Matagorda County Obituaries
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ANNA MAE SIVEK (BURT) KAMMERER

BAY CITY - Anna Mae Sivek (Burt) Kammerer, 90, of Bay City passed away November 2, 2012. She was born to Rosalie and John Sivek in Meeks, Texas on March 15, 1922. One of seven children born to this union, Anna Mae's mother died early and several aunts cared for her in her formative years.

Anna Mae is survived by sons John Burt and wife, Lynnis, Edward Burt and wife, Betty, Robert Burt, and wife, Janice, Garry Dean Burt, and daughter, Rose Layton and husband, Johnny. Grandchildren Toby and wife Tamara, Jody, Bruce and wife Rachel, Brad, Julie, Joe Ed, Michele, Robert Jr. (Bubba), Bryan and wife Michele, Lindsey (Smokey) and wife Amy, Amber, and Joel. 15 Great-grandchildren, and numerous Great-Great-grandchildren. Anna Mae was preceded in death by her husband of 32 years, Travis Kammerer, son, Eugene V. Burt Jr. (Bud), brother, Arnold Sivek, sisters, Claudia Lezak, Henrietta Hauerland, Adela (Della) Melton, Libby Calloway, and Gladys Althaus.

The family will receive visitors from 12 Noon to 2:00 PM Monday, November 5, 2012 at the funeral home. The funeral service will be 2:00 PM Monday, November 5, 2012 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Bobby Lezak officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be: Toby Burt, Bruce Burt, Brad Burt, Jud Burt, Smokey Hebert, and Rick DeLeon.

Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.taylorbros.net. Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home (979) 245-4613.

Victoria Advocate, November 4, 2012                         Travis W. Kammerer                      Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Lillie Rose Keith, 79, of Sargent passed away October 15, 2013. She was born December 26, 1934 in Sargent, TX to the late Mack Irving Phillips and Edna Rose Miller Phillips. She was a retired dispatcher with Matagorda County Sheriff’s Department.

She was preceded in death by her lifelong love, Ted Bowen. Survivors include daughters Debi Clayton & husband Ralph of Sargent and Anissa Carter & husband Dee of Van Vleck; son Kem Keith of Sargent; step-children Carol Salley and Dyer & Ted Bowen; sister Gloria Smith of Bay City; brother Ewing Martin of Conroe; grandchildren Jennifer Gutierrez, Pamela Clayton, Bethany Clayton, Lyndsey Carter, Meagan Carter, Matthew Carter, Erika Keith and Joey Kennedy and 8 great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5pm until 7pm Friday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 10:00 AM Saturday, October 19, 2013 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel with Rev. Ben Kerns officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                 Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Funeral Services Held Thursday For Mrs. Keller

Funeral services were held at Hawley Cemetery Thursday afternoon for Mrs. Lettie Lee Keller, 54, who died the day before in John Sealy Hospital in Galveston.

Surviving are two sons, L. A. of Midfield, and J. K. of Galveston. The Rev. R. E. Black of Markham officiated at the services.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Walker-Matchett Funeral Home.

Newspaper and date unknown
 

Clara Mae Kelley
December 9, 1942 – August 4, 2013

Clara went to be with her Heavenly Father, as well as her late husband, Billy K. Kelley; and her mother, Arreta Banks; and father, Robert M. Chronister.

She is survived by her children, Linda Andrade, Brenda Bray, Glenda West, Tammy Kelley, Ronda Bradford, April Kelley and three sons, John Kelley, Steven Kelley and James Lee Williams; 21 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at First Pentecostal Church on Friday, August 23, 2013 at 7 p.m.

She will be greatly missed by her loved ones and friends.

Bay City Tribune, August 11, 2013
 

Margaret Roberts Kelly
Sept. 3, 1931 – April 18, 2013

Margaret Swann Roberts Kelly died peacefully at her home in Columbia Lakes on April 18, 2013, after her ten and a half year battle with Vascular Dementia.

She was born September 3, 1931, in Red River County, Texas, to S. W. and Irene Roberts.

She grew up and attended school in Wichita Falls, Texas, where she met Robert B. Kelly in high school. They were married on December 24, 1950, and celebrated 62 years together.

After attending North Texas State College, she taught elementary school in Nebraska where Bob was attending University of Nebraska College of Dentistry. Margaret and Bob lived in San Diego, Hawaii, and Corpus Christi while serving in the Navy. After the Navy, they settled in Bay City, Texas, where they lived for 37 years and raised their family. Margaret was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church where she served as Sunday School teacher, Deacon, and Elder. In 1993, they moved to Columbia Lakes, where she became an active member of the Bethel Presbyterian Church. She served as an Elder, created beautiful flowerbeds, and delivered many meals and visits.

Margaret was blessed with many God given talents. She could cook, paint, sew, consult, listen, create, garden, design, and teach. She will always be remembered for her devotion to family, gracious hospitality, faith in God, service to others, love of children, her Grammy hugs, contagious laugh, & her smile that would light up a room.

She is survived by, her husband, Robert B. Kelly, who honored the covenant of their marriage with his unfailing commitment to her care, which is a testimony to their children and grandchildren.

She is also survived by, their four daughters and three sons-in-law: Diane Kelly Spoon, Susan and Jim Everitt, Janice and Eric Smith, and Mary and Scooter Goll.

They were blessed with 12 grandchildren: Matt Spoon and wife Stefani, Marcus Spoon and fiancé Ariana, Jonathan Spoon and wife Shannon, Jeff Spoon and wife Katie, Michael Everitt, Lauren Everitt, David Smith, Ben Smith, Josh Goll and wife Cayla, Taylor Goll, Allison Goll, and Makenzie Goll and one great-grandchild, Ashlynn Spoon.

Other survivors include: her brother John Roberts and wife LaJuan, brother-in-law, John Davidson, uncle Ray Marsh and wife Clothylde, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

The family would like to express our appreciation to Help, Inc., Helping Hands and Hearts Hospice, Angleton Visiting Nurses, and the wonderful caregivers Diane, Melanie, Kay, Ella, Marjorie, and Fallon.

A Memorial Service to celebrate her life will be at 2 p.m., on Sunday, April 21, 2013, at Bethel Presbyterian Church in East Columbia.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Bethel Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 817, West Columbia, TX 77486, Haiti Education Foundation, P.O. Box 10775 El Dorado, AR 71730, or Medical Benevolent Foundation, P.O. Box 96877, Washington, D.C. 20077.

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, April 24, 2013                  Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Leah Bryant Kennedy
(January 31, 1940 - June 8, 2013)

Leah Bryant Kennedy, 73, of Bay City went to join the angels in heaven on June 8, 2013. She was born January 31, 1940 in Altus, Oklahoma to the late Wesley Bryant and Gertrude Bryant. She was preceded in death by her son, Charles Ray Shelnick of Blessing, Texas.

Survivors include her husband Ross R. Kennedy of Bay City, Texas and daughter Leanna M. Kennedy of Tomball, Texas. Son Marcus R.(Karen)Kennedy of Bay City, Texas. Grandson Russell A. Riddles of New Orleans, Louisiana, Granddaughter Alex R, Kennedy of Tomball, Texas. Great Grandson Kobie R. Kennedy of Bay City, Texas. Twin Great Granddaughters Kylan R. Kennedy and Karis R. Kennedy of Bay City, Texas. Sisters Dorothy (Harvey) Deford and Adele (Clyle) Harrel of Altus, Oklahoma. Brothers Wesley D.(Simy) Bryant of Las Vegas, Nevada and Richard L.(Ann) Bryant of Altus, Oklahoma.

Bay City Tribune, June 12, 2013
 

Robert Lee Keszler

Robert Lee Keszler, 72, of Georgetown, TX passed away peacefully on Dec. 15, 2012 surrounded by his loving family. A Memorial Service was held Dec. 18, at Crestview Baptist Church, in Georgetown. Pastor Dan Wooldridge will be officiating.

Robert was born to Edward and Millie Mae Keszler on Dec. 26, 1939, in Damon, TX. He was a lucky man that found true love at a young age. Robert exchanged wedding vows with Anita Joy Corporon on June 27, 1958, at Collegeport Presbyterian Church, in Collegeport, TX. He attended Barber College in Houston and Wharton County Junior College. Robert was a master of his craft and dedicated 30 years to the Alcoa Aluminum Company, as a Maintenance Control Supervisor, in Point Comfort, TX. After moving to Georgetown, he came out of retirement and served as the Administrative Business Clerk for Williamson County Juvenile Services.

Robert was a hard working man and a man of strong faith. He most recently was a member of Crestview Baptist Church, in Georgetown, where he sang in the choir and served as a Deacon. While he attended First Baptist Church.

Palacios Beacon, December 19, 2012?

[Burial at Hawley Cemetery near Blessing, Texas.]
 

Walter Elliott Kilgore, 74, of Palacios, died June 22, 2001 at St. Luke's Hospital in Houston, TX. He was born September 30, 1926 in Palacios to the late Walter B. and Leona Kilgore. Walter had a long life with a variety of experiences to include: farming and ranching, owning and operating Kilgore Brothers Truck Line, a law enforcement career with the Palacios Police Dept., Matagorda Co. Sheriff's Dept., and the Ingleside Police Dept., where he became the Assistant Chief. He also was a longtime past member of the Palacios Volunteer Fire Dept. where he also served the community for many years. He and his wife Nettie of 52 years, who preceded him in death May 8, 2000, were both born and raised in Palacios. They will both be missed. Their family and friends know they are now together again.

Survivors include: son, Keith Kilgore of Palacios; 2 daughters and sons-in-law, Karla & Jerry Carr of Crockett, and Cindy & Mark Petersen of Leander, TX; 2 sisters and brother-in-law Vera Lou & Jim Sprayberry of Marshall, TX, Lottie Anderson of Port Lavaca, TX; brother: H. L. "Lewis" Kilgore and wife Ruth of Woodboro, TX and 6 grandchildren.

Graveside funeral service will be 2 p.m. Tuesday, June 26, 2001, at the Palacios Cemetery with Rev. Hollas Hoffman officiating. Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home. A00011A2001JN26

Daily Tribune, Tuesday, June 26, 2001
 

Eddy Joe King

Graveside funeral services for Eddy Joe King, 50, will be 10 a. m., Oct. 29 at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing with Rev. Joe Ramsey officiating. He died Oct. 26 at M. D. Anderson Hospital in Houston, Tx.

King was born Aug. 30, 1947 in Llano, Texas to Roland C. and Winnie Shellhouse King. He was a life long resident of Bay City, a member of the Christian Church and a heavy equipment operator.

Loving survivors include his mother, Winnie King of Austin; daughter, Erin King of Markham; son, Eli King of Sweeny; sister, Mildred King Reno of Austin; brothers, William E. King of Chicago, Ill. and Jimmy Don King of Alexandria, Va.; one granddaughter, Megan Elizabeth King of Bay City. He was preceded in death by his father, Roland C. King in 1969 and a brother, Benny King in 1973.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City

Daily Tribune, October 28, 1997
 

Robert Scott King
Sept. 11, 1945 – March 24, 2013

Scott King, 67, of Tres Palacios Oaks passed away peacefully in his home March 24, 2013.

He was born September 11, 1945 in Jacksonville, Texas to Robert Shell King and Joyce B. King.

Scott loved hunting, fishing, and spending time with his family and friends. He served in the United States Air Force, later to become a game warden for 14 years. Also working in the oil field business for numerous years, as a manager for K-3/BMI services until his death.

Scott was a member of the American Legion Cecil Lee Post 649, and was also a 32nd degree Mason.

He was preceded in death by: his father, Robert Shell King.

He is survived by: his mother, Joyce B. King; wife, Patricia A. King; and brother, Don B. King. His surviving children include: Jason D. King, Angie King Morrow, and Justin C. King. Brittany Raybon and Cameron Morrow are his surviving grandchildren.

A memorial to be held locally at a later date.

Bay City Tribune, April 3, 2013
 

Lillie Lorraine Mariner King
Nov. 7, 1931 – Oct. 10, 2012

Lillie Lorraine Mainer King, 81, of Van Vleck, passed away Wednesday, October 10, 2012, at Matagorda Regional Hospital with family by her side.

Lorraine was born on November 7, 1931, in Zavala, Texas, to the late James Henry Crauen and Emily Barbara Dykes.

Lorraine was a long time resident of Van Vleck, residing with her daughter, Sandra and her long time companion and pet Jazmine, her dog.

Lorraine is survived by: her three daughters, Sandra Kay Nelson, Barbara Ruth Funderburk of Van Vleck and Kimberly Ann Mariner of Houston, Texas.

Deceased by: one daughter, Marsha Lynn Flowers; and two sons, Gary Donavon Mariner and David Wayne Mariner.

Survived by: eight living grandchildren, eight great-grandchildren, and two deceased grandchildren. Also numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were at 11 a.m., Friday, October 12, 2012, at New Hope Church, Avenue D and Whitson St., Bay City, Texas.

Burial will be at East View Cemetery, Golden Avenue.

Those who want to gather and reminisce about MeMe, are welcome at 289 N. 5th St., Van Vleck, Texas, at the home of her daughter Sandra.

Pallbearers were: Kyle Knight, Jeremy Knight, Robert Truitt, Anthony Evans, Andrew Evans, Tanner Truitt, Amber Ham, and Lee ValVerde.

Honorary pallbearers were: Kadyn Truitt and Robert Reyna.

Bay City Tribune, October 17, 2012                                             Photo courtesy of Tresmond Scott
 

Archie Hugh Kirby

Graveside services for Archie Hugh Kirby, 81, of Bay City will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 20, 1999 at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing, Rev. Kenny James officiating.

Mr. Kirby died Thursday, Feb. 18. He was born July 17, 1917 in Markham to John James Kirby and Georgie Jeanette Ham Kirby. Formerly of Santa Rosa, Calif., Mr. Kirby was a retired service technician for Montgomery Wards. He was a veteran of WWII serving in the U. S. Army, a resident of Bay City since 1979, a life member of Disabled American Veterans, Chapter 230 of Bay City.

Mr. Kirby is survived by his wife, Frances Grace Kirby of Bay City; sons, Hugh Allen Kirby and Johnny Paul Kirby both of Santa Rosa, Patrick Raymond Kirby of Nampa, Ind., and Michael James Kirby of Bay City; sisters, Edith Rasmussen of Bay City and Nellie McIntosh of Vidor; brother, Andrew Kirby of Louisiana; grandchildren; Kimberly Ann Raymond, Christopher Kirby, Daniel Kirby, Thomas Kirby and John Kirby; and one great grandchild, Ashley Raymond.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

Daily Tribune, February 19, 1999

Barbara Jean Klinect

Barbara Jean Klinect, 71, of Brazoria, Texas passed away Monday, April 16, 2001 at Plaza Specialty Hospital in Houston, Texas.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 20, 2001 at St. Marks Lutheran Church of Lake Jackson with Rev. Jay Mason officiating. Graveside services will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Matagorda County, Texas at 3:00 p. m.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 p. m. until 8:00 p. m. on Thursday, April 19, 2001, at the Lakewood Funeral Chapel.

Barbara has been an area resident since 1961, a member of St. Marks Lutheran Church, a member of Life Light Group of St. Mark Lutheran, and LWML.

She is survived by her husband, Alvin Klinect of Brazoria; her mother, Floy Beckman of Houston; children, Doris Fike and husband, William of Brazoria, Wayne “Tucker” Bullington and wife, Sheila of Brazoria and George Bullington and wife, Georgeann of Demi John, Texas; grandchildren, Adam, Heather, Jeremy, Jacob, Seth, Rhett, Chance, James, Bryan, Cody, Jared, Jeffrey, Michelle and Melissa; great-grandchildren, Cody, Shane, Alyssa, Caden, Ashtan and Chad; step children, Glen Klinect and wife, Anna of Lake Jackson, Linda Maresh and husband, Henry of Pearland, Shirley Sutton and husband, Paul of Angleton; and sister, Floy McMillan of Kingwood.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Bobby Bullington.

Pallbearers will be her grandsons.

Funeral services by Lakewood Funeral Chapel.

Newspaper and date unknown
 

Steven Craig Klingaman

Steven Craig Klingaman, age 52, passed away after extended illness, Saturday, December 14, 2013, at his home in Hollywood Bottom.

He was an active member of the Church of Christ in El Campo, Texas. Steve owned and operated Aqua Farms of Texas, Aerators of Texas, and was instrumental in developing the Texas Aqua Culture Coop near Markham, Texas. He was featured in numerous magazines and newspaper articles on the subject of aqua culture. Steve also was a partner in Texas Electric, Precision Drug/Alcohol Testing, and B&K Construction.

Steve is survived by his wife, Verma Woolf Klingaman; daughter, Holly Woolf; grandsons, Beau and Brek, of El Campo; brother, Wallace James Klingaman and wife Nina of Wharton, Texas; sister, Janice Klingaman Chambers and husband Michael of Waxahachie, Texas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Services will be held Saturday, December 21, 2013, at 10 a.m., at the Church of Christ in El Campo, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, memorials and contribution may be given to Houston Hospice or MRMC Foundation.

Bay City Tribune, December 18, 2013
 

Johnny Frank Knebel, 55, of Blessing, passed away December 22, 2002.

He was born October 24, 1947 in El Campo to Henry Raymond Knebel and Louise Dorothy Swinky Knebel.

He was a resident of Blessing since 1996 and a member of the Catholic Church.

He is survived by: his sons, Frankie Knebel of Blessing and Jeffrey Knebel of New Caney; his sister, Shirley Woytek of Alvin; his brothers, Ronnie Knebel of Bay City and Donny Knebel of Sweeny; and three grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents Henry and Louise Knebel and his brother, Kenneth “Tudy” Knebel.

Memorial services will be at 3 p.m. on Sunday, January 5, 2003 at the Blessing Community Center.

Memorials may be made to the Johnny Frank Knebel account at First State Bank of Lousie, Blessing Branch in Blessing.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City. A00014B2003JA01

The Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, January 1, 2003
 

LARRY KNIGHT

PALACIOS - Larry Knight, 75 of Palacios passed away on Friday, August 23, 2013. He was born in Indianapolis, Indiana on May 17, 1938 to the late Melvin and Margaret Baze Knight. Larry was a graduate of Indiana Law Enforcement Academy. He served as a Police Officer for 40 years. He was Marshal of Crows Nest, Indiana, a Truant officer for Channelview ISD, Chief of Police for the San Jacinto College System and Deputy for Jackson County. He was a member of the Lions Club of Palacios, Blue Knights Motorcycle Club and attended Carancahua Chapel.

Larry is survived by his wife, Judy Wildman Knight; daughter, Lydia (James) Manni and their children, Sophia and Leo; Mary Ann Biggs and her son, Johnny; son, Cliff (Tali) Wildman and their daughter, Dahlia.

Memorial Services will be 3:00 P.M., Thursday, August 29, 2013 at Grace Funeral Chapel in Port Lavaca.

Arrangements entrusted to the care of Grace Funeral Chapel in Port Lavaca.

Published in the Victoria Advocate on August 26, 2013
 

Charles Edwin Koenig

BAY CITY - Charles Edwin Koenig, son of Ernest Clemmons Koenig and Gracie Lucinda Cooper Koenig, born August 26, 1929, in Waelder, Texas passed from this earthly life into eternity Tuesday, September 25, 2012, at the age of 83. Charles retired from Alcoa after 33 years of service and retired a second time from Bay City ISD as a bus driver. He made many friends with the staff and students there.

Daddy had a great sense of humor and was always ready with a joke or two. We love you, Daddy. You were so good to us and we will miss you very much.

Charles is survived by; wife Carol Koenig, his children; Charles H. Koenig (Judy) Koenig of Bay City, Brenda Koenig Thompson (Quincy) of Victoria, Ray Koenig (Barbara) of Richmond, and Pam Koenig Evans of Houston; grandchildren, Ross Henning (Marisa), Stacey Henning Krause (Johnny), Dallas Koenig Henslee (Mark), Chris Griffith (Ashley), Heath Koenig (Kim), Brent Koenig (Alison), Camille Griffith Cathey (Chris) , Brad Koenig (Amber), Kelly Griffith Panfilli (Archie), Lindsey Clarke, and Courtney Clarke; great grandchildren, Brandon and McKenzie Henning, Hannah and Caleb Krause, Gabrielle, Danielle and Shanielle Henslee, Izzi, Waylon and Jaxon Griffith, Houston, Stetson, and Cash Koenig, Cooper Koenig, Cori and Cash Cathey, Addison Panfilli, and soon to arrive, Dillon Koenig, as well as step-sons, Chuck Shaffer (Vicky), and David Shaffer. Charles is also survived by his step-mother, Viola Koenig, brothers, Wayne Koenig (Cheryl) and Gary Koenig (Shirley ), his former wife, Annie LaVerne Williams and her sister, Jeanette Foss (Ron).

Visitation and Funeral services will take place at St. Paul's United Methodist Church, Bay City, Texas, on Saturday, September 29, 2012. Visitation: 12 - 2 pm Funeral Service: 2pm, Rev. Tom Morgan officiating.

Burial will follow at Hawley Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers will be his grandsons and family.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Society or St. Paul's United Methodist Church.

Condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.taylorbros.net.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home (979) 245-4613.

Published in Victoria Advocate on September 28, 2012
 

Robert Dwain Koenig, Sr., 46, of Palacios, died July 22, 2002 at his residence. He was born June 18, 1956 in El Campo, TX to the late Frederick Wallace and Cassie Ezell Koenig, Sr.

He was a longtime resident of Palacios.

Survivors include: son, Robert Dwain Koenig, Jr. of Provo, Utah; brother and sister-in-law, Fred and Nancy Koenig, Jr. of West Columbia; aunt, Wilma Johnson of Palacios; and several cousins.

A memorial funeral service will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 31, 2002, at the First United Methodist Church in Palacios with the Rev. Charlie Parker officiating. Private interment will be at the Palacios Cemetery at a later date. Memorials may be made to the Robert Duran Caring and Sharing Food Pantry, P.O. Box 791, Palacios, TX 77465.

Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home. A000114B2002JL31

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, July 31, 2002
 

Funeral services for Dollie Pauline Williams Koopman, 74, of Palacios, were held Jan.9, 2004 at Palacios Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. James Abernathy officiating. Interment was at Palacios Cemetery.

Mrs. Koopman was born May 26, 1929 in Erick, OK to Charlie Austin Williams and Ethel Alzena Willingham Williams. She died Jan. 6, 2004 in Bay City.

She was a resident of Palacios for more than 70 years and was a member of the Episcopal Church. She had worked as a waitress at the Capitol Drug Store and the Y-Cafe.

She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law Illa and Edward Jalufka of Palacios, Martha and Jeral Seaman of Bayou LaBatre, AL, and Wanda Gonzales and Dottie Epperson of Galveston, TX; step-son Eddie J. Koopman of North Carolina; sister Corina Johnson of Bay City; brothers and sisters-in-law: Delmar and Lois Williams, of Kingsville, Benny and Mary Williams and Olen and Glory Williams of Cuero, and Charlie and Kerri Williams of Cottondale, AL; sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law Henrietta and Howard Dooley of Katy, Cora and Gerald Highsmith of LaGrange, and Katheryn Williams of Santa Fe; 8 grandchildren; 18 great grandchildren; and 1 great-great grandchild.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eddie Fritz Koopman; her parents; sisters, Lena Faye Baker and Frankie Marie Tumlinson; and bbrothers, James and Vernon Lee Williams.

Pallbearers were Joseph Aoughsten, Benny Williams, Jr, John Jalufka, David “Trey” Gonzales, III, Samuel Gilbert Epperson, III, and Edward Jalufka, Jr.

Honorary pallbearers were Jeral Seaman, Jr., Kenny Skinner, Patrick Jalufka, Brandon Walker, Caleb Gonzales, Tyler Seaman, Lief Seaman and Aaron Lozono.

Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home, Palacios, TX (361) 972-2012.

Palacios Beacon, Wednesday, January 14, 2004
 

John Kopac Found Dead At Home Near El Maton Thursday

Two neighbors who had missed seeing John Kopac, 68, of Route 1, close to El Maton, for a while investigated Thursday and became suspicious of something wrong, so notified Mrs. Grace Heffelfinger who notified the sheriff’s department.

Found dead lying next to a wood stove was Mr. Kopac, who for years suffered from heart trouble. Neighbors were the Pena brothers. One said Mr. Kopac told him about 30 days ago that he was having heart trouble.

Justice of the Peace Jack Hinton about 6:30 p. m. Thursday conducted the inquest. His decision was death from natural causes. He estimated the man had been dead for three weeks or longer.

Authorities are still trying to locate a son Milton Kopac of Beaumont. He is also survived by a daughter, Mrs. Vera Hahn of Wadsworth and a sister, Mrs. Joe Leder of Cleveland, Ohio.

Daily Tribune, May 4, 1956
 

Mrs. Josefa Kopac

Mrs. Josefa Kopac passed away at the home of her son near El Maton, at the age of 64 years, 4 months and 20 days.

Burial was in Hawley Cemetery under the direction of Walker-Matchett Funeral Home.

Matagorda County Tribune, December 17, 1936
 

Mrs. Kopecky, 93, Dies in El Maton

Mrs. Francis Kopecky, 93, passed away in El Maton at 1:30 a. m. this morning.

Services will be held at 10 a. m. Saturday morning at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home with the Rev. Joseph Barton of Taylor, Tex., officiating.

She was a member of the Brethren Church and had lived in Matagorda County since 1916. She was a member of the SPJST of Granger.

Mrs. Kopecky is survived by four daughters, Mrs. Tracy Baggett and Mrs. Agnes Boston of Pasadena, Mrs. Lillie Flint of Bay City and Mrs. Vlasta Domorad of Collegeport, four sons, John and Joe of El Maton, V. L. of Bay City, and Charlie of Round Rock; 10 grandchildren, 38 great-grandchildren, and 16 great, great grandchildren.

Daily Tribune, January 9, 1964
 

James Lee Kosarek
March 22, 1943 – April 13, 2013

BLESSING - James Lee Kosarek, 70, of Blessing, TX died April 13, 2013. He was born March 22, 1943 in Bay City, TX to the late Jim Kosarek and Rosie Brdecko Kosarek. He was a member of St. Peter's Catholic Church and the Knights of Columbus. He retired from the El Campo Aluminum Company after 27 years. He will always be remembered for his patience, gentleness and kindness and his devotion to his family. James will be missed by his family, friends and residents of "The Legacy" where he lived.

He is survived by his sister, Dolores Miller and husband Richard of Port Lavaca; nieces Stacie Byrd and husband Shannon of Bay City and Michele Streetman and husband Paul of Austin and 2 great nephews Justin Byrd and Connor Streetman.

James was preceded in death by brother Joseph and grandparents Steve and Mary Kosarek and Mary Brdecko and Thomas Brdecko.

A rosary will be recited at 1:30 PM Tuesday, April 16, 2013, at St. Peter's Catholic Church. Mass will follow at 2:00 PM with Rev. Peter Yeboah-Amanfo officiating. Interment will follow at St. Peter's Catholic Cemetery in Blessing. Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.tyalorbros.net. Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

Published in the Victoria Advocate 15 April 2013
 

Joyce Marie Kovar
(December 7, 1923 - February 26, 2013)

Joyce Marie Tschiedel Kovar, 89, of Bay City went to be with our Lord on February 26, 2013. A beloved daughter, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, she was loved by everyone who knew her. Joyce never met a stranger and her family has been touched by the many people in Bay City who all called Joyce their “best friend.” She was born in Fayetteville, Texas, on December 7, 1923, as the only child to Edwin Tschiedel and Betty Baca Tschiedel. She moved to Bay City with her husband, Steve Kovar, in the late 40’s. She was church secretary for Holy Cross Catholic Church for 27 years. She loved helping young people; serving as an advisor for the Catholic Youth Organization for 15 years and a physical education aide at Holy Cross for 11 years. Her faith was very important to her. She was a Perpetual member of the Associates of the Sisters of the Incarnate Word of the Blessed Sacrament and a Catholic Daughter of Holy Cross Catholic Church. She was a Pink Lady Emeritus Auxiliary Member. Joyce loved attending her grandchildren’s activities and sports events, playing tennis and poker, polka dancing, watching the Astros, traveling to Europe and the Holy Land, participating in Monday night prayer meetings, and having fun with her friends. Joyce is preceded in death by her husband of 47 years, Steve Kovar. She is survived by her son, David Kovar; daughter and son-in-law Diana and Jim Frankson; and daughter and son-in-law Karen and David Cox. Joyce is also survived by her beloved grandchildren: Ashley Frankson and her fiancé, Steve Hill; Erik Frankson and his fiancé, Patti Mathis; Emily Joyce Cox and her fiancé, Jacob Critz; Grant Cox and his wife, Laura, and great-grandson, Anson; and her youngest grandson, Sam Cox. A rosary and visitation will be held at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home on February 28, 2013, at 6:30 p.m. Visitation is available from 5:00-6:30pm. A Mass of Christian Burial and Service will be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church on March 1, 2013, at 10:00am with Father Greg Korenek officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers are nephews: Butch Kovar, Tom Kovar and Richard Kovar; grandsons: Grant Cox, Erik Frankson and Sam Cox; future sons-in-law: Steve Hill and Jacob Critz. Honorary pallbearers are the Ladies’ Neighborhood Coffee Group and the Poker Ladies. Memorial gifts may be made to Holy Cross School Foundation or Sisters of the Incarnate Word of the Blessed Sacrament in Victoria, TX, attention Sister Stephana.

Taylor Bros. Funeral Home                  Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Merle Darlene (Dussetschleger) Krezer
June 12, 1933 –June 27, 2013

Merle Darlene (Dussetschleger) Krezer, 80, passed away June 27, 2013, at Legend Oaks Healthcare in Katy, Texas, due to complications from a stroke.

She was born on June 12, 1933, to Edward and Inez Dussetschleger and married to her lifelong partner Melvin O. Krezer on May 1, 1949.  

She was a stay-at-home mom and wife devoted to her family.  She also held various bookkeeping jobs and served as an assistant to a county commissioner. She was “Mamaw” to three grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Survivors include: her husband, Melvin from Bay City; son, Melvin Krezer, Jr.; daughter in-law, Rachel and granddaughter, Maria of Katy; daughter, Sheryl Waddey of Fort Worth and granddaughter, Laura Waddey of Garland; daughter, Kathy Bodge and son-in-law Chester of Howe, Texas; grandson, Keith Smith of Dallas and great-granddaughter, Eden Smith.

Fulfilling her wishes, the family will have private services. She loved animals, birds and gardening, and would be honored if in lieu of flowers you please consider a donation in her name to your nearest animal shelter or bird sanctuary.

Bay City Tribune, July 3, 2013
 

Graveside services for Frank "Sonny" Charles Kruse, 80, of Palacios, will be held at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, 2005 at Palacios Cemetery with Rev. Robert LeBlanc officiating.

Mr. Kruse was born Aug. 26, 1924 in Yoakum, Tx. to the late John William Franklin and Sadie Mae DeDear Kruse. He died Aug. 6, 2005 at Palacios Health Care Center.

Sonny was a member of Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Palacios and a life-long resident of Palacios. He serviced in the U. S. Air Force during WWII and the Korean War.

He is survived by two sons, Willie Kruse of Brazoria, Tx. and Robert Kruse of Taylor, Tx.; brothers James Kruse and Clarence Kruse of Palacios; granddaughter Tanya Lie; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Cora LaVerne Edwards, and his brother, Weldon Roy Kruse.

Arrangements were with Palacios Funeral Home.

Palacios Beacon, August 10, 2005
 

Hilda Pustejovsky Kubena
January 13, 1920 – December 25, 2013

Hilda Pustejovsky Kubena, 93 of El Campo, passed away on December 25, 2013.

She was born on January 13, 1920, in Hillje, to Joseph and Mary Orsak Pustejovsky. Hilda was a seamstress at Isaacson & Carrico before she retired.

She is survived by her daughter, Shirlee Zajicek and husband Carl; grandchildren, Glenn Zajicek, Cheryl Zajicek, Denise Klaus and husband David; great-grandson, Cody Klaus; and special friends, Sandra Price and Belinda Elledge.

Hilda was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Edwin Kubena; brothers, Leon Pustejovsky and Jerry Pustejovsky; and sister, Emma Enloe.

A Rosary was recited at 2:30 p.m. on Friday, December 27, 2013 at St. Philip Catholic Church.

The funeral service followed at 3 p.m. with the Reverend Albert Yankey officiating.

Interment was at Holy Cross Memorial Park.

Pallbearers were Brian Shimek, Larry Shimek, Pat Welfel, Leonard Hubenak, Mike Kubena and Daniel Kubena.

Honorary pallbearer was CJ Fucik.

Memories and condolences may be left for the family online at www.triskafuneralhome.com.

Triska Funeral Home, 979-543-3681.

Bay City Tribune, December 29, 2013
 

Agnes Kunefke, 72, of Palacios, died March 13, 2000 at St. Lukes Hospital in Houston. She was born August 20, 1927 in Palacios, Tex. to the late Lloyd Neri and Hannah J. Jackson Maples.

Mrs. Kunefke was a member of the First Baptist Church of Palacios and a life long resident of Palacios.

She is survived by: husband, Leonard D. Kunefke, Sr. of Palacios; daughters and sons-in-law: Lynelle and Johnny Plant of Crosby, Kathy and Ricky Conrad of Houston, Vicki Kunefke of Palacios and Beverly and Bill Martin of Pasadena, Tex., son and daughter-in-law: Lennie and Vanessa Kunefke of Palacios; sisters: Kathy Maples Medve of Roundtop, Tex,. Darlene Denham of Houston, and Margaret Obergfell of Ridgecrest, Calif.; brothers: Bennett Denham of Fresno, Tex. and Barkley Denham of Houston; six grandchildren: Sean Conrad and wife Stacy of Humble, Corri Conrad of Humble, Jay Plant and wife Derisse of Crosby, John David Plant and wife Jennifer of Austin, Brent and Kristen Kunefke of Palacios; two great grandchildren: Zachry and Madison Conrad of Humble.

Mrs. Kunefke was preceded in death by four brothers: Bryon, Ernest, Wilbur, Kyle and Norman Maples.

Funeral services will be 10:30 Thursday, March 16, 2000 at the First Baptist Church in Palacios with the Rev. Hollas Hoffman officiating. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery.

Her grandchildren will serve as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers will be Bennett and Barkley Denham.

Arrangements are with Palacios Funeral Home.

Daily Tribune, Wednesday, 15 Mar 2000
 

Evelyn Sophie Fabian Kurtz
30 August 1926 – 6 November 2013

BAY CITY - Evelyn Sophie Fabian Kurtz, 87, of Bay City passed away November 6, 2013 at Matagorda Regional Medical Center.
She was born August 30, 1926 in Yoakum, TX to the late Louis Fabian and Emilie Huebner Fabian. She had been a resident of Bay City for 50 years and was a member of Holy Cross Catholic Church.

She is survived by granddaughter, Kalley Fikes of Bryan, TX; daughters and sons-in-law Karen & Jerone Fikes of Bay City and Kathy & Dewitt Wilson of Houston; her brother Jerry Fabian & wife Bernice of Victoria and sister Annie Mae Neighbors of Yoakum.

She was preceded in death by husband Louis L. Kurtz, Jr. ,sister Edna Lee Slovacek and brother Louis Fabian.

Friends and relatives may pay their respects between 4pm and 7pm Friday at the funeral home. Funeral Mass will be 2:00 PM Saturday, Nov. 9, 2013 at Holy Cross Catholic Church with Rev. Greg Korenek officiating. Graveside service will be 4:30 PM Saturday at St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery in Yoakum, TX.

Pallbearers will be Kalley Fikes, Ronnie Leck, Steve Slovacek, Robert Fabian, Lawrence Kurtz & Gary Krenek. Honorary pallbearers will be B. J. Krenek, Richard Fabian, Jerry Wayne Fabian & Curtis Riske. It would please Evelyn if you would make a contribution to your local animal shelter or rescue center in her name.

Online condolences may be shared with the family by visiting www.taylorbros.net.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City. 979-245-4613.

Victoria Advocate, November 08, 2013
 

Lucy Harrison Kuykendall

BAY CITY - Lucy Harrison Kuykendall, 82, formerly of Yoakum, passed away on Sunday, April 28, 2013.

Visitation will be from 2 - 8 p.m. on Friday, May 3, 2013 at Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home. Funeral service will begin at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 4, 2013 at Enterprise Baptist Church, 2420 Avenue B, Bay City. Burial will follow at Eastview Cemetery.

Arrangements with Duncan-Roberts Funeral Home, Bay City, 979-245-5197.

Victoria Advocate, May 3, 2013