Matagorda County Obituaries
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Billy Joe Baker
May 19, 1939 - May 27, 2019
Billy Joe Baker passed away peacefully in Clear Lake, Texas on May 27, 2019 surrounded by his family. He was born May 19, 1939 in Slaton, Texas to Marion David and Leta Lorene Scott Baker.
He is preceded in death by his parents, brother Marion D. Baker, Jr., nephew Mike Baker, and niece Sarah Christine Baker.
Bill is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Chelette, daughter Kala Baker, son Kevin Baker, foster son Richard Scrivano, grandchildren Jack Baker and Samuel Baker, nephew David Pemberton and wife Laurie, nephew Banks Pemberton and wife Kammye, brother Jimmy Lee Baker and wife Connie, and sister Leta Frances Pemberton. Numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and friends also survive.
Bill’s passion was Christian music. He pursued his passion first at the University of Corpus Christi before obtaining his bachelor degree at Midwestern State University. He was a charter member of the CenturyMen where he was active from 1964-2017. The CenturyMen is a professional male chorus composed of ministers of music and other musicians active in Christian ministry. Members contribute their time and talent to record and sing the music of the gospel in churches, concert halls, and other venues throughout the United States and around the world. He served as Minister of Music for churches in all over Texas including Brownwood, Baytown, Bay City, Burkburnett, Port Lavaca, Byers, Wichita Falls, Trinity, and Evansville, IN and Norman, OK. One of the highlights of Bill’s career was performing with the CenturyMen on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial for the inauguration of President John F. Kennedy.
When he wasn’t performing or recording, Bill could be found fishing on Trinity Bay, Galveston Bay, or his favorite, Matagorda Bay. While he loved any type of fishing, salt water was what he loved most.
Bill will be dearly missed by his community, family, and dear friends that he leaves behind.
Waller-Thornton Funeral Home, Trinity, Texas
Margaret R. Barefield
October 29, 1934 - January 9, 2021
Margaret R. Barefield went to be with the Lord January 9, 2021 at the age of 86. She was born October 29, 1934 in Bay City, Texas to the late Francisco and Clemencia Rangel.
Visitation will be held Thursday, January 14, 2021 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a rosary to be recited at 7 p.m. at Grace Funeral Chapel, 1604 W. Austin St., Port Lavaca, Texas. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, January 15, 2021 at Our Lady of the Gulf Catholic Church in Port Lavaca.
In addition to her parents; she was preceded in death by a daughter, Clara Martinez Sanchez; siblings, Escilla Escamilla, Clara Rangel Moreno, Louis Rangel, Juan Rangel and Mary Rangel Charles.
She is survived by her husband of 51 years, Eugene Barefield Sr.; children, Mary Helen Martinez, Bertha Martinez (Andy) Gohn, Abraham (Angie) Garza and Eugene (Sylvia) Barefield Jr.; brother, Ray (Martha) Rangel; 18 grandchildren; and 24 great grandchildren.
Margaret was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister. She was a Christian lady. She never met a stranger and loved to talk with everyone. She enjoyed watching soap operas and old westerns.
Thoughts and memories may be shared online at www.gracefuneralhome.net
Arrangements and services under the personal care of Grace Funeral Homes & Cemeteries.
Bay City Tribune, January 13, 2021
Crystal Evette Barrow
March 22, 1984 - May 03, 2021
Crystal Evette Barrow, 37, went to be with the Lord on May 3, 2021 in San Antonio, Texas. She was born March 22, 1984 in Bay City, Texas.
Crystal was a long time member of the Rose of Sharon Church in Van Vleck, Texas.
She is preceded in death by her father Jay Larry Robles and her grandfather Joe Robles Jr.
She is survived by husband Justin Lee Barrow of San Antonio, Texas, son Jayson Lee Barrow and daughter Caitlyn Elizabeth Barrow; Grandmother Janie L Robles of Van Vleck, Texas; Grandparents Modesta Davalos and Timoteo Davalos of Markham, Texas; Mother Noemi Robles of Van Vleck, Texas; Sister Tabitha Evonne Robles of Van Vleck, Texas; Brother Jay David Robles and Wife Krystal R Robles of Bay City, Texas; Nephews Thomas Jay Robles and Jonathan James Robles; numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Crystal met Justin back in 2003 when they both worked at HEB in Bay City, Texas. On June 8, 2003, she and Justin had their very first date at Dairy Queen. Her Mamo knew it only took 15 minutes to get home from HEB, so when Crystal was late that day, Mamo was not happy. She called Crystal to see why she wasn’t home. Crystal told Mamo she was having ice cream with a friend from work. Mamo told her “Get yourself home now.” Crystal knew she was in a lot of trouble. When she got home, she was not empty handed, she drug Justin with her to meet her Mamo. Mamo was prepared to get after her until she saw Justin. Her demeanor changed and she said, “Oh hi Justin, nice to meet you!” From that point on, Justin was a part of the family.
In November of 2003, Crystal had a very bad car accident. She was left to learn how to walk and do daily living things all over again. Justin was there every step of the way.
On September 18, 2010, Justin and Crystal were married. They were eager to start a family. After several miscarriages and failed IVF treatments, Crystal was finally blessed with her miracle baby boy in March of 2016. She was very proud of her brand new baby. After one last failed attempt of IVF, Crystal thought she would only have one baby. Shortly after, Crystal found out she was pregnant again with a baby girl. In January 2019, her family gathered in the hospital to await the birth of Caitlyn and made sure to tell the doctors that she needed to have blue eyes and blonde hair, if not, they were going to have to try again. Crystal was very excited to show off her new creation, that had blue eyes and strawberry blonde hair. Crystal loved to teach her kids things about God, songs and even how to speak Spanish just like her Mamo taught her.
Crystal loved to be around family every chance she could and always took in the moment. She would make sure to drag Justin with her anytime she could convince him to come to Van Vleck. Every time she visited, she would take her sister, Tabitha, back to San Antonio with her. It never failed; they would always end up fighting before they made it to San Antonio. Tabitha would have to put up with her until she came back home. (Wink Wink) Despite the bickering, they loved each other’s company. Jay and Crystal would always play fight, rather it be on the phone or in person, occasionally Jay would even let her win. Jay remembers Crystal never missed a birthday or a holiday and often would just text to say, “I love you.” Crystal would call her Mamo every day without fail. She would call her 2-3 times a day and talk to her about anything. She always made sure she was okay and always worried when she was sick. Crystal would always say that she looked like her Mamo in the eyes. If you knew Crystal, she either called you every day or sent you a text message just to say hi, that meant she thought of you often. She never knew a stranger. She never hesitated to ask you when you were going to have your next baby. She was a beautiful person inside and out.
The family will receive friends and relatives beginning at 1:00 pm Monday, May 10, 2021 at Rose of Sharon Church. Funeral services will follow at 2:00 pm. Interment will follow services at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers are Jay David Robles Jr., John Angel Robles, Adrian Joseph Parada Jr., Isaac Rene Robles, Matthew Thomas Robles, Dylan Arthur Lopez. Honorary Pallbearer is Cody Pryce Barrow.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Glenna Ruth Batterton
February 20, 1932 - March 29, 2021
Glenna Ruth Batterton, 89, of Bay City passed away March 29, 2021. She was born February 20, 1932 in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma to the late Edward Wickware and Phebe Cook Wickware.
Glenna was a wonderful Mother to her daughters and a good friend to many. She was fun loving and an encouragement to all in her path. Her favorite things in life were visiting with family, visiting with friends, and growing beautiful plants. Her greatest gift was making people smile.
Survivors include her daughters Charlotte Henderson & husband Richard and Carlisa Krenek & husband Gary; brother Jerry Wickware; grandchildren Colette Frazier & husband Brian, Ryan Henderson & wife Elizabeth, Candice Jenkins & husband Brian and Brittney Nolen & husband David. She was “Mimi” to numerous great grandchildren and extended family members.
Graveside services will be at 1:00 PM Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck.
Those desiring, may honor her memory by sending memorials in her name to the Women’s Pregnancy Center; PO Box 986; Bay City, TX 77404-0986 or by visiting www.baycitywpc.org.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Viewing for Jessica Nicole Baugh will be from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. April 2, 2021 at Gooden Hatton Funeral Home, 110 N. East Ave., Wharton, Texas 77488.
Burial will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, April 3, 2021 at Markham Community Cemetery.
Bay City Tribune online
A graveside celebration of life for William McKinley “CAT” Baugh, 67, of Bay City, Texas formerly of Old Ocean, Texas will be 11:30 a.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2020 at Sweeny Cemetery in Old Ocean, Texas where the eulogist will be Minister Theola Allison and the officiant will be Minister Debra Spencer. (Please bring your own chairs.)
Visitation will be on Friday, September 11, 2020 from 4 p.m. until 7 p.m. at E. Viola & Son Funeral Home, 205 N Broad Street, West Columbia, Texas 77486.
The full obituary may be read online, condolences may be left and signing of the guest registry may be done by visiting our website at www.violafh.com
Final arrangements entrusted to and under the direction of E. Viola & Son Funeral Home, West Columbia, Texas.
In compliance with CDC guidelines, face coverings and social distancing will be required.
Bay City Tribune, September 9, 2020
Ronald “Ronnie” Bean
September 16, 1946 - April 23, 2021
A Memorial Service for Ronald “Ronnie” Bean, 74, of Rosenberg, Texas, is set for 11 a.m. Saturday, May 1, 2021, at First United Methodist Church, 1127 3rd Street, Rosenberg, TX 77471.
Ronnie was born September 16, 1946, to Ronald Chester Bean and Winnie Holton Bean. He was a man who made his wife happy and gave her the life she always wanted and the life she deserved. He loved her with all his heart and she loved him right back. Their travels crisscrossed this country and beyond. They were successful in many ways, but family was their best success by far. He loved his wife and his sister, his kids and nieces and grandkids, more than you could imagine. He had a special fondness for his great grandson who reciprocated that love right back to him. He could spot an expired inspection sticker four miles out and if it had anything to do with working cows, he wanted in on it. He loved college football, especially his beloved Longhorns, and spending time at the deer lease. He went to church regularly and he loved Jesus. He wasn’t above tagging along on a school field trip as an extra chaperone. He was quick with a hug when it was needed, and gladly ran all of the errands on his Mondays off. He welcomed his family at their dinner table probably more times than he wanted to and would make it a point to bring the neighbors trash cans in on trash days every week he was home, sometimes not realizing they hadn’t yet been emptied. He loved watching westerns and listening to oompah-pah music on Saturday mornings, oh, and beer. In the end I know he knew how much his family loved him and how much he meant to all of his family. It’s so hard to let him go, but it was so selfish to ask him to stay. Rest easy, Pawpaw, you loved hard and you were loved by many, and now your work here is done. We’ll see you on the other side.
Ronnie passed away Friday, April 23, 2021, in Richmond, TX, after losing his battle with ALS.
He is survived by his wife of 23 years, Mary Macek Bean; sons, Ray Bean and wife Patty, Randy Bean, and Jeff Macek and wife Tiffany; daughters, Tammy Macek and Pam Clayton; grandchildren, Hunter Bean, Macie Bean, Rylie Bean, Brandi Bermudes, Emily Macek, Haley Macek, Shelby Macek; great grandson, Mozzy Sanchez; sister, Carolyn Bean Smith; and two very special nieces, Jennifer Bowman and husband Allen, and Melissa Smith.
Ronnie was preceded in death by parents, Ronald Chester Bean and Winnie Bean; and a granddaughter, Holly Macek.
In lieu of flowers memorials can be made in his name to Lunches of Love, PO Box 1161, Rosenberg, TX 77471; to Fisher House Foundation at fisherhouse.org; or to a charity of your choice.
Online Guestbook is available at www.garmanycarden.com
Services are under the direction of Garmany & Carden Funeral Directors, 1201 4th Street, Rosenberg, Texas 77471; (281)342-4671.
Bay City Tribune, April 28, 2021 Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Ronald Earl Beaty
August 29, 1946 - February 26, 2021
Ronald Earl Beaty, of Palacios, Texas, went to be with the Lord on Friday, February 26, 2021 at the age of 74. He was born in Bay City, Texas on August 29, 1946, to the late James Earl Beaty and Lilly Bell Green.
Ronald was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.
Ronald is survived by his loving wife of 29 years, Marilyn Griffith Beaty; son, Jason Matthew Beaty (Shanoah); daughters, Susan Trollinger and Rachel Priesmeyer (James); stepsons, Justin Hayden (Christy) and Jason Hayden (Kari); 17 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and brother, Gerald Beaty.
Visitation will be held on Monday, March 1, 2021, from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm in the Oaklawn Funeral Home Chapel in Edna, Texas.
A private family service will be held at a later date.
Oaklawn Funeral Home, Edna, Texas
Roger Eugene Bennett
December 27, 1931 - January 05, 2021
Roger Eugene Bennett passed away January 5, 2021 in Bay City, TX. He was born December 27, 1931 in Ottumwa, Iowa to the late Fred and Freda Bennett. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by son Gregg Alan Bennett, brother Richard Bennett and niece Cindi Bennett.
He is survived by his wife Ernestine, son Roger Edwin Bennett, granddaughters Heather Bennett-Munoz and Renee Mitchell, great grandchildren Federico and Amber Munoz all of Bay City and Tannar and Bailey Mitchell of Lake Jackson, his beloved dot Lil Bit, sister-in-law Barbara Bennett and niece Tammi Christ of Ankenny, Iowa and nephew Rock Davis of Fairfield, Iowa.
He served in the US Army during the Korean War from 1951-1954. He resided in Augusta, Georgia before moving to Bay City where he worked at the Celanese Chemical Plant until retirement.
His greatest retirement enjoyment was the daily Coffee Club get-together at the donut shop.
Graveside services will be 11:00 AM Saturday, January 16, 2021 at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck with Dr. Mike Zimmerman officiating.
Taylor Bros.
Funeral Home
Buddy Fletcher Biggerstaff
April 18, 1943 - January 6, 2021
Buddy Fletcher Biggerstaff, 77, of Bay City, Texas went to Heaven on Wednesday, January 6, 2021. He was born April 18, 1943 in Linville, N.C. to Gordon and Winnie Biggerstaff.
Buddy was preceded in death by his siblings, Vonnie, Carma Lee, Roger, Bob, Bill, Bruce, Jackie, and Joyce.
He is survived by his wife, Margarita Biggerstaff; daughters, Sharon Maney, Laura Cauthen (Mark), and Yesenia Hornback (Patrick); six grandchildren, Kristen, Kari, and Daniel Maney, Melody Fortune (Colton), Madison, and Hunter Hornback; one great grandchild, Vincent Fortune; three sisters, Florence Smith, Marion Woodie & Jean Catanzaro (Sam). He is also survived by nieces, nephews, cousins, in laws, and some wonderful friends.
A Memorial Service will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2021 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Bay City at 10 a.m. The family is requesting if you are sick, please do not attend. Masks are required.
Bay City Tribune, January 17, 2021
Funeral services for Albert Wade Blackwell of Collegeport were held at 2 p. m. Tuesday, June 21, at the First Pentecostal Church in Bay City with the Rev. M. J. Moore officiating. Burial was in the Cedarvale Cemetery.
He was born April 15, 1915, in Midway, Texas and died June 19 at Gulf Coast Medical Center in Wharton.
He is survived by his wife, Fawn Adams Blackwell of Collegeport; a daughter, Jean Starks of Bay City; two sons, Neil Blackwell of Bay City and Dean Blackwell of Chandler; two sisters, Irwon Jensen and Geneva Jensen of Palacios; two brothers, Julian Blackwell of Bay City and W. T. Blackwell of Bremond; and five grandchildren.
Palacios Beacon, June 23, 1977
Connie Susan Blakley
November 3,1951 - January 25, 2021
Connie Susan Blakley, 69, of College Station, Texas passed peacefully on January 25, 2021. She was born November 3, 1951 in Wharton County, Texas to Ebbie Byron Cummings and Margie Lois (Lusk) Cummings.
She attended school in Van Vleck, Texas, where she would eventually meet and marry the love of her life, Jimmy Blakley in 1970. They enjoyed over 50 wonderful years together and were blessed with three children and five grandchildren. Connie was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother.
After attending Central Texas College and working on the Texas A&M University campus early in their marriage, Connie, an avid reader, would eventually enjoy 15 years helping others at Audubon Regional Library in Saint Francisville, La. In addition to her books, she also loved her music (especially the Beatles) and beneath her quiet, composed exterior, was a happy hippie soul with a mischievous side. Our llama mama!
Connie is preceded in death by her parents, E.B. and Lois Cummings; brother, David Carroll; and father-in-law, James Milton Blakley.
She is survived by her loving husband, Jimmy Barrow Blakley; children, Katherine Arceneaux (Brian), Michael Blakley, and Tiffany Benedix (Brian); grandchildren, Colette, Stephen, and Dylan Arceneaux, Nathaniel and Olivia Benedix; mother-in-law, Mary Jane Blakley; sisters, Lynda Westbrook (John) and Genelle Logan (Pat); brother, Kenneth Cummings; sister-in-law, Brenda Carroll; and German “daughter”, Jana Arnold; and many more beloved nieces, nephews, in-laws (and outlaws).
The family of Connie would like to say a special thank you to MD Anderson for the care that mom received over the last four years. Connie’s family also asks for people to donate to MD Anderson Cancer Center or their local animal shelter in lieu of flowers.
Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Monday, February 1, 2021 at Hico Cemetery, Hico Texas with Pastor Don Moore officiating.
Bay City Tribune, January 31, 2021
Janice Ann Bocca
August 3, 1947 – July 3, 2012
Janice Ann Bocca, Jan for her friends and family, was born on
August 3, 1947 in Victoria, Texas, died on Tuesday, July 3, 2012
at 00:17 in the morning at the Christopher House in Austin.
Jan graduated from Alvin High School in 1965 where she was
active in the National Honor Society. Following graduation, Jan
attended Texas Christian University and completed her nursing
degree at the University of Texas at San Antonio.
During this period she ran a mobile snow cone truck and worked
for Humble Oil Exploratory Research Center. Later, she became
active as a Girl Scout Leader, a trainer in the American Youth
Soccer Organization and was also active in the Non-Commissioned
Officers' Wives club.
Jan travelled extensively visiting France, Italy, England,
Germany, Israel, Canada, Australia and a few others. Jan was an
avid bird watcher and handfed mangoes to a wild Cassowary in
Australia. Besides travelling, she flew airplanes, white water
rafted and scuba dived the Great Barrier Reef.
Jan was a dedicated nurse who worked for Seton Hospital for 22
years, teaching, mentoring and caring for students and patients.
She is sorely missed and is survived by her husband, George
Bocca; son, Adam DaeGorn; daughter, Eva Smith; and her
grandchildren, Orion and Kayla as well as five brothers, one
sister and numerous other family members.
The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., Friday,
July 6, 2012 at Cook-Walden/Forest Oaks Funeral Home. Funeral
services will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, July 10, 2012 at
Midfield Community Center, 201 Junetta Street in Midfield,
Texas. Interment will follow at Midfield Cemetery. Condolences
may be made at www.cookwaldenforestoaks.com.
Austin American-Statesman, July 5, 2012
Carl William Bock
August 12, 1939 - April 21, 2021
Carl William Bock entered the portals of Heaven on Wednesday, April 21, 2021 at the age of 81. He was born on 12 August 1939 in Yonkers, New York. His parents were William Frederick and Margot Marie (Hand) Bock. Carl grew up in Westchester County, New York and entered the U. S. Army at the age of 17 after High School. He volunteered for Parachute Training and was assigned to the l01st Airborne Division, known as the, "Screaming Eagles."
While serving at Fort Campbell, Carl married Jennie Murphy in Paducah, Kentucky in 1958 and they had a daughter named Carla Bock. Carl and Jennie were divorced in 1960. Carla Bock grew up in Paducah and married Douglas Flanery in 1976. They had two children; James Douglas (J. D.) who was born in 1978 and Christian Flanery who was born in 1979. Carla and Douglas Flanery were divorced in 1996. Carla then married Matt Kirksey in 2000 and they live in Brookport, Illinois.
Following his discharge from the Army, Carl moved to Atlanta, Georgia where he was employed by the Western Waterproofing Company. Carl was the man you see who works on a scaffold hanging on the exterior of tall buildings to make needed repairs to the building. He was fearless and not averse to heights, danger, or to hard work.
Carl married Vivien Millsaps on 19 July 1968
at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Carl and
Vivien lived in Stockbridge, Georgia and had two sons; Karl
Gustav and Jackson Warner Bock. Gus Bock married Melissa Cochran
and they have a daughter named Abigale Bock and a son named
Grant Bock. Jack Bock married Dee Bennes and they have a son,
named Jackson Warner Bock Jr. Vivian (Millsaps) Bock died on 27
January 2012 after a long
illness with Cancer.
Carl left Georgia and moved to Palacios, Texas at the urging of his older sister, Nancy (Bock) Turner. Carl was an avid Hunter and Fisherman, and there were ample opportunities for both avocations in Palacios. Carl loved it here. He met and fell in love with Frances (Strack) Ochoa. Frances and her husband, Rudy Ochoa were divorced. Carl and Frances (Stack) were married in Palacios on 7 September 2013. Carl happily became Step-Father to Frances' two daughters; Erin and Megan Ochoa, who live in Austin and Houston.
Carl was retired from the Building Waterproofing and Repair Business and became engaged in Building and Land Maintenance Operations. Carl and Frances Bock became the primary caretakers for the Centenarian Hazel Montgomery in Palacios.
Carl loved Deer Hunting around College Port and Fishing in Matagorda Bay. He lived a healthy, active, and vigorous life until November 21 when he suffered a Stroke. The Doctors later determined that the rare condition of a Malignant Tumor at the base of his brain was the problem. He received excellent care at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, including the first two treatments of a planned regimen of Chemotherapy that was to continue for a period of six months, but his condition deteriorated. His natural immune system diminished and he developed Pneumonia. The Doctors at Citizens Memorial in Victoria were unable to revive him.
Carl was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Nancy Turner. He is survived by his wife, Frances Bock, and his children; Carla, Gus, and Jack Bock. He is also survived by his step children, Erin and Megan, and by numerous grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other relatives in Kentucky, Georgia, Florida, and Texas.
The date and time for his celebration of life will be announced in the near future.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
Celeste Bohning
December 22, 1921 - April 30, 2021
Emma Celeste Whiteside Bohning passed away
April 30, 2021 surrounded by her loved ones. Celeste was born in
Dallas, TX on December 22, 1921 to Herman F. and Emma Sholden
Whiteside. She grew up in El Campo, TX. She graduated from El
Campo High School, and attended Texas Women’s University in
Denton, TX, returning to El Campo before completing her degree.
She worked at Camp Hulen in Palacios, TX during WWII. She met
her late husband of 59 years, William “Bill” G. Bohning, at that
time. They raised their loving family in El Campo. When Celeste
was 53 years old, she decided to complete her college degree in
education at the University of Houston – Victoria.
Celeste loved being around water. She grew up spending time at
the “El Campo Beach Club” on Carancahua Bay near Palacios. The
family’s bay house was damaged by several hurricanes, but was
always rebuilt. Celeste wanted to live on the water, but grew
tired of salt water living. She found a great lot on Lake LBJ in
Kingsland, TX and built a wonderful home in 1986 where she lived
for several years. She then decided to move closer to family in
Houston, sold her home on Lake LBJ, and purchased a fabulous
home on Lake Conroe where she lived for over 10 years. There she
enjoyed bird watching, hunting, fishing, boating and jet skiing.
For the past 4 years, Celeste resided at the Hampton at Meadows
Place in assisted living, where she enjoyed numerous parties and
activities.
Celeste was competitive and enjoyed board and
card games. She and her friends played many games, including
bridge, Mexican train dominoes, bingo and Rummikub. Celeste
enjoyed woodworking and was a true craftsman. She was a problem
solver and was able to figure out any challenge which came her
way.
Celeste was preceded in death by her parents and husband Bill.
She is survived by her son, William “Bim” F. Bohning and wife
Desiree of Brea, CA; her daughter Susie Ecklund and husband Dave
of Sugar Land; their son David Brueggen and wife Kelly of
Houston; and her niece, Connie Hunt of Richmond, TX. She is also
survived by Dave’s children, Jon Ecklund and wife Fiona Jones of
Charlotte, NC; and Nickey Brooks, husband Piero, and children
Isabella, Briella and Stella of Missouri City, TX.
A visitation will be held on Wednesday, May
5, from 5:00 to 7:00 PM at Triska Funeral Home in El Campo. The
funeral service will be celebrated on Thursday, May 6 at 2:00 PM
at the First Presbyterian Church in El Campo. The service will
be streamed live on their website - https://www.firstpresbyterianelcampo.org/.
Interment will follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery of El
Campo.
The family thanks the team at the Hampton for the significant
role they played in her life. In lieu of flowers, the family
requests donations be made to the American Heart Association, to
the First Presbyterian Church of El Campo, or to the Leukemia &
Lymphoma Society – Gulf Coast Region, Houston.
Triska Funeral Home, El Campo, 979-543-3681
Willie Henry Bohuslar, Sr.
January 29, 1925 - November 12, 2020
Willie Henry Bohuslar, Sr., 95, of Markham passed away November 12, 2020. He was born in Matagorda County on January 29, 1925 to the late John Henry Bohuslar and Lillie Hendrix.
He was a WWII veteran, having served in the US Navy and later in the US Army. Dad was a Charter member of the Markham Volunteer Fire Dept.
Dad was a carpenter and a master craftsman. Building many homes and businesses in the Bay City, Kerrville, Freer, Rocksprings and surrounding Matagorda County areas. He spent most of his later years working in his shop building porch swings and wood locks. If he gave you one of his locks, you knew you were special to him. His woodworking crafts touched many lives throughout his lifetime.
His other passion was fishing down at Olivia, He loved fishing with his homemade sail lines.
Willie is preceded in death by his wife of almost 70 years, Bernice Bohuslar; sisters Agnus Backus and Marie Byrd; and a granddaughter Ashlyn Efting. He is survived by daughters Patricia Frieda, Tammy Efting (Lee); son Willie H. Bohuslar Jr., (Elaine); sisters Bessie Skarpa, Lillian Bratcher, Johnnie Mae Greenwood and Kathy Hurst; grandchildren Jeremy Bohuslar, Tim Bohuslar (Renee), Robbie Frieda (Allison), Russell Frieda (Alisha), Erin Shiplett (Drew), Kaitlyn John (Austin); 8 great-grandchildren and 1 great-great grandchild.
Graveside services will be at 2 PM Monday, November 16, 2020 at Hawley Cemetery with Rev. John Williams officiating. If attending please practice safe social distancing.
In lieu of flowers please make memorial to his name to the UMC of a Markham or the Markham Volunteer Fire Dept.
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
Brandan Bowlin, 34 passed away suddenly on October 9, 2020 at his residence. He was born on November 6, 1985 in Bay City Texas to Rhonda Lynn Wells and the late Glen Edward Bowlin.
Brandan was raised in the Wharton area and attended Wharton High School. Brandan worked in the water well and oil drilling industry. He enjoyed watching football and basketball, listening to music and reading books, traveling to the Matagorda pier and spending time with his son, Joshua. In addition to his father, Brandan was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Glen H Wells and Charles Bowlin.
He is survived by his son, Joshua Bowlin, mother, Rhonda Pospisil and husband, Robert of Rosenberg, sisters, Amber Wells of Rosenberg and Misty Pospisil of East Bernard, brother, Franklin Pospisil and wife, Jennifer of Victoria, the mother of his son, Savanna Faulkner of Rosenberg, step mother, Sherry Bowlin and nieces Rayna and Sarah Gregg along with numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, October 16, 2020 at 2 pm at the chapel of Wharton Funeral Home with Rev. Marvin Moore officiating. Cremation will follow services.
Funeral services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home. Condolences may be left at whartonfuneralhome.com
Wharton Funeral Home
Funeral service for Shawnesha Jarnell Brinkley, 33, of Houston, Texas, formerly of Bay City, Texas will be at 11a.m. on Saturday, May 8, 2021 at Bay City Sports Complex, 2414 FM 3156, Bay City, Texas 77414 with Pastor Ruben Newell officiating. Burial will follow at St. John Cemetery in Van Vleck, Texas
Visitation will be on Friday, May 7, 2021 from 3:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, 2500 Avenue C, Bay City, Texas 77414
Online condolences and signing of the guest registry may be done by visiting our website at duncanrobertsfuneralhome.com.
Bay City Tribune, May 5, 2021
Glenn Allen Brooks
January 15, 1952 - January 28, 2021
Glenn Allen Brooks was a strong man who fought a gallant fight. He took flight to be with Our Lord and Savior on January 28, 2021 at 5:57 PM.
At 8 years old, Glenn was helping his grandfather on the farm planting cotton and soybeans. He even drove the tractors during harvest time. On February 23, 1973 he married Marilyn Hundhausen.
Glenn was very intellectual. He studied his Native American Roots, and spent hours researching other areas of interest. He was a collector of American as well as Foreign made Automobiles, which he enjoyed restoring. Glenn was an avid fisherman and Hunter. He loved camping and trout fishing.
He was a proud IBEW Local 66 Electrical Union Brother. Glenn worked at STPEGS for 35 years. Of which he was very proud. He was a creditable employee and made numerous friends.
Glenn is survived by his wife; children Valerie June Brooks, Sarah Elizabeth Brooks, Jessica Maryetta Brooks Cruz and Joseph Allen Matthew Brooks; grandchildren Madison Nicole Brooks and David Preston Webster; great-grandchildren Levi Karter McCoy and Grace Alivia Webster; brothers Joseph Wesley Brooks, Paul Wendell Brooks and Phillip Dewayne Brooks.
Glenn loved to Fox hunt and had his own troupe of Foxhounds. Our daughters loved to go to the Foxhound Award ceremonies. Our oldest daughter would participate by blowing the horn and singing ‘just a swanging’ by John Anderson.
The family will receive friends and relatives beginning at 1:00 PM Saturday, February 6, 2021 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral Services will follow at 2:00 pm.
“Glenn loved the Lord with all his heart and soul. Fly away my love, you will be greatly missed.” by Marilyn Hundhausen Brooks
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
Georgetown—Funeral for John Edward Brooks, 27, former Georgetown resident who died in an auto accident near El Campo Saturday night, will be at 4 p. m. Monday at Davis Funeral Chapel. Burial will be in New Hope Cemetery.
Survivors include his widow, three children and two step-children all of Blessing; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Bethel Brooks, Bertram; his grandmothers, Mrs. Henry Johnson, Georgetown, and Mrs. Millie Chandler, Bertram; one brother, Philip Brooks, Beaumont; and one sister, Mrs. Jimmie Brown.
Austin American, July 4, 1966
John Edward Brooks
Funeral Set Today For Crash Victim
Ganado—Funeral services for Bradley “Snookie” Fleniken, 22, of Ganado, one of five persons killed Saturday night in a car crash 2 ½ miles north of El Campo, will be held at 3 p. m. Monday at First Methodist Church of Ganado. The Rev. E. E. Reeves and the Rev. Carl Isral will officiate. Burial will be in Ganado City Cemetery.
Funeral arrangements were incomplete Sunday night for John Edward Brooks, 26, of Blessing, who died in the same car with Fleniken. The men had been working on a construction project in Bay City. Three Dallas residents in the second car also died in the head-on collision.
Fleniken is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Buddy Fleniken of Ganado; a brother, Warren of Bay City; and a sister, Betty of Wharton.
Pallbearers will be Darwin Lukemeyer, Bobby Hultquist, Gary Jones, Willard Adler, Harry Burns and Calvin Schomburg. Honorary pallbearers will be Leo Chafin, Gene Smith and Glenn Schoenfelt.
Psencik Funeral Home of Ganado is in charge.
Final rites for Brooks are under direction of Davis Funeral Home in Georgetown.
Surviving are his wife, Noreta; a son, John Edward II and two daughters, Renee and Cheryl, all of Blessing; his parents, Mrs. and Mrs. B. E. Brooks of Georgetown; a brother, Philip of Beaumont, and a sister, Lanell Brown of Leander, Tex.
Victoria Advocate, July 4, 1966
Mark Andrew Brooks
December 13, 1965 - April 05, 2021
Mark Andrew Brooks, 55, of Van Vleck, passed away April 5, 2021 in Sugar Land, TX. He was born December 13, 1965 in Phoenix, AZ to Elbert Glen Brooks and Evelyn Justice Brooks.
Mark was a 1984 graduate of Van Vleck High School and loved watching his son play Leopard football with his old number 72. He worked as an electrician for Underground Services in Markham for over 10 years. Mark loved his kids and grandkids and enjoyed family time more than anything. He was loved by many.
Mark is preceded in death by his father Elbert Brooks. He is survived by his mother Evelyn “Sissy” Brooks; daughters Kayla Youngblood Case (Ethan), Baylee Mitchell (Kole) and Justice Wilson (Phillip); son Mark Samuel Brooks; brothers Glen “Mat” Brooks (Betty) and Tim Brooks, and grandchildren Kooper & Lynnon Mitchell.
The family will hold a service Saturday, April 10, 2021 at Calvary Baptist Church at 10:00 am. In lieu of flowers, the family asks to please send plants that can be re-planted in memory of him.
Bay City Tribune, April 7, 2021
Eliza Brown
Negro Woman Killed
Monday night Eliza Brown, a colored woman was shot by Alex Wermley, another Negro. Wermley was from the Huebner neighborhood and had secreted himself in the woman’s house. After she had retired, Alex started his gun to work, and the frightened woman was shot down while trying to escape. She lingered till yesterday morning and died. Wermley was arrested Monday night, and is held on a murder charge.
Matagorda County News and Midcoast Farmer,
May 18, 1914
Erman Richard Buckalew
April 01, 1942 - April 02, 2021
Erman Richard “Dick” Buckalew, 79, of Bay City passed away April 2, 2021. He was born April 1, 1942 in Charleston, West Virginia to the late Erman Flaphus Buckalew and Dorothy Clendenin Buckalew.
Dick graduated from Dunbar High School in Dunbar, West Virginia. He worked at STP in Bay City, Texas for many years. He then worked for Siemins Westinghouse for several years after that until he retired and decided to stay home and help raise his grandchildren.
Survivors include his wife, Kathleen Buckalew; daughters Robin Buckalew, Angie Buckalew (Tommy Register), Kelly Buckalew and Kristin Buckalew; son David Buckalew (Rome´) and grandchildren Derek and Darren Buckalew, Gage Manahan, Garrett Almy, Tyler Wofford, Jackson Goff, Justice Kunz, Joshua, Laura and Allan.
Graveside services will be 3:00 PM Wednesday, April 7, 2021 at Cedarvale Cemetery with Wally Rodriguez officiating.
Bay City Tribune, April 7, 2021
Connie Espinosa Buckner
October 13, 1950 - January 17, 2021
Our precious Connie Espinosa Buckner peaceably earned her angel wings while surrounded by her entire family on January 17, 2021 at the age of 70. She was born in Palacios to the late Martha Garcia Espinosa and Guillermo (Willie) Espinosa on October 13, 1950.
She graduated from Palacios High School in 1968. She attended Southwest Business School and when she graduated, she worked at Delta, then Mass Mutual Insurance, then Phillips where she worked for about 31 years and retired in 2012. While at Phillips she joined JPS, which is a society that does a lot of volunteering in the community. She was highly active and held several positions. Her hobbies were scrapbooking, gardening, her beloved Charlie (dog) and most importantly her grandchildren! She dearly loved all her family and friends. Also she loved music (George Strait, Little Joe), dancing and returning to her roots in Palacios. Her loved ones will forever remember her spirit, strength, infectious beautiful smile, helpful attitude, loving and giving nature. We believe her legacy to us is love, caring and forgiveness. If you hurt her, she would forgive you (even if it took a while). We should all learn from her and change to be more like her.
Connie was preceded in death by her parents, Martha Garcia Espinosa, and Guillermo (Willie) Espinosa, Espinosa Grandparents, Garcia Grandparents, numerous aunts and uncles but especially Aunt Ecilda Espinosa who raised her. Left to cherish her memory are husband, Ray Buckner of 45 years, her three children, Harlon Buckner (Cora), Joseph Cardenas, and Christopher Buckner, four amazing grandchildren, Mitchell Hoatson (Dani), Ashlyn Paige Phillips, Kaylee Rae Buckner, and Brady Kai Buckner. She also had an ‘honorary grandson’, Cainan A. Rodriquez, who called her Momo. And two great grandsons, Jacob and Caleb. Brothers, David Espinosa (Irma), Chris Flores (Maria), sisters, Becky Espinosa Rubio (Alex), Sylvia Espinosa Cura (Jose), Susan Espinosa, and Patricia Espinosa Garcia, (Jose) and numerous nieces and nephews.
The family will receive friends and relatives for visitation at 9:00am with the rosary starting at 9:30am at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Palacios, Texas. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery. Pallbearers for Connie are Willie Espinosa, David Rodriquez, Daniel Chavez, Patrice Gonzalez, Anthony Espinosa, and Andrew Espinosa.
SOCIAL DISTANCING AND MASK WEARING WILL BE IN EFFECT!
Taylor Bros. Funeral Home
Evalynn Janet Bunk
December 26, 1932 - May 23, 2021
Evalynn Janet Bunk, 88, passed away on Sunday, May 23, 2021, at
her Corpus Christi home. She was born on December 26, 1932, in
New Gulf, Texas, one of two daughters born to John Walter Bunk
and Bertha “Bert” Blanche Mangum Bunk. Evalynn’s sister, Ruby
Mae, died in infancy. New Gulf was the home of the Texas Gulf
Sulphur Company, and Evalynn’s father worked there for many
years.
Evalynn graduated from Boling High School in 1951 and went to
college at Southwestern University where she earned a Bachelor
of Science Degree in Education in 1956, with teaching
certifications elementary and special education. She moved to
Corpus Christi in 1959 and taught school for 34 years, 23 of
which were at Tuloso-Midway. Her favorite hobbies were painting
and needlepoint.
Evalynn joined St. John’s United Methodist Church on November 1,
1963, and was active in every aspect of church life throughout
the past 58 years. She never missed worship services, nor any
fellowship activities and was a faithful member of St. John’s
United Methodist Women’s and Friendship Sunday School Classes.
She served in many leadership roles over the years, including
the Church Council, the Children’s Learning Center Board, the
Fun, Food, and Fellowship Committee, and the St. John’s
Foundation Board. She also counted the Sunday offerings every
Monday morning for many years, and also enjoyed playing Mexican
Train dominoes a couple of times each month with fellow church
members. She also participated in the Wednesday Bible Study at
church. Evalynn was dearly loved by her church family, and will
be remembered for her faithfulness, independent and take-charge
spirit, and sense of humor.
She attended family reunions faithfully since the early 1950s,
and her life will be celebrated and remembered with much love by
family members spanning more than five generations.
A Funeral Service will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 29,
2021 at Seaside Funeral Home Chapel in Corpus Christi, Texas,
with a reception following at 5:00 p.m. in the Community Life
Building at St. John’s United Methodist Church located at 5300
S. Alameda. Officiating the service will be Rev. Dr. Harold
Onwiler.
Graveside Service will be held on Sunday afternoon, May 30, 2021
at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City, Texas, with Interment in her
family plot.
In lieu of flowers, please celebrate Evalynn’s life with a
special gift to St. John’s United Methodist Church or St. John’s
UMC Foundation, 5300 S. Alameda, Corpus Christi, Texas 78412,
(361-991-4342), or your favorite charity.
Seaside Funeral Home, Corpus Christi
Mittie Merle Burditt
September 7, 1940 - April 24, 2021
Mittie Merle Burditt, 80, of Bay City, Texas passed away April 24, 2021. She was born September 7, 1940, in Houston, Texas. Known as “Onie” to many relatives, she could make a mean banana bread and loved to make afghans for all of her family and friends. She never failed to send a birthday card to everyone she knew!
She was preceded in death by her parents, Hugh Dean Peabody and Marion Katherine Hanson Peabody; and her son, Joseph Timothy Ros.
Mittie is survived by her daughter, Regina Katherine Densmore; her sons, Justus Densmore and his wife, Madison, and Paxton Densmore; and her daughter-in-law, Ashley Ros, and her children, Garrett Ros, Grayson Ros, Gaven Ros and Aubrey Ros. She is also survived by sisters, Patsy Orrick and Sina Cobern; and brother, Pat Peabody, and their spouses; several nephews and nieces; and honorary granddaughter, Christina Jackson.
Visitation will begin at 9 a.m. Saturday, May 1, 2021 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas. Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park. Pallbearers will be Justus Densmore, Paxton Densmore, Garrett Ros, Grayson Ros, Gaven Ros, Brent Taylor, and Curt Kjergaard.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor her life can donate to the VVISD Education Foundation for the Joe Ros Memorial Scholarship Fund.
Arrangements with Taylor Bros Funeral Home, Bay City, Texas; 979-245-4613.
Bay City Tribune, April 28, 2021 Marker photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
Alfred "Buck" Burkett
February 21, 1927 - November 05, 2020
On Thursday, November 5, 2020, Alfred Marion “Buck” Burkett, loving husband, and father of three children, passed away at the age of 93.
Buck was born in Sour Lake, TX on February 21, 1927. He was a member of the Palacios, TX community, and the First Baptist Church, for approaching 75 years.
Buck enjoyed a loving marriage of 67 years to his Dorothy. Their family grew from three children to five grandchildren, and nine great grandchildren. In his life Buck was a WWII Veteran serving in the Occupation of Japan, a cowboy who loved to work cattle and ride horses, and he had a successful career of over 40 years with Sun Oil Company.
Buck was preceded in death by his wife, Dorothy and their son Alfred Jr. He is survived by daughter Cynthia and son Jeffrey. He will be missed dearly. Visitation will begin 9:00 am Wednesday, November 11, 2020 at First Baptist Church Palacios TX, followed by funeral services at 10:00 am. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery. Pall bearers are Charlie Michalik, Martin Janda, Ronald Linton, Tyler Burkett, Corbin Linton and Jeffrey Burkett.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the church in his memory.
Bay City Tribune, November 11, 2020