18, at 2 p.m. with Rev. H. V. Grannon and Rev. Clarence James officiating, and under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home. Mrs. Williamson was born on November 27, 1943 to Emmett Wolfsdorff and Anna Belle Miller Wolfsdorff in Hallettsville. She was married to Wayne W. Williamson on June 21, 1974. She was a registered nurse, a member of the Eastern Star, and has lived in this area for 10 years. Survivors include her husband, Wayne W. Williamson of Columbus, her father and mother, Emmett and Anna Wolfsdorff of Sublime, two sons, Chris Gage of Dallas, and Robbie Williamson of Columbus, and one sister, Martha Lynn Maloney of North Carolina. Pallbearers were Dr. Miguel Elsen, Joe Trojan, Ron Shifflett, Damon Tilotta, Charles Barrett, and Gordon Richter. Interment in Geiger cemetery. Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht. MONTIE WILLIS Weimar Mercury, 21 Apr 1896, page 1 After lingering at death's door for many months, Mrs. Montie Willis, consort of Tom Willis, and sister to Dr. J. R. Lay, passed quietly over to the great beyond, on Thrusday, April 5, at 11 o'clock a. m., and was interred in the city cemetery on Friday, the 6th. She leaves a sorrowing husband and six children. We extend our sincere condolence to the grief-stricken family.—Halletsvile New Era. ARTHUR WELLINGTON WILMOTH Herald Highlights from Yoakum Daily Herald, Feb 2-14, 1941 Arthur Wellington Wilmoth Arthur Wellington Wilmoth, 77, passed away Feb 2. He was born July 27, 1863 in Beverly, West Virginia, and moved to Yoakum in 1923. Arthur Wilmoth, son of Ben and Lydia Taylor Wilmoth, was buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery. Contributed by Rebecca Herder MARY ANN RAINES WILSON Weimar Mercury, 8 Apr 1927 SOME DATA REGARDING THE LATE MRS. M. A. WILSON Mrs. Mary Ann Wilson was the oldest daughter of J. B. and Nancy Raines. She was born in Mississippi on July 7, 18846, and came to Texas with her parents in early childhood. she was married to Rev. G. C. Wilson in Oakland, Colorado county, Texas, on Sept. 18, 1865. To this union were born five sons and two daughtrs. Her husband died in Halletsville Oct. 3, 1894. A son, Rev. J. R. Wilson, and a daughter, Mrs. Minnie Woolsey, also preceded her to the spirit world. The surviving children are Rev. J. C. Wilson, pastor of the Methodist Church of Eagle Lake; W. K. Wilson of Texarkana; A. E. and D. J. Wilson of Edna, and Mrs. May Allen of San Antonio. There are also still living thirty-two grandchildren and eighteen great-grandchildren. She died at the home of A. E. Wilson, near Edna, on March 28, 1927, and was buried in Halletsville beside her husband, on March 29. All of her living children, most of her grandchildren and several of her great-grandchildren, were present, as was also a number of friends of the family from Edna, Weimar and other points. Services were conducted at Edna by Rev. Walter Dibrell and at Halletsville by Rev. T. H. Crowder. Mrs. Wilson was converted in girlhood and lived a devoted christian life. She was loyal to every relationship and literally spent her long life in unselfish service to others. The tired, wasted body sleeps in "God's acre," awaiting renewal from above — "a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." MARY S. WILSON Hallettsville Herald, 07 Dec 1893 Mrs. Wilson, wife of Mr. William Wilson, died at her home hear Ezzell on Monday night last, at an advanced age.  Mary S. Wilson, 14 Aug 1821 - 3 Dec 1893, is buried in the Salem Cemetery. Contributed by Regena Williamson MRS. HENRY WINDEL Weimar Mercury, 14 Jan 1927 MRS. HENRY WINDEL. Mrs. Henry Windel of Bomarton died suddenly at the home of her daughter, Mrs. J. J. Macha, in Shiner Wednesday morning. She was 69 years of age and had been in feeble health for some time. She came to Shiner several weeks ago, thinking the change would be beneficial, that being her former home. She is survived by her husband and two daughters, Mrs. Robert Seydler of Wichita Falls and Mrs. J. J. Macha of Shiner. Her remains were laid to rest in the cemetery at Shiner Friday morning. —Gonzales Inquirer. ROBERT WINDEL Shiner Gazette, 22 Feb 1899, page 1 -- We are pained to learn of the serious illness of our young friend Mr. Robt. Windel, who recently went to Dallas to attend school. Mr. Henry Windel, his father, was called to Dallas to attend him last week. We hope to hear favorable news from him, and hope he may soon recover. LATER. Since the above went in type, a telegram has been received from Dallas stating that Robert Windel died at 4:30 o’clock yesterday morning of spinal meningitis. We are unable to learn whether the funeral will take place here or at Dallas. The bereaved parents have our utmost sympathy. Shiner Gazette, 1 Mar 1899, page 1 -- The funeral of Robert Windel, who died at Dallas on Tuesday the 21st inst., took place at Shiner on Wednesday the 22d at 5 o’clock p. m., at the K. of P. cemetery. A large crowd was in attendance and the services were conducted by Rev. Richard Oertel in a very impressive manner. [on a subsequent page] Card of Thanks. Mr. and Mrs. Henry Windel desire to extend their heartfelt thanks to those friends and neighbors who so kindly gave aid and sympathy at the funeral and interment of their son Robert. Especially do they thank Mr. and Mrs. H. Hanke and Mr. and Mrs. P. Herksen for their many kindnesses. Robert C. Windel, 27 Nov 1882 – 21 Feb 1899, is buried in the Shiner City Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross ELEANOR WILSON WINTHROP Weimar Mercury, September 20, 1962, page 1 Funeral Services For Mrs. Winthrop, 77, Held Today Funeral services for Mrs. T. C. Winthrop, 77, who died at her home early Tuesday after a heart attack, were held this afternoon (Wednesday) at St. James Episcopal Church in Hallettsville. Rev. James Hudson officiated. Burial was in the Hallettsville city cemetery. She and her late husband moved to Weimar about 10 years ago from Falfurrias, to be near their daughter, Mrs. George Vogt, and her family, Mr. Winthrop died in 1956. Born Feb. 5, 1885, in Dallas, she was the former Miss Eleanor Wilson, daughter of William and Mary Wilson. She was married to Mr. Winthrop in 1905. He was an employee of Southern Pacific Lines, and they lived at Kennedy and Hallettsville, before moving to Faufurrias[sic], where he retired as a depot agent. Mrs. Winthrop’s grandfather, George H. Wilson, was proprietor of Jackson House, Weimar’s only hotel about the time the railroad was extended here and the town was given its name. Surviving her are three daughters, Mrs. Henry Marshall Bennett of Victoria, Ms. Gates Beal Mack of Bastrop and Mrs. George O. Vogt of Weimar; 7 grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. John W. Howell of Los Angeles, Calif. Pallbearers for her funeral were Hans Lunsman, Sam Devall, Clayton Bennett, Fritz Michalke, Ernest Scott and M. D. Booth. THOMAS C. WINTHROP Weimar Mercury, 9 Mar 1956, page 1 T. C. Winthrop, 72, Retired SP Agent, Suicide Thomas C. Winthrop, 72-year-old retired Southern Pacific station agent, was found dead at his home here Tuesday morning. He had shot himself in the head with a .22 pistol. Judge A. J. Ratliff gave a coroner's verdict of suicide. Mr. Winthrop had been ill for about 10 years. Recently he had an operation for the removal of cataracts from his eyes. Funeral servics were held Wednesday afternoon at Hubbard Funeral Home here. Burial was in the City Cemetery at Hallettsville. Rev. James Hudson, pastor of the Episcopal Church at Columbus and Rev. Scott Copeland of Richmond officiated in the services. Born July 9, 1883, in Marietta, Ohio, Mr. Winthrop was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas F. Winthrop. He began work for the S. A. & A. P. Railroad in San Antonio at the age of 15 and continued in railroad work until 11 years ago, when ill health forced him to retire. He married Miss Eleanor Wilson at San Antonio June 5, 1905, and they celebrated their golden wedding anniversity [sic.] here last summer. They had moved here four years ago. Mr. Wintrhop was with the railroad in Kenedy for many years before he was transferred to Hallettsville, where he served for 18 years. After a year at Wharton, he then went to Falfurrias for 16 years. Surviving in addition to his wife are [three] daughters, Mrs. George O. Vogt of Weimar, Mrs. Gates B. Mack of Bastrop and Mrs. Henry M. Bennett of Victoria; a sister, Miss Alice Winthrop of San Antonio; and six grandchildren. Pallbearers at the funeral were McCall Sanders, George Berger, Walter Scott, Henry H. Seifert, Oscar Schindler, F. F. Brasher, C. C. Lester, B. B. Braun Jr. and Frank Smith. WISHERT INFANT Halletsville Herald, Feb 22, 1900 Hackberry An infant of Mr. and Mrs. Joe Wishert's was buried at the Chapel Thursday. T. P. WOODHOUSE Shiner Gazette, 30 Mar 1898 His Injuries Were Fatal. Yoakum, Texas, March 26. – Mr. T. P. Woodhouse, who was run over by a passenger train here last Sunday, died Thursday morning from the effects of his injuries. Deceased had been in bad health for some time, and after the injured limb had been amputated gangrene set in, necessitating another amputation. This was done Wednesday by Drs. Jones, Youngkin and Nichols. He never fully rallied from the operation. Contributed by Matt Cross ARTHUR WESLEY WOOLSEY Weimar Mercury, 5 Jul 1935, page 2 HEART FAILURE CLAIMS MR. A. W. WOOLSEY BY DEATH The many relatives and friends of Arthur Wesley Woolsey were shocked to hear of his sudden death early on Monday morning when it was announce that he had passed away at 2:00 a.m., at his home, 207 Davis Avenue. He attended the Union revival services in the big tent Sunday night. However, he had not been in the best of health for the past several years and about 2:00 o'clock his wife was awakened by his heavy breathing. She at once notified his brother, J. M. Woolsey, who resides nearby, and by the time Mr. Woolsey arrived the man had already passed away. Mr. Woolsey was born in Oakland, Colorado county, moving to Gillett, where he resided for several years, and about 25 years ago he moved to Yoakum and embarked in the grocery business, associated with his father, J. P. Woolsey, and later on went into business for himself, which he continued up to the time of his death. He was 54 years, 3 months and 16 days of age. During his residence in Yoakum and on account of his fairness and honesty in all business matters he made many friends who will be sorry to hear of his death. He was liked by all classes of people. He was a member of the Masonic and W. O. W. orders. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Virginia Woolsey, one son, Wallace Woolsey of Edinburg, his father, J. P. Woolsey of Beaumont, four brothers, Herman Woolsey of Yoakum, Clifton Woolsey of Houston, Justin Woolsey of Galveston, three sisters, Mrs. J. J. Brooks of Waco, Mrs. R. S. Lacy of Beaumont, and Mrs. J. B. Samuel of Brownsville. — Yoakum Times. BETTIE C. MORRIS WOOLSEY Weimar Mercury, May 4, 1923 DEATH OF MRS. JOHN P. WOOLSEY FORMER RESIDENT OF OAKLAND DIES AT HER HOME IN YOAKUM APRIL 20. Mrs. Bettie C. Woolsey, nee Morris, beloved wife of John P. Woolsey of Yoakum— both former highly respected residents of Oakland, this county—died at the family home in Yoakum on Friday, April 20. after long illness. Mrs. Woolsey was a native of Guadalupe county, was highly thought of by a large circle of friends throughout Colorado county, and her death is deeply and sincerely deplored. Internal cancer was the cause of her death, we understand. Speaking of Mrs. Woolsey, an article in the last issue of the Yoakum Times says: Mrs. Woolsey, who before her marriage was Miss Bettie C. Morris, was a native of Guadalupe county. After reaching young womanhood she came to the Old Covey-Thomas School at Concrete, DeWitt county, to finish her education. While there she met and married one of the teachers of that institution, Mr. J. P. Woolsey. They together continued as teachers in that noted school for some time and later decided to start work on their own account. Accordingly, they founded and for several years operated what they named Diamond Grove Academy in Colorado county, of which institution they made a marked success. Later they sold out the interests in this Academy and Mr. Woolsey engaged in the mercantile business at Oakland, where he remained for several years. In the late "nineties" they went to Karnes county and Mr. Woolsey became a member of and later President of the Home Circle Society of Texas. In the work of this organization Mrs. Woolsey was the constant companion and helper in the office work. These duties called them to Waco, where for a half dozen years they resided, and later moved back to Yoakum, where they have since remained. Mrs. Woolsey had passed her 63rd birthday. She leaves besides her husband to mourn her going away, nine children, five boys and four girls. The sons, Arthur, Morris and Clifton, live in Yoakum, Herbert at Gillette and Justin at Beaumont. Of the daughters Mrs. J. F. Clayton lives in Yoakum, Mrs. J. J. Brooks lives at Waco, Mrs. J. B. Samuel lives at Harlingen, and Mrs. Ray F. Lacy lives at Beaumont. They were all at her bedside at the time of their mother's death except Mrs. Brooks, who was on her way from Waco, when the sad event came. Mrs. Woolsey was preceded to the grave by three children, an infant son many years ago and two married daughters in more recent years. Bettie Woolsey was buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery. Obituary contributed by Deborah Smith GROVER "CLEVELAND" WOOLSEY Weimar Mercury, November 21, 1913 White Man and Three Negroes Victims in Duel Cuero, Texas, Nov. 17.—When Cleveland Woolsey, a widely known young man of this county, early this afternoon told four negroes to get out of his father's pasture, their answer was a volley from shotguns. And, then a one-sided, yet terrific duel began. All of the negroes were armed with guns, while Woolsey had only a pistol. As a result Woolsey is expected to die almost any minute, two of the negroes will die, a third is seriously wounded and scores of men are searching through the country for the fourth man. Woolsey was brought here this afternoon for treatment. That he was not killed instantly is remarkable. There are shot wounds in the back of his head, in his back and both arms, and also in the abdomen. Three of the charges of small shot fired at him found their mark. Riding through his father's pasture he found the four negroes threshing pecan trees. He ordered them to quit and get out. The negroes opened fire on him. He emptied his pistol, having only four cartridges, and this is what he did: Shot John Roach through the intestines; will die. Shot Dave Kuykendall through the lungs; will die. Shot Marshall Beverly through the lung; may recover. A brother-in-law of Woolsey heard the shooting some distance from the scene and rushing in the direction from which the sound came, was not long in locating the bloody battleground. Young Woolsey he found bleeding from a score of wounds. He saw that the negroes, lying elsewhere would be unable to escape and returning to the residence of Sydney Woolsey, his father-in-law, at once got assistance. As soon as Woolsey received temporary treatment he was rushed to Cuero in the hope that an operation might save his life, which tonight is hanging in the balance. Two of the seriously wounded negroes were removed to Yoakum, two and a half miles away, and placed in a hospital under guard. The third negro was put in the jail. Officers and others at once began a search for the fourth negro. They have a good description of him and it is not believed he has much of a chance to escape. Woolsey Dies of Wounds. Cuero, Texas, Nov. 17.—Cleveland Woolsey, the young white man wounded by negroes Sunday afternoon, died today in the hospital here, where he had been brought for treatment. Two negroes were killed by him in the exchange of shots and one is arrested; five, it is alleged being implicated. Weimar Mercury, February 6, 1914 Buddie Smith Trial. The jury in the murder trial of Buddie Smith was finally filled yesterday afternoon and is composed of the following members: J. H. Piper, Ernest Richter, Oscar Schlinke, Gus Wassermann, Chas. Fischer, Gus Dietze, C. J. .Sager, W. H. Dunn, W. R. Schultz, O. W. Turk, O. A. Gohmert and E. A. Luddecke. Taking testimony began this morning and very good progress was made in disposing of the state witnesses. Tate Pierce, a brother of Mr. Woolsey' widow was the first witness called and for more than one hour opposing council questioned him closely. His account of what he saw and what be found on the ground remained unshaken. He was at the home of Mr. Woolsey when the trouble occurred and and was the first to reach his side, closely followed by Mrs. Woolsey, both of whom ran to the scene, when the firing was heard. W. S. Woolsey, father of the deceased, was the second witness called and by him it was shown that the pasture in which the trouble occurred belonged to him and was in charge of his son, who had been instructed to allow no hunting in the pasture. The council for the defense did not offer to cross question. Mrs. G. C. Woolsey, widow of the late G. C. Woolsey, was the third witness called to the stand. According to her testimony, her husband and she were preparing to go to church, when they learned that trespassers were hunting in the pasture and her husband went bareheaded and unarmed to send them out of the pasture. Shortly afterward her husband returned to the house, secured his hat and pistol and went back into the pasture horseback. The firing of a number of shots, induced Mrs. Woolsey and Tate Pierce to hasten toward the scene of the firing, her brother being several yards in advance. As Mrs. Woolsey came from around a clump of live oak trees she saw her husband lying upon the ground beside his horse and her brother, who had arrived more quickly than she, was taking the bridle reins, which the wounded man still held. As she reached his side Mrs. Woolsey asked who had shot her husband, and he answered "a heavy-set black crippled handed negro and a tall yellow one." She told the counsel that her husband told her he had been shot by the negroes before using his own weapon, and that the shot had penetrated his bowels. She did not want to talk much because he was in such pain. Continuing her testimony Mrs. Woolsey said her husband was taken to their home and shortly after 12 o'clock was carried to Yoakum, where he was put on a train and brought to a hospital in Cuero, she accompanying him. His death occurred at the hospital about 2:30 the following morning. Dr. Walker, of Yoakum, was the last witness called before noon and his testimony related to the location of the wounds and the service he had rendered in a professional way. In order to expedite and make better headway with the criminal docket. Judge Green has instructed the opposing counsel to have their cases ready for night sessions, beginning with tonight.—Cuero Record. Negro Is Sentenced to Die. Cuero, Tex., Jan. 31.—The jury in the Marshal Beverly case brought in a verdict at 9 o'clock yesterday morning, finding the defendant guilty of murder as charged and assessing his punishment at death. Marshal Beverly was a member of a party of five negroes charged with killing G. C. Woolsey, a young white farmer, near Yoakum, Sunday, Nov. 16, when he ordered them from his pasture, where they were hunting with firearms. In the melee two negroes, John Roach and Dave Kuykendall were killed and Marshal Beverly wounded. Marshal Beverly, Sam Lawson and Buddie Smith gave themselves up to the officers at Yoakum the afternoon of the shooting, and were brought to Cuero and placed in jail. The Buddie Smith trial was consummated Friday night, Jan. 23, and on Saturday night the jury returned a verdict of guilty and assessed the penalty at ninety-nine years in the penitentiary. G. Cleveland Woolsey was the son of Martha Elizabeth Rees and William Sidney Woolsey. He's buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery at Yoakum. Articles contributed by Deborah Smith JOHN M. WOOLSEY Weimar Mercury, 5 Oct 1901, page 1 Mr. R. T. Woolsey left today for Sweet Home to see his father, Mr. J. M. Woolsey an old citizen and Texan, who is seriously ill and not expected to recover__Gonzales Inquirer. Elsewhere on same page: Yoakum Times: "Capt. J. M. Woolsey is reported critically ill at the home of W. A. Nichols at Sweet Home. We wish him a speedy recovery to health." Wiley and Ed Woolsey and Mrs. Eason have gone to the bedside of their father, who it is reported can not recover.—Floresville Chronicle. J. M. Woolsey died 30 Sep 1901. JOHN PARSONS WOOLSEY “Herald-Times Highlights” from pages of The Herald-Times, Yoakum Daily Herald and The Yoakum Weekly Herald. April 9, 1942 Deaths:  John Parsons Woolsey, born in Georgia on August 30, 1852 passed away April 2. With his parents he moved to Texas when he was just a small boy, the family settling in Colorado County, near Oakland. His education was obtained at Con­crete College, DeWitt County, under the tutelage of Profes­sors Covey & Thomas, founders and operators of this school. Mr. Woolsey later taught in this school. Returning to Oakland, after his mar­riage to Miss Bettie Morris, he engaged in the mercantile business and remained there several years. He then went to Gillette, in Wilson County and near the turn of the century he came to Yoakum for a few years sojourn. From Yoakum he moved to Waco where was engaged for a few years in a Life Insurance venture. Returning to Yoakum he joined with his sons and operated a Grocery store for a number of years. Transcribed by Carla H. Ratcliff MARTHA S. WOOLSEY Colorado Citizen, November 30, 1882 Oakland Notes It was with feelings of the deepest regret we learned of the death of Mrs. Wiley Woolsey in Weimar yesterday morning, who was for many years a resident of this community. She was a most estimable Christian lady, a devoted wife, an affectionate and painstaking mother, one whose purity of thought pervaded her every action, and was reflected in the character of her children. She was interred in County Line Cemetery at 10 a.m. Monday. Services at the grave by Capt. J. M. Woolsey. She leaves a husband and seven children and a host of friends to mourn her loss. Colorado Citizen, November 30, 1882 Weimar Local Matters Mrs. Wiley Woolsey, of this place, died Sunday morning at 2 o’clock a.m., of Typho-Malarial fever. Mr. Woolsey had recently moved to our town from the county line neighborhood. Mrs. W. was quite sick when they came--was confined to her bed soon after the family’s arrival. She began to sink from the beginning of her illness, and never rallied. She had the most skilled medical attention, but to no avail. This is a terrible stroke upon Mr. Woolsey and his family of seven children, the eldest fourteen, the youngest one year old. Sad, indeed, is it to see the strong man give way to this great affliction, and to hear the little children weep for the dear one who has gone. May God’s mercy sustain them in this hour of bereavement. MATILDA A. BLOUNT WOOLSEY Colorado Citizen, Jan 1899 Oakland Newsy Notes It is with much regret that we chronicle the death of Mrs. M. A. Woolsey, consort of Capt. J. M. Woolsey, which occurred at this place on Wednesday, January 11, at 7:25 A.m. of acute uremia. She was in an unconscious state for several hours before final dissolution set in, breathing out her last quietly. There were present at the time at her bedside, Capt. J. M. Woolsey, Mrs. J. W. Simmons, Mr. and Mrs. J. T. Eason, Mr. Wiley Woolsey and friends that had gathered in. Mrs. Woolsey was born in Georgia July 21, 1824, was married to Capt. J. M. Woolsey January 7, 1840, and came to Texas with her husband in 1858, remained one year at Independence and moved to Colorado county locating near County Line, in 1859, until a few years ago when they moved to Oakland. Since their marriage of fifty nine years, they have been blessed with fourteen children, ninety two grand-children and forty two great grandchildren. Out of this one hundred and fifty three children, twenty three grandchildren and ten great grandchildren have died. In early life the deceased committed herself to the Methodist Episcopal church south and lived a devoted Christian life. Thursday last her remains were conducted by sorrowing relatives, sad friends who witnessed the last sad rites as the body was laid to rest in the family burying ground. Her loss will be much felt by her companion in this life, who still survives her at a ripe old age. Friends of this community, with the Colorado Citizen, sympathize and condole with him in his bereavement. [Matilda Woolsey is buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery.] Submitted by Deborah Smith WILLIE ELIZABETH FRAZER WOOLSEY Weimar Mercury, 11 Aug 1961, page 1 Mrs. Woolsey, 93, Former Weimar Resident, Dies Funeral services for Mrs. George Monroe Woolsey, 93, of Yoakum, were held at Buffinton Chapel there Tuesday, with the Rev. R. B. Lear officiating. Burial was in the Oak Grove Cemetery of that area. Mrs. Woolsey died Sunday at 5 p. m. at Huth Memorial Hospital in Yoakum. She had lived in or near Yoakum since 1902. The former Miss Willie Elizabeth Frazer, she was born in Fayette County Jan. 14, 1868. She was married to Mr. Woolsey here Dec. 22, 1886, and they moved to Yoakum 16 years later to engage in dairying and farming. Later Mr. Woolsey operated a garage, then was employed by the city of Yoakum. He died in April 1959 at the age of 84. Mrs. Woolsey's survivors include six daughters, Mrs. Vera Scruggs of Yoakum, Mrs. S. M. Harvey of Austin, Mrs. George E. Cullen and Mrs. John Dolsen of Houston, Mrs. Z. W. Scott and Miss Lela Woolsey, both of Yoakum; one son, W. W. Woolsey of San Antonio; 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren; one brother, Walter Frazer of Sealy; and one sister, Mrs. Jesse Green of Weimar. AGNES ALBERTA WOTIPKA Moulton Eagle, 22 Feb 1924 Death of Miss Wotipka Miss Agnes Alberta Wotipka, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Roman Wotipka, residing about three and one-half miles north of Moulton, died at 9:10 o'clock Saturday morning, February 16, following a two and one-half years' illness. The funeral was held from her late home the following day at 12 o'clock.  Burial was made in the Catholic cemetery at Moulton, Rev. Father Joseph Kopp officiating at the home and at the grave. The pall bearers were F. A. Machac, F. M. Novak, Frank Miculka, Paul Dierschke, August Oehl, Bohumir Machac and Frank Picha. The deceased was born August 30, 1890, and attained the age of 33 years, 5 months and 16 days. Besides her parents, she is survived by two brothers, R. F. Wotipka of Flatonia, Ed. A. Wotipka of Moulton, and five sisters, Mrs. F. A. Machac of Flatonia, Mrs. F. M. Novak, Mrs. Frank Miculka, Mrs. Paul Dierschke of Moulton and Sister Mary Hilltrude, nee Annie Wotipka, of Arkansas. The Eagle tenders its sympathy to the bereaved ones. Contributed by Matt Cross BARBARA FILIPP WOTIPKA Moulton Eagle, 25 Apr 1947 Mrs. Wotipka Buried Here on April 15 Mrs. Barbara Wotipka passed away Monday April 14, at 12:30 A.M. at the home of her son-in-law and daughter Mr. and Mrs. Frank Miculka. The funeral was held from the Miculka home Tuesday morning, April 15, at 9 o'clock with services in the St. Joseph's Catholic Church. Internment took place in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery, Rev. Hubert Janak officiating. Mrs. Wotipka, nee Filipp, reached the advanced age of 86 years, five months and 10 days. She was born in Czechoslavakia and when quite young came to this country with her parents, locating in Praha. In 1880 she was married to Mr. Roman Wotipka. They celebrated their golden wedding anniversary 17 years ago. Mr. Wotipka passed away six years ago and five children also preceded their mother in death. Mrs. Wotipka had been and invalid for the last six years and was lovingly cared for by her devoted daughter Mrs. Frank Miculka. She bore her afflictions patiently and uncomplainingly. Pallbearers were the following grandsons, Bohumil Machac, Frankie Miculka, Jim Fishbeck, Bennie Novak, Edwin Wotipka, and Anthony Miculka. Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Frank Machac, Houston, Mrs. Bertha Novak, San Antonio, Sister M. Hiltrude, Lady of the Lake Convent, San Antonio, Mrs. Frank Miculka, Moulton, one son, Ed. A. Wotipka, Moulton, 31 grandchildren and 42 great grandchildren. Contributed by Matt Cross Sister MARY HILTRUDE WOTIPKA Undated newspaper clipping Sister Mary Hiltrude Wotipka, age 94, died Tuesday, April 4, 1978 after a long illness. She was the daughter of Roman Wotipka and Barbara Filipp Wotipka. Being a native of the Moulton-Flatonia area she visited friends and relatives here frequently. She took her vows as a Sister of Divine Providence in Our Lady of the Lake Convent, San Antonio, Texas sixty-four years ago. A Rosary was recited Wednesday evening and funeral services were conducted Thursday at Our Lady of the Lake Convent Chapel. She is survived by one sister-in-law, Mrs. Edward Wotipka of Moulton, and many neices [sic] and nephews. Attending from this area were Mr. and Mrs. Russel McAnaugh, Mrs. E. J. Machac, Mrs. Lillian Novak and Mr. and Mrs. Laddie Okruhlik. Contributed by Matt Cross ROMAN WOTIPKA Moulton Eagle, 15 Nov 1940 Pioneer Resident Buried Here Tuesday Roman Wotipka, a resident of this community for more than half a century, passed away at his home near Moulton at 5:00 PM Sunday, November 10 after an illness of one week. The funeral was held from the family residence Tuesday morning with services in the St. Joseph's Catholic Church, Rev Joseph Kopp officiating. Internment took place in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery Six grandsons served as pallbearers: Benjamin Miculka, Roman Miculka, Edwin Wotipka, George Novak, Roman Dierschke, and Engelbert Machac. The deceased was born at Cat Spring, Texas, and attained an age of 84 years, 3 months and one day. He was married to Miss Barbara Filipp, lived in Praha five years and removed to near Moulton where he lived 57 years on the same place. Surviving him are five children, Mrs. F. A. Machac of Houston, Mrs. Frank Novak of Flatonia, Sister Hiltrude of the Congregation of Sisters of Divine Providence of San Antonio, Mrs. Frank Miculka of Shiner and Eddie Wotipka of Moulton; 35 grandchildren and 31 great-grandchildren. Three children, Roman Wotipka Jr., Mrs. Marie Dierschke and Miss Agnes Wotipka preceded him in death. Mr. Wotipka was a good man and had many friends throughout this section where he lived for such a long time. Contributed by Matt Cross HILMER Jr. & TRAVIS WOYTEK Weimar Mercury, 12 Mar 1970, page 1 Brothers, 16 and 19, Die in Sheridan Crash Two teenage Hallettsville area brothers, only children of Mr. and Mrs. Hilmer Woytek, were killed at 9:45 p.m. Tuesday when their car went out of control on Hwy. 90A a mile west of Sheridan and slammed into a tree. Pronounced dead at the scene by Columbus Peace Justice Richard Schmidt were Hilmer Woytek Jr., 19, a sophomore at Victoria Junior College, and Travis Woytek, 16, who attended Sheridan High. The two boys were returning home from Sheridan, where they had been to get help with school work from one of Travis's teachers, Mr. De Shazo. The accident occurred during a heavy rain. The car was demolished and had to be cut away to get the bodies out. The boys' father, a former constable, is a candidate for sheriff in Lavaca County, a post left vacant by the shooting death of the late Ronnie Dodds. Survivors in addition to their parents are their grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. O. J. Woytek and Mrs. Agnes Woytek, all of Hallettsville routes. The bodies are lying in state at Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville. The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Sublime Lutheran Church, and burial will be in Hallettsville City Cemetery. JOHN WOYTEK Weimar Mercury 19 Dec 1903 Sublime, Dec. 7.—John Woytek, a prosperous farmer living five miles west of here, committed suicide last night by taking strychnine. No cause is known for the rash act. SELMA QUITTA WOYTEK Hallettsville Tribune-Herald, February 28, 1996 Selma Woytek Selma Woytek, 91, of Hallettsville, died in Stevens Convalescent Center, Monday, Feb. 19, 1996 at 4:30 p.m. She was born July 29, 1904 in Lavaca County to Rudolph and Annie Sicko Quitta. On Nov. 11, 1924, she married Paul W. Woytek. She was a member of the SPJST Lodge and the Vsetin Czech Moravian Brethren Church. Survivors include four sons, Albin L. Woytek, Marvin E. Woytek, Lester J. Woytek and Harvey W. Woytek, all of Hallettsville; three sisters, Elvie Hlavac of Hallettsville, Olga Klesel of Schulenburg, Lydia Muhlstein of Hallettsville; a brother, Joe Quitta of Hallettsville; 14 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Paul W. Woytek Sr. on April 6, 1976; a son, Paul W. Woytek Jr.; three sisters, Agnes Jahn, Tillie Rother and Sophie Rehak, and a brother, Alvin Quitta. Visitation began at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 21 and continued until 8:45 a.m., Thursday, Feb. 22 at Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville. Prayer service was conducted at 7 p.m. Wednesday at Kubena Funeral Home. Funeral services were conducted at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 22 at Vsetin Czech Moravian Brethren Church, with the Rev. Henry Beseda officiating. Burial followed in the Vsetin Cemetery. Pallbearers were Darrel Woytek, Allan Woytek, Albin Woytek Jr., Kevin Woytek, Michael Woytek, Randy Woytek. Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

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

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