Obituaries
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AMALIE S. HEERSSEN

Shiner Gazette, 5 Sep 1906

Mrs. Mary Hirssen died at her home in this city last Thursday and was buried Friday in the O. D. H. S. cemetery.

Amalie S. Heerssen, 27 Apr 1875 – 29 Aug 1906, wife of Friedrich W., was buried in the Shiner Sons of Herman Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

PAT HEFFERNAN

Weimar Mercury, 11 Jan 1908, page 3

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

CHARLES HEHMKE

Victoria Advocate news clipping

Charles Hehmke, 78, Retired Farmer, Is Found Dead In Bed

Charles Hehmke was found dead in bed at the home of his daughter, Mrs. W. H. Wick, at Guadalupe, this county at noon Friday when Mrs. Wick went to call him for dinner. He had eaten a hearty breakfast and apparently was in the best of health. Justice T. P. Lenoir pronounced his death due to heart failure.

Mr. Hehmke was born in Germany and had resided in this county for the past 21 years. Prior to that he was for many years a resident of Lavaca County and one of that county's most properous farmers. He is survived by six daughters and two sons:

Mrs. W. H. Wick, Mrs. Ida Balfanz and William Hehmke of Victoria County, Mrs. Tony Wenjura of DeWitt County, Mrs. Annie Scheffer [Schaefer], Mrs. Gussie Mennings, and Charles Hehmke of Lavaca County and Miss Mary Hehmke of San Antonio.

The funeral was held at Hallettsvillle Saturday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock under the auspices of the Sons of Hermann. The Lutheran minister of Hallettsville conducted the rites. Members of the Sons of Hermann Lodge of Guadalupe acted as pallbearers here as follows: H. G. Vogt, Paul Zeplin, H. A. Zeplin, H. J. Menke, Emil Smajstrla, and E. G. Menke.

Charles Hehmke, born August 28, 1847 and died July 30, 1926, was buried in the Hallettsville City Cemetery. Contributed by Anna Howard

CHARLES A. HEHMKE

Houston Post, 16 Jul 1936, page 19

HEHMKE – Charles A. Hehmke, 42, 1516 Rutland, died at 8:50 p. m. Thursday at his residence. Surviving are his wife; six sisters, Mrs. Chris Manning of Shiner, Mrs. Willy Wick of Victoria, Mrs. Frank Schaefer of Hallettsville, Mrs. Paul Balfanz of Inez, Miss Mary Hehmke of San Antonio and Mrs. Joe Wanjura of Cuero, and a brother, Willy Hehmke of Victoria. Funeral arrangements will be announced by the Heights Funeral home.

Charlie A. Hehmke, 27 Aug 1894-15 Jul 1936, was buried in the Hallettsville City Cemetery. His marker includes TX, Pvt, 360 Inf, 90 Div. Contributed by Matt Cross

MARY HEHMKE

Victoria Advocate, 15 Oct 1971

Miss Mary Hehmke

HALLETTSVILLE—Miss Mary Hehmke, 90, died Wednesday at her home in San Antonio.

the body will lie in state at Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville until 2 p.m., Friday, and services are scheduled at 3 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church. Burial will be in City Cemetery, with the Rev. Stanley Petru officiating.

Surviving is a sister, Mrs. Augusta Menning of La Marque.

Mary Hehmke was the daughter of Charles and Antonia Kuster Hehmke. Contributed by Anna Howard

ROBERT EUGENE HEIDAKER

Brazosport Facts, August 30, 1997

Graveside services for Robert Eugene Heidaker, 64, of Brazoria, were held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, August 29, 1997, at Oak Grove Cemetery.

He passed away Wednesday,  August 27, 1997.

Mr. Heidaker was born October 23, 1932 in Yoakum and was a machinist.

He was preceded in death by his father, Hillie Henry Heidaker.

Survivors include his wife Pat Mitchell Choate of Brazoria; daughters, Michelle Pedersen and husband, Tommy of Richwood and Nancy Hunter of Baytown; sons, Jeff Heidaker and wife, Tammy of Brazoria, Mitchell Cumbie of Clute, Robert Hunter of San Leon and Mike Hunter of California; mother, Norma Bischoff Heidaker of San Antonio; 13 grandchildren; and one  great-grandchild.

Pallbearers were Mitchell Cumbie, Jeff Heidaker, Mike Clifton, Tommy Pedersen, Martin Sanders and Lynn Vickers.

Arrangements were under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home of Yoakum, Texas.

 Contributed by Matt Cross

ADOLPH HARRY WALTER HEIDRICH

The Shiner Gazette, May 29, 1975

Military Rites for D-Day Veteran Adolph Heidrich

Adolph H. Heidrich entered his Eternal Rest at 2:10 p.m. May 18, 1975, at his home. His earthly Pilgrimage covered a span of 64 years, 6 months and 14 days.

The body lay in state at the Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, until 1:00 p.m. Tuesday, May 20, when it was conveyed to the United Dr. Martin Luther Church for services at 2:00 p.m. The Rev. Clifford C. Grosenbacher Officiated. Assisting was the Rev. Edwin J. Oehlke, who offered a prayer.
Mrs. Victor Stindt, organist, rendered the prelude and postlude, and also accompanied the congregation in the singing of hymns, "Jesus Lover of My Soul" and "Rock of Ages'.

Burial was in the Shiner City Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Max Friedrich, Kermit Harbers, Leroy Kloesel, Raymond Kocian Jr., Gordon Smith and Carlton Voskamp, all of Shiner.

Military graveside services were conducted by members of the American Legion, Kolar - Stanek Post No. 201. Larry Riemenschneider served as chaplain and read the committal prayer. Eddie Jaks folded the flag which was presented to the widow of the deceased. The sounding of "Taps" pre-recorded by Leonard Darilek concluded the rites.

Serving as color bearers and color guards were O.S.T. Meyer, Adolph Pesek, John Degenhardt and Rudie Filip.
Mr. Heidrich was a member of the Shiner American Legion Post and the United Dr. Martin Luther Church.

Adolph Harry Walter Heidrich, one of eleven children, was born November 4, 1910, near Shiner in Lavaca County, son of Albin and Marie (Peters) Heidrich, natives of Gera, Germany, where they were married and, some six years later, they came to America, arriving in September 1891. The first made their home on a farm in Gonzales County and later moved to the Witting Community near Shiner.

As a child he was received into the church through the sacrament of Holy Baptism administered by the Rev. Wilhelm Dziewas. He was later confirmed at Witting by the Rev. Falkenberg.

He entered the United States Army on March 20, 1942. He served in the infantry, landing on Normandy during the invasion. He served overseas for 3 ½ years. He received his honorable discharge on October 23, 1945.

He participated in battles and campaigns at Normandy, Rhineland, Ardennes, Northern France and Central Europe. His citations and decorations include the EAME Service Ribbon with one star and one bronze arrowhead, Bronze Star Metal and Good Conduct Metal. He was discharged with the rank of Sergeant.

Between 1945 and 1949 he worked in the oil field of west Texas and New Mexico. He than moved back to Shiner and became a welder at Kasper Wire Works until 1965 when a heart attach forced him to retire.
On November 22, 1953, he was united in marriage to Irma Lorene Behlen in the Lutheran Church with the Rev. Edwin J. Oehlke officiating.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Mrs. Irma Heidrich of Shiner; four sisters, Mrs. Monroe (Helen) Weber, Mrs. Elo (Neddie Lee) Voelkel, both of Yoakum, Mrs. Arthur (Martha) Wagner of San Antonio, and Mrs. Earl (Marie) Rhoades of El Paso: numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, August 17, 1953; his mother, July3, 1949; three brothers, Paul Heidrich, September 2, 1897, at the age of 9 years, Willie A. Heidrich, January 4, 1954; Charles A. Heidrich, August 5, 1973: three sisters, Mrs. Henry C. (Clara) Lockstedt, May 29, 1964; Mrs. Ed (Ella) Hagens, January 15, 1947; Mrs. Ollie (Annie) MeDavid, May 31, 1936

With closing of the final chapter of his book of life, we are again reminded of the many soldiers, veterans and comrades, who have gone before and it brings to mind the famous quotation, "Old Soldiers Never Die, They just fade away."
May he rest in peace.

Contributed by Ed Neubauer

ALBIN PAUL HEIDRICH

Newspaper and date unknown

Albin Heidrich Rites Read Wednesday P.M.

Funeral services for Albin Heidrich, 86, of Rt. 3, Shiner, were held Wednesday, August 19, 5 p.m., at Buffington Chapel, Shiner, the Rev. E. J. Oehlke officiating and reading rites at Shiner City Cemetery.

Mr. Heidrich died August 17, at the home of his son Adolph Heidrich of Shiner. Born April 1, 1867, at Gera, in Germany, he spent the early part of his life there and was married March 9, 1885 to the former Marie Peters at Gera. They came to America in September in, 1891, settling first in Gonzales. He had spent the last 12 years with his son Adolph at Shiner.

Survivors include three sons, Adolph in Shiner, Willie of Breslau and Charles Heidrich of Shiner; five daughters, Mrs. Henry (Clara) Lockstedt, Mrs. Helen Joost, and Mrs. Elo (Neddie) Voekel, all of Yoakum, Mrs. E. E. (Marie) Rhoades of El Paso and Mrs. Arthur (Martha) Wagner of Shiner; 28 grandchildren and 47 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mrs. Marie Heidrich, and one son Paul Heidrich, two daughters, Mrs. Ollie (Anna) McDavid and Mrs. Eddie (Ella) Hagens; three sisters, Agnes, Martha, and Hedwig; and five brothers, Walter, Charlie, Werner, Robert, and Herman Heidrich.

Albin Heidrich was Born April 1, 1867 and died August 17, 1953, Contributed by Ed Neubauer

CHARLES AUGUST HEIDRICH

Shiner Gazette, August 16, 1973

Funeral Rites For Charles Heidrich

Charles A. Heidrich of Shiner entered into rest about 11:30 a.m. Sunday, August 5, 1973 at the age of 68 years, 2 months and 26 days. He died suddenly at the home of his nephew, Linton Heidrich, at Bay City where he had been visiting.

The body lay in state at the Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, until 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 8, when it was taken to the United Dr. Martin Luther Church where services followed at 3:00 p.m. with the Rev. Clifford C. Grosenbacher officiating.

Hymns selected for singing by the congregation included "Rock of Ages" and "Children of Our Heavenly Father". Mrs. Raymond Dierksen served as organist.

Burial was in the Shiner City Cemetery with military graveside rites.

Serving as pallbearers were Carlton Voskamp, Gordon Smith, Raymond Kocian Jr., Max Friedrich, Edwin Pfuhl and Oscar Buesing.

Military graveside rites were conducted by members of the American Legion, Kolar-Stanek Post 201. George Watzlavick served as chaplain and read the committal ritual. Eddie Jaks folded the flag which was presented to the brother, Adolph Heidrich, by the Chaplin. The sounding of "Taps" by recording concluded the rites.

Charles August Heidrich, one of eleven children, was born May 9, 1905 near Gonzales, son of Albin and Marie (Peters) Heidrich, both natives of Gera, Germany. His parents were married in Gera, Germany and some six years later they came to America, arriving in September 1891, and settled on a farm in Gonzales County.

As a child he was baptized in the Lutheran Church by the Rev. Wilhelm Dziewas. He was later confirmed in the Lutheran Church at Witting by the Rev. Falkenberg. Most of his entire life was spent in the Shiner Community.

During World War II, he served with the U.S. Army infantry. He was inducted at Fort Sam Houston September 22, 1942 and was honorably discharged at Camp Gruber, Okla. August 10, 1943. He returned home and cared for his aged parents. He worked for a number of years at the Kaspar Wire Works, retiring in January 1972.

He is survived by one brother, Adolph Heidrich of Shiner; four sisters, Mrs. Monroe (Helen) Weber, Mrs. Elo (Natalie) Voelkel, both of Yoakum, Mrs. Arthur (Martha) Wagner of San Antonio, Mrs. Earl E. (Marie) Rhoades of El Paso; numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father, August 17, 1953; his mother, July 3, 1949; two brothers, Paul Heidrich, September 2, 1897, at the age of 9 years; Willie A. Heidrich, January 4, 1954; three sisters, Mrs. Henry C. (Clara) Lockstedt, May 29, 1964; Mrs. Ed (Ella) Hagens, January 15, 1947; Mrs. Ollie (Annie) McDavid, May 31, 1936.

With the closing of the final chapter in his book of life, we are again reminded of the many soldiers, veterans and comrades, who have gone before and it brings to mind the famous quotation, "Old Soldiers Never Die, They Just Fade Away."

Contributed by Ed Neubauer

DORIS LILLIAN HILDEBRANDT HEIDRICH

Bay City Tribune, November 19, 2008

Doris Lillian (Hildebrandt) Heidrich

Doris Lillian Heidrich, 80, of Van Vleck passed away November 15, 2008.

She was born April 24, 1928 in Witting, Lavaca County, Texas to the late Alfred and Lillian Pietsch Hildebrandt. She had worked in the Cafeteria for Bay City ISD for many years and was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church.

Her husband William Heidrich preceded her in death in 1965.

Survivors include: daughters and their spouses, Patsy and David Allen of Houston, Bonnie Jones of El Campo, Peggy and Emil Vaculin of Blessing, Arlene and Cookie Koch of Van Vleck, Grace and Clifton Lowery of Van Vleck and Jane and Randy Cole of Midland; son, Glen and Betty Heidrich of Bay City; brother, Gordon Hildebrandt of Witting, Texas; 11 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5 until 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home.

Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Tuesday, November 18, 2008 at St. Peter Lutheran Church with the Rev. Jared Stillions officiating.

Graveside service will be at 3 p.m. Tuesday at the Witting Cemetery in Witting, Texas.

Pallbearers will be Carl Cookie Koch, Clifton Lowery, Emil Vaculin, Randy Cole, Bobby Heidrich and Steven Jones.

Glen Heidrich will serve as honorary pallbearer.

Contributed by Ed Neubauer

ELIZABETH DOROTHY NEUBAUER HEIDRICH

Shiner Gazette, Oct. 19, 1989

Elizabeth Heidrich

Bay City – Elizabeth Dorothy Heidrich of Bay City, formerly of Shiner, died Wednesday, Oct. 11, 1989 in Bay City Hospital at the age of 90 years and 7 months.

One of 11 children, she was born March 11, 1899, in Lavaca County to William and Clara (Werner) Neubauer, natives respectively of Germany and Sublime, Lavaca County, Texas. Mrs. Heidrich was the eldest and only girl in her immediate family.

On August 7, 1917, she married Willie A. Heidrich. The couple resided in the Shiner area and Moulton before moving to Bay City. Her husband died Jan. 4, 1954; and a son, William Heidrich died Dec. 22, 1965.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Friday October 13 at Golden Avenue Baptist Church in Bay City with the Rev. Mike Mercer officiating.

Graveside services were held at Shiner City Cemetery at 2:30 p.m. Friday Oct. 13 with grandsons David Wayne Miller and Darrel Heidrich officiating.

Bay City Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Grandsons served as pallbearers.

Surviving are three sons, Elton Heidrich of Sturges, KY., Alvin Heidrich of Kamay, Texas, Buddy Heidrich of Sugar Valley, Texas; three daughters, Nita Green of Brownwood, Vera Algood of Bennington, Okla., and Ruth Miller of Bay City; four brothers, Arthur and Carl Neubauer both of Yoakum, August Neubauer of Hallettsville, Herbert Neubauer of Gonzales; 39 grandchildren; 58 great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her husband and son, she was preceded in death by six brothers, Fritz C. Neubauer, Nov. 26, 1967; Edwin Carl Neubauer, Sept. 9, 1962; Walter Neubauer, age 5, Nov. 3, 1922; Willie Otto Neubauer, July 15, 1985; Arnold J. Neubauer, Apr. 17,1979; And Albert Neubauer, Mar. 22, 1986.

Contributed by Ed Neubauer

ELTON HEIDRICH

Union CountyAdvocate, Morganfield, Kentucky - March 5, 2008

STURGIS -- Elton Heidrich, 89, Sturgis, died at 9:25 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, 2008, at his home.

Mr. Heidrich was born on June 20, 1918 in the Breslu Community, of Lavaca County, Texas to Albin (Willie) and Elizabeth (Neubauer) Heidrich.

He was a member of Sturgis General Baptist Church and retired from the Kentucky State Highway Department. He was a World War II veteran and a VFW member.

Survivors include his wife, Martha Heidrich; five sons, Billie Heidrich, J.W. Heidrich, Willie Heidrich and Phillip Heidrich, all of Sturgis and Ronnie Heidrich of Pride, Ky.; a sister, Vera Allgood of Oklahoma; a brother, Buddy Heidrich of Texas; 10 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Services will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday at Whitsell Funeral Home in Sturgis. The Rev. Nicky Winders officiating. Burial was in Pythian Ridge Cemetery in Sturgis.

 Friends may call from 4 to 8 p.m. today and after 11 a.m. Sunday at the funeral home.

Elton was married to Martha Geraldine Shaffer of Tolu, Crittenden County, Kentucky on 07 Aug 1944 at Camp Breckenridge, Kentucky where he was stationed at the time.Contributed by Ed Neubauer

IRMA BEHLEN HEIDRICH

The Shiner Gazette, August 26, 1982

Mrs. Adolph Heidrich, nee Irma Behlen, entered rest at 10:30 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 17, 1982 at Citizens Memorial Hospital in Victoria after an illness of several weeks duration. She attained the age of 66 years, 2 months and 23 days.

Mrs. Heidrich was born May 24, 1916 near Shiner, Lavaca County, Texas, daughter of Friedrich Wilhelm "Fritz" and Anna (Thormahlen) Behlen, natives respectively of Weimer and Shiner, Texas. She was reared on the family farm and attended Bunjes School.

She was Baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Church in Shiner.

Mrs. Heidrich was a faithful and loyal Member of the Lutheran Church and took a deep interest in its affairs and activities. She was active in the prayer group and the Social Concerns Committee of the Church. Her faith in the Lord was evidenced in her life.

She was an active member of Trinity Lutheran Home Auxiliary. She loved children and did volunteer baby sitting for her friends.

On Nov. 22, 1953 she was married to Adolph Heidrich in the United Dr. Martin Luther Church with the Rev. Edwin J. Oehkle officiating. The couple resided in Shiner continuously. Her husband died May 18, 1975.

She had been employed during her lifetime at Elkin's Variety Store, Wolters Bros. dry goods department store, and Kasper Wire works.

A prayer service was conducted at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 19 by the Rev. Wymore Goldberg at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel where the body lay in state until 1: p.m. Friday, Aug. 20 when it was taken to the church.

Funeral services were held at 2: p.m. Friday, Aug. 20 at the United Dr. Martin Luther Church with the Rev. Edwin J. Oehlke and the Rev. Wymore Goldberg officiating.

The impressive rites included a vocal solo, "How Great Thou Art" by Mrs. Diane Schroeder. Hymns sung by the congregation included, "Rock Of Ages, Clef For Me" and "Jesus Still Lead On".

The accompaniment organ prelude and postlude were played by Mrs. Wilma Stindt.

Burial took place in the Shiner City Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Norris Gottschalt of Cuero, Buddy Heidrich of Bay City, Harvey Hagens, Mark Hagens, Emil Spann and Rodney Spann, all of Shiner.

Survivors include her sister and brother-in-law, Melba and Frank Steiner of Shiner, three aunts, cousins, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends.

Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by her mother, Apr. 20, 1960: and her father, Mar. 8, 1976.

Contributed by Ed Neubauer

MARIE PETERS HEIDRICH

The Shiner Gazette. July 7, 1949

Mrs. M. Heidrich Funeral Rites Held Monday

Mrs. Albin, nee Marie Peters Heidrich, passed away at the family home July 3, at 3:30 a.m. at the advanced age of 84 years and 10 months.

She was born Sept. 4, 1864 in Gera, Germany. She was married march 9, 1885, in Germany and came to America Sept. 1891, settling in Gonzales. In 1942 they came to Shiner to make their home.

Funeral services were held from the Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, Monday, July 4, at 3:30 p.m., the Rev. Paul Bechter of Yoakum officiating. Interment was in Shiner City Cemetery. Her grandsons were pallbearers, they were Eugene and Lane Wagner, Calvin and Loyd Lockstedt, Yoakum; Woodrow and Warren Joost, Moulton.

Hymns used at the services were, “What A Friend We Have In Jesus”, and “The Old Rugged Cross” at the funeral Home and “Nearer My God To Thee” at the graveside.

Survivors include her devoted husband, five daughters, Mrs. Henry (Clara) Lockstedt, Yoakum; Mrs. Theo (Helen) Joost, Moulton; Mrs. E. E. (Marie) Roades, El Paso; Mrs. Arthur (Martha) Wagner, Shiner; Mrs. Elo (Natalie) Voelkel, Yoakum; Willie Heidrich, Hallettsville, Charlie and Adolph Heidrich, Shiner; 28 grandchildren and 24 great grandchildren.

Three children preceded her to the grave, Paul Heidrich, September, 1897, Mrs. Allie McDavid May 31, 1936, Mrs. Eddie Hagens Jan. 15, 1947. To her aged companion and to all who held her near and dear we offer sympathy in their sorrow.

Contributed by Ed Neubauer

Werner Fritz Heidrich

Relatives At Services for Werner Heidrich

Shiner Gazette,October 15, 1970

Funeral services for Werner Heidrich of Bay City were held Tuesday, October 8 at St. Peter's Lutheran Church and burial was in a Bay City cemetery.

Mr. Heidrich died about 5:00 pm Saturday, October 3, 1970 in the VA Hospital in Houston at the age of 50 years, 8 months and 4 days.

Mr. Heidrich was born January 20, 1920, near Shiner, son of Willie A. and Elizabeth (Neubauer) Heidrich. He was reared in the Witting and Breslau communities and was married to Elenora Marburger. They were the parents of nine children, four sons and five daughters, all of whom survive.

Besides his wife and children, he is survived by his mother, Mrs. Elizabeth Heidrich, of Bay City; three brothers, Elton Heidrich of Sturgis, Ky., Lenton Heidrich of Bay City, Alvin Heidrich of Wichita Falls; three sisters, Mrs. Earl (Anita) Green of Brownwood, Mrs. Junior (Vera) Allgood and Mrs. Grant (Ruth) Miller, both of Bay City.

He was preceded in death by his father, January 4, 1954, and a brother, William Heidrich , December 22, 1965.

Paying their last respects and attending the last rites for their nephew were Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Heidrich, Charlie Heidrich, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Neubauer, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Neubauer, Mrs. Eddie Berger, all of Shiner, Mrs. Chas. Hanzelka and sons, Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Neubauer, all of Yoakum.

Transcribed and contributed by Ed Neubauer

WILLIAM HEIDRICH

 Shiner Gazette, January 6, 1966

William Heidrich passed away suddenly at his home in Bay City, Wednesday, December 22, 1965 at 1:00 a.m. of an apparent heart attack.  Death was unexpected, as Mr. Heidrich put in a day’s work as usual at the Chemical Plant, Brown and Root, Inc. where he was employed as a carpenter.

 He was born April 28, 1924 at Moulton, the son of Willie A. and Elizabeth (Neubauer) Heidrich and reached the age of 41 years, 7 months and 24 days.

A native of Gonzales County, he lived for many years in the Breslau and Witting communities.  He was a veteran of World War II, having served with the U.S. Navy during that time.

William Heidrich was married to Doris Hildebrandt March 12, 1947, daughter of Mrs. Hugo Albrecht of Witting and the late Alfred Hildebrandt, in the Zion Lutheran Church in Moulton.  Following their marriage they lived in this area for ten years then moved to Bay City where they have been making their home since.  Mr. and Mrs. Heidrich were blessed with the birth of seven children, who now range in age from 3 to 18 years.

 Funeral services were held Friday, December 24 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Bay City, with the Rev. McBride officiating.  The body was conveyed to the Witting cemetery where graveside services were conducted at 2:00 p.m. by the Rev. Julius F. Holm.

 Funeral arrangements were under the direction of the Bay City Funeral Home.

 He is survived by his grief-stricken wife, Mrs. Doris Heidrich of Bay City; one son, Glenn William; six daughters, Patsy, Bonnie, Peggy, Arlene, Grace and Jane, all at home; his mothers, Mrs. Elizabeth  Heidrich of Bay City, four brothers, Elton Heidrich of Sturgis, Kentucky, Werner and Lenton E. Heidrich, both of Bay City, Alvin Heidrich of Wichita Falls; three sisters, Mrs. Earl (Anita) Green of Brownwood, Mrs. Jr. (Vera) Allgood and Mrs. Grant (Ruth) Miller, both of Bay City.

He was preceded in death by his father, Willie A. Heidrich, who passed away January 4, 1954.

Serving as pallbearers were Arthur Neubauer, Charley Heidrich, Helmuth Koch, Samuel Heidrich, Bill Pietsch and Jimmy Green.

Transcribed and contributed by Ed Neubaur

WILLIE ALBIN HEIDRICH

Shiner Gazette, January 14, 1954

Funeral services conducted for Willie Heidrich

Funeral services for Willie Heidrich were conducted from the Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, Thursday, January 7, at 1:30 p.m. Interment was in the Shiner City Cemetery. The Rev. Edwin J. Oehlke conducted religious rites at the funeral home and also at the graveside.

Mr. Heidrich passed away in the Renger Hospital January 4, at 9:10 p.m. at the age of 59 years and four days.

Mr. Heidrich was born in Gonzales County December 30, 1894, the son of Albin and Marie Peters Heidrich.

He was married to Elizabeth Neubauer August 7, 1917, in Hallettsville. They first settled near Shiner, than moved to Moulton and for the past 26 years had been living in Hallettsville and Breslau.

Survivors are his wife; five sons, Elton Heidrich, Sturgis, Kentucky; Werner Heidrich, Bay City; William Heidrich, Sheridan; Alvin Heidrich, Wichita Falls; Linton Heidrich, Hallettsville; three daughters: Mrs. Earl (Nita) Green, Denver City, Texas; Mrs. J.R. (Vera) Allgood, Sheridan; Miss Ruth Heidrich, Shiner; 19 grandchildren, two brothers, Charles and Adolph Heidrich of Shiner; five sisters, Mrs. Henry (Clara) Lockstedt, Mrs. Theo. (Helen) Joost, Mrs. Elo (Neddie Lee) Voelkel, Yoakum; Mrs. Earl (Marie) Rhodes, El Paso; Mrs. Arthur (Martha) Wagner, Brooklyn, N.Y.

Preceding him to the grave were his parents, one brother, Paul Heidrich; two sisters, Mrs. Ollie (Annie) McDavid and Mrs. Eddie (Ella) Hagens.

Mr. Heidrich was reared in Gonzales County. He followed farming all his life.

He received baptism in the Gonzales Lutheran Church.

The Choir of the Hallettsville Baptist Church, directed by Rev. Henry Smith, rendered the following hymns: "Shall We Gather At The River" "Abide With Me", "What A Friend We Have In Jesus".

Pallbearers were Herman Kaelke, Louis Meinke, Manuel Allgood, Otto Sander, Max Voskamp and Hugo Albricht.

Contributed by Ed Neubauer

ANNIE A. SANDELOVIC HEIMAN

The Victoria Advocate, 25 Sept 2009

ANNIE A. HEIMAN

YOAKUM - Annie A. Heiman, age 88, passed away on Wednesday, Sept. 23, 2009. She was born in Yoakum on June 11, 1921 to John and Albina Rohan Sandelovic. She was a homemaker and a Catholic.

Annie will be welcomed into heaven by the Lord and her loving children, Jimmie W. Heiman, Shirley Langley, and infant daughter, Dorothy Marie Heiman. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Elizabeth Cretors and Albina Sandelovic, and brothers, Emil Sandelovic and Rudy Sandelovic.

Survivors: Beloved husband of 63 years, Jimmy F. Heiman; grandchildren, Tammy Nobles and husband Charlie of Yoakum, Kristi Heiman of Austin, Jimmie Heiman Jr. and wife Lisa of Yoakum, and Marlena Milbern and husband Jason of Amarillo; three great-grandchildren; sisters, Mary Zissa of Yoakum and Julia McKay of Houston; brothers, Felix Sandelovic of Yoakum and Adolph Sandelovic of Leander; and daughter-in-law, Dorothy Heiman of Yoakum.

Family visitation will be from 5 p.m. till 7 p.m. on Friday at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with a 7 p.m. rosary with Deacon Dennis Kutach officiating.

Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum with Rev. John Peters officiating. Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Jimmie Heiman Jr., Charlie Nobles, Jason Milbern, Mark Cretors, Charlie Bennetsen, and Mike Fitzgerald.

Honorary pallbearers are the great-grandchildren, Skyler Nobles, Taylor Nobles, and Abbie Heiman.

Memorial contributions may be given to the donor's choice.

The guest book may be signed at www.thielecooper.com.

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

Contributed by Jeanne Walshak Boothe

JOHN HEIMANN

Weimar Mercury, 30 Apr 1920

COMMITS SUICIDE.

Tragic Death of Young Man at Halletsville

A most regrettable tragedy occurred in our city Sunday night about 9 o'clock when John Heimann, one of our best young men, committed suicide, while in a fit of anger. A short time before committing the awful deed John went to the home of L. C. Hamilton and borrowed a shotgun and several shells, saying he intended to go hunting the next morning. He then went to the home of his father-in-law, D. R. Breeden and asked his (John's) wife to go home with him leaving the gun standing outside. She noticed that he was excited about something and refused to accompany him. John went outside on the street a block east of the Breeden home, took off his shoes and socks, placed the muzzle of the gun against his left breast and with his toes pulled the trigger, the entire load going into his body, tearing a hole just above the heart, from the effects of which he died about thirty minutes later, bledding to death. After the shot was fired he called for held and neighbors were the first to reach his side, but the young man made no statement before he died. Justice Shoemaker held the inquest. —Halletsville New Era.

TOMIE J. HEIMANN

Wharton Journal Spector, Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Tomie J. Heimann, 90, of Wharton ,passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 15, 2011 at his home in Wharton. He was born on Sept. 15, 1920 in Shiner, the son of the late Tom A. Heimann and Mary Petru Heimann.

Mr. Heimann was a former resident of Shiner and had been a resident of Wharton since 1945. He married Annie Svatek on Oct. 7, 1941 in Shiner. Mr. Heimann was an automotive and agriculture mechanic until his retirement in 1960 from the Murphy Davis Company. He was a veteran of World War II having served in the U.S. Army Air Corps. Mr. Heimann was a member of Holy Family Catholic Church in Wharton and the KJT.

Besides his parents, he was also preceded in death by three brothers, Frank, Laddie and Johnnie Heimann.

A rosary was recited Monday evening at 7 p.m. at the chapel of Wharton Funeral Home and a Funeral Mass was held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Wharton with Rev. Dominic Antwi-Boasiako officiating. Graveside services followed at 3 p.m. Tuesday at the St. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Cemetery in Shiner.

Survivors include his wife, Annie Heimann of Wharton; daughters and sons-in-law, Pat and Alfred Hackworth of Rosenberg, Annette and Greg Osina of Richmond and Dodie and Billy Srubar of East Bernard; sons, Lonnie Heimann of Wharton and David Heimann of Houston; sisters, Mary Patek of Shiner and Emily Tichavsky of Pasadena; sisters-in-law; Estelle Heimann of Wharton and Henrietta Heimann of Wallis; 11 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers were David Heimann, Kenneth Kolacny, Eric Heimann, Matthew Hackworth, Christopher Heimann, Mark Heimann and Wil Srubar.

In lieu of usual remembrances the family requests memorials to a charity of personal choice.

Funeral services were under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

FRANCISCUS J. HEINRICH

Shiner Gazette, 11 Jan 1894, page 1, Moulton column

An infant child of Joseph Heinrich was buried in the Catholic burying grounds at Moulton on January 4.

Franciscus J. Heinrich, 17 Jul 1893 – 3 Jan 1894, was buried in St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery at Moulton. Contributed by Matt Cross

AUGUST HEINSOHN

Weimar Mercury, 20 Dec 1918, page 6

AUG. HEINSOHN DEAD.

Shiner, Texas, Dec. 13.—Following a short but severe illness with typhoid pneumonia, Aug. Heinsohn, a ginner of this city, passed away. Interment took place Tursday morning in the city cemetery at Halletsville, under the auspices of the Woodmen of the World. He is survived by his wife and three children.

Obituary contributed by Rox Ann Johnson. Photo from Holly Heinsohn.

CLARA FREDERICA PECHACEK HEINSOHN

Lavaca County Tribune Herald
21 May 1993

Clara Frederica Heinsohn, 89, of Yoakum died Monday, May 17, 1993.

She was born Oct. 20, 1903, in Hallettsville, daughter of Antoinette Pechacek and Frank Grahmann Sr. She was a nurse at Renger Hospital in Hallettsville, a homemaker, and a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum.

Survivors include a daughter, Mary Lee Schriefer of Yoakum; three sisters, Bernadine Kolacny of Hallettsville, Louise Friedrichs of Runge and Wilhelmina Zafereo of Victoria; a brother, Alvin Grahmann of Schulenburg; two grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Herman L. Heinsohn on Dec. 20, 1975; three sisters, Elizabeth Grahmann; Mary Grahmann, and Agnes Grahmann; and two brothers, Frank Grahmann and Joe A. J. Grahmann.

Services were conducted at 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 19, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Yoakum.

Transcribed by Matt Cross. Photo from the Lavaca County Historical Museum

HERMAN HEINSOHN

Lavaca County Tribune Herald
23 Dec 1975

H. Heinsohn

Herman Heinsohn, 62, of Route 3, Hallettsville, passed away at 3:15 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 20, 1975, in a Victoria hospital.

Mr. Heinsohn made his living mainly on a farm most of his life. He held jobs in Hallettsville for some years, being employed for some time at the Tumis Service Station here.

The deceased was born April 7, 1913, in the Moravia Community, north of Hallettsville. He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church of Schulenburg, and a member of the Appelt's Hill Gun Club. Preceding him in death were his parents.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, Dec. 22, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville. Rev. Stanley Petru officiated. The body was moved from Kubena Funeral Home here at 1:00 p.m. to the church.

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

Rosary was recited at 7:00 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 21, at the Kubena Funeral Home.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Clara Grahmann Heinsohn of Hallettsville; a daughter, Mrs. Clarence Schriefer of Yoakum; a sister, Mrs. Floyd Jahn of Schulenburg, and two grandchildren.

Pallbearers for the funeral of Mr. Heinsohn were Herbert Renger, Leroy Schroeder, John David Henneke, Victor Smajstrla, Virgil Smaistrla, and Edwin Heinsohn.

Honorary pallbearers were Lawrence Rothbauer, Gene Christen, George Tumis, Joe Muhlstein, Albert Christen and Leslie Schroeder.

Transcribed by Matt Cross. Photo from the Lavaca County Historical Museum

REINHARDT HEINSOHN

unidentified newspaper clipping, 12 Apr 1946

R. F. Heinsohn Dies In San Antonio

R. F. Heinsohn, who has lived on Schulenburg route 3 for a good number of years, died in San Antonio Monday. He had reached the age of 87 years. Funeral services were held Wednesday from the Kubena funeral Home, April 10, at 1:30 p. m. Interment was in the Shiloh Cemetery. Rev. K. Windecker conducted the last rites.

The deeceased ws born in Austin [Colorado] County, but had lived in this county for many years. In 1883 he married Emilie Gummalt [Gummelt]; she died on May 28, 1907 after they had lived together on their Shiloh farm for a good part of their married life.

Surviving are fifteen children: Julius of Hallettsville; Ed of La Grange; Victor of Robstown; Emil of California; Fritz of Witting; Mrs. R. C. Rode of Schulenburg; Mrs. Fred (Minnie) Minnsen [Minssen] of Lubbock; Mrs. Hy. (Johanna) Dabelgott of Houston; Mrs. Herman (Leona) Thomer [Thormer] of Houston; Mrs. Mary Peterson of Houston; Mrs. Henry (Tillie) Thomer [Thormer] of Houston; Mrs. Joe (Augusta) Christen of Moravia; Mrs. Chas. (Ida) Krueger of Moravia; Mrs. Pauline Stevens of El Paso; and Mrs. Hy (Nancy) Contrad of O'Donnell. One child died in infancy, 42 grandchildren and 22 great-grandchildren also survive.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson.

EMMA HELMCAMP

Shiner Gazette, 17 Jun 1903

Mrs. Helmcamp returned last Wednesday from Corpus Christi, where she had been for some time under treatment. She is in very feeble health and was unable to sit up, being carried home on a cot.

Shiner Gazette, 17 Jun 1903

Death of Mrs. Emma Helmcamp.

The sad news was carried through the city last Sunday of the death of Mrs. Emma Helmcamp. Her demise came about 10 o’clock Sunday morning.

Mrs. Helmcamp had been sick for some months with that dread disease consumption and had been at Corpus Christi for some time under treatment.

The funeral took place on Monday evening at 4 o’clock in the city cemetery.

The deceased leaves five children, three girls and two boys, some of them quite small. The funeral was largely attended by relatives and friends. Rev. R. B. Fritsche conducted the services, which were very impressive.

Shiner Gazette, 17 Jun 1903, Local News column

The following relatives from Flatonia attended the funeral of Mrs. Helmcamp last Monday evening: Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Stein, Mr. and Mrs. Pete Nickel and Mrs. Finkenstein.

Emma Helmcamp, 21 Mar 1867 – 14 Jun 1903, wife of Otto A., shares a marker with Otto A. Helmcamp (1864-1899) and Otto A. Helmcamp (1899-1900) in the Shiner Sons of Herman Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

OTTO A. HELMCAMP

Shiner Gazette, 18 Jan 1899, page 1

O. A. Helmcamp.

DIED – In this city, at the residence of his brother-in-law Mr. D. G. Helmers, Mr. O. A. Helmcamp.

Mr. Helmcamp was born in Bluff, Fayette county, Texas, and had been sick nearly a year with a pulmonary disease. He came to Shiner about six weeks ago, hoping a change would benefit him. He died last Thursday at the age of 35, and was buried Friday in the O. D. H. S. cemetery.

His wife and five children survive him. The following relatives and friends attended the funeral from other points: Mrs. L. Finkenstein and Mrs. Wm. Stein, of Flatonia, Mrs. F. Nordhausen and Mr. Taylor Helmcamp of High Hill, Mr. George Helmcamp and Mrs. Naumann of Fayette county.

[in adjacent column]

Card of Thanks.

Mr. D. G. Helmers, on behalf of Mrs. Helmcamp, widow of the late O. A. Helmcamp, desires to thank the friends and neighbors who so kindly lent their aid and assistance during the last illness and burial of her deceased husband.

Shiner Gazette, 18 Jan 1899

Mr. Leopold Reiss was here last Thursday attending the funeral of his brother-in-law, O. A. Helmcamp.

Schulenburg Sticker, 19 Jan 1899

The sad news of the death of Mr. Otto Helmcamp was received here last Thursday, which occurred at Shiner. The deceased was a brother of Mr. Theo Helmcamp of High Hill, and had suffered for many years with consumption. The remains were interred at Shiner. The widow and five children are left to mourn the loss. The STICKER extends its heartfelt sympathy.

Otto A. Helmcamp, 10 Mar 1864 – 12 Jan 1899, is buried in the Shiner City Cemetery with his wife, Emma F. Helmcamp, 21 Mar 1867 – 14 Jun 1903, and child, Otto A., 14 Feb 1899 – 12 Jun 1900. Contributed by Matt Cross

ELLA HELMERS

Shiner Gazette, 1 Jan 1902

DEATH OF MISS ELLA HELMERS.

A Deplorable Accident.

The accidental death by burning of Miss Ella Helmers was one of the most sad and terrible affairs in the history of Shiner, and was a shock to the entire community.

A bright and beautiful young girl, just past her fourteenth year, the idol of her parents and a general favorite with all who knew her, she was stricken down without warning and in the most horrible manner.

Last Friday morning at about 10:30 little Ella was in the yard of her home amusing herself discharging fireworks, and in stooping to light a firecracker, by a small brush fire, her clothing caught fire; she was warned of the fact by a playmate and becoming frightened, she started to run. This only served to fan the fire and in a moment she was enveloped by the cruel flames. Her mother and elder sister ran to her assistance and attempted to extinguish the flames, but all in vain, the little ones’ clothes were burned entirely off her, one eye was destroyed and her flesh burned to a crisp. She had inhaled the flames while running, and was injured beyond all possible hope of recovery. The best medical aid was quickly summoned and everything possible was done to relieve her suffering. She lingered several hours when death came as a relief about 8 o’clock Friday night.

The funeral took place at 11 o’clock a. m. Sunday, and was attended by a large crowd of sympathizing friends. Rev. Wm. Dziewas conducted the burial service and there was singing by the ladies of the Methodist church.

Mrs. Helmers had her hands badly burned in her efforts to save her child, the flesh on her right hand being burned to the bone.

The Gazette and all who know this estimable family extend to them their heartfelt sympathy in their great sorrow and bereavement.

Ella N. Helmers, 2 Jun 1887 - 27 Dec 1901, daughter of D.G. & Bertha, was buried in the Shiner Sons of Herman Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

WILLIAM HELMS

Cameron Herald, Cameron, Texas
7 March 1895

William Helms of Sweet Home, Lavaca Co., while twirling a pistol, accidentally shot himself in the bowels.

Contributed by Nena Smothers

HENRY & HERMAN HELWEG

Moulton News, 28 Feb 1895

A SAD DEATH.

Henry Helweg died at his home this last week, at Breslau, of the measles and was buried at Witting Sunday The deceased was 22 years old the 8th of February. He was a brother of F J Helweg of this place. His brother Herman is also very low of the same disease.

Heinrich Helweg, 8 Feb 1873 – 22 Feb 1895, and Hermann Helweg, 30 Jan 1875 – 1 Mar 1895, were interred in the Witting Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

IDA HELWEG

Weimar Mercury, 23 Mar 1895, page 2

Halletsville New Era:
Mr. D. Garbade of Witing was in the city Saturday to get a coffin for the little daughter of William Helwig, sr., who died of a relapse of the measles last Friday night. This is the third child that has been taken from Mr. Helwig with this disease within a few weeks. Verily, misfortunes do not come singly.

Ida Helweg, 28 Aug 1881 – 8 Mar 1895, was buried in the Witting Cemetery with her brothers, Henry and Herman. Contributed by Matt Cross

AGNES HEMMI

Lavaca County Tribune-New Era Herald, 3 Oct 1969

Mrs. Agnes Hemmi

Mrs. Agnes Hemmi, 83, of Hallettsville died in Renger Memorial Hospital Tuesday.

She was born in Lavaca County Feb. 7, 1886. She was married to Christian Hemmi in Hallettsville in 1909. He died Feb. 1, 1955.

Rosary will be recited at Kubena Funeral Home by the parish of Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 7:30 p. m. Wednesday.

Services will be conducted at the funeral home at 9:15 a. m. Thursday and at Sacred Heart Church at 9:30. The Rev. Stanley Petru will officiate. Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Mrs. Hemmi was a member of the Christian Mothers Society.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ALPHONSE HEMMI

Victoria Advocate, 6 Jul 2005

Alphonse J. Hemmi - HALLETTSVILLE

HALLETTSVILLE - Alphonse J. Hemmi, 86, of Hallettsville, died Monday, July 4, 2005.

He was born Feb. 21, 1919, in Lavaca County, to the late Gus and Frances Matejek Hemmi. He was the owner and operator or Hemmi Machine Shop for over 21 years, a veteran of World War II, and a member of: Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus, American Legion, and VFW. He received the American Campaign Medal, Europe/Africa/Middle East Campaign Medal with one battle star for the Rhineland Campaign, a Good Conduct Medal, a victory ribbon, one service stripe, and five overseas bars.

Survivors: brother, Walter Hemmi of Hallettsville.

Preceded in death by: sisters, Annie Hemmi, Evelyn Theisen, and Helen Hemmi; and brothers, Leon Hemmi and two infants.

Visitation will be noon today at Kubena Funeral Home chapel.

A rosary will be recited 7 p.m. tonight at the chapel and 9:30 p.m. Thursday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at the church, the Rev. Bryan Heyer officiating.

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

Memorials: Hospice of South Texas or Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ANNIE M. HEMMI

Shiner Gazette, 18 Mar 1999

Annie M. Hemmi, age 91 years, 6 months and 11 days of Hallettsville died Tuesday, March 9, 1999.

A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 10 at the Kubena Funeral Home chapel and at 1:30 p.m. Thursday, March 11 at Sacred Heart Church in Hallettsville.

Funeral services followed at 2 p.m. at the church with the Rev. John Peters officiating.

Burial was at Sacred Heart Cemetery in Hallettsville under the direction of Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville.

She was born Aug. 28, 1907 in Lavaca County to the late Gus and Frances Matejek Hemmi. She was a member of Sacred Heart Church.

She is survived by her sister Evelyn Theisen of Billings, Montana and two brothers, Walter Hemmi and Alphonse Hemmi, both of Hallettsville.

She was preceded in death by her parents; three brothers and one sister.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ASHLEY MARIE HEMMI

Victoria Advocate, 12 Feb 1984, page 16A

Ashley M. Hemmi

HALLETTSVILLE – Ashley Marie Hemmi, five-month-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Hemmi of Houston, died Friday in Houston.

Funeral services will be Monday at 10 a.m. in Sacred Heart Church in Hallettsville. Burial will follow in Sacred Heart Cemetery under the direction of Kubena Funeral Home of Hallettsville.

Surviving other than her parents are a brother, Adam of Houston; and grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Richard Janak and Mr. and Mrs. Ruban Hemmi, all of Hallettsville.

Contributed by Matt Cross

CARL W. HEMMI

Shiner Gazette, 5 Sep 1985

Carl W. Hemmi Rites In San Antonio

SAN ANTONIO - Carl W. Hemmi of San Antonio passed away Thursday, August 22, 1985 in Stevens Convalescent Center in Hallettsville.  He was 68 years of age.

A funeral Mass was held on Saturday, August 24, 1985 at 1 p.m. at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in San Antonio.  Monsignor Raymon Garcia was the celebrant.  Interment followed in Sunset Memorial Park.

Mr. Hemmi was a member of Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church and the Southwest Texas Geological Society.

Carl W. Hemmi devoted his adult life to studying geology and searching for oil in the South, West, and Northwest.

"In 1945 my husband discovered the Delhi oil field in northern Louisiana, and he did the geophysical work on that field," said his wife, Christiana Hemmi.

"He was very excited when he discovered that field.  We had been really searching for aproductive (sic) oil field after the war," she said.  "It's a very productive field, and it's still producing even today."

He was born and reared the son of Lutzie and Myrtle (Phelps) Hemmi, in Hallettsville, Texas and first came to San Antonio to attend St. Mary's University, the same school that his father had attended.

Christiana said she met him in 1935 while both were attending St. Mary's.  They were married in 1937.

"He finished his studies at the University of Texas in Austin, where he graduated with a degree in geology," his wife said.

They returned to San Antonio in 1940.  She said her husband was a geologist for the Petty Geophysical Engineering Co. until 1952.

"After traveling around the United States when my husband worked for Petty, we quit traveling and moved back to San Antonio in 1958, and he started working as a geologist consultant for different oil companies," she said.

Hemmi retired in 1970, but remained active in the geological community, his wife said.

"My husband was a member of the Southwest Texas Geological Society, and he took part in establishing a geophysical library located in the Milam Building," she said.  "He also was the first president of the library."

For hobbies, he collected coins and porcelain plates, his wife said.

She said her husband was friendly and outgoing.

"Whenever we were in New York, he would say hello to people in coffee shops, and they'd look at him and wonder where they'd met him.  Of course, they hadn't" she said.

"I will remember my husband for being so sweet and gentle.  I was kind of shy and he was very friendly.  It was nice to bask in the glory of the friendships he would establish," she said.

Survivors include his wife, Christiana Latimer Hemmi of San Antonio; his mother, Myrtle (Phelps) Hemmi of Hallettsville; son, Carl L. Hemmi of Vicksburg, Mississippi; three sisters, Mrs. Joe H. (Marjorie) Fietsam of Floresville, Mrs. Gibby (Lucille) Gerdes, Mrs. Leon (Marionell) Smothers, both of Hallettsville; three grandchildren, Louis Hemmi of Houston, Brad Hemmi of Los Angeles, California, Catherine Hemmi of Vicksburg, Mississippi; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a grandson, Todd Hemmi, and his father, Lutzie Hemmi.

Contributed by Matt Cross

CATHERINE ELIZABETH BERKENHOFF SEIFERT HEMMI

Hallettsville Herald, 4 Jan 1924

In Memorium

Mrs. Elizabeth Hemmi was born in Frelsburg, Colorado County, Texas, February 13, 1852 and died at the home of her son, Gustave Hemmi, near Halletsville December 27, 1923 aged 71 years, 10 months and 4 days.

Mrs. Hemmi, whose maiden name was Berckenhoff, was married to Joseph Seifert at Frelsburg in the year 1872. In the year 1874 her husband passed away and she was married to Lucius Hemmi. From Frelsburg they moved to Flatonia where her husband worked at the carpenter's trade, they lived in Flatonia several years. From there they came to Lavaca County and settled in Witting where her husband entered the gin and mercantile business. In 1893 her husband died from injuries received in a gin accident, later she sold the business and moved to the farm where she lived until the time of her death. For several years Mrs. Hemmi had been in failing health and for the last
three months she was confined to her room.

All that loving care and tender nursing and all that willing hands and loving hearts could bestow was done to nurse her frail body back to health again, but to no avail. It was God's will to take her. He closed her eyes to earthly things that she may find rest. The funeral occurred from the late residence. Saturday morning services were conducted at Sacred Heart Church at 9:00 o'clock with Requiem High Mass Father A. Mathis officiating assisted by father D. Sykora. Internment was in the Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers were Joe Woitaske, Frank Grahmann, Andress Bluda, Joe Henke and Franz Ehler.

Mrs. Hemmi leaves to mourn her death six children; Mesdames James Muecke and Walburga Brogger of San Antonio, Messrs. Gustave, Christian and Lucius Hemmi of Halletsville and Joe of Houston. There are 22 grandchildren. Two brothers and three sisters also survive; F. W. Berckenhoff of Halletsville, Henry Berckenhoff of Koerth, Mrs. Friedericka Pechacek of Halletsville and Mesdames Elenora Mitchell and Peter Raska of Yoakum.

In the passing of Mrs. Hemmi the world gives up another dear, good woman, she lived each day that her life may be a blessing to others. She was kind in spirit and noble in purpose.

Those from a distance that attended the funeral were; Mrs. E. H. Mitchell, Mr. and Mrs. Peter Raska and family, Adolph Pechacek Jr. and Jas. E. Hermes of Yoakum, Mrs. A. J. Berckenhoff of Shiner, Emil Pechacek of Moulton, John Hemmi and Mr. and Mrs. Schneider of Nada, Mrs. E. J. Muecke and son and Mrs. Walburga Brogger of San Antonio and Mr. and Mrs. Hemmi and daughter, Rosary, of Houston.

Elizabeth Hemmi was the daughter of August (Gustav) Berkenhoff and Antoinette Moeller.Contributed by Matt Cross

CHRISTIAN HEMMI

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 4 Feb 1955, page 1

Christian Hemmi Interred Here Thursday Morning

Funeral services were conducted Thursday morning beginning at the Kubena Funeral Home at 9:15 and continuing at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 9:30 for Christian Hemmi. The Reverend Victor Raska of Flatonia officiating and internment was in the Catholic Cemetery. Mr. Hemmi passed away Tuesday morning at 9 a. m.

Rosary was recited Tuesday and Wednesday nights at the funeral home beginning at 7:30.

Born in Lavaca County November 1, 1885, he was 69 years and three months of age at the time of his passing. On November 16, 1908 he was married to Miss Agnes Matejek at Halletsville and they settled on a farm here and spent his entire life in Lavaca County.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Agnes Hemmi, six sons, Victor, Carl, Willie, and Herbert, all of Halletsville, and Edwin and Carl Hemmi of Houston, one daughter Mrs. Walter Klitsch, two brothers, Joe Hemmi of Houston and Lutzie Hemmi of Halletsville, two sisters Mrs. Nettie Muecke and Mrs. Burga Brogger of San Antonio and seven grandchildren.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EDWIN L. HEMMI

Lavaca County Tribune, 13 Sep 1983

Edwin L. Hemmi

Edwin L. Hemmi, 70, of rural Hallettsville, died at 11:35 p.m., Monday, September 9, 1985, in the Lavaca Medical Center.

He was born August 20, 1915, in Lavaca County to the late Christian and Agnes Matejek Hemmi. He retired from Texas Iron Works of Houston after 33 years of service.

Mr. Hemmi was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville, a veteran of World War II and a member of Hallettsville American Legion Post No. 230.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Thursday, September 12, in Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with the Rev. Celestino Say officiating.

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

A parish rosary was recited at 7:30 p.m., Wednesday, September 11, in Kubena Funeral Home.

A society rosary was recited at 9:30 a.m., Thursday, in Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The body lay in state until 9 a.m., Thursday.

Surviving are a son, Kenneth R. Hemmi of Hallettsville; a sister, Mrs. Lillie Klitsch of Hallettsville; and two brothers, Henry Hemmi of

Hallettsville and Carl Hemmi of Houston.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ELVIN GEORGE HEMMI

Hallettsville Herald, 15 Apr 1924

DEATH OF A CHILD.

Elvin George son of Mr. and Mrs. Gus. Hemmi was born July 12th 1922 and died at the home of his parents Sunday morning, April 13th 1924 at 4 o'clock.  Aged 1 year, 9 months and 1 day.  The funeral was held Sunday afternoon at 5 o'clock, Father A. Mathis officiated, interment was in the Catholic Cemetery.

"We loved him, yes we loved him, But the Angels loved him more, And God has called him home to dwell, With the forever more."

To the bereaved ones the Herald extends sympathy in this their sad hour.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANCES HEMMI

Hallettsville Herald, 7 Oct 1927

MRS. FRANCES HEMMI

In the death of Mrs. Frances Hemmi another good lady has passed on to that reward awaiting the faithful. Mrs. Hemmi had been ill for over a year and the best medical skill and tender nursing could not restore her health Thursday morning at 1:30 a. m. surrounded by her dear ones she breathed her last. The funeral occurred this (Friday) morning at nine o'clock with Requiem Mass, Rev. A. Mathis and Rev. Victor Raska of El Campo conducting the services. A large number of friends attended the service and followed the remains to their last resting place. Beautiful flowers, representing tributes of friends to her memory, covered the mound at the conclusion of the burial rites.

The pallbearers will be Jos. Henke, Jos. Haas, Ben Bludau, Paul Schraer, Theo. Hermes, Hy. Grahmann.

Mrs. Hemmi was born in Hallettsville 47 years ago, in 1904 she was united in marriage to Gus Hemmi who with 5 children survive her untimely death. The children are Annie, Evelyn, Walter, Leon and Alphonse. Her mother Mrs. George Matejek survives and has been making her home with her. Three sisters and two brothers survive, Mrs. Christian Hemmi, Mrs. Frank Henke, Mrs. Willie Henneke, Jaro Matejek of Hallettsville and Jim Matejek of Yorktown.

Mrs. Hemmi was a truly christian woman and a devout member of the Catholic church. She was generous and kind hearted, faithful and true to every responsibility in life. These worthy attributes of character coupled with her bright and cheerful disposition endeared her to a large host of people. Our sincere sympathy to the bereaved in this their darkest hour.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANK J. HEMMI

Houston Chronicle, December 15, 2004

Hemmi, Frank J.

FRANK J. HEMMI, Born October 4, 1906 in Nada, Texas passed away December 12, 2004. He lived in Hallettsville, TX before moving to Houston in 1935.

Frank was a Machinist in related oil field businesses, retiring from the Bettis Corp. He was an inventive craftsman, a member of Holy Name Society, and founder of St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church where he served as an usher until recently.

Frank is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Phillip, Richard, and Mike Hemmi; sisters, Ophelia Schoellmann and Martha Leonard.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Agnes; daughters, Carolyn NovoGradac and Doris Petronella of Houston; grandsons, Donald NovoGradac, Brian NovoGradac and wife Jasmine; granddaughter, LeeAnn Wetterau and husband Thad; three great-grandchildren; brother, Urban Hemmi and wife Theresa; sister, Helen Achhammer; and numerous other loving family members.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 p.m., Thursday, December 16, 2004 at Earthman Bellaire Chapel, 6700 Ferris. Funeral Mass: 10:00 a.m., Friday, December 17, 2004 at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church, 6800 Buffalo Speedway.

Rite of Committal will follow at 2:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery, Hallettsville, TX.

Contributed by Maureen Briscoe

GUS HEMMI

Lavaca County Tribune, 4 Jul 1950

Gus Hemmi Is Taken By Death

Gus Hemmi, 71, elderly gentleman who spent most of his life in this community, died, Friday, June 30, at 2:15 p.m., in the Renger Hospital here, following a lingering illness. During his active life he made his living as a farmer, but had retired several years ago and moved into town.

Funeral services were held Sunday, from the Kubena Funeral home at 10:15 a. m., continuing at the Sacred Heart Church at 10:30 a. m. Interment was in the Catholic Cemetery. Rev. Victor Raska conducted the last rites, assisted at the funeral home Saturday night.

The deceased was a member of the Catholic Knights of America, and lived a good Christian life. He was born at Flatonia, but lived in this community for many years. His wife, nee Frances Matejek, preceded him in death.

Surviving are five children, two daughters, Miss Annie Hemmi at home; Mrs. Bill Theisen,, Molt, Montana; three sons Walter of Houston, Leon of Hustn, and Alphonse of Hallettsville; three brothers, Lutzie Hemmi and Christian Hemmi of Hallettsville; two sisters, Mrs. E. J. Muecke of San Antonio and Mrs. Walburga Brogger of San Antonio. Three grandchildren also survive.

Pallbearers were: Walter Muecke, N. E. Davis, Charlie Henke, George Matejek, Carl Hemmi and Bill Hemmi.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HENRY G. HEMMI

Lavaca County Tribune Herald, 20 Oct 1993

Henry G. Hemmi, 82, of Hallettsville, died in the Regional Medical Center, Victoria, Friday, Oct. 15, 1993 at 11:20 p.m.

He was born May 14, 1911, in Hallettsville, son of the late Christian and Agnes Matejek Hemmi and was a retired partner in the Grafe & Hemmi Oldsmobile Co. in Hallettsville. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, the American Legion and the Knights of Columbus.

He was a veteran of World War II and served in the China-Burma-India Theater with the 308 Bomb Group, 425 Squadron. On June 11, 1945 he was married to Lelia Ann Rother in Victoria.

Survivors his wife, Lelia Ann Rother Hemmi; a daughter, Charlene Ann Guidry and son-in-law, Rogers P. Guidry of Hallettsville; a brother, Carl Hemmi of Houston; and two step-grandsons.

Besides his parents he was preceded in death by a sister and four brothers.

Visitation began at 10:30 a.m. Sunday, Oct. 17 and continued until 9:30 a.m. Monday, Oct. 18 at Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville.

Rosary was recited 7 p.m. Sunday at the funeral home and 10 a.m. Monday at Sacred Heart Church, Hallettsville.

Services were conducted at 10:30 a.m. Monday at Sacred Heart Church. The Rev. Celestino Say officiated.

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

Pallbearers were William "Bill" Grafe, Hilmer Laqua, Frank V. Henke, Oscar Henneke, Paul Najvar, Robert Obelgoner, Don Rainosek and Paul Guidry.

Honorary pallbearers were Charles "Buckly" Rother and Rogers Paul Guidry.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HERBERT C. HEMMI

Victoria Advocate, 20 Nov 1973, page 10A

Herbert Hemmi

HALLETTSVILLE -- Herbert C. Hemmi, 50, of Hallettsville, died at 8:30 p.m. Sunday in a local hospital.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Burial will be at the Hallettsville city cemetery, with the Rev. Stanley Petru officiating.

He was born Jan. 12, 1923 in Lavaca County and was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Survivors include his wife, Dorthey; a sister, Lillie Klitsch of Hallettsville; and five brothers, Victor, Henry and Williams of Hallettsville, and Edwin and Carl of Houston.

Contributed by Matt Cross

LEON F. HEMMI

Lavaca County Tribune Herald, 16 Dec 1983

Leon F. Hemmi

Leon F. Hemmi, 69, native of Hallettsville, died at 10:45 a.m., Wednesday, December 14, 1983, at his home in Hallettsville.

He was born October 17, 1914 and retired May 1, 1975 as an employee of Houston Lighting and Power Co. He was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council No. 2433, and the VFW.

The body will be taken from Kubena Funeral Home to Sacred Heart Catholic Church at 9:15 a.m., Friday, December 16, with funeral services at 10 a.m. The Rev. Celestino Say will officiate, with burial in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

He was the son of the late Gus and Frances Matejek Hemmi.

Survivors include two sisters, Miss Annie Hemmi of Hallettsville and Mrs. Evelyn Theisen of Billings, Montana and two brothers, Walter Hemmi and Alphonse Hemmi, both of Hallettsville.

Contributed by Matt Cross

LUTZIE HEMMI

Shiner Gazette, 23 Jun 1977

Lutzie Hemmi of Hallettsville passed away at 10:45 p.m. Monday, June 13, 1977 in the Lavaca Medical Center.  He attained the age of 87 years, 3 months and 8 days.  He was admitted to the hospital a few days earlier after suffering a hip fracture in a fall at his home.

The body lay in state at the Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville until Wednesday, June 15, at 3:00 p.m. when it was moved to Sacred Heart Catholic Church for 4:00 p.m. services.

Rosary was recited at the Kubena Funeral Home Tuesday, June 14, 7:00 p.m. by the parish and Wed., June 15, at 3:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church by the societies.  Intemrent was in Sacred Heart Cemetery.  The Rev. Stanley Petru officiated.

Pallbearers included all his grandsons, Kenneth Smothers, Steven Smothers, James Evans, Gilbert Gerdes Jr., Jimmy Fietsam and Don Fietsam.

Honorary pallbearers named were all postal employees of Hallettsville and Dr. Harvey Renger.

Mr. Hemmi was born Mar. 5, 1890 near Hallettsville, son of Lucius and Elizabeth (Berckenhoff) Hemmi.

Mr. Hemmi was a member of Sacred Heart Parish, a charter member of the Knights of Columbus and the Catholic Knights.  He retired from the U.S. Postal Service as a rural carrier a few years ago after 40 years of service.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Myrtle Hemmi; one son, Carl W. Hemmi of San Antonio; three daughters, Mrs. G.H. (Lucille) Gerdes, Mrs. Joe H. (Marjorie) Fietsam of Floresville, Mrs. Leon (Marionell) Smothers of Bloomington; eight grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Matt Cross

LUZIUS HEMMI

Weimar Mercury, 27 Aug 1892, page 2

Halletsville New Era.

A sad accident occurred Tuesday, which resulted in the death of Mr. L. Hemmi, who lives a few miles from Witting, where he has a gin. About 8 o'clock Tuesday morning he had occasion to draw a wagon loaded with cotton up to the gin house. He picked up the tongue of the wagon, the horses being unhitched, and pulled, while others pushed. He walked backwards and ran into the back of the wagon ahead the tongue he had hold of striking him in the abdomen. He went to his home and [summoned] medical aid, but died Wednesday afternoon at 6 o'clock.

Luzius Hemmi, 12 Feb 1831-17 Aug 1892, a Civil War veteran, was buried in the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery at Hallettsville. He had lost his left arm below the elbow in a ginning accident in 1890. Contributed by Matt Cross

MAXINE SCHAEFER HEMMI

Victoria Advocate, 7 Dec 2002

Maxine Hemmi

HALLETTSVILLE - Maxine Hemmi, 93, of Hallettsville, died Thursday, Dec. 5, 2002.

She was born Nov. 18, 1909, in Breslau, to the late Louis and Nathalie Meissner Schaefer. She was a member of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Hallettsville.

Survivors: sisters, Adele Vyvial and Dorothy June Renger, both of Hallettsville and Anita Williams of Luling.

Preceded in death by: first husband, William H. Buss; second husband, Willie Joe Hemmi; parents; sister, May Keil; and brother, Harvey Schaefer.

Visitation will 3 p.m. Sunday at Kubena Funeral Home chapel.

Services will be 2 p.m. Monday at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Hallettsville, the Rev. Herb Beyer officiating. Burial will be at Breslau Lutheran Cemetery. Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361-798-3271.

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

MYRTLE PHELTS HEMMI

Shiner Gazette, 2 Jun 1988

Myrtle Hemmi

HALLETTSVILLE - Mrs. Myrtle Hemmi, 92, of Hallettsville, died at 7:30 a.m. Sunday, May 29, 1988 in Stevens Convalescent Center.

She was born April 5, 1896 in Speaks to the late Melville and Martha Lee Ann Harvey Phelts.  She married Lutzie Hemmi on Feb. 14, 1914, in Hallettsville.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church and a charter member of Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Hallettsville Garden Club and Hallettsville Home Demonstration Club.

Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, May 31 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church with the Rev. Celestino Say officiating.  Burial followed at Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Gilbert Gerdes Jr., Steve Smothers, Ken Smothers, Joe Fabrygel, Louis Hemmi, James Evans, Jim Evans, James Fietsam and David Fietsam.

A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Monday at the funeral home and at 2:30 p.m. Tuesday at the church.

Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Lucille Gerdes and Mrs. Marionell Smothers, both of Hallettsville and Mrs. Joe H. (Marjorie) Fietsam of Floresville; eight grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Jan. 13, 1977; a son, Carl W. Hemmi, Aug. 22, 1981; and a grandson, Donald C. Fietsam, Aug. 6, 1981.

Transcribed by Matt Cross

ROY A. HEMMI

Victoria Advocate, 25 Jan 1973, page 12A

Roy A. Hemmi

HALLETTSVILLE—Roy A. Hemmi, 18, son of Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Hemmi of Hallettsville, died at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in a Galveston hospital.

He had been ill for much of his life.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday at Kubena Funeral Home, with the Rev. Raymond Wolf officiating. Burial will be in City Cemetery.

He was born Dec. 7, 1954 in Lavaca County, and was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church.

Survivors, in addition to his parents, include his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Laas, of Hallettsville.

Transcribed by Matt Cross

THERESA MARIA STEWART HEMMI

OBIT(Long-Tribune/Brochure/Library:

Theresa Marie (Stewart) Hemmi,  96 passed away peacefully on Friday morning July 25, 2014 after a brief  malady  that could not alter her  friendly essence.  She was born March 20, 1918, the eldest of 8 to Winona Sweeney & Alexander Rudolph Stewart in San Antonio, Texas while her father was serving in WWI as a general’s orderly in the Calvary.

She was a 12th generation Mayflower descendant in the Francis COOKE line (Cooke-Bradley-Sweeney-Stewart).  Her maternal Sweeney grandparents married and taught on the Pine Ridge and other Dakota Sioux reservations during historical times, from whence she inherited her pioneer spirit and determination that sustained her through many of life’s challenges. Her STEWART heritage goes back to the Scottish royals and her HEMMI name traces back to the Roman occupation of Switzerland (CHUR) where Hemmi cousins still reside.

Given her natural friendly demeanor, she attended and hosted scores of STEWART/SWEENEY/HEMMI reunions, family events and innumerable domino, golf,  Shanghai, Canasta and family games in the Hemmi Haus of Hospitality always open for fun and relaxation as a respite place. If she lost she would say: “I enjoyed it but didn’t have fun. “

Her earliest Aransas Pass memories were about living on a farm, where her dad “sharecropped”, visiting relatives in horse/buggy on weekends, living briefly in the convent with nuns and spending Christmas of 1922 in the hospital with a broken leg. That same leg broke again on Dec 15, 2009 but after surgery Theresa convinced the reluctant doctor  to send her home for the  Dec. 19, 2009 Hemmi Christmas. In her youth she walked 3 miles to school, endured hurricanes, worked several jobs to help support the family who fared well during the depression by  selling bunches of vegetables and donuts for 15cents/dozen. She graduated from Rockport H.S. where she played basketball and softball. She survived a serious car wreck in 1939 and early Model-T  adventures traveling in Arkansas and other states. 

She married the dapper Urban F. Hemmi on Sept.8, 1940 in Sacred Heart church, Rockport to which union 7 children were born, the first 5 at home in Rockport, and the last 2 in Hallettsville where the family moved in May 1951 so the Hemmi kids could attend Sacred Heart Catholic school and where the youngest grandchild , Abby, still attends.  In 71 years of wedded bliss Theresa & Urban, in addition to the many family reunions and celebrations, were able to enjoy with various family members: 15 cross-country USA trips, a trip to Mexico, a trip to Canada, and 3 trips to Europe that included a blessing of the crowd by Pope John Paul (1979) and staying in the Hemmi Hotel in Churwalden , Switzerland during their European tours.

Theresa Marie was a devout Catholic who lived a life of Christian service with its call to holiness, praying her daily rosary & attending Mass till her earthly end. Through her faith she traversed many obstacles usually with a friendly smile and the adage:” that’s a little thing in such a big world”.  Along with early Sacred Heart School offices, she was a lifelong Christian Mother, Eucharistic minister, officer of the original Sacred Heart Laity Council; Family Ministry, head of the Sacred Heart Right to Life committee and founding member of the Thrift/Manna store now known as LAMB and with Urban charter members of the Northwest SERRA club and Engagement Encounter sponsors. In 1988 she was honored as the Catholic Life Fraternalist of the year & in 1996 was  given the Sons of Herman Humanitarian Award for outstanding community service.  After attending a women’s ACTS retreat in San Antonio in 1997, so impressed was she with its results she helped introduce the program to Sacred Heart parish and helped staff the first local retreats. A true servant who knew true joy came in giving, she lived life abundantly and taught others well by Christian example to be: “the Best Versions of Ourselves”. She was non-judgemental  in sharing her  unconditional Love and was an inspiration of wisdom and peace to scores.

Theresa is survived  by all her 7 children and 6 spouses: Theresa and Paul Voelkel, John and Barbara Hemmi, Agnes-Terri Palmer, Joe and Beth Hemmi, Phillip and Rosemary Hemmi, Michael and Donna Hemmi, James and Linda Hemmi  and sisters Marge Rehm and Sr. Rose Stewart, and brothers Alex and J.D. Stewart.

She has 18 living grandchildren with their 8 spouses: Kevin and Cathy Voelkel, Cheryl and Andrew Oldweiler, Stephanie and Nick Nichols, Joanne and Ron Kinney, Kyle and Grace Hemmi, Kelly Voelkel, Adam and Veronica Hemmi,  Bradley and Alessa Hemmi, Gretchen and Greg Konopczynski, Jeffrey, Kristen , Christian , Jacob ,Zachary, Anna , Jamie Marie , James  and Abby HEMMI.  

Her 12 great-grandchildren  are: Justin, Stephen, Patrick,Jacob Voelkel, Taylor Hemmi,  Aaron, Aiden, Alec  Nichols, Faith  and Emma Kinney,  Kaelan  and Micah Hemmi.

In addition to her parents and spouse Urban, she was preceded in death by her sisters Gertrude Stewart and Maryann Shaw and brother Johnny Stewart, son in law Raymond Palmer and grandchild Ashley Hemmi.

The family is grateful to the staff and caregivers at Advance Home Health, Hallettsville Rehab. and at Hospice of South Texas.  

Rosary was recited  at Kubena Funeral home at 6pm on Sunday July 27,2014.

Funeral Mass was celebrated at Sacred Heart Catholic church on Monday July 28, 2014 at 11:00 am.   Monsignor  John Peters   officiated with burial att Sacred Heart Catholic cemetery.             

Pall bearers will be grandsons Kevin and Kelly Voelkel, Jacob Hemmi, Bradley Hemmi, l, James A. Hemmi, and Nick Nichols.

Memorials can be made to Sacred Heart Catholic School  Operating  fund or the Teen ACTS scholarships   mailed to PO Drawer H, Hallettsville,Tex 77964 or to Hospice of South Texas.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.kubena funeralhome.com.                                      

Contributed by Phillip Hemmi

VICTOR F. HEMMI

Victoria Advocate, 15 Sep 1974, page 10A

Victor F. Hemmi

HALLETTSVILLE -- Victor F. Hemmi, 64, of Rt. 2 Hallettsville, died at his home Friday.

The body will lie in state at the Kubena Funeral Home until 9 a.m. Monday when it will be taken to Sacred Heart Catholic Church for services at 10 a.m.

Rosary will be recited Sunday at 7 p.m. by the Parish and 7:15 p.m. by the societies at the funeral home.

Burial will be in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Mr. Hemmi was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He was born Dec. 16, 1909 in Lavaca County, and was a farmer.

Survivors include four brothers, Henry and Bill Hemmi of Hallettsville, and Edwin and Carol of Houston; one sister, Mrs. Lillie Klitsch of Hallettsville.

Transcribed by Matt Cross

WILLIE J. HEMMI

Shiner Gazette, 8 Aug 1985

Services Held For Willie J. Hemmi

HALLETTSVILLE - Willie J. Hemmi, 73, of Hallettsville, died at 8:29 p.m. Tuesday, July 16, 1985 in a Hallettsville nursing home.

Born Dec. 4, 1912, in Lavaca County, he was a retired farmer and merchant and a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A veteran of World War II, he was a member of the Hallettsville American Legion, the Hallettsville DAV and the Moulton VFW.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Friday, July 19 at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church with the Rev. Ed Kelly officiating.

Burial followed in Breslau Cemetery under the direction of Kubena Funeral Home of Hallettsville.

Rosary was recited at 8 p.m. Thursday, July 18 at Kubena Funeral Home and at 9:30 a.m. Friday, July 19 when it was taken to the church for services.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Maxine Hemmi of Hallettsville; a sister, Mrs. Lillie Klitsch of Hallettsville; three brothers, Henry and Edwin Hemmi, both of Hallettsville and Carl Hemmi of Houston.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Christian and Agnes (Matejek) Hemmi and two brothers, Herbert C. Hemmi, Nov. 18, 1973; and Victor Hemmi.

Transcribed by Matt Cross

LEONARD HERMAN HEMPEL

The Victoria Advocate, Sep 1999

Leonard J. Hempel

YOAKUM – Leonard Herman Hempel, 61, of Yoakum, died Thursday, Sept. 9, 1999. 

He was born Nov. 5, 1937, in DeWitt County, to the late Herman and Anna Schott Hempel.  He was self-employed and a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

Survivors: sister, Annie Mae Kremling of Yoakum.

Preceded in death by: wife, Willie Mae Hempel.

Graveside services will be 10 a.m. Monday at Oak Grove Cemetery, the Rev. Ildiko Rigney officiating.

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

Contributed by Regena Williamson

WILLIE MAE MATIJEK HEMPEL

The Victoria Advocate, May 1992

Willie Mae Hempel

Sweet Home – Willie Mae Hempel, 55, of Sweet Home died in a local nursing home Friday, May 8, 1992, after a lengthy illness.

Mrs. Hempel was born Oct. 22, 1936, in Koerth, to Agnes Kalcak of Yoakum and the late Joseph Matijek.  She was a member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church.

Survivors:  husband, Leonard Herman Hempel, daughter, Willie Mae Poehl of Houston; son, Horman Poehl of Hoston; mother, sisters, Agnes Martinez of Houston and Josephone Matijek of Hallettsville; half sisters, Frances Kaviceick and Mary Vogt, brother, Johnny Matijek of Moulton, and half brothers, Louis Matijek, Frank Matijek, Anton Matijek, and Emirl Matijek. 

Rosary and prayer service 7 p.m. Sunday at the Buffington Funeral Home.

Services 10 a.m. Monday at the Queen of Peace Catholic Church, the Rev. Charles Sonnier officiating. 

Burial in Oak Grove Cemetery.  Buffington Funeral Home.  Yoakum, 293-2333.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

Dr. P. H. HENINGER

Shiner Gazette, 7 May 1902

Death of Dr. P. Henninger.

The people of Shiner were surprised and startled last Sunday morning by the announcement of the death of Dr. P. Henninger, at his home in this city. He was at his office during the entire day on Saturday and was up and about the house Sunday morning.

About 9 o’clock, his wife missing him from the house, went out in the yard to see what was detaining him, and found him lying dead in the yard. Dr. Fordtran was hastily summoned and after making an examination, pronounced it death from heart failure. The funeral took place Monday evening at 3 o’clock at the K. of P. cemetery.

Dr. P. H. Heninger, 30 Mar 1838 – 4 May 1902, was buried in the Shiner City Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

AMALIA JANECEK HENKE

Karnes County News, 19 May 1921

Mrs. Joe Henke Dead

Mrs. Joe Henke, of Halletsville, died at the home of her brother H. F. Janecek at Yoakum last night. Mrs. Henke was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Hy. Janecek of near Charco. The funeral will occur at Halletsville tomorrow morning (Friday) at the Halletsville Catholic Cemetery at 10:00 o' clock.

To the bereaved relatives the News expresses deepest sympathy in their dark hour of sorrow.

Mr. and Mrs. H. F. Janecek of Charco left last Friday for Yoakum to be at the bedside of their daughter Mrs. Joe Henke.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ANNIE J. KLEKAR HENKE

Weimar Mercury, Thursday, January 12, 2012, Page 2

Annie Henke Services Held January 3

Annie J. Henke, 95, of Hallettsville, passed away Dec. 31, 2011.

She was born on May 21, 1916, to Frnak and Anna Prasek Klekar in Lavaca County. She married Charlie Henke on Oct. 19, 1937, in Hallettsville.

She was a member of KJZT, Catholic Daughters of Americas, and Sacred Heart Catholic church of Hallettsville.

Annie is survived by: sister Beatrice Mensik of Weimar; sister-in-law Marcella Klekar of Hallettsville; 19 godchildren; and numerous nieces & nephews.

Annie was preceded in death by her husband, parents, 3 brothers, Robert, Albert, and Hubert Klekar; 3 sisters, Viola Henke, Victoria Klekar, and Mary Klekar and godchild Delores Ludwig.

Funeral services were held on Tuesday, Jan. 3, at Sacred Heart Catholic church of Hallettsville with Rev. John Peters officiating.
Interment followed at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers included: Leo C. Henke, Charles F. Henke, Lawrence Henke, Rudy Henke, Dennis Klekar, James Mensik, Anthony Etzler and Tim Henke.

Memorials (in lieu of flowers) may be made to Sacred Heart Catholic church, Our Lady of perpetual Help Church or School, sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament of Victoria, or Donor’s Choice.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.kubenafuneralhome.com.

Transcribed by Sandra Long Anders

AUGUST T. HENKE

Victoria Advocate, 5 Apr 1993, page 12

AUGUST T. HENKE

HALLETTSVILLE - August T. Henke, 74, of Hallettsville died Sunday, April 4, 1993.

He was born Oct. 4, 1918, in Lavaca County to the late Joseph and Amelia Janacek Henke. Mr. Henke was a retired farmer and rancher, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council No. 2433, Catholic Life Society and Sacred Heart Catholic Church. He married Georgia Konvicka Oct. 24, 1939, in Hallettsville.

Survivors: wife; daughters, Helen Pesek of East Bernard and Anita Hobbs of Friendswood; son, August F. Henke of Bellville; brothers, Henry Henke, John Henke and Frank Henke, all of Hallettsville; 10 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Visitation: 2 p.m. Monday through 2 p.m. Tuesday, Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville.

Rosary: 8 p.m. Monday, Kubena Funeral Home, and 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Services: 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Monsignor Jim Henke and the Revs. Celestino Say and Anthony Pesek officiating.

Burial: Sacred Heart Cemetery, Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 782-3271.

Pallbearers: Christopher Henke, Charles Henke, Kevin Wauters, Douglas Pesek, Dwayne Pesek and David Muntz.

Honorary pallbearers: Robert Grahmann, Paul Henke, David Henke, George "Doc" Matejek, Dennis Chovanetz and Anthony Stacha.

Contributed by Matt Cross

CHERYL ANN FISHER HENKE

Victoria Advocate, 17 Mar 2002

Cheryl Ann Henke

HALLETTSVILLE—Cheryl Ann Henke, 49, of Hallettsville, died Friday, March 15, 2002.

She was born Aug. 16, 1952, in McCamey, to the late Donald Paul and Mary C. Bryant Fisher. She was a member of Sacred Heart Church of Hallettsville.

Survivors: husband, Robert E. Henke; daughters, Carrie Ellis of Levelland, Kelly Henke of San Marcos and Milinda Henke of Austin; sister, Marla Forrest of Marina Del Rey, Calif.; and brother, Lary Fisher of Bartlesville, Okla.

Preceded in death by: parents.

Visitation will be 11:30 a.m. today at Kubena Funeral Home chapel. A rosary will be recited 7 p.m. tonight at Sacred Heart Church.

Services will be 10 a.m. Monday at the church, the Msgr. James Henke officiating.

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

Contributed by Matt Cross

Victoria Advocate, 12 Jul 2005

David W. Henke - HALLETTSVILLE

Mr. David W. Henke, 55, of Hallettsville, died July 9, 2005. He was a rancher and worked in the cattle business. He graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Hallettsville and National Auction Institute in Bryan, Texas. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Sacred Heart Booster Club, and Knights of Columbus. He was past Director and State Secretary for Texas State Championship High School Rodeo Association. He is survived by wife Jeanette Spoede Henke; sons Jeff Spoede Henke D.P.M. and David Scott Henke; father and mother-in-law Herman & Nellie Spoede of Austin; 4-brothers Henry Joe Henke & wife Marcella, Bob Henke & wife Jeanette A., Pat Henke & wife Gayle all of Hallettsville, and Msgr. Jim Henke of San Antonio; 2-sisters Mary Rose Barta & husband Clarence, Barbara H. Grahmann & husband Robert of Hallettsville; 17 nieces and nephews; and 14 great nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by: father and mother Henry & Elizabeth Hermes Henke Sr., stepmother Celie Chapman Henke, and sister-in-law Cheryl Fisher Henke. Service: 10am, Wednesday, July 13, 2005 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville. Visitation: Noon, Tuesday at Kubena Funeral Home. Rosary: 7pm, Tuesday at Sacred Heart Church. Burial at Sacred Heart Garden Mausoleum. Memorials: Sacred Heart Athletic Fund or donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANK HENKE

Victoria Advocate, Wednesday, November 14, 1962, Page 7

Frank Henke

HALLETTSVILLE—Funeral services for Frank Henke, 81, retired farmer of this area who died Sunday in a local hospital after a long illness, were held Tuesday morning at Kubena Funeral Home and Sacred Heart Church, with the Rev. Charles Grahmann officiating at a Requiem High Mass.

Burial was in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Surviving are six sons, Charles, Leo and Frank of Hallettsville, George of Komensky, Hilbert of Moravia, and Willie Henke of Edna; two daughter, Mrs. Joe Etzler and Mrs. Henry Etzler, both of Hallettsville; a brother, Joe Henke of Hallettsville; a sister, Mrs. Joe Grafe of Hallettsville; and 47 grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Victor Grafe, Charlie Grafe, Henry Hemmi, Henry Heske, Walter Henneke and George Matejek.

Frank Henke died 11 November 1962 in Hallettsville. He was the husband of Mary Matejek. Contributed by Maureen Briscoe

HENRY HENKE, Sr.

Victoria Advocate, 12 Dec 2002

Henry Henke, Sr.

Henry Henke, Sr. passed away on Tuesday, December 10, 2002, at the Hallettsville Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, where he had been a resident for fifteen months.

He was born October 16,1915, in Hallettsville and was the oldest of four sons born to Joseph & Amelia Janecek Henke. He attended Sacred Heart School and was a life-long member of Sacred Heart Church. Farming was his primary occupation.

In addition to being a dedicated husband, father and grandfather he always found time to be of service to his Church and others. Through out his lifetime he served Sacred Heart Church and Sacred Heart School in many capacities. He was a lector, Eucharistic Minister, daily Mass server and Rosary leader. He was a member of the Parish Board for many years and Chairman of the Sacred Heart Parish Picnic Committee for twenty-five years. He served as past president and member of the Board of Directors of Sacred Heart Credit Union for thirty five years.

He was an outstanding supporter of Sacred Heart School, a member of Sacred Heart School Parent-Teacher Club and Indian Booster Club for many years. He took pride in having sent his eight children to Sacred Heart School and that all nineteen grandchildren graduated from a Catholic High School.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus Council #2433 for 47 years and an officer and member of the St. Joseph's Society.

He was Chairman and member of the Lavaca County Agricultural Stabilization Conservation Committee. During his retirement years he and his late wife Celie were volunteers for the Road to Recovery program for the American Cancer Society.

Eight children, nineteen grandchildren and ten-great-grandchildren survive him.

His children are: Henry Joe Henke, Jr. and wife, Marcella, of Hallettsville; Msgr. James Henke of San Antonio; Mary Rose Barta and husband, Clarence, of Shiner; Robert Henke; Paul Henke and wife Annette; David Henke and wife, Jeanette; Barbara Grahmann and husband Robert; Patrick Henke and wife Gayle, all of Hallettsville.

Also surviving him is one brother, Frank P. Henke, of Hallettsville.

He was preceded in death by parents; his first wife, Elizabeth Hermes Henke and second wife, Celie Chapman Henke; two brothers, John and August Henke; and daughter-in-law, Cheryl Henke.

Visitation will be at 2:30 p.m. Thursday at Kubena Funeral Home Chapel.

A vigil service with Rosary will be held at Sacred Heart Church, Hallettsville, at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday and at 9:30 a.m. on Friday.

Mass of the Resurrection will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 13, 2002. Celebrants at the Mass will be his son, Msgr. James Henke, his pastor, Father John Peters and other priests of the Archdiocese of San Antonio and Diocese of Victoria.

Pallbearers will be grandsons: Scott Henke, Paul Henke, Jr., Chris Grahmann, Dale Pesek, Michael Malinovsky and Tommy Harper.

Memorials may be made to Sacred Heart School or the Sacred Heart School Athletic Fund.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HILBERT CHRISTEN HENKE

Victoria Advocate, Mar 5, 2004

Hilbert C. Henke

Wednesday, February 25th, 2004

MOULTON - Hilbert Christen Henke, 84, of Moulton, died Tuesday, Feb. 24, 2004.

He was born Sept. 13, 1949, in Hallettsville, to the late Frank and Mary Matejek Henke.

He was a veteran of World War II. He received the Purple Heart, Europe-Africa-Middle East Campaign Medal, and the Good Conduct Medal and was a member of American Legion Post 230.

He was a farmer and operated Moravia store. He was a member of Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church in Moravia.

Survivors: daughters, Jo Marie Lookabill of Cost, Mildred Timm of West Columbia, Joyce Kocian of Hallettsville, and Jane Janecek of Moulton; sons, Hilbert J. Henke Jr. and Tim Henke, both of Moravia, Carl Henke of Praha, Thomas Henke and Dale Henke, both of Hallettsville, and Donald Henke of Arkansas; sisters, Helen Etzler and Annie Etzler, both of Hallettsville; brother, Leo Henke of Hallettsville; 19 grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: wife, Mary Etzler Henke; son, Royce Henke; sister, Angela Henke; and brothers, George Henke, Frank Henke, Bill Henke, and Charlie Henke.

Visitation will begin noon today at Kubena Funeral Home chapel.

A rosary will be recited 7:30 p.m. tonight at the funeral home chapel and 9:30 a.m. Thursday at Sacred Heart Church.

Services will be 10 a.m. Thursday at the church, the Rev. John Peters officiating.

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

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

JOHN HENKE, Sr.

Hallettsville Tribune-Herald, 19 Nov 1997

John Henke Sr.  

Hallettsville—John Henke Sr., of Hallettsville, died Monday, Nov. 17, 1997.  He was born Jan. 6, 1917, in Hallettsville, to the late Joe and Amelia Janecek Henke. He was a former Lavaca County Commissioner for 12 years, former owner of the Henke Texaco Station and was a rancher and farmer. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Knights of Columbus Council #2433 and K.J.T. Lodge.

Survivors: Daughters Margaret Steffek of Hallettsville, Patricia Mladenka of Seguin, Bernadette Pokluda of Houston, Frances Pesek of Shiner, Dorothy Kubesch, Carolyn Shimek and Alice Shimek, all of Victoria, Annette Boone of Hope and Geraldine Pavelka of Austin: sons John Henke, Jr. of Hallettsville and Stephen Henke of Victoria; brothers: Henry Henke Sr. and Frank P. Henke, both of Hallettsville; 38 grandchildren; 19 great grandchildren; and 3 great stepchildren.

Preceded in death by; wife Lucy Klekar Henke; and brother, Gus Henke.

Visitation will begin at 10:30 A.M. today at Kubena Funeral Home Chapel.  A rosary will be recited at 7 P.M. today at the funeral home and at 10:30 A.M.Thursday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Services will be at 11 A.M. Thursday at the church, with Monsignor James Henke and the Rev. John Peters officiating.

Burial will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery. Kubena Funeral Home

Memorial: Sacred Heart School or donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOE HENKE

Lavaca County Tribune, 6 Feb 1968

Joe Henke

Mr. Joe Henke of Route 2, Hallettsville passed away at the Renger Memorial Hospital in Hallettsville Friday, February 2, 6:50 A. M. He attained the age of 82 years, 10 months and 13 days at the time of his death.

Funeral services were held at the Kubena Funeral Home at 1:45 p. m. and at 2:00 p. m., Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hallettsville, with the Rev. Father James Henke of San Antonio officiating. Interment was in the Sacred Heart Cemetery.

A member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, St. Joseph Society and Catholic Knights of America, the deceased was born in Lavaca County on March 19, 1882. A retired farmer Mr. Henke was married to Amalia Janacek on May 1915, at Charco, Texas (Goliad County). After their marriage the couple settled in Lavaca County. Mrs. Henke preceded her husband in death in 1921.

Among the survivors are 4 sons, Henry, John, August and Frank P. Henke all of Hallettsville; also 28 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Matt Cross

LUCY KLEKAR HENKE

Shiner Gazette, 26 Jun 1986, page 4B

Lucy Henke,
Mother of Frances Pesek Dies

HALLETTSVILLE – Funeral services for Mrs. Lucy Klekar Henke, 65, of Hallettsville, who died Wednesday, June 11, 1986, in a Victoria hospital, were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, June 14 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville. The Rev. Jim Henke officiated.

One of eight children, she was born March 2, 1921, in the Witting community, Lavaca County, daughter of Albert and Frances (Kresta) Klekar.

On Jan. 21, 1941, she was married to John Henke in St. Mary’s Catholic Church near Hallettsville. The couple made their home on a farm near Hallettsville where they resided continuously.

She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Catholic Daughters of America, Christian Mothers and KJZT Society.

Surviving are her husband, John Henke of Hallettsville; nine daughters, Mrs. Leon (Margaret) Steffek of Hallettsville, Mrs. Philip (Patricia) Mladenka and Mrs. Benedict (Bernadette) Pokluda, both of Houston, Mr.s Leonard (Frances) Pesek of Shiner, Mrs. Fred (Dorothy Kubesch, Mrs. Michael “Mike” (Carolyn) Shimek, Mrs. Ken (Alice) Shimek, all of Victoria, Mrs. Dwayne (Annette) Boone of Hope, Mrs. Joe (Geraldine) Pavelka of Austin; three sons, John Henke Jr. of Hallettsville, Joseph Henke of Lafayette, La., Stephen Henke of Hope.

Also her mother, Mrs. Frances Kresta Klekar of Hallettsville; two sisters, Mrs. Gus (Josephine) Janak of Houston, Mrs. Leo (Mildred) Christ of Hallettsville; four brothers, Alphonse Klekar of Houston, Leon Klekar Sr. and Daniel Klekar, both of Hallettsville, August Klekar of Rockdale; 30 grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her father, Albert Klekar; and a brother Albert Klekar Jr.

In lieu of usual remembrances, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society or the charity of the donor’s choice.

Serving as pallbearers were her grandsons, Leon Steffek, Jr., Harvey Steffek, John G. Henke, all of Hallettsville, Rodney Mladenka of Houston, Leonard Pesek Jr., and Anthony Pesek, both of Shiner.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ROSE LEE GRAHMANN HENKE

Victoria Advocate, December 7, 2004

HALLETTSVILLE - Rose Lee Henke, 76, of Hallettsville, died Sunday, Dec. 5, 2004.

She was born Sept. 21, 1928, in Hallettsville, to the late Alois and Olga Etzler Grahmann. She was a member of Catholic Daughters of America, KJZT, Christian Mothers and Catholic Life. She was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Survivors: daughters, Rachel Siegel, Roberta Jurena, and Renee Hardt, all of Hallettsville, Sister M. Rosalyn Henke of Victoria, Rebecca Cara of Weimar, Renita Ondrusek of Yoakum, Rhonda Syamken of Shiner, and Rozanne Deem of Moravia; sons, Richard Henke, Ronald Henke, Roman Henke, and Raymond Henke, all of Hallettsville; sister, Emily Mucala of Yoakum; brothers, Wilhelm Grahmann and Hubert Grahmann, both of Hallettsville; 23 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: husband, Frank V. Henke; and brother, Walter Grahmann.

Please note she was born as Rosalie Marie Grahmann. Contributed by Maureen Briscoe

VIOLA KLEKAR HENKE

Victoria Advocate, Nov 25, 2006

VIOLA K. HENKE - HALLETTSVILLE

November 25, 2006 - Posted at 12:00 a.m.
HALLETTSVILLE - Viola Klekar Henke, 85, of Hallettsville, died Thursday, Nov. 23, 2006.

She was born Nov. 16, 1921, in Lavaca County, to the late Frank John and Anna Prasek Keklar. She was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hallettsville.

Survivors: daughters, Sister Clementine of Garden Ridge, Eleanor R. Sedlar of Houston, Susan Harvey of Spring, Elizabeth Filip of Yoakum, Mary Lee Honish, Anna Havel, Monica Matula, all of Hallettsville; sons, Leo C. Henke, Lawrence Henke, Rudy Henke, all of Hallettsville, Charles F. Henke of Rockdale; sisters, Annie Henke of Hallettsville, Beatrice Mensik of Weimer; brother, Robert Klekar of Hallettsville; 24 grandchildren; and 23 great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: husband, Leo T. Henke; sisters, Victoria Klekar and Mary Klekar; brothers, Albert Klekar and Hubert Klekar.

Visitation will be noon today at Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville.

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

Services will be 2 p.m. Sunday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Hallettsville, the Rev. John Peters officiating.

Burial will follow at Sacred Heart Cemetery, Hallettsville. Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361-798-3271.

Pallbearers: Leo J. Henke, Tim Sedlar, Randy Honish, Scott Filip, Kyle Harvey, Andrew Henke, Josh Henke, Luke Matula, Johnny Havel Jr., and Ted Sedlar.

Memorials: In lieu of flowers, Sacred Heart Church or school, Hallettsville, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church or school, Sisters of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, Victoria, or donor's choice.

Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

DOROTHY LEE HENKHAUS

Weimar Mercury, 11 Nov 1932, page 6

SHINER GIRL DEAD.

Shiner, Texas, Nov. 2. — Dorothy Lee Henkhaus, 7, youngest child of Mr. and Mrs. John B. Henkhaus, died very suddenly of pneumonia, and was buried here Wednesday. She was a granddaughter of A. Pannewitz, Shiner's first postmaster.

ELO JOHN HENKHAUS

Shiner Gazette, 1 Apr 1976

Shiner Justice Of Peace E.J. Henkhaus Dies Suddenly

A host of sorrowing relatives and friends gathered Monday morning to pay tribute to the memory of E.J. Henkhaus who died suddenly at 4:15 p.m. Saturday, March 27, 1976 at his home in Shiner of an apparent heart attack.  He attained the age of 57 years, 9 months and 1 day.

The body lay in state at the Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, until 9:00 a.m. Monday, March 29, when it was conveyed to the Shiner Catholic Church.  Holy Mass was offered at 10:00 a.m. concelebrated by the Rev. Patrick Fidgeon and the Rev. John Kohnke of Shiner, the Rev. Michael O'Shaughnessy and Rev. John Peters, both of Yoakum and the Rev. Charles Carolon of Weimar.

Serving as altar boys were Jamie and Jeff Chunda and two of his grandsons, David and Darryl Pesek.

Serving as pallbearers were Wilbur Minear; Adolph Seidenberger and Steve Kubicek, representing the Shiner Volunteer Fire Department; Victor DeHarde, Daniel Peters and Wilbert Roznovsky, law enforcement officials and county judge.

Members of the fire department, Lavaca county officials and patrolmen attended the services in a body and formed an honor guard at the church and cemetery.

Impressive graveside services and burial was in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

A Rosary was recited by the Parish at the Buffington Chapel at 7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 28 led by the Rev. Patrick Fidgeon.

Elo John Otto Henkhaus was born June 26, 1918 in Shiner, Lavaca County, Texas, son of Elo and Wilhelmine Clara (Kasper) Henkhaus, natives respectively of New Ulm and Shiner, Texas.  His mother died on the day he was born.

Then on Feb. 8, 1922, his father was married to Lizzie Riha, who helped to rear his two motherless children along with a daughter, Marie Jo, born to the second marriage union.  His stepmother died March 8, 1938 and his father died January 7, 1943.

E.J. Henkhaus grew to young manhood in Shiner and received his education at St. Ludmila's Academy.  He went into the dairy business with his father and continued until 1945.

He was married to Adel Novak in the Shiner Catholic Church with the Rev. Msgr. L.P. Netardus officiating.

They first made their home with his father and later built their new home at the present address.

Mr. Henkhaus continued with his farming, ranching and yard fence erecting activities.  For the past five years, he had been serving as justice of the peace for the Shiner precinct.

He was a member of the Shiner Volunteer Fire Department for 23 years, was serving as a board member of the Shiner Catholic Cemetery committee and had served as the president of the St. Paul School board and president of the church council.

Surviving are his devoted wife, Mrs. Adel Henkhaus of Shiner; three daughters, Miss Ann Henkhaus and Mrs. Henry (Patricia) Pesek, both of Shiner, and Mrs. Eugene (Joan) Berger of Houston; one son, Eugene Henkhaus of Houston; two sisters, Mrs. Jerome (Alice) Kocian of Hallettsville, Mrs. Emanuel (Marie Joe) Knippa of Yoakum; and nine grandchildren.

Shiner Gazette, 8 Apr 1976

CORRECTION - In the E. J. Henkhaus obituary we correct the following paragraph to read - "He was married Oct. 14, 1941 to Adel Novak and the couple made their home in Shiner.  After his father's death on Jan. 7, 1943, they lived in the Henkhaus family home for several years, then moved into their new home at the present address.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HENRY HENKHAUS

Shiner Gazette, 22 Apr 1903

Death of Henry Henkhaus.

Died at his home at Dreyer, Texas, on Sunday, April 19, Mr. Henry Henkhaus, son of Mr. Otto Henkhaus Sr., of Shiner. The death of Mr. Henkhaus was very sudden, he being sick only a few hours. His death was caused by congestion of the bowels, which brought on convulsions, from which he never recovered. The funeral took place Monday evening in the Catholic cemetery at Shiner and was largely attended. The deceased leaves a wife, five small children and other relatives to mourn his untimely end. The Gazette extends the deepest sympathy.

Heinrich Henkhaus, 27 Aug 1872 – 19 Apr 1903, was buried in Ss. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Cemetery at Shiner. Contributed by Matt Cross

OTTO HENKHAUS

Shiner Gazette, 14 Sep 1904

Otto Henkhaus, Sr.

Last Thursday morning, Sept. 8th, at about 6 o’clock, Mr. Otto Henkhaus, Sr., died very suddenly at his home near Shiner, of heart failure. Mr. Henkhaus had been sick for five or six weeks of a complication of catarrh of the stomach and rheumatism, and had gotten nearly well when the end came.

Mr. Henkhaus was born at New Ulm, in Austin county, in the year 1851, and was nearly 53 years old at the time of his death. He married Miss Magdalena Wendel, a sister of Mr. Richard Wendel, who survives him. He leaves nine living children, five boys and four girls. The boys are Otto, John, Elo and Edward, all living in Shiner; the girls are Mrs. Lily Krueger of Oklahoma, Mrs. Wm. Fehrenkamp of Shiner, and Hattie and Freda.

Mr. Henkhaus was a prominent citizen of this community and was highly respected by all who knew him. The interment took place Saturday last in the Catholic cemetery, Rev. Joseph Hudecek conducting the burial service. A large crowd of friends and relatives attended the last sad rites.

“After life’s fitful fever he sleeps well.”

[adjacent column]

The body of Mr. Otto Henkhaus, Sr., was embalmed by Mr. G. W. Eschenburg and held for three days to await the arrival of relatives from Oklahoma.

Otto Henkhaus, 17 Oct 1851 – 8 Sep 1904, husband of Magdalena, was buried in the SS. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Cemetery, Shiner. Contributed by Matt Cross

WESLEY EDWARD HENKHAUS

La Grange Journal, 2 Jan 1936

FAYETTEVILLE

Death Follows Crash

Saturday morning, December 28, Mrs. Wm. Kurtz was notified of the death of her nephew, W. H. Henkaus [sic.] of Yoakum, son of Wesley Henkaus, who died of injuries received in and auto accident within one mile of Cuero, at 4:10 a.m., December 26, at the age of 19 years.

Those who attended the funeral were Mrs. E. W. Kurtz, Mrs. Laura Forres, E. S. Kovar and W. H. Meitzen. Funeral services were conducted from the Catholic church in Yoakum, Sunday morning, with high mass, and burial was had in the Catholic Cemetery, Rev. Father Beck officiating.

Wesley is survived by his parents, one sister and a large circle of relatives and friends.

(An account of the accident, was taken from the Houston Chronicle, is found on pg. 5, among the accidents chronicled on that page.-Journal Editor)

Transcribed by Stacy N. Sneed

DOROTHY MARIE MERIAN HERCHEK

Victoria Advocate, June 28, 2014

YOAKUM - Dorothy Marie Herchek, age 89, passed away after a sudden illness on Wednesday, June 25, 2014.

She was born on February 5, 1925 in Yoakum to the late Robert and Gladys Kuenstler Merian.

Dorothy graduated from St. Joseph High School in 1942. She attended St. Joseph's Nursing School in Houston graduating as a R.N. in 1945. She married Milam Herchek on May 31, 1947 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum. They lived in Houston until 1951 when they moved to Yoakum. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and Catholic Daughters of America.

She devoted her time to taking care of her husband, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Survivors: Lindsay Davis of Universal City and Gwen Mozisek and husband Harry of Moulton; sons, Weldon Herchek of San Antonio, Brant Herchek and wife Liz of Kingwood and Mark Herchek and wife Marsha of Yoakum; 9 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by her parents and husband, Milam Herchek.

Rosary at 6 p.m. on Sunday, June 29, 2014 at the funeral home.

Funeral Mass at 10 a.m. on Monday, June 30, 2014 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating.

Entombment at St. Joseph Catholic Mausoleum.

Pallbearers: James Herchek, Sean Miller, Matthew Mozisek, Justin Moore, Jeff Murray and Jeff Dickinson.

Memorial contributions may be given to St. Joseph School or donor's choice.

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

 HERDER Infant

Shiner Gazette, 11 Nov 1909, Local News column

The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. George Herder died Monday evening and was buried Tuesday.

Contributed by Matt Cross

GEORGE HERDER

Colorado Citizen, 27 Oct 1887, page 3

ANOTHER VETERAN GONE.—Through a telephone message Wednesday morning to Geo. Herder of this place, he was informed of the death of father, Col. Geo. Herder, at his home in Lavaca county. Col. Herder was an old veteran, and one of the most prominent Germans in West Texas. He came to Texas in an early day a poor boy, and aided our Lone Star State in her early struggles with the Indians and Mexicans. By industry and economy he accumulated a fine property. he has a son and one daughter living in this place viz: Geo. Herder and Mrs. Adolph Richter.

IDA ARNIM HERDER

Yoakum Herald-Times
April 27, 1944

Funeral services for Mrs. Ida Herder, aged 91, were held Tuesday, April 24th, at the Holy Cross Lutheran Church at 4 PM, Rev. Paul Bechter officiated. The services were under the direction of the Beck Mortuary. Mrs. Herder's body lay in state at the Beck Chapel until 12:30 PM Tuesday, when the casket was taken to the church.

Mrs. Herder, who's maiden name was Ida Arnim, was born in a ship at sea en route from Germany to the United States. Her family landed at Old Indianola, Texas, and came by ox wagon to Moulton, where they lived for 15 years. They then moved to High Hill near the present site of Schulenberg. She received her elementary education at Moulton. Mrs. Herder was baptized in the Methodist church in 1855, but later joined the Lutheran Church in 1909. She was married at the age of 18 to the late Fritz R. Herder of Colorado County, on March 24, 1870.

In 1883, Mrs. Herder and family came to DeWitt County. For the past 25 years she has made her home in Yoakum, and was respected and loved by a host of relatives and friends. She was the oldest member of the Wolters-Herder family.

She is survived by one son, Fritz W. Herder of Yoakum, two daughters, Mrs. Annie Leist of Yoakum and Mrs. Frieda Boeingk of Houston, two sisters, Mrs. Lizzie Singlemann of Schulenberg, and Mrs. Mary Johnson of Flatonia, 18 grandchildren and 43 great grandchildren and one great great grandchild.

Her husband preceeded her in death in March 1886.

The pall bearers were: Ralph Herder, Elliott Herder, Arnim Jilek, Lloyd Jilek, Walter Becker and Willie Quast.

Note: Ida Ottilie Arnim was born on board the ship "Franklin" enroute to Texas. Her parents were Alexander and Maria Chaste Arnim of Schulenburg. She was the oldest child of seven. Her husband, Fritz Reinhardt Herder, preceeded her in death on March 7, 1886 as did brothers William Oscar Arnim (1914), Edward Alexander Arnim (1942), Fedor Charles Arnim (1897), and Charles August Arnim (1895). Of her seven children, 4 preceeded her in death: Emil August Herder (1933), Ida Herder (1876), Emma Herder Quast (1926), and Alma Herder (1883). She moved from Dewitt County back to Lavaca County in about 1915 and remained there for the remainder of her years. Contributed by Rebecca Herder

MARTHA LOUISE VOLLENTINE HERDER

The Shiner Gazette, February 16, 1956

Mrs. Lou Herder

Yoakum, Texas. - Funeral services for Mrs. Lou Herder, 84, lifetime local resident who was here before there was a town of Yoakum, were held Tuesday morning, Feb. 14 start[ing] at 8 a.m. at Buffington Chapel and included Requiem Mass at 8:15 a.m. in St. Joseph's Church, the Rev. Edward J. Jansky officiating. Burial was in St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery.

Mrs. Herder is survived by a half-sister, Miss Margaret Hagan of Hondo.

Born in Lavaca County April 7, 1871, she had resided here throughout her life and more recently lived at 209 East Gonzales Street. Her death occurred at Huth Memorial Hospital Monday, Feb 12, at 8:35 a.m.

Martha Louise was born April 7, 1871 in Lavaca County, Texas to John Benjamin Vollentine (1841-1871) and Mary Ann Hasher (1846-1914). She married Emil Herder about 1893. There were no children born to the marriage. Emil preceded her in death on April 10, 1933. She was also preceeded in death by a half sister, Bertha G. Hagan Kossbiel (1880-1946) and step-father, Hilarian Hagan (1835-1911). Contributed by Rebecca Herder

WALTER HERDER

The Shiner Gazette, December 23, 1982

Services For Walter Herder

Walter Herder of Shiner died at 4;25 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 19, 1982 at Trinity Lutheran Home where he was a resident since June 11, 1979. He attained the age of 90 years, 6 months and 20 days.

Funeral services were held at 3:00 p.m. Monday, Dec 20 at the Buffington Funeral Home in Shiner. The Rev. Wymore Goldberg, TLH Chaplain, officiated at the service and graveside rites in the Shiner City Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers were his nephews, Daniel Seidenberger, Melvin Ahrens, Roy Hewig, all of Shiner, Willis Hewig of San Antonio, Clyde Baros of Gonzales and Marvin Cordes of Westhoff.

Mr. Herder, the youngest of seven children, was born May 29, 1892 near Shiner in the Half Moon community, son of pioneer settlers, William and Theresa (Nitschmann) Herder, natives respectively of High Hill, Fayette County, Texas and Hermitz, Austria. He was reared on the Herder family homestead farm and resided there most of his 90 years. He attended Menger School and Shiner Public Schools.

Throughout his lifetime he followed the occupation of farming and ranching. During his boyhood and young adult years he went on cattle drives with his father across open country from Shiner to DaCosta, south of Victoria, moving the Herder and Welhausen herds.

On Jan 15, 1915, he was married to Eva B. Turk in Cuero. The couple resided at Dreyer for two years and at Westhoff for 6 years, then established their home on the Herder family homestead. The couple was privileged to celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary. He wife died Mar. 17, 1980. Mr. Herder was the last surviving member of his immediate family.

Survivors include his son and daughter-in-law, George William and Georgie Mae Janssen Herder of Shiner; granddaughter, Mrs. Peggy Gentile of Austin; and two great-grandsons, Sean Herder Gentile and Scott Oliver Gentile, both of Austin.

He was preceded in death by his mother, July 18, 1940; his father, Dec. 22, 1940; two brothers, Edmund Herder, Dec. 20, 1952; George Herder, Sept. 15, 1956; four sisters, Mrs. Ed. F. (Adeline) Busch, June 11, 1966; Mrs. Ed (Ella) Cordes, Dec 8, 1964; Mrs. Emil (Annie) Ahrens, Dec. 6, 1979; and Mrs. Willie P. (Hettye) Hewig, Dec 21, 1981.

Contributed by Rebecca Herder

A. C. HEREFORD

Weimar Mercury
4 Jun 1904, page 1

Post Special: Moulton, May 31. — Capt. A. C. Hereford, one of the oldest and most highly respected citizens of this community, died at the home of his son-in-law, Frank Walker, yesterday evening about 6 o'clock.

Captain Hereford was a Mexican war veterean and was taken sick while he was attending the reunion at Fort Worth last week. His home was formerly in columbus, Tex., but of late years he has been making his home with his daughter, Mrs. Frank Walker, near Moulton.

WILHELMINE SCHWARTING HERKSEN

Shiner Gazette, 13 Apr 1911

Mrs. Wilhelmine Herksen

Wife of Peter Herksen, aged 73 years, died last Sunday morning, April 9th and was buried Monday, April 10th in the city cemetery. She leaves a husband but no children, mourn her death. This estimable couple had been married 51 years and were greatly attached to each other. The bereaved husband has the sympathy of all who know him.

Wilhelmine Herksen, born, Schwarting, 17 Jan 1838 – 9 Apr 1911, was buried in the Shiner City Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

AUGUST E. HERMES

Shiner Gazette, 23 Jun 1977

August E. Hermes, 91, well known Hallettsville area retired farmer, passed away at 5:10 a.m. Saturday, June 11, 1977, at the Lavaca Medical Center in Hallettsville at the age of 91 years, and 6 months.

Mr. Hermes was one of the few Hallettsville area oldtimers left in this area. He was born in Germany, Dec. 11, 1885. He came to Texas at the age of 3 years with his parents, Gerhardt and Elizabeth (Huser) Hermes.

He married Ida Etzler, Oct. 24, 1916, at Sacred Heart Church in Hallettsville. Mrs. Hermes passed away June 4, 1975.

Rosary was recited at 8 p.m. Sunday, June 12, at the Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville by the parish and at 9:30 a.m. Monday in church by the societies. The body was taken to the church at 9:00 a.m.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Monday, June 13, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with the Rev. James Henke officiating. Interment was in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Surviving are three sons, Henry Hermes of Hallettsville, Hubert Hermes of Point Comfort and August Hermes Jr. of Victoria; two daughters, Mrs. Edward Janecek of Victoria and Mrs. Alvin Berkovsky of Yoakum; 27 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Nena Smothers

FRANCES PEKAR HERMES

FROM Thiele Cooper Funeral Home, Yoakum, TX

SWEET HOME: Frances Pekar Hermes, age 88, died on Wednesday, December 23, 2009. She was born on March 9, 1921, in Sweet Home, TX to John and Frances Fait Pekar.

She was a homemaker, an avid gardener, member of Yoakum Community Hospital Auxiliary, Catholic Daughters of America, KJZT, and a loving mother, grandma, great-grandma and care giving friend.

Survivors: daughters, Frances Gerlich and husband Joe of Hallettsville, Kathy Harabis and husband Ronald of Plano; son, J. C. Hermes, Jr and wife Geraldine of Yoakum; grandchildren, Joe Paul Gerlich and wife Silvia, Brian Gerlich and wife Teresa, Diane Meyers-Vinson and husband Bill, Angela Hartmann, Lori Malinovsky and husband Paul, Stacy Irby and husband Shannon, Christy Hranicky and husband Vince, Jennifer Adamak and husband Gabe, Kelly Pilat and husband Brent, Ashley Hermes, Allison Harabis, Erin Harabis and fiancé Jesse Schneider and Lauren Harabis; 21 great-grandchildren; sisters, Lillie Melnar of Hallettsville, Janie Migl of Yoakum, Annie Darby of Rockdale and Mary Long of Houston; brothers, Henry John Pekar of Hallettsville and Robert Pekar of Schertz.

Preceded in death by: parents; husband, J. C. Hermes, Sr; sisters, Matilda Kutach, Eleanor Dolezal and Toni Kopecky and brother, Charlie Pekar.

Rosary was at 7:00 p.m. on Friday (December 25th) at the funeral home.

Funeral mass was at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday (December 26th) at Queen of Peace Catholic Church with Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating. Burial at Queen of Peace Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Joe Paul Gerlich, Brian Gerlich, Paul Malinovsky, Shannon Irby, Vince Hranicky and Gabe Adamek.

Memorials may be given to Diocese of Victoria Seminarian Burse, Accolade Hospice or the donor’s choice.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

LYDIA DOLEZAL HERMES

 Victoria Advocate, May 21, 2013

SWEET HOME - Lydia Dolezal Hermes, 96, of Sweet Home, passed away on Sunday, May 19, 2013.

She was born on February 5, 1917 in Yoakum to the late John V. and Marie Kacir Dolezal.  Lydia married Eugene Hermes on October 5, 1936 in Yoakum. Lydia and Eugene farmed and ranched near Sweet Home all their married life and were active parishioners of Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Sweet Home.

Lydia was a member of the Huth Memorial and Yoakum Community Hospitals Ladies Auxiliary (Pink Ladies) for many years and made dolls and embroidered items for them. She was also a member of the Queen of Peace Altar Society, the Catholic Family Fraternal (KJZT) and SPJST.

As a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, she never forgot a birthday and everyone from the youngest to the oldest received a birthday card with some money included. It was the same for Christmas and Easter when the small children received a personalized small bag of candy and toys. Considering that the list included 53 individuals, that was quite a remarkable thing. She remembered everyone by name and age and to whom they belonged. As they graduated, got married and had children she never lost track of any of them. An accomplished seamstress, Lydia made quilts and keepsake handwork for her children and family. She was very humble and critical words did not exist in her vocabulary.

Lydia is survived by her daughters, Mary Rita Polansky of Cuero; daughter-in-law, Gladys Hermes of Koerth; sons and daughters-in-law, Leroy & Barbara Hermes of Houston and J.O. & Karen Hermes of Sweet Home; grandchildren & spouses, Cindy & Kent Neuvar, Anthony & Bonnie Hermes, Tom and Lisa Hermes, Robert & Terry Hermes, Susan & Kevin Wood, Scott & Leslye Hermes, Linda & Gene Valentino, Roni & Ray Cappadonna, Randy & Michelle Hermes, Rick Hermes and Elizabeth & Carl West; 28 great-grandchildren; sister, Mary Michalec of Helotes; sister-in-law, Adeline Hermes of Victoria.

Preceded in death by parents; husband of 63 years; daughter, Agnes Marie Hermes; son, Marcus Hermes; son-in-law, Jerome Polansky; grandsons, Bruce Hermes & Michae lPolansky; brothers, Julius Arlitt, George Dolezal, James Dolezal and step-mother, Marie Pivoda Dolezal.

Visitation will be Tuesday, May 21, 2013 from 6-8 p.m. at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, 1477 Carl Ramert Dr. in Yoakum.  Rosary at 9:30 a.m.on Wednesday, May 22, 2013 followed by a 10 a.m. funeral mass at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Sweet Home with Father Charles Sonnier officiating. Burial will follow at Queen of Peace Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Anthony Hermes, Tom Hermes, Robert Hermes, Scott Hermes, Randy Hermes, Rick Hermes and Carl West. Honorary pallbearers: grandchildren, great-grandchildren, staff of Yoakum Nursing & Rehab and Accolade Hospice.

Memorial contributions may be given to Queen of Peace Renovation Fund, P.O. Box 201, Sweet Home, Texas 77987 or donor's choice.  On-line quest book may be signed atwww.thielecooper.com  Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home 361-293-5656.

 Contributed by Matt Cross

SYBIL KAISER HERMES

Yoakum – Sybil Hermes, 82, of Yoakum, died Monday, Jan. 21, 2002.

She was born Aug. 13, 1919, in Yoakum, to the late Charlie and Ima Pagel Kaiser Vick.  She was a homemaker and a member of First Baptist Church.  She was a member and officer of the Literary Club and Garden Club.  She was a member of the Lavaca County Extension Club, and Lydia Sunday School Class of First Baptist Church.

Survivors: sons, Leo “Butch” Hermes and Hayne Hermes, both of Yoakum; brothers, Sydney Kaiser and Kyle Kaiser, both of Yoakum; four grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: husband, Raymond Hermes; and parents.

Visitation will be 6 to 8 p.m. tonight at Buffington Funeral Home chapel.

Services will be 10 a.m. Wednesday at First Baptist Church, the Revs. Richard Bowden and Charles Sonnier officiating.

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

Unidentified newspaper clipping contibuted by Rex Moore

JAMES VINCENT HERMIS
LOUISE PICHA HERMIS

Shiner Gazette, 5 Aug 1909, page 1

KILLED HIMSELF AFTER HAVING MURDERED HIS WIFE.

J. M. Ermis, Living Near Seymour, Orphaned His Children.

SEYMOUR, TEXAS, July 31. – J. M. Ermis, a well to do farmer, living about six miles east of Seymour, killed his wife and himself early Friday morning. He fired two shots from a shotgun at his wife as she was lying in bed, neither of which took effect. These shots awaked the children and they saw Ermis and his wife scuffling over the gun, when it was discharged, the entire load taking effect in her bowels.

She walked out on the gallery and put her arm around her little girl and said: “I am killed,” and soon died.

Ermis ran out into a sorghum patch nearby and one of his little boys went out and brought him back to the house. He looked upon his wife a few moments then took a razor and cut his throat, almost entirely severing the head from his body.

No cause can be assigned for his act. Evidently he was insane at the time. This condition was probably brought on by a severe spell of sickness, about a year ago and from which he never seemed to have entirely recovered. They leave a family of eight children, the eldest of whom is a girl 14 years old.

[Jim Ermis, as he was called by his friends, formerly resided in Lavaca county and was at one time a trustee of one of the community schools. He was a young man of good education and was well liked by all who knew him. His wife was a Miss Picha, daughter of Mr. John Picha, who left last Friday evening for the scene of the tragedy. – EDITOR.]

Both are buried in Seymour, TX. Contributed by Matt Cross

DR. G. F. HEROLD

Weimar Mercury, 19 Dec 1903

Post Special: Moulton, Dec. 12.—Died, on December 8, Moulton, Dr. G. F. Herold, a retired and highly respected physician aged 71 years. Dr. Herold came to this coutry from Germany in 1851; he leaves no family, his wife having died several years ago; he has lived with an adopted daughter, Mrs. William Schmidt, for the last fifteen years.

Dr. Herold was a resident of this section for many years, going from here to Moulton. He had numerous friends, and by them his death is deeply deplored.

Dr. G. F. Herold, 1832 - 1903, was buried in the Old Moulton Cemetery.

BERNARD HERRICK

Shiner Gazette, 1 Aug 1895

There were two deaths here Tuesday night of last week. They were Mrs Paul Vrazel and Bernard Herrick. Both funerals took place Wednesday.

Contributed by Matt Cross

DOROTHY MAE POLASEK HERSCHAP

Victoria Advocate, Wednesday, September 3, 2014

SHINER - Dorothy Mae Herschap, age 80, passed away Tuesday, September 2, 2014.

She was born August 7, 1934 in Clodine, Texas to Steve and Elise Hafernik Polasek.

She married George Herschap and they moved to Point Comfort. Dorothy worked at Stanley's Grocery for many years. She was an avid gardener and loved working with her beautiful flowers. She was a member of Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church , Catholic Daughters, Altar Society and VFW Ladies Auxiliary.

Survivors: daughters, Shirley Nagelmueller (Gene) of Shiner and Linda Herschap of Victoria: 4 grandchildren, Wendy Schreiber, Melissa Robinson, Heather Ramirez and Heath Nagelmueller: sisters, Sidonia Sonntag of Shiner and DorisRoznovsky of Port Lavaca.

Preceded in death by her parents; husband of 25 years, George Herschap; sister, Evelyn Valenta.

Visitation from 5 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, September 3, 2014, at the funeral home with rosary at 7 p.m.

Funeral Mass 2 p.m., Thursday, September 4, 2014 at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church with Rev. Kirby Hlavatyofficiating. Burial at Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Gene Nagelmueller, Jason Schreiber, Josh Robinson, Gary Muehlstein, Heath Nagelmueller and Michael Valenta.

Memorials may be given to Hospice of South Texas.

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

Contributed by Matt Cross

JANICE WERNER HESSLER

Victoria Advocate, 2 July 2007

JANICE WERNER HESSLER

SHINER - Our beautiful Janice Hessler, 68, entered heaven to be with our dear Lord and His blessed mother, the Virgin Mary on June 30, 2007. Janice was a devoted Catholic, born on July 8, 1938 to the late John Werner and Mary Svatek Werner of Shiner.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Albert and Mary Svatek, and Robert and Agnes Werner.

Janice attended St Ludmilla Academy and was a faithful choir member of St. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church and KJZT member.

She also worked in the Wagner Clinic. She was the "baby" of the Werner girls.

She married Leon A. Hessler, of Hallettsville, on May 4, 1957, with the Rev. John Hanacek officiating. There were four children born to this union.

Janice is survived by her husband of 50 years, Leon A Hessler; children, Bruce and Maydene Hessler of Corpus Christi, Gary and Kim Hessler of Victoria, Lisa and Mark Crull of Edna, and Melanie and Martin Phipps of San Antonio; sisters, Evelyn Hajek of Victoria, Lorene Kasper of Shiner, and Mae and Lenneth Bland of Luling, La.; five grandchildren, Joshua and Allison Hessler of Corpus Christi, Travis and Tyler Hessler of Victoria, and Taylor Crull of Edna; and numerous nieces and nephews.

All the family dearly loved her and she will be greatly missed by all.

Visitations will be today at Buffington Funeral Home in Shiner, with a rosary recited at 7 p.m. at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel.

Services will be at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, at St. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church in Shiner. Interment will be at Hallettsville Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Richard Thompson, Gene Hajek, Jim Horton, Pat Strauss, Steven Kolos and David Heimann.

Honorary pallbearers are Dr. Bruce Bauknight and Dr. Robin Adams

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Hospice of South Texas in Victoria.

Arrangements are under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, 361-594-3352.

Submitted by Regena Williamson

FRANKLIN HEWIG

Shiner Gazette
10 Jun 1920

Baby Franklin Hewig

Aged only 5 months and 11 days, ended its young life last Sunday, June 6th, and was laid away on Monday, June 7th, in the Shiner City cemetery. The little one but a short span of life and the grief stricken parents will miss the touch of a vanished hand and the sound of a voice that is still. They have the sympathy of all who know them.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HEYE Infant

Halletsville Herald, 17 Nov 1892

Mr. H. J. Heye was called to San Antonio on Wednesday of last week by a telegram telling of the serious illness of his infant child. When he reached there the baby was dead. The child's remains were buried in San Antonio. The death has had a serious effect on the condition of Mrs. Heye, who is reported to be extremely ill.

Weimar Mercury, 3 Dec 1892, page 4

Halletsville New Era.

The three months' old baby of Mr. and Mrs. H. J. Heye died in San Antonio Wednesday night. Mr. Heye was telegraphed for, but owing to a delay in the delivery of the telegram he missed the Aransas Pass train and had to go to Schulenburg. When he reached San Antonio the child was dead. The baby was afflicted with congestion of the brain. The condition of Mrs. Heye, who is still in San Antonio, is precarious. She has the typhoid fever.

LENA L.HEYE

San Antonio Express, 19 Sep 1975

Mrs. Lena L. Heye, 98, 708 E. Quincy St. died Sept. 17, 1975 in a local hospital. She was a pioneer music teacher of San Antonio. Member of Grace Lutheran Church, San Antonio Music Club, Federation of Music Clubs, Piano Teachers Forum, Cosmopolitan Club, and Honorary Member of San Antonio Music Teachers Association. Survivors: Daughter, Mrs. C.G. (Olga) Ellingboe, Kerrville; sons, William J. and Gerhardt F.R. Heye, San Antonio, Rev. Edmund A. Heye, Austin; Ten grandchildren; sixteen great-grandchildren. Services 7p.m. Friday Zizik-Kearns chapel, Rev. M. David Fetter officiating. Graveside services 11 a.m. Saturday, Hallettsville City Cemetery.

Contributed by Matt Cross