Matagorda County Obituaries
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PALACIOS - Jimmie Joe Sablatura, 70, of Palacios, passed away Friday, July 22, 2011. He was born Sept. 17, 1940, in Ganado, to the late Pete Sablatura and Annie Migel Sablatura. He was a butcher, an oil-field foreman, and craftsman. He was a veteran of the U.S. Navy (Rank - E2) and a volunteer of the Lion's Club in Louise, Louise Volunteer Fire Department, KJZT, and SPJST.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Tate-Sablatura; daughters, Beverly Ann Luck of Houston, Marjorie Ann Zamora of Palacios, Jessica Ann Sablatura of Palacios, Krystal Ann Carmack of Golden Meadow, La., and Clarissa Ann Sablatura of Golden Meadow, La.; 16 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brothers, Jerome Sablatura and Daniel Sablatura.

Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. with the funeral service to follow at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 26, 2011, at First Baptist Church, 400 Buechman St., Ganado, Texas 77962. Pastor Tony Wishert will officiate. Burial with full military honors under the auspices of American Legion Post #346 of Ganado will be at Assumption Catholic Cemetery in Ganado.

Pallbearers are his grandsons, Jimmie Allen Sablatura, Joshua Heath, Omar Sablatura, aDavid Luchak, and his two son-in-laws, Gerardo Zamora and Rick Luck.

Honorary pallbearers are his grandsons, Eddie Sablatura, Freddie Heath Jr., Christopher Sablatura, Dawson Sablatura, Tyler Luck, and Tommy Dardar III.

Under the direction of Artero Memorial Chapels, Port Lavaca, 361-552-2300.

Published in Victoria Advocate on July 25, 2011

PALACIOS - Maria Magdalena Espinoza de Saenz, 58, of Palacios, passed away Sunday, Jan. 2, 2011. She was born May 12, 1952, in Rio Bravo, Tamps., Mexico, to the late Antonio Espinoza and Maria Gonzales de Espinoza. She was a homemaker and a Catholic.

She is survived by her husband, Guadalupe Saenz; daughters, Enedelia Rodriguez of Palacios, Martha Magdalena Rodriguez and Yadira Saenz, both of Rio Bravo, Mexico; brothers, Julian Espinoza of Merced, Calif., Francisco Espinoza of Monterrey, Mexico, and Jesus Espinoza of Weslaco; and 10 grandchildren.

Visitation will be 9 to 9:30 a.m. today, followed by funeral Mass at 10 a.m., at St. Anthony De Padua Catholic Church. Burial will be at Pantion De La Paz in Rio Bravo, Tamps. Mexico.
Under the direction of Artero Memorial Chapels, Port Lavaca, 361-552-2300.

Published in Victoria Advocate on January 5, 2011
 

PALACIOS - Joe John Sainz, 58, of Palacios, passed away Saturday, Feb. 19, 2011. He was born July 14, 1952, in Palacios, to Joe B. Sainz of Palacios and the late Lucia Garcia Sainz. He was a veteran serving in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam era and achieved the rank of sergeant. He was a member of St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church.

He is survived by his father; daughters, Jennifer Lynn Sainz Bauer of Dettlebach, Germany and Maddison Malynn Sainz of East Bernard; sons, Brent John Sainz of Beavercreek, Ohio, Johnathan Douglas Gayle of Meyersville, Tyler Joe Sainz and Blake Nicholas Sainz, both of East Bernard; brother, Albert Sainz of Palacios; and six grandchildren.

Visitation will be after 9 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, 2011, with a rosary at 10 a.m., at St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church on the corner of 10th and Magnusson in Palacios.

Funeral Mass will be 11 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, 2011 at St. Anthony de Padua Catholic Church with Father Bryan Heyer officiating. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery with military honors under the auspices of the Veterans of Foreign Wars-Queen Hamlin Post 2467-Palacios and Matagorda County Calvary.

Pallbearers will be Nolan Keith Sainz, Brendan R. Sainz, Brent John Sainz, Johnathan Douglas Gayle, Tyler Joe Sainz, Blake Nicholas Sainz, Jaime Alanis, Eddie Garcia, Richard Perez, and Ron Chavez.

Under the direction of Artero Memorial Chapels, Port Lavaca, 361-552-2300.

Published in Victoria Advocate on February 23, 2011
 

BAY CITY [Matagorda County, Texas] - Isabel Chavez Salazar, 71, of Bay City, died Friday, June 29, 2001.

She was born July 7, 1929, in Matagorda, to the late Placido and Higinia Alvarado Chavez. She was a homemaker and a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Bay City.

Survivors: husband, Juan Salazar; daughters, Teresa Cantu of Wharton and Guadalupe Ramirez of Bay City; sons, John Salazar and Robert Salazar, both of Bay City; sisters, Locaio Pena, Mary Garcia and Lucy Garcia, all of Palacios, Beatrice Gomez of Wharton, Elida Chavez and Ester Chavez, both of Boling; brothers, Ralph Chavez of Wharton, Alfonso Chavez of Bay City and Roy Chavez of Boling; 19 grandchildren; and seven
great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: daughter, Mary Lou Ramirez; son, Louis Salazar; parents; and brothers, Placido Chavez, Rudy Chavez, Richard Chavez and Jacinto Chavez.

A rosary will be recited 6 p.m. tonight at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home chapel.

Services will be 2 p.m. Monday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church, the Rev. Edward Boren officiating.

Burial will be at Cedarvale Cemetery. Taylor Bros. Funeral Home, Bay City, 979-245-4613.

THE VICTORIA ADVOCATE, Sunday July 01, 2001
 

Juan Salazar, 76, of Bay City died Wednesday, December 19, 2001 in Houston, Texas. He was born February 17, 1925 in Glen Flora, Texas to the late Juan Salazar, Sr. and Rosa Sosa. He was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church.

He is survived by: daughters, Teresa Cantu of Wharton and Guadalupe Ramirez of Bay City; sons, John Salazar of Van Vleck and Robert Salazar of Bay City; sisters, Leona Mendoza of Brazoria and Connie Piaz of Lake Jackson; brother, Joe Salazar of Brazoria, Gilbert and Manuel Salazar both of Sweeny, and Jessie Salazar of Clute; 19 grandchildren and nine great grandchildren. He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, Isabel Chavez Salazar, daughter, Mary Ramirez, son, Luis Salazar, sister Anita Mendoza.

A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Friday, December 21 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. Funeral mass will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, December 22 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with the Rev. Edward Brown officiating.

Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

Arrangements are by Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A00011A2001DC21

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Friday, December 21, 2001             Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

DANEVANG - Thomas Salazar Jr., age 71, of Danevang, passed away on Jan. 5, 2011. He was born on April 5, 1939, in El Campo, to the late Thomas and Elvira Montez Salazar. He was retired and had been employed at Greenleaf Nursery.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Salazar; daughters, Rachel Salazar, Kristie Gibson, Linda Escamilla, Lisa Garza, Theresa Cordero; sons, Thomas Salazar III, Raymond Gonzalez; 27 grandchildren; 37 great-grandchildren; sister, Belia McGlone; brothers, Robert and Arthur Salazar.

Visitation will be on Friday from 12 until 8 p.m. at Triska Funeral Home with a rosary to be recited at 6 p.m. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011, at St. Robert's Catholic Church. Burial will follow at the La Colonial Cemetery.

Memorials in memory of Thomas Salazar Jr. may be made to assist the family with funeral expenses.

Triska Funeral Home, El Campo, 979-543-3681.

Published in Victoria Advocate on January 7, 2011
 

Funeral services for Elida Salinas, 64, of Boling, will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church with Rev. Raymond Jackson officiating. Burial will follow in Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City [Matagorda County, Texas]. Rosary services will be held at 7 p.m. Sunday at Wharton Funeral Home. Friends may call after noon on Sunday.

Mrs. Salinas died Oct. 17, 2002, at Gulf Coast Medical Center. She was born April 27, 1938 in Newgulf, the daughter of Placido Chavez and Higinia Alvarado Chavez.

She was a former resident of Newgulf before moving to Boling in 1934. She was a homemaker and Catholic by faith.

Survivors include her husband Eliseo Salinas of Mexico; sisters, Diane Pena, Lucy Garcia and Mary Garcia, all of Palacios, Beatrice Gomez and Ester Chavez, both of Boling; brothers, Alfonso Chavez of Bay City, Ralph Chavez of Wharton and Roy Chavez of Boling; numerous nieces and nephews also survive. She was preceded in death by a sister, Isabel Salazar and brothers, Jacinto Chavez, Placido Chavez Jr., Richard Chavez and Rudy Chavez.

If desiring, memorials may be made to the charity of personal choice.

The Journal-Spectator, Saturday, October 19, 2002                 Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Curtis Eldon Sanders, 83, of Van Vleck passed away Sunday, March 27, 2011, in Victoria.

He was born April 25, 1927, in Broaddus, Texas, to the late Jim and Zora Roberts Sanders.

Curtis has been a long time resident of Matagorda County, served as Constable for Precinct 6 of Matagorda County for many years, and served as a Merchant Marine During World War II.

He is survived by: his wife, Vera Sanders of Van Vleck; three daughters, Sharon and Earl Lindberg of Bay City, Gaye Daughtery of Bay City, and Nancy and Jimmy Dannelly of Van Vleck; son, Curtis Dale and Bre Sanders of Sargent; two sisters, Edith Lewis of Broaddus and Melva Jean Wagstaff of Center, Texas; brother, Rudolph Sanders of Angleton; 12 grandchildren; and 12 great-grandchildren.

Curtis was preceded in death by: his parents; sister Reba Sanders; and brother, Morice Sanders.

The family is planning a Memorial Service in Broaddus, Texas, at a later date.

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

Bay City Tribune, Sunday, April 3, 2011
 

Deborah Lynn Sanders-Williams, 50, of Brazoria, passed away, Sunday, July 10, 2011.

Deborah was born March 5, 1961, to Robert and Dee Boeker in Freeport, Texas.

She is survived by: her loving husband, Kerry Williams; son, Michael Sanders; parents, Robert and Dee Boeker; brother, Lee Boeker; sister, Mary Ann Prihoda; nieces, Christie Mattos, Sharon Boeker and Jene Prihoda; and nephews, Paul Boeker and Jimie Prihoda.

A memorial service will be held at 4 p.m., Thursday, July 14, 2011, at Palms Funeral Home Chapel with Dean Spillers officiating.

In lieu of normal remembrances, please make donations to the Brazoria County SPCA at SPCA-BC, PO Box 2312, Angleton, Texas 77515.

Deborah’s family would like to extend a very special thanks to the girls on the 10th floor of MD Anderson and Compassionate Care Hospice.

Funeral services for Robert Alan Sanders, 46, of Pearland, Texas, who died Thursday, February 10, 2011, at Matagorda House, Bay City, Texas, were held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, February 15, 2011, at Crowder Funeral Home Chapel.

Visitation was held from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. Monday, February 14, and from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. on the day of the service. Pastor Don Robertson officiated.

Robert was born on August 24, 1964, in Bay City, Texas, son of Jesse W. Sanders and Ida Belle Muegge Sanders.

Robert was a special needs young man. He brought love and happiness to everyone he met.

Robert was preceded in death by: his father, Jesse, and his mother, Ida Belle. They were known to their friends as Bud and Pete. Robert was also preceded by his grandmother, Granny Lela Edna Keith Sanders.

Survivors include a very special friend, Rhonda Bloodworth, Luke Wilson; Aunt Bernice Sanders Ramsey and Reverend Joe Ramsey of Bay City, Texas; Uncle Henry Sanders, wife Bobbie, and cousin Susan Suadi of Natchez, Ms.; special cousins, Darrell, Charlotte, Matt and Michelle Janesse of Baytown, Texas, and many Muegge cousins in Texas; also Golden Rule Dayhab friends, workers, and special friends.

Memorials may be made to Special Friends, P.O. Box 1382, Friendswood, Texas 77549.

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, February 16, 2011
 

VICTORIA - Willie Raye Sanford, age 92, passed away Tuesday, March 15, 2011. She was born Sept. 19, 1918, in Hillsboro, to the late Zed and Janie Byrum Farmer. She was a member of the Family Worship Center.

Her family was very special and important to her. She enjoyed spending time with her children and their families. As a young woman, she enjoyed horses and participating in rodeos. She could also square-dance horseback. She liked to travel and crappie fishing with her husband, and was a member of the Sr. Bowling Club.

She is survived by her husband, Willie D. Sanford; daughters, Shirley Ryan and husband Al of Santa Fe, Mary Gillispie of Santa Fe; stepchildren, Will Sanford and wife Mary of Arlington, Sandra Frnka and husband Leroy of Columbus, Richard Sanford and wife Susan of Greenville, S.C., Deborah Dougherty and husband Paul of Magnolia, and Mary Fails and husband Gary of Sweeny; daughter-in-law, Brenda Hollan of Santa Fe; 17 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and six great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, Kenneth Perry Hollan; daughter, Joanna Rubio; stepson, Charles Sanford; sister, Irene Lafield; and brothers, John W. Farmer, Luther Ross Farmer, Clarence Farmer, Houston Farmer, and Belvin Farmer.

Visitation will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., Thursday, March 17, 2011, at Colonial Funeral Home.

Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, March 18, 2011, at Colonial Funeral Home with the Rev. C. E. Smith officiating.

Graveside services will follow at 4:30 p.m., Friday, at the Confederate Cemetery in Alvin.

Serving as pallbearers will be Steve Hollan, Ronnie Bocco, John Shead, Jim Cargile, Nic Hammond, Orey Fails, and Hayden Fails.

Honorary pallbearers are John Novak, Josie Marbach, and Raymond and Gloria Olquin.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of South Texas.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at colonialfuneralhomevictoria.com.

Published in Victoria Advocate on March 17, 2011
 

Claudia Sauceda

Claudia Sauceda, of Bay City, Texas, died at home on November 5, 2011, surrounded by loving family and friends at the age of 92.

Memorial services will be led by Reverend Leroy Charles Cunningham, Jr. of Bethel Missionary Baptist Church and will be conducted at 1 p.m. Saturday, November 12, 2011, at Mother Zion Missionary Baptist Church at 2705 Avenue B, Bay City, Texas.

Final arrangements are entrusted with Green’s Mortuary, 979-245-3489.

Condolences may be sent to greensmortuary@sbcglobal.net.

Bay City Tribune, Monday, November 14, 2011

Claudia Mae Payne-Sauceda

Claudia Mae Payne-Sauceda was born on January 19, 1919 in Nacogdoches, Texas to Bud Payne and Ardella Kirkland. She married Tellas F. Sauceda, Sr. in 1935. In the early 1940’s the young couple relocated to Bay City, Texas with their oldest daughter, Lois Lavern. Their other three children were born and raised in Bay City, Texas.

Tellas F. Sauceda Sr. died in 1957 and Claudia was left to raise her three children alone. Being  a deeply spiritual person, she relied on her faith to sustain her through these times. She served as a faithful member with Bethel Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Rev. L. C. Cunningham Sr. She was not only able to see a light at the end of the tunnel, she became that light for others.

All of her life, Claudia Sauceda projected love, warmth, kindness and thoughtfulness. Even though she was a single mother, she supported her children splendidly and provided each child the opportunity to attend college. In spite of the fact that she was unable to continue her own education, she provided the spiritual guidance, common-sense and integrity which will remain always as an example of “the perfect mother.” She held her head high and looked the world straight in the eye. We celebrate her strength. Her oldest child, Lois Lavern Wheat died in 2003. She has remaining three children – Tellas F. Sauceda Jr. of Houston, Texas, Harry H. Sauceda of Bay City, Texas and Joyce Macon of Kew Gardens, New York.

Claudia Sauceda died on November 5, 2011. In addition to her three remaining children, she leaves grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews and an abundance of other relatives and friends. She was something special. We celebrate her authenticity, her compassion and her joy. She made the world a better place. We celebrate her.

Funeral program               Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Thomas George “Tommy” Saunders, 65, passed away reuniting with his beloved Boston Terrier family member Taylor on Saturday, August 27, 2011 in Bay City. Tommy was born on November 27, 1945 to the late George and Verna Gresham Saunders. Tommy was always willing to help anyone in need. Tommy loved spending time at the beach fishing and being with his family. Tommy proudly served his country in the Navy during the Vietnam War.

Survived by his wife of 44 years Gail Michelson Saunders; daughters, Tiffany Saunders and Nikki Saunders; sister, Georgia Bender; mother-in-law, Doris Michelson. Also survived by three Boston Terrier family members, Tobey, Torrey and Tanner.

The family will receive visitors from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM Monday, August 29, 2011 at the funeral home. A funeral service will be held 2:00 PM Tuesday, August 30, 2011 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home with Rev. Jarred Stillings officiating. Interment will follow at Roselawn Memorial Park in Van Vleck. Pallbearers will be: Wayne Adams, Mike Kennedy, Eric O’Neal, Jose Rodriguez, Justin Taylor, and Dana Velebil.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to the ASPCA, the Humane Society of the United States, or a charity of choice.

www.taylorbros.net                             Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

BAY CITY - Irving Parker Savage, 73, of Bay City, was born on July 10, 1937, and passed away peacefully Jan. 5, 2011, at the Houston Hospice Holcombe House.
He is survived by his children, Saundra Kruppa and husband Kenny, Kent Savage and wife Kim, and Jeri Lynn Henderson; grandsons, Michael Kruppa, Parker and Nicholas Savage, Mark Henderson and Houston Mckinney; brother, Galen Savage and wife Coe; and a host of extended family and friends.

He was preceded in dead by his father, Galen M. Savage, and mother, Marjorie Grisham Savage.

Irving was a lifetime resident of Matagorda County where he was a farmer and rancher for most of his life on Six Bar Ranch where he raised Brangus and Braford cattle, rice, milo and soybeans. He also had business interests in Matagorda Tractor & Implement, Sav-Ko Shamrock, Hurley's Gift Gallery and the Sundown Restaurant and Bar.
Irving was an avid outdoorsman who spent many days hunting and fishing in North and Central America. He also spent many years supporting the youth of Matagorda County by supporting the Matagorda County Fair and Livestock Show. In 1981, he was the founder and president of the Holding Pen Club which has raised thousands of dollars in scholarships and money for the Matagorda County Fair over the last 30 years. He was also known for donating show calves to 4H and FFA students.

Those who knew Irving well know that his greatest passion in life was cooking and entertaining his family and friends. Whether it be at hunting camp, five star restaurants, or at his own house. Irving had a knack for creating a party atmosphere that was enjoyed by all. He truly had a great heart and you never had to wonder what was on his mind because he would be the first to tell you whether you wanted to hear it or not.

The family would like to give a special thanks to caretakers Maria Ruiz, Carolyn Bouldin, Dr. Dada, and all the doctors and nurses from Memorial Herman and Houston Hospice Holcombe House.

A memorial service will be held at 2 p.m., Friday, Jan. 7, 2011, at St. Mark's Episcopal Church with the Rev. Susan Kennard and the Rev. Harley Savage officiating.

Pallbearers are Tom Fields, Jim Allen, Terrance Allen, Jim Foss, Barry Barbour, William Townsend and Jackie Williams.

In lieu of the usual remembrances, contributions may be made in Irving's honor to the Matagorda County Fair and Livestock Show, Houston Hospice, St. Mark's Episcopal Church, or the charity of your choice.

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 January 7, 2011
 

Emanuel Lee Schaarschmidt, 58, of Bay City, died Nov. 11, 2000, at the Speciality Hospital in Houston.

He was born Feb. 25, 1942, in Rockville Centre, New York, to Emanuel Charles and Edna Priscilla Wiley Schaarschmidt.

Mr. Schaarschmidt was a resident of Bay City for one year and a longtime resident of New York. He was a member of the Rhema Fellowship Church and was a computer programing consultant.

Survivors include: wife, Patricia Sipos Schaarschmidt; daughters and sons-in-law, Kristi Jo and Franklin Miller, all of Bay City, Cindy Lu and Larry Mctiernan of Salem, N.H., sons and daughters-in-law, Lee John and Deborah Schaarschmidt of Centereach, N.Y., Jason David and Katie Schaarschmidt of Bay City; mother, Edna Priscilla Schaarschmidt of Manhattan, Ill.; sisters and brothers-in-law, Linda and Robert Parthun of Manhattan, Ill., and Nina and Kurt Kuhn of Northport, N.Y.; brother and sister-in-law, Paul Allen and Ellen Schaarschmidt of Denver, N.C.; eight grandchildren, Dillon, Tracy and Elijah McTierman, Rebecca and Rachel Schaarschmidt, David and Acacia Schaarschmidt and Brittany Miller.

Mr. Schaarschmidt was preceded in death by his father.

A graveside service was held at 10 a.m. Monday, Nov. 13, 2000, at Cedarvale Cemetery with the Rev. Dan Villereal officiating. Then a Memorial Service was held at 7 p.m. Monday at the Rhema Fellowship Church with the Pastor Dan Villereal officiating.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A00011A2000NV14

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Tuesday, November 14, 2000                                   Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

George Melvin Schafer, 76, of Blessing passed away September 2, 2011. He was born June 6, 1935 in Ferris, Illinois to the late Benjamin Wesley Schafer & Gladys Lucille Gladwell Schafer.

Two daughters Larel Bee Rodriguez and Laquetta Marie Schafer preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife of almost 56 years, Marion Duncan Schafer of Blessing; daughters & their husbands Bonnie Lou & Clifford Sheffler of Kahoka, MO and Orel Lee & Angel Chavez of Bay City; sons and their wives L. Ben Schafer & Vicky of Bay City and Lloyd & Brenda Schafer of Blessing; sister Alice Hansen of Missouri; brothers Frank Schafer of New York, Jim Schafer of Iowa and W. Dale Schafer of Missouri; 15 grandchildren and 28 great grandchildren.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 6pm to 8pm Monday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 2:00 PM Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2011 at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints with Richard Poundstone officiating. Interment will follow at Hawley Cemetery in Blessing. Pallbearers will be Angel Chavez, Timothy Schafer, Gregory Schafer, Jeremy Tate, Lonie Tate & Buddy Biggerstaff.

www.taylorbros.net
 

Nancy Dean Denbow Schilling, 61, our loving momma, grandmother, and friend left Earth to be with our Heavenly Father in Heaven on July 13, 2011.

She was born to Francis and Jesslyn Denbow on May 30, 1950, in Bay City, Texas.

She is survived by: step-mom, Bertha Denbow; children, Nancy Budaus and Cody, Don Budaus and Jackie, Bethany Schilling, Shannon and Jason Budaus; grandchildren, Harlie, Jason Jr., Kyley, Skylar, and Keith. She is also survived by her TWANDA cousin Cathy Denbow, Sista Janis Hayes; closest friends, Doyle and Carrol McGehee, Rev. Jerry and Danyal Manning and John Aguilar.

She was preceded in death by: her parents; sister, Sandra Burchett; and nephew, Ronnie.

We would like to send out a special thanks to McAda Drilling Fluids Inc. for their love and support through the years and to Houston Hospice-El Campo for their support and for sending two angels, Bertha and Jackie, to help care for our Mom.

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, July 20, 2011

NANCY SCHILLING

BAY CITY - Memorial services for Nancy Schilling, 61, of Bay City, will be at 6 p.m. Tuesday, July 19, 2011, at Mother Zion Baptist Church, 2705 Ave. B, in Bay City, with the Rev. Murray Martin, pastor, and Rev. Jerry Manning, officiating.

Green's Mortuary, 2702 Ave. C, Bay City, 979-245-3489, is in charge of arrangements.

Published in Victoria Advocate on July 18, 2011

NEW TAITON - Carol Jean Slaughter Schoelman of New Taiton died May 8, 2011, surrounded by her family and friends after a sudden illness. She was born on June 6, 1938, in Midfield, to the late Frank and Mary Clifford Brinkley Slaughter. She was a homemaker and personal assistant to her husband Fritz with Canyon Trucking, K Bar S Ranch, and Sandhill Charters, and was the co-owner of the Cook Shack and was Fritz's co-pilot. She was a member of St. John Catholic Church, St. John Altar Society and the Eastern Star.

She is survived by her husband of 57 years, A.W. "Fritz" Schoelman; daughters, Sharon Kallina and husband Jesse of New Taiton, and Paula Kulhanek and husband Gabe, all of New Taiton; grandchildren, Cheryl Walker, Mitzie Sparks Kallina, J.K. Kallina, Juston Kallina, Jessica Kulhanek, Joshua Kulhanek; great-grandchildren, Sterling Webb, Kaden and Abbie Sparks, Mary Carol "Kalli" Walker; and sister, Bonnie Billings of Austin.

She was preceded in death by her parents; sisters, Wayne S. Motal and Shirley Sablatura; brother, Truett Slaughter; and granddaughter, Jordan Kulhanek.

Visitation will begin at noon Wednesday at Triska Funeral Home with a parish rosary being recited at 7 p.m. Funeral Mass will be at 2 p.m., Thursday, May 12, 2011, at St. John Catholic Church, New Taiton, with the Rev. Gabriel Oduro Tawiah officiating. Interment will follow at the parish cemetery.

Memorial donations donor's choice.

Published in Victoria Advocate on May 10, 2011
 

Funeral services for Larry Schuelke, 67, of Damon, Tx. were held Aug. 6, 2011 at Columbia United Methodist Church in West Columbia. Tx. with Pastor Patty When-Glowski officiating.

Mr. Schuelke was born May 31, 1944 in El Campo, Tx. to Leonard and Alice (Johs) Schuelke. He passed away Aug. 3, 2011 at Matagorda General Hospital surrounded by his loving family.

He graduated from Palacios High School and then attended Texas A&M University where he received a BBA in accounting. During his senior year at Texas A&M he married his first wife, Marilyn Blum, on Jan. 30, 1966. They were married for 30 years. After her passing on March 23, 1996 he retired from Texaco, Inc. after 30 years of service. He married Melissa Foraker on June 2, 2007 and resided in Damon. He was a loving husband and father.

Larry enjoyed hunting and fishing and raising registered quarterhorses, along with coaching his ladies fast pitch softball team which he did for 15 years. During this time the lady players received over 150 college scholarships to various colleges throughout the United States.

He is survived by his wife, Melissa Schuelke of Damon; daughter, Wendy Schuelke of Austin; sons Stacy Schuelke of Katy and Nicholas Jost of Damon; mother, Alice Wright of Port Lavaca; sisters Kay Brown and husband, Les of Port Lavaca, and Barbara Woods of San Marcos; sister-in-law, Patricia Morgan; brother-in-law, Johnny Foraker, Jr.; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Leonard Schuelke; his first wife, Marilyn Blum Schuelke; and stepfather, Vernon Wright.

Pallbearers were Jim Jackson, Jimmy Foraker, Ken Burks, Russell Corporan, Burt Goss and Harry Mays. Honorary pallbearers were Martin Coll and Jim McCorkle.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the El Campo Hospice, 1102 N. Mechanic, El Campo, Texas 77437.

Palacios Beacon, August 10, 2011
 

BAY CITY - Sarah Kogutt Schwartz, 89, of Bay City, passed away Wednesday, Feb. 2, 2011, at Matagorda Regional Medical Center. She was born March 20, 1921 in Bay City to the late Pincus "Pete" Kogutt and Leah Roseman Kogutt.

Sarah was the first generation born in the United States to immigrant parents. She lived in Bay City all her life. She was married to her husband, Sidney, for 65 years. They met on Matagorda Beach in 1944 and were married in Galveston on May 13, 1945. She was an important part of Sidney's business, serving as his secretary. She enjoyed playing FreeCell in her later years. She loved her family and took great pride in her grandchildren. She also loved to travel. She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.

She is survived by her husband: Sidney Schwartz of Bay City; her daughter, Fredell Sansom of Tuscola; her sons: Harvey Schwartz and wife Lynn of Suwanee, Ga., and Stacy Schwartz and wife Tonya of Bay City; by a brother: Samuel Kogutt and wife Irene of Dallas; by nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; by siblings: Israel "Pete" Kogutt, Raye Kogutt Guzick, and Albert Kogutt; and by a granddaughter: Autumn Paige Sansom.
Graveside funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 3, 2011 at Sherith Israel Cemetery in Wharton with Rabbi Gideon Estes officiating.

The honorary pallbearers were her grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bastyr University, Autumn Sansom Memorial Scholarship Fund, Development Office, 14500 Juanita Drive NE, Kenmore, WA 98028.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.taylorbros.net.

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

Published in Victoria Advocate on February 4, 2011
 

 
Willa LaRue Shaffer
November 5, 1926 – August 17, 2011

Willa Shaffer passed away August 17, 2011, at Bay Villa Nursing Center Bay City, Texas.

She was a midwife and herbalist who delivered hundreds of babies in their homes. She was an author of several books. She was a member of the Jehovah’s Witness of Bay City. She will be sorely missed by many.

She is survived by: her son, John Barry Fry Sr. and his son, John Barry Fry Jr. and his two sons of Van Vleck; Deceased daughter Bettejo and her son Adam Evans of Edna; sister, Ester Shaffer of Lockhart, Texas and her two daughters, Linda Kossa of La Grange, Texas, and Susan Vigeon of Lockhart and son, David Shaffer of Kimbalton, Ohio; sister Carole Sarr of Jagelsville, Pennsylvania. She is also survived by: four grandsons, eight great-nieces and nephews, and four great-great-nieces and nephews. She considered the hundreds of children she delivered as her own.

Services will be held at 2 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 27, at the Kingdom Hall, 917 Nichols Rd. Bay City, Texas 77414.

Bay City Tribune - Posted: Wednesday, August 24, 2011
 

DANEVANG - Michael Charles Shelley, 58, of Danevang passed away on Dec. 31, 2010. He was born on Oct. 29, 1952 in Harlingen to Charles Clarence Shelley Jr. and the late Evelyn Marie Benoit Shelley. Michael was a retired supervisor for Halliburton.

He is survived by his father, Charles Clarence Shelley Jr. of Burleson; step-mother, Carol Shelley of Burleson; daughters, Karen Clark and husband Glen of Grandbury, Janet Shelley of El Campo; sons, R.L. Shelley and Bruce Shelley of El Campo, Scott Corbett Price and fiancé Lindsey Ellis and granddaughter, Melea Price; sister, Alice Ray and husband Dr. Gerald of Dallas; brother, Peter Withers and wife Meredith of Austin; and the mother of his children, Gayle Shelley of El Campo.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Evelyn Marie Benoit Shelley, and his grandparents, Bruce and Hilda Raley Benoit.

A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Friday, Jan. 7, 2011 at Christ Lutheran Church with Rev. Jake Fain officiating.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to the family of Michael Charles Shelley in care of Triska Funeral Home, 612 Merchant St., El Campo, TX 77437.

Published in Victoria Advocate on January 5, 2011
 

Ben Eddie Sirmon, 96, of New Braunfels, Texas, peacefully passed away surrounded by loving family on Sunday, May 15, 2011.

Cousin Ben was born on October 14, 1914, in North Zulch, Texas.

She taught school early on and moved to McGehee, Arkansas, with her husband Buzz where she spent most of her life farming and establishing herself as “The Florist” in McGehee.

Ben attended the First Methodist Church and became an icon of the community.

She relocated to New Braunfels where she resided with their cousin, Devreaux Baker.

She is survived by: numerous cousins, nieces and nephews.

A memorial service is planned on June 25 to celebrate her life.

“Heaven is a little classier with her recent arrival. Cousin Ben we will miss you so much.”

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, May 18, 2011
 

Clara Mae Slater

Slater, Mrs. Clara Mae, age 70, passed away on May 22 in Matagorda General Hospital. She was a life-long resident of Bay City. Survivors include her husband, Charles R. Slater, Bay City; daughter, Miss Kaye Slater, Bay City; sons, Harland Bass, Houston; Clinton Joe Bass, Lake Charles, La.; Kenneth Bass, Podie and Gary Slater, all of Bay City. Also, sisters, Mrs. L. J. Beall, Bay City; Mrs. Jo Bass and Mrs. E. L. Bass of Houston. Other survivors are one brother, Ted Mangum, Humberford [Hungerford], and 15 grandchildren. Services will be held at 4:00 p. m. at the First Presbyterian Church, the Rev. William O’Neal officiating. Interment will be in Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers will be sons Harland, Clinton Joe, and Kenneth Bass, Podie and Gary Slater and Blake Bass. Taylor Brothers Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.

The Daily Tribune, May 24, 1981
 

Gary Wayne Slater, 61, of Angleton, Texas passed away Sunday, April 22, 2001 at the Hermann Hospital in Houston. He was born January 13, 1940 in Bay City to Charles Slater and Clara Mangum Slater. He was a resident of Angleton for more than twenty years and was a truck driver for Varina Trucking Company. Formerly of Bay City, he was a member of the Presbyterian Church.

He is survived by: wife, Kathleen Bates Slater of Angleton; daughters, Kellie Maxwell of Bay City and Debbie Henrichsen and husband John of Bay City; step-daughter, Judy Gregory and husband David of Angleton; son, Christopher W. Slater of Savannah, Tenn.; step-son, Thomas Bates and wife Alice of Angleton; sister, Kay Slater of Bay City; brothers, Podie Slater of Bay City and Clinton Joe Bass of Houston; grandchildren, Tony Maxwell, Seth Henrichsen and Caleb Henrichsen of Bay City and Krista Bates, Kathleen Bates, Timothy Bates, Michael Gregory and Michelle Gregory of Angleton; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Clara Slater, and his brothers, Kenneth and Harlan Bass.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, April 27, 2001 at the First Presbyterian Church of Bay City with the Rev. Sam Steele officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. His grandsons will be honorary pallbearers.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A00011A2001AR25

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Wednesday, April 25, 2001                                                                  Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham
 

Albert F. Smith Jr., 63, originally from Waco, Texas, passed away on June 21, 2011, at his home in Bay City.

He was born on August 10, 1947, to USAF (Ret) Albert F. Smith and Mary Ann.

He is preceded in death by: son, Ricky Smith; sister, Mary Ann Preibe; brother, Dale Smith and his parents.

He is survived by: wife, Terri Smith; son, Rob Smith; brother, Charles and Carrie Smith; granddaughter, Amber Jeffcoat and a great-granddaughter.

Albert Smith Jr. was a retired MSGT United States Air Force and former store manager of Lack’s Furniture Store.

A special thanks to the Lack’s bunch, hospice and Matagorda Regional second floor nurses and staff.

Bay City Tribune, Posted: Sunday, June 26, 2011 1:07 pm
 

Barbara Sue Smith
 

BAY CITY - Funeral services for Dorothy Lee Smith, 69, of Bay City, will be at 1 p.m., Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011, at Mother Zion Missionary Baptist Church, the Rev. Murray G. Martin, pastor, the Rev. L. C. Cunningham Jr., eulogizing. Burial will be at Eastview Cemetery.

Visitation will be from 4-6 p.m. and wake from 6-8 p.m. in the chapel of Green's Mortuary.

Final arrangements are entrusted with Green's Mortuary, 979-245-3489.

Victoria Advocate, January 6, 2011                   Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Oreula E. Smith, 79, of Sargent passed away March 12, 1996 at Matagorda General Hospital in Bay City.

She was born Nov. 21, 1916 in El Campo, Texas to Adolph Donald and Beatrice Chambless Socha. She was a member of the Pentecostal Church and had been a resident of Sargent for 9 years.

She is survived by two sons, Ruben Lee Winters of Crosby, Texas and Vernon Boyd Beaty of Huffman, Texas; by five sisters, Leona Kucerk and Louise Pointer both of Bay City, Velma Clements, Lillian Graham, and Jane H. Wendt all of Sargent; and by one brother, Chester Socha of Magnolia, Texas.

Funeral services are scheduled for 10 a.m. Thursday, March 14, 1996 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Chapel with Rev. Sam Starks officiating. Burial will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

Pallbearers include, Dale Sanders, Gary Graham, Custer Clements, Jr., Robert Ganaway, Jason Graham, and Lee Winters.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home in Bay City.

The Daily Tribune, March 13, 1996                                       Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Irene Arsola Solis, 72, of Bay City, passed away May 10, 2004 at her home in Bay City.

She was born October 20, 1931 in Palacios, Texas to the late Visente and Ventura Anaya Arsola.

Mrs. Solis was a longtime resident of Bay City and member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church for most of her life.

Irene enjoyed riding and driving motorcycles with her late husband, Sonny, and with the Gulf Coast Road Riders Association. She was known for her friendship with many students whom she knew from the various school cafeterias she worked for 20 years, and her time working alongside with other friends on church activities. She also loved spending time with her grandchildren whom she adored.

Survivors include: one daughter, Ester Solis of Bay City; four sons: Ruben Solis, and his wife, Rachel, from Richwood; Robert "Bobby" Solis, and his wife, Nancy, of Angleton; Richard Waymond Solis, and wife, Mary; and Jacinto Solis of Bay City, 14 loved grandchildren, 20 great grandchildren and a host of special nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband Antonio "Sonny" Solis; parents, Visente and Ventura Arsola; aunt Maria Arsola Silva; sister Katy Arsola Rodriguez; grandson Andrew RJ Suniga; great grandsons Brandon Jay Solis and Richard Antonio Solis.

A Rosary will be held at 7:30 PM, Tuesday, May 11, 2004, at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A Funeral Service will be held at 10:00 AM, Wednesday, May 12, 2004, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with the Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Richard Solis Rodriguez, Robert Solis, Jr., Richard Angel Solis, David Eric Solis, John Michael Solis, and Isaac Limas.

Honorary pallbearers will be Amado Trevino, Jr., Sergio Mireles, Fidel Pesina, and Jacinto Solis II.

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

The Victoria Advocate, May 11, 2004
 

Richard Angel Solis
(July 15, 1977 - October 22, 2011)

Richard Angel Solis, 34, of Richmond, TX passed away October 22, 2011. He was born July 15, 1977 in Bay City, TX to Richard Waymond Solis & Maria De Los Angeles Rodriguez Solis.

God saw Angel getting tired, a cure was not to be. He wrapped him in his loving arms and whispered “Come with me.” He suffered much in silence, his spirit did not bend. He faced his pain with courage, until the very end. Angel tried so hard to stay with us but his fight was not in vain, God took him to His loving home and freed him from the pain.

Survivors include his wife Lisa Nunez Solis of Richmond; mother Mary Rodriguez Solis of Richmond; father Richard & Carol Solis of Clute; maternal grandfather Juventino Rodriguez of Monterey, Mexico; daughter Mia Angel Solis and son Dominic Joshua Solis both of Richmond; sister Waynette Solis Pesina of Bay City; brothers David Solis & John Michael Solis both of Bay City and his wife’s parents Felix & Mamie Nunez of Sweeny.

A rosary will be recited at 7:00 PM Wednesday at the funeral home. Mass will be 10:00 AM Thursday, October 27, 2011 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with Rev. Gerry Cernoch officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City. Pallbearers will be David Solis, John Michael Solis, Fidel Pesina, Felix Nunez, Robert Solis, Jr. & Victor Rodriguez, Jr. Honorary pallbearers will be Larry Garcia, Jr., Tyler Pesina, Jonathan Pesina, Steven Solis, Kadin Nunez, Jordan Pesina, Keaton Nunez, Michael Andres Solis, Jakob Pesina, Koen Nunez, Alexis Nicole Solis & Kaia Elizabeth Nunez. Memorials for his children may be made to account #8711114812 at Wells Fargo Bank in his memory.

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, October 26, 2011            Photo courtesy of Betty Crosby

Sylvester “Kenny” Solis, 53, of Bay City died October 4, 2001 at his residence. He was born October 1, 1948 in Bay City to the late Jacinto and Carlotta Garcia Solis.

Kenny was a member of Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church and a life-long resident of Bay City.

Survivors include two daughters and a son-in-law, Annette and Jose Saldana of Bay City and Bridgette Solis of Bay City; two sons and a daughter-in-law, Mark and Michele Solis and Erik Solis, all of Bay City; brother, Louis Solis of Hungerford, six grandchildren, Alexia, Mark and Nicholas Solis, Bianca and Nika Saldana and Hanna Medina, all of Bay City.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Sonny Solis.

A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Friday, October 5 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home and funeral mass will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church with the Rev. Ed Boren officiating. Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home. A00011A2001OT05

THE DAILY TRIBUNE, Friday, October 5, 2001
 

Daphne Elizabeth Sonnier, 65, of Port Alto, Texas passed away peacefully on May 16, 2004.

Daphne was born February 7, 1939, in Staveley, England, and moved to Houston in 1965 where she proceeded to live for 29 years until retiring with her husband to Port Alto.

In September 1982, Daphne became an American Citizen.

Daphne was a spunky, energetic and proud woman, a loving wife, mother, grandmother and friend.

She loved to visit with friends and family, shop, fish and rescue stray animals.

Residents of her neighborhood in Houston will remember chickens that she rescued from a science project and raised them in her backyard.

She will be remembered and missed by all of us, but we know she is in a better place.

Her parents, Doug and Eleanor Clarke, preceded her in death.

Survivors include: her loving husband of 25 years, Jim Sonnier; her son, Matthew Cole and his wife Beth of Houston; her step-children, David Sonnier and his wife Betsy of San Diego, Michael Sonnier of Houston, and Eva Marie Goetz and her husband Lance of Dallas; her grandchildren, Elizabeth and Rachel Cole, and Erika and Justin Sonnier; her brothers, Ted Clarke of Manchester, England, and Doug Clarke of Danville, Vermont; sister-in-law, Norma Kunze of Houston; and brother and sister-in-law, Jimmy and Lois Jurek of Palacios.

Rosary will be held at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 19, 2004, at Taylor Bros Funeral Home in Bay City.

Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 20, 2004, at the Holy Cross Catholic Church in Bay City, with Father Casey Jarzombek officiating.

Interment will follow at Cedarvale Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Mitch Abshier, Jimmy and Tim Jurek, Don Lewis, Steven Kunze, David and Michael Sonnier.

Memorial donations may be made to the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.

Arrangements are with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

The Bay City Tribune, May 19, 2004                            Photo courtesy of Faye Cunningham

Professor Spencer, “Sonny”, 78, of Holland, Texas, died Friday April 1, 2011.

Professor was a graduate of Hilliard High School’s Class of 1952.

Mr. Spencer is survived by: his wife, Rose Hall; children, Donald Spencer (Austin, Texas), Patricia Parr (Houston, Texas), and Brandi Spencer (Houston, Texas); as well as a host of friends and family.

Please come and join family and friends in celebrating Professor Spencer’s life at noon on April 23, 2011, at the Hilliard High School Alumni Building at 2618 Ave. C, Bay City, Texas 77414.

Bay City Tribune, Posted: Sunday, April 10, 2011 4:00 am
 

Oretha M. Tankersley Standley went to be with the Lord on December 28, 2011 at the age of 85. She was born May 8, 1926 in Arkansas. Oretha was happiest when she was busy. During WWII Oretha worked as a welder on the Liberty ships in Washington State. After marrying Searcy H. Standley on December 27, 1945, they made Palacios their home. They operated Standley’s Bait Camp for many years.

She is survived by two daughters and sons-in-law Pat and Tom Ellis and Alta and Kent Barnett; two granddaughters Tommie Lynn & husband Jeff Miller and Alta May and Husband Ray Herrera; two grandsons Searcy Barnett and Wylen Barnett and wife Glynis; three great grandchildren Sarah, Samson and Sidney and numerous nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends and relatives from 5pm to 7pm Thursday at the funeral home. Funeral service will be 4:00 PM Friday, December 30, 2011 at the Palacios Funeral Home with Rev. Louis Rush officiating. Interment will follow at Palacios Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Tommy Ellis, Kent Barnett, Ramon Herrera, Jeff Miller, Searcy Barnett and Wylen Barnett. James Morton will serve as honorary pallbearer.

www.taylorbros.net
 

SMILEY - Duane Lee Stearns, 81, of Smiley, passed away Monday, May 30, 2011, in Anderson County. He was born Feb. 7, 1930, in Palacios, to Madison and Nora White Stearns.

Duane began his collegiate studies at Southwestern University in Georgetown, eventually moving to the University of Houston where he graduated in 1951 with a Bachelor of Science Degree. He worked for Celanese as a research chemist for 17 years. He then worked as a teacher for Smiley High School from 1969 to 1973. He was a licensed real estate broker and owned Smiley Realty. He enjoyed camping, hunting, and bird watching. Duane loved to spend time with his family, especially his grandchildren, who were his pride and joy.

He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Du Ann Stearns; brother, LeRoy Stearns; and sisters, Isla Jean Hyde and Rosalyn Seamans.

He is survived by his daughters, Nora Dixon and husband Mel of Cibolo, Donna Parker and husband Ricky of Smiley, and Mary Gray of Smithville; son, Zach Stearns and wife Cathy of Bastrop; grandchildren, Farrah Fossett, DuAnn Gardner, Lauren Beck, Shaunna Teuton, Royce Verboom, Chad Verboom, Audra Stearns, and Blake Verboom; and eight great-grandchildren.

A private graveside service was held by family.

In lieu of traditional remembrances, memorials may be made in Duane's name to the Smiley United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 98, Smiley, Texas 78159-0098

Arrangements were under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home, 906 St. Paul, Gonzales, Texas 78629; 830-672-3232.

Published in Victoria Advocate on June 5, 2011

Robert Darell Stewart

WHARTON - Mr. Robert Darell Stewart, age 70, of Wharton died Thursday, Aug. 18, 2011 in a Wharton Hospital following an extended illness. He was born on Sept. 28, 1940 in Bay City.

Friends may call for visitation from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. tonight, Saturday, Aug. 20, 2011 at the Wharton Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 21, 2011 at the First Baptist Church in Wharton with Rev. Mack Mathis officiating. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Memorial Park Cemetery in Wharton.

Survivors include his wife, Donna Stewart; and children, Lindsey Stewart and Robert Scott Stewart, all of Wharton.

In lieu of usual remembrances the family requests memorials to the Alzheimer's Association or the American Cancer Society .

Funeral services are under the direction of the Wharton Funeral Home in Wharton.

Published in Victoria Advocate on August 20, 2011

Barbara Callaway Stovall, 72, of Magnet, Texas passed away Saturday, April 16, 2005 in Wharton.

She was born December 4, 1932 in Palacios, Texas to Albert Waymon Callaway and Jennie Clyde Barnette Callaway.

She was a resident of Magnet since 1969 and a member of the Magnet Baptist Church.

She is survived by her husband, Gilbert B. Stovall of Magnet; a daughter and son-in-law, Brenda Jean and Curtis Walls of Bay City; her sons, Charles Waymon Miller of Palacios and Joseph Carl Miller and partner Bob Richardson of Houston; by her daughter-in-law, Melissa Miller of Wharton; by her sisters, Carolyn Maples of Sealy, Marylin Fobes of Watertown, Wisconsin, and Doris Rangel of Victoria; by her brother, Rusty McGrail of Orange, California and step-brother, Jackie Williams of Bay City and by eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, Albert W. and Jennie Callaway, her sons, Gilbert Wayne Stovall and Douglas Claude Miller; by her brother: Bruce Callaway and by one grandchild, Shana Duke.

Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 19, 2005 at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Alvis Bell officiating. Interment followed at Cedarvale Cemetery in Bay City.

Pallbearers were her grandsons: Gilbert Law, Felton Law, Tyson Hardy, Michael Quinn, Joshua Wagner and Bryan Mason.

Arrangements were with Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

Bay City Tribune, April 20, 2005

A Funeral Mass for Joe Strauss, 87, of Shiner, Tx., was held July 21, 2011 at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Shiner. Interment was at the Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Mr. Stauss was born Jan. 23, 1924, to Otto and Agnes (Netardus) Strauss. He passed away July 18, 2011.

He graduated from St. Ludmila’s Academy in 1941 and enrolled in a government school (NYA) at Inks Dam, Tx. taking courses in commercial printing. He briefly went to work for the Victoria Advocate before joining the Army Air Force during WWII where he was stationed in the U.S. and Italy until late 1945.

Shortly after returning for the WWII, he went to work for Lee and Angeline Sedlmeyer at the Shiner Gazette before taking a position as territory sales representative for the Houston branch of EC Palmer Paper Company. He spent the next 51 years selling paper, graphic supplies and equipment to print shop and newspaper customers throughout south central Texas.

Joe and his wife Gladys (Appelt) were married in Hallettsville on Sept. 12, 1953. They made their home in Schulenburg before moving to Shiner in 1957.

They purchased the Shiner Gazette in 1975 and published the paper until 1992 when they sold it to Tex Rogers. They were active members in the Texas Press Association and the South Texas Press Association.

Besides playing with the Shiner Hobo Band, Strauss also formed a band in the 60’s which became popular music makers under the name “VFW Toppers.” Later he put together a group of musicians and entertained local crowds to the sounds of “Joe and His Pivo Boys.”

He is survived by his wife, Gladys Strauss, of Shiner; daughter, Marian Evers and husband Jim of Wimberley, Tx.; sons, Bobby Strauss and wife Sandra of Shiner, Patrick Strauss and wife Lori of Victoria, Tx. and Mark Strauss and wife Kim of Brenham, Tx.; 10 grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sisters, Agnes Kutach, Tillie Wharton, and Mary Hill; and brothers, Henry J. Strauss, Otto J. Strauss, Victor C. Strauss, and Benedict “Ben” Strauss.

BAY CITY - Memorial Mass for Teodoro Suniga was held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 13, 2011, in the chapel of Green's Mortuary.

Final arrangements entrusted to Green's Mortuary, 2702 Ave. C., Bay City, 979-245-3489.

Published in Victoria Advocate on July 14, 2011
 

Rodney Hale Svetlik
June 16, 1972 – Nov. 26, 2011

Rodney Hale Svetlik, 39, of Bay City passed away November 26, 2011.

He was born June 16, 1972, in Bay City to James John Svetlik, Jr. and Pamela Hale Svetlik. Rodney was gifted in playing guitar and welding. He had many carpenter skills as well and loved animals. He was a very compassionate person always thinking of others first and constantly giving back.

His maternal grandfathers, Rodney Hale and Richard Jones, and paternal grandparents, James Svetlik, Sr. and Rose Svetlik, all preceded him in death.

Survivors include: his parents, James and Pam Svetlik of Bay City; maternal grandmother, Annie Lee Jones of Bay City; sister, Anna De La Rosa and husband Johnny of Pearland; brothers, Jamie Svetlik and wife Edie of Bay City and Grant Svetlik of Bay City; nieces, Hannah De La Rosa and Lora Nicole Svetlik and nephew, Grayson Svetlik.

A memorial service will be held 10 a.m. Thursday, December 1, 2011, at Calvary Baptist Church with the Rev. Lane Pardue officiating.

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.

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, November 30, 2011
 

Betty B. Swift went to be with her Lord at the age of 79 on May 18, 2011.

Betty was a former Bay City Jr. High and McAllister teacher and a member of First Baptist Church for eight years. Betty graduated from Baylor University on a full music scholarship.

After graduating, she married Kenneth Swift (Ken was the first CEO of Bay City TV Cable in 1971 until 1979). Betty and Ken were owners of a pet shop, and performed magic as “The Swifts” for schools and hotels.

After 38 years of teaching Betty was given the State Award for Excellence when she retired in 1993 in Houston.

If you have any stories of Betty Swift or “Swift-isms”, please email them to kelcanmeg@yahoo.com. Her daughters, Shelly and Kelly would like to add to Betty’s collection of special memories.

Bay City Tribune, Wednesday, June 22, 2011
 

Floyd Joseph Szymaszek
April 21, 1928 – November 4, 2011

Floyd Joseph Szymaszek, 83, of Bay City, Texas passed away November 4, 2011. He was born to Joseph Paul and Victoria Szymaszek on April 21, 1928.

Floyd served in the U.S. Air Force. He was a salesman and former owner of QP Grocery Store in Bay City and was also a past member of Knights of Columbus.

He is preceded in death by one son, David Floyd Szymaszek.

He is survived by: wife of 60 years, Marie Szymaszek; daughters, Kay Allison (Mike), Cindy Allen (David), Paula Efird (Corky); sisters, Lucy Porter (Marvin) and Freida Eubanks; brothers, Larry Szymaszek (Reba) and Leonard Szymaszek (Carol); grandchildren, Christie Sonnier, Lori Slocum, Cody Kolander, Ashley, Justin, Chase and Braden Efird, Susan Phillips, Scott Allison, Justin, Cody, Dillon and Kim Allen; great-grandchildren, Easton Ozment, Hillary and Kade Sonnier, Brock Slocum, Zachary and Joshua Phillips, Clay and Brice Allison.

Funeral Mass is pending with Holy Cross Catholic Church.

In lieu of flowers donations can be sent to Houston Hospice El Campo and VNA Hospice Dallas.

Bay City Tribune, November 6, 2011
 

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