Avant
Alvin Eugene (Gene) Avant of Brady, Texas passed away on Thursday, January 2, 2003 at the age of 67 years. Graveside services were held on Tuesday, January 7, 2003 at Rest Haven cemetery in Brady with Rev. Blake O'Dell officiating. Gene was born September 17, 1935 in Fowlerton, Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents, Alvin B. and Elizabeth (Marley); wife, Billie Jean Hairrel; and a daughter, Mary Katherine. He is survived by his wife Carol of Brady; sons, Michael Henry of Brady, Wesley of Jacksonville, Fla.; a stepson, Junior King; stepdaughter, Jamie Cooley, both of Brady; three grandchildren, Savannah Avant, Jessica Avant and Brian Michael Avant; three brothers and two sisters: Vernon Avant of California; Darwin Avant, Cotulla; Michael Avant, Robstown; June Hooper, Cotulla; and Kathy Avant of Ohio. Gene was a member of the First Baptist Church and enjoyed going to the game rooms. He was a truck driver for many years and worked for Thompson Texaco until his retirement. Funeral arrangements by Heritage Funeral Homes, Brady, Texas.

Bartosh
Anastasia Bartosh, age 82, of Pleasanton, Texas passed away in a nursing home here on Wednesday, January 8, 2003. A homemaker, she was born on Feb. 24, 1920 in Panna Maria, Texas. She is survived by her son, Richard Bartosh and wife Phylis of Pleasanton; three daughters, Florence Netardus and husband Henry of Jourdanton; Jeanette Asbell and husband Gary, San Antonio; and Bernadine McCaleb of Weslaco; two brothers, Clem Pawelek, Poteet; and Felix Pawelek of Alice; two sisters, Rosie Barta of Pearland and Emma Jasik of Pleasanton; nine grandchildren - Henry Netardus Jr., Kenneth Netardus, Annette Netardus, Michael Asbell, Richard Bartosh Jr., John Bartosh, Mark McCaleb, George McCaleb and Harold McCaleb; and four great-grandchildren. Visitation was held Fri., Jan. 10 from 2-9 p.m. with a rosary at 6:30 p.m. at Hurley Funeral Home in Pleasanton. You are invited to leave a condolence or tribute at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Saturday, Jan. 11 at 2 p.m. at St. Matthew's Catholic Church in Jourdanton. Interment was in St. Matthew's Catholic cemetery in Jourdanton under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Chapa
Jose Maria 'Chema' Chapa, age 75 of Pleasanton, Texas, passed away in Pleasanton on January 11, 2003. He was born on April 5, 1927 in Pleasanton. He is survived by his wife, Carlota Chapa of Pleasanton; five sons-Orlando Chapa Sr.; Ruben Chapa and wife Ninfa, all of Pleasanton; Benito Chapa and wife Gloria of Poteet; Larry Chapa and wife Carol, and Richard Chapa and wife Elvia, all of Pleasanton; a daughter, Mary Frances Zepeda and husband Ramon of Jourdanton; two brothers, Lupe Chapa and wife Victoria of Pleasanton; and Lee Chapa and wife Eva of Irving; five sisters - Jila Herrera and husband Felix of Pleasanton; Catherine Parker, San Antonio; Celia Martinez and husband Pedro, Irving; Gloria Carrasco and husband Gilbert; and Mary Brown and husband Robert, all of Pleasanton; 15 grandchildren, 23 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Hilario and Juanita Chapa; a son, Bobby Chapa; step-son Gilbert Talamantez Sr.; step-grandson Gilbert Talamantez Jr. and a sister, Antonia P. Stroman. Vigil was held Monday, Jan. 13 at 7:30 p.m. at the Hurley Chapel in Pleasanton. You may leave a condolence or tribute by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Tuesday, Jan. 14, at 10 a.m. at St. Andrew's Catholic Church, Pleasanton with Fr. Carlos Davalos officiating. Pallbearers were Ruben Chapa Jr., John Jo Chapa, Orlando Chapa Jr., Chris Chapa, Richard Chapa Jr. and Larry Chapa Jr. Burial was in San Ysidro cemetery in Pleasanton with arrangements by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Childers
Travis Lynn Childers, age 58, of Pleasanton, died Friday, January 10, 2003 in Georgetown. Travis was born on August 31, 1944 in Austin, Texas to Norman Travis Childers and Elizabeth B. Ragsdale Childers. He was a graduate of McCallum High School in Austin and a member of Crestview Methodist Church. Travis was an engineer with Union Pacific Railroad and had been with the company for 26 years. He leaves a daughter - Stacy Haines and husband Hamp of Georgetown; a son - Chad Childers of Austin; grandchildren - Shelby Haines and Cody Haines, both of Georgetown; his mother - Elizabeth Childers of Baytown; sisters - Darlene Gaddy and husband Charles of League City, Myrna Ramage and husband Harry of Baytown; Norma Jean Guntle and husband Don of Katy; and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation was held Sunday, Jan. 12, from 3-5 p.m. at The Gabriels Funeral Chapel. Services were held Monday at 10 a.m. at The Gabriels Chapel with Chaplain, the Rev. Dean Hamilton, officiating. Burial followed at Capital Parks cemetery in Pflugerville. Serving as pallbearers were Hamp Haines, Chad Childers, Buck Childers, Harry Ramage, Charles Gaddy and Greg Brull. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, 2433 Ridgepoint Dr., Suite B, Austin, TX 78754. Arrangements were by The Gabriels Funeral Chapel in Georgetown.

Fietsam
Joe H. Fietsam, publisher of the Floresville Chronicle-Journal passed away January 8, 2003 at the age of 84 years. He was born on May 11, 1918 at Skidmore, Texas to the late Mr. and Mrs. Fred J. Fietsam. In 1934, the family moved to Hallettsville, and Joe, at age 16, became associated with the New Era-Herald, a weekly newspaper that his mother, Mrs. F. J. Fietsam had an interest in with her brother. In 1939, Joe worked at the El Campo News. Joe and Marjorie Elizabeth Hemmi of Hallettsville were married December 17, 1939 in El Campo. The couple returned to Hallettsville before moving to Kerrville, where Joe was employed as ad man with the Kerrville Mountain Sun. In the spring of 1942 he was employed with the Bellville Times.In 1942 Joe joined the Shiner Gazette, owned by his mother. He remained there until he was drafted in 1944. Following the service, Joe was employed at the Sealy News. In 1949 the Calvert Chamber of Commerce was seeking an owner to take over the town publication of the Calvert Tribune. The family stayed there for three years. After Calvert Joe Fietsam moved to Rosenburg, to become a partner in the publication of the Fort Bend Reporter. In 1954. he bought the New Ulm Enterprise and lived in Columbus. In September 1963, he and his wife bought the Floresville Chronicle-Journal from Mr. and Mrs. Sam Fore, Jr., who had published the paper for 50 years. The Fietsams have owned the Floresville Chronicle-Journal for over 39 years. Also in years past, two Wilson County newspapers, the La Vernia News and Stockdale Star were owned and operated by the Fietsams' before being sold. In 1990, the Texas Press Association presented Joe Fietsam with the Golden 50 Award, given to men and women with 50 years' service to journalism. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Marjorie Elizabeth Fietsam; son, James Joseph Fietsam and wife, Mary; one grandson, two granddaughters, four great-grandsons, three great-granddaughters; a sister, Mary Lee Najvar; and brother, Henry J. Fietsam and wife Pat. A Memorial Mass was held at 2:00 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Interment of the ashes followed in Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. If anyone desires, donations may be made to the Building Fund of Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1009 Trail Street, Floresville, Texas 78114 or Wilson County Volunteer Ambulance Association of Floresville and Poth, P.O. Box 595, Floresville, Texas 78114.

Korbel
Bernice Leona Korbel, age 87, passed away in a Pleasanton nursing home on Wednesday, January 8, 2003. She was born in Texas on August 31, 1915. She resided in Pleasanton and had worked as a bookkeeper. She is survived by a son, Jackson Lyle Pruitt and wife Marianna Joy of Corpus Christi; a daughter, Leonora Ruth Howell and husband Pearson of Pleasanton; a brother, Lyle Foster and wife Loretta of Victoria; two sisters, Elva Holster of New Mexico and Elsie Abbett of Garland, Texas; four grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren. You may leave a condolence of tribute at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Graveside services were held Friday, Jan. 10, at 2 p.m. at Oak Grove cemetery in Yoakum, Texas. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Minnich
Ruby Minnich, 67, of Pleasanton, Texas was born in Mirando City, Texas on Nov. 11, 1935. Ruby passed away on Jan. 11, 2003 after a valiant battle with cancer. Ruby Irene (Diersing) Minnich is survived by her mother, Thelma Diersing, her husband of 48 years, 'Dave' Minnich; her three sons, Curtis Minnich of Pleasanton, Danial J. Minnich of San Marcos, Cal. and Michael Minnich of Vista, Cal., five grandchildren, all living in California - Jacob Minnich, 26; Tailene Minnich, 23; Michael J. Minnich, 21; Jennifer Minnich, 11; and Kimberly Minnich, 9. Also four great grandchildren - Anthony, Leala, Aleah and Shawn Jacob. Ruby lived her young life in Corpus Christi, Texas where she graduated from the Incarnate Word Academy in 1954. She especially liked singing in the choir at Corpus Christi Cathedral. She married David Minnich in 1955 while both were attending Del Mar College. Ruby's many talents and interests included painting, little theatre, and (while living in California) owning an interior design company. She later worked as a travel agent. In 1983 with the kids grown and gone, she moved back to Texas and opened a Bed and Breakfast Inn in Goliad. She then decided to become a florist and attained a Master Florist Certificate while working in San Antonio in the 80s. She joined her husband working in their real estate business from 1990 until they retired to the ranch in Pleasanton in 2001. In addition to her many achievements, she was a supportive and loving wife, mother and grandmother. She was respected by her family, friends and associates for her warmth, compassion and generosity. There will be a memorial service to celebrate her life at the Trinity Baptist Church in Pleasanton on Thursday, January 16 at 11 a.m. The family invites you to leave a message for them at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Hurley Funeral Homes of Pleasanton, Texas.

Beserra
Joaquin C. Beserra, age 64, of Campbellton, Texas, passed away Sunday, January 5, 2003. He was born in Whitsett, Texas on August 16, 1938. He had been employed by W.L. Golightly as a truck driver. He is survived by his wife, Feliciana Beserra of Campbellton; three sons - Michael Beserra and wife Cynthia of Houston; Joaquin Beserra Jr. and wife Rosemary of Katy; and Victor Beserra and wife Kristy of Katy; a daughter, Delphina Villareal and husband Abraham of Houston; two brothers, Paul Rodriquez of Campbellton and Pilar Rodriquez of San Antonio; five sisters - Cleotilde Zapata, Campbellton; Lydia Castillo, Maria Rodriquez and Valentina Miller, all of Pleasanton; and Juanita Torres, San Antonio; and ten grandchildren. Visitation was held Tuesday, Jan. 7, from 309 p.m. at Sacred Heart Church, Campbellton, with rosary at 7:30 p.m. You may leave a condolence by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services will be held Wed., Jan. 8, at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Campbellton. Interment will be in the Campbellton City Cemetery. Arrangements are by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Cowden
Faye Langley Cowden, age 89, passed away Saturday, January 4, 2003 in San Antonio. She was born in Charlotte, Texas on June 25, 1913. She was a Life Trustee of the San Antonio Museum of Art and a member of the National Commission of the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation. She was predeceased by her husband, William L. Cowden with whom she shared a love of travel; and two sisters, Pauline Langley Corbett and Eileen Langley Higgins. She is survived by her nieces and nephews. Services will be held Friday, Jan. 10, at 11 a.m. at Hurley Funeral Home in Pleasanton. You may leave a condolence or tribute by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made to the San Antonio Museum of Art, 200 West Jones Ave., San Antonio, TX 78215 or the Crazy Horse Memorial Foundation, Avenue of the Chiefs, Crazy Horse, South Dakota 57730. Burial will be in the Charlotte City cemetery with arrangements by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

De Leon
Felipa De Leon, age 93, of Charlotte, passed away Sunday, January 5, 2003 in Jourdanton. She was born in Satillo, Mexico on May 1, 1909. She had worked as a housekeeper and cook. She is survived by a brother, Trinedad De Leon and wife Angelita of Pearsall; two sisters, Santos Hilburn of Poteet and Barbarita Martinez of Dilley; two nieces, Patsy Romero of Killeen and Lydia De Leon of Jourdanton; and a special friend and provider, Maria Duran of Charlotte; as well as numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father and mother, Ambrocio and Perecta De Leon; four brothers, Jose De Leon, Juan De Leon, Santiago De Leon and Ramon De Leon; and one sisters, Pauline McBurney. Visitation was held Tuesday, Jan. 7, from 2-9 p.m. at Hurley Funeral Home with rosary at 7:30 p.m. You may leave a condolence by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services will be held Wed., Jan. 8, at 2 p.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church in Charlotte. Burial will be in the Charlotte Mexican Cemetery. Arrangements are by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Druskin
Leona C. Druskin, age 88, went to be with the Lord on Sunday, December 29, 2002. She was born January 18, 1914 to George Curry Gill and Emma Selma Hofer Gill. Mrs. Druskin was preceded in death by her husband of 50 years, John Druskin, in April 1985. She is survived by her daughters, Sylvia L. Hill and Dottie Dominguez and her husband Michael; grandchildren, Tobin Hill and wife Sara, Doreen Gardner and husband Barry, Shelley Dominguez and Holley Dominguez; four great grandsons, Ryan Gardner, Preston, Wade and Adam Hill; sisters, Georgia Ross and Helen McClory; brothers, John E. Gill and James A. Gill and numerous nieces and nephews. The visitation was held on Thursday, January 2, 2003 from 6-8 p.m. at Mission Park Funeral Chapels North, 3401 Cherry Ridge Dr. The funeral service was held Friday, Jan. 3, 2003 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home with Pastor Jere Kimmel officiating. The interment followed in Mission Burial Park South. Arrangements were with Mission Park Funeral Chapels North, San Antonio.

Grollimund
Leroy Grollimund, age 23 of Pleasanton, Texas passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2003. He was born in Floresville, Texas on February 27, 1979. He was employed as lead man by Peas, Inc. He is survived by his parents, Leroy and Mary Grollimund Sr.; his wife, Diana Grollimund; a daughter, Celia Marie Espinosa; a son, Michael Anthony Espinosa, all of Pleasanton. He is also survived by his three brothers and three sisters: Joe Grollimund and wife Jessica of Pleasanton; Zick Grollimund and wife Shannon of Jourdanton; David Mahan; Cheryl Gallegos and husband Ricky, Valerie Arguijo and husband Noe, Debra Bandy and husband Thomas, all of Pleasanton; and by extended family members, three brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Rudy and Rosalinda Garcia, Julio Jr. and Angie Arguijo, Louis and Olivia Trevino; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Julio and Connie Arguijo; aunt and uncle, Alfred and Clydean Grollimund and cousins, Tina and Kevin Malcher, Jana and Philip Sullivan, Tammy Grollimund, Alfred Lee Grolli-mund Jr., Alfreda Grollimund, Jennifer and Moses Rubio, Stacey Grollimund and Fred F. Grolli-mund. Visitation was held at Hurley Funeral Home in Pleasanton from 2-9 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 3, with rosary at 7:30 p.m. You may leave a condolence or tribute at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. The funeral service was held at St. Andrew's Catholic Church in Pleasanton at 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, 2003. Interment was in the Pleasanton City Cemetery. Arrangements were handled by Hurley Funeral Home in Pleasanton.

Hastey
Emeline Augusta Hastey, 85, of Poteet, passed away Saturday, January 4, 2003. She was a housewife and is survived by her daughters, Mary Susan Hastey of Poteet and Michelle Hastey of San Antonio; two brothers, George Cooper, and Gary Cooper and wife Alta; and one sister, Betty Strain. The remains were cremated. Services are pending at Fort Sam Houston. Arrangements are by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Milam
Vernon Fount Milam, age 59, of Pleasanton, passed away Thursday, January 2, 2003 in a San Antonio hospital. He was born on October 19, 1943 in Pearsall, Texas. He was a member and was baptized in First Baptist Church, Pearsall. He attended Texas A&I, graduating in 1967 with a B.S. in Vocational Ag. He married Vicki Powell on June 12, 1967. They had two children, Barry and Amy. He taught Vocational Ag, was involved in ranch management for several years before starting a sales career. He also served as KBOP sports announcer for many years. A civic leader, he was a member of the Charlotte Volunteer Fire Dept.; served the Little League in capacities from coach, umpire, announcer to president; was president of Cowboy Homecoming two years; was a charter member and president of the Evening Lions Club; and served as Pleasanton city councilman and mayor pro-tem. His hobbies and interests included hunting, fishing, camping, cattle ranching, the Spurs, and visiting with friends. All in all, Vernon was a friendly, unselfish and proud man who was a strong provider. His genuine personality made him a popular man who always had a joke at hand and an interest in people's lives. His life revolved around his family which kept him involved and granted him the foresight that wealth comes from the family. His greatest love was visiting with family, friends and spending time with his grandson, Connor. He was a proud man who relished the simple things in life - the birth of his children, putting his children through college and the birth of his grandson. He shared his vast knowledge, his hunger for more knowledge and a willingness to teach what he knew. Vernon's dedication to his family, friends, career and life will be dearly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his mother, Frances Toalson Milam of Pearsall; his wife, Vicki Ann Powell Milam of Pleasanton; his children, Barry and Sidonna Milam; and Amy and Kyle Johnson, all of San Antonio; his sister, Sarah Plumlee and husband Mike of Lake Whitney; sister-in-law and brother-in-law, Linda and Bob Spacek, Pleasanton; and Pete Powell, San Antonio; mother-in-law, Mary Ann Powell, Pleasanton; one grandchild, Connor Ryan Powell Johnson and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation was held Friday, Jan. 3, from 2-8 p.m. at the Hurley Chapel. You may leave a condolence at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Saturday, Jan. 4, at 10 a.m. at the Hurley Chapel in Pleasanton. Pallbearers were George Allen, Steve Turner, Bob Turner, Sonny Sralla, Clyde Russell and Charlie Voss. Honorary pallbearers were Ted Gossett, Ned Gossett, John Pierce, Frank Persyn and Gus Novak. Interment followed in the Pleasanton City Cemetery. Memorials may be sent to: First United Methodist Church, P.O. Drawer E, Pleasanton, TX 78064 or Milam Park Restoration, c/o Dr. Carlos Orozco, 343 W. Houston, Ste. 706, San Antonio, TX 78205. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Olivarri
Eugenio G. Olivarri Jr., age 57 years, passed away in San Antonio, Texas on January 3, 2003. Eugenio was born to Eugenio and Carolina Gonzales Olivarri in the Rossville Community of Texas. They later made their home in the Poteet area. On February 24, 1968, he married Felipa Lopez who passed away March 5, 2002. He worked in the construction business as a heavy equipment operator. At the time of his death he was living in Moore, Texas. He was a member of the Catholic faith. He is survived by three sons and two daughters-in-law: David L. Olivarri and Emilia of Poteet, Felipe L. Olivarri and Letty of Pleasanton, and Jesse Olivarri of Poteet; four sisters, Ophelia Flores, Adelia Wildman, and Mary Ann Olivarri, all of San Antonio; and Beatrice Soto of Lubbock; two brothers, Gilbert and Raymond Olivarri of San Antonio; five granddaughters, Sabrina, Jasmine, Desiree, Destiny and Jaylyn; and two grandsons, Felipe Jr. and Jacob; and many nieces and nephews. A Mass of Christian burial was held at St. Philip's Catholic Church in Poteet on Tuesday, Jan. 7, 2003 at 10 a.m. A Rosary and vigil was held at Tri-City Funeral Home on Monday, Jan. 6, at 7:30 p.m. with Father Felix Avau officiating. Interment followed in the San Pedro cemetery in Poteet under the directions of Tri-City Funeral Home, Thomas A. Lange, Funeral Director.

Oliver
Cynthia Oliver, age 60, of Pleasanton, passed away Thursday, January 2, 2003 in a San Antonio hospital. She was born in San Antonio on May 5, 1942. She had been employed as a Wal-Mart sales associate. She is survived by three sons, Wesley Oliver and William Oliver, both of San Antonio; and Wayland Oliver, Pleasanton; a daughter, Jaylin Jenkins and husband Luke of Georgia; a brother, John Michael Clark and wife Cathy of San Antonio; a sister, Janice Mansfield and husband Jimmy of Ruidoso, New Mexico; and seven grandchildren, Shirsten, Maeghan, Shane, Roman, Trinity, Liberty and Garrett. The remains were cremated. Memorials may be made to the charity of your choice. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Wehman
Marilyn Wehman, age 70, of Pleasanton, passed away Monday, January 6, 2003 in Jourdanton. She was born in Wichita Falls, Texas on February 6, 1932. She worked at Wichita Falls Air Force Base where she met and married Richard Wehman in 1953. After moving to Pleasanton, she became active in church, school and civic work. She helped establish the Garden Club, was active in the Woman's Club, St. Andrew's Altar Society as well as the Lions' and Jaycees' auxiliaries. She devoted her time to supporting the activities of her family. During the years her husband served as mayor of Pleasanton, she worked with the Chamber of Commerce and Cowboy Homecoming. While her daughters were in school she worked with the Band Boosters, May Fete and many other activities. She was a collector and enjoyed sewing for her girls. In later years she loved visiting her grandchildren. She also found time to work in the school tax office, for Dr. Phillip's office and more recently as secretary/bookkeeper for the Atascosa County Appraisal District. She is survived by her husband, Richard Wehman of Pleasanton; two daughters, Cyndy Rutherford and husband Dr. Allen Rutherford of Baton Rouge, La.; and Judy Truax and husband, Dr. Jerry Truax of Houston; a brother, Ted Gremminger of Denver, Colo.; a sister, Patsy Schumacher and husband Melvin of Gainesville, Texas; four granddaughters, Casey Rutherford and Murphy Rutherford of Baton Rouge; and Katie Truax and Meredith Truax of Houston; and her aunt, Betty Palmer of Dallas. She was preceded in death by a brother, Tommy Gremminger; and a sister, Yvonne Lerner, O.S.B.. Visitation will be held Wednesday, Jan. 8, from 3-8 p.m. at Hurley Funeral Home in Pleasanton. You may leave a condolence by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Joint services will be conducted by Msgr. John Wagner and the Rev. Jack Bush Sr. of Fashing Methodist Church on Thursday, Jan. 9, at 11 a.m. at Hurley Funeral Chapel in Pleasanton. Pallbearers will be Tommy Williams, Tommy Franklin, Charlie Eanes, Dudley Royal, O.B. Gates, Willie Esse Jr., Allen Rutherford and Jerry Truax. Burial will be in Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio. Memorials may be sent to: Fashing United Methodist Church, 6555 FM 99, Campbellton, TX 78008; to Vista Care Hospice, 5815 Callaghan Road, Ste. 102, San Antonio, TX 78228 (Phone: 210-738-8141); or to Casa De Padre (210-698-0175). Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Almendarez
Juan L. 'Shorty' Almendarez, age 88, of Tilden, Texas passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2002 in a nursing home in Poteet. A lifelong resident of Tilden, he was born there on September 30, 1914. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Tilden. He is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and friends of Tilden. He was preceded in death by a brother, Alfred Lozano Almendarez. Visitation was held Friday, Dec. 27, at Hurley Funeral Home from 2-9 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. You may leave a condolence by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Saturday, Dec. 28 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Tilden. Pallbearers were Leroy Almendarez, Paul Almendarez, Cody Almendarez, Gentry Almendarez, Terry Smith, Tracy Smith and Mark Gomez Jr. Burial was in Hilltop cemetery in Tilden with arrangements by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Byrne
Donald R. Byrne, age 89, of Tilden, passed away Saturday, Dec. 21, 2002 in Corpus Christi, Texas. The oldest son of Ed and Jennie Byrne, he was born on Oct. 31, 1913 in Christine, Texas. He grew up in South Texas, living in Tilden, Wentz and Three Rivers. Following graduation from Tilden High School in 1929, he worked on the Byrne Ranch near Calliham and also worked for his brother-in-law's father, Mr. Harris, building watering troughs on the Armstrong Ranch. He joined the C.C.C. when he was nineteen and spent 18 months beautifying park lands in Arizona. In 1935 he returned to Three Rivers where he held various mechanic jobs, and in 1937 moved back to Tilden to run the Texaco Station and Garage across from the courthouse. In 1955 he built his welding shop in Tilden. Many of Donald's welding projects can be found throughout McMullen County. Donald has long served the community through his honest welding business, his service as school board president, his service on the water district board and water operations. Donald has also been a spiritual leader in the Tilden Baptist Church, serving as Deacon since 1955. Donald loved to fish in the Frio River and Choke Canyon Lake. He found time for ranching and farming on his father's ranch. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Bernice Hill Byrne of Tilden; sons Roger Byrne of Kingwood; Joe and Nancy Byrne of Corpus Christi; and Walter and Carol Byrne of Carrollton; and grandchildren, Katie Byrne of Corpus Christi, Sara Byrne of Boston, David Byrne of New York City and Andrew Byrne of Carrollton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Edmund and Jennie Martin Byrne; sisters, Helen Beard, Martha Harris, Corrine Black, Virginia Richter and a brother, C.E. (Eddie) Byrne Jr. Visitation was held on Dec. 23 at Hurley Chapel. Services were conducted on Tuesday, Dec. 24, at Tilden Baptist Church at 10 a.m. You are invited to leave a condolence at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Interment was in Hilltop cemetery in Tilden under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Huizar
Gilbert A. Huizar, age 65, of San Antonio, passed away in a San Antonio hospital Thursday, Dec. 26, 2002. He was born in Leming, Texas on Sept. 2, 1937. He is survived by his wife, Yolonda Huizar of San Antonio; a son, Raymond Huizar of San Antonio; a daughter, Loretta Pizaro, San Antonio; two brothers, Ernest Huizar, Diboll; and Freddie Huizar, Austin; three sisters, Florentina Trevino and Sarah Murillo, both of Pleasanton; and Minnie Iragorri of San Antonio; and two granddaughters, Cynthia and Trista. Rosary was held Friday, Dec. 27, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrew's Catholic Church in Pleasanton. You may leave a condolence of tribute by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services will be held Saturday, Dec. 28, at 2 p.m. at St. Andrew's Catholic Church with Norm Phillips officiating. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Catholic cemetery in Leming. Arrangements are by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Hollins
Randall Wayne Hollins, 38, of Von Ormy, Texas, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2002, of injuries sustained in an auto accident. He was born January 14, 1964 in San Antonio. He is survived by his parents, John and Mattie Hollins of Von Ormy; a son, Ray Lee Hollins, San Antonio; four brothers, John Russell Hollins, Charles Evertt Hollins and James Leroy Hollins, all of Von Ormy; and Paul C. Hollins of Savannah, Tenn.; a sister, Wanda Fay Kerr of Von Ormy; his grandmother, Nancy Wilkerson of Savannah, Tenn.; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Randall Wayne Hollins Jr. Visitation was held Friday, Dec. 27, from 2-8 p.m. at Hurley Funeral Home in Pleasanton. Graveside services, conducted by Clyde Butter, were held Sat., Dec. 28, at 1 p.m. at First Memorial Park on Hwy. 16. You may leave a condolence at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Leal
Manuela M. Leal, our loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother, went to be with our Lord on December 22, 2002, surrounded by those who loved her. A resident of Poteet, she passed away in a San Antonio hospital at the age of 75 years. She was born in Amphion, Texas on August 13, 1927. She was preceded in death by her parents, Antonio and Blasa Mendez; a brother, Antonio Mendez Jr.; and sisters, Pasquela Contero and Maria Garcia. She is survived by her husband, Samuel Leal Sr. of Poteet; three sons, Samuel Leal Jr. and wife Rebecca; Jesse Leal and wife Rachel; and Jaime Leal and wife Sandra, all of Poteet; two daughters, Carmen L. Garcia and husband Trinidad of Poteet; and Edna Garcia and husband Sammy of Pleasanton; three brothers, Pablo Mendez, Jose Mendez and Rogelio Mendez; eight sisters, Anita Carrasco, Juanita Garza, Margret Pinea, Emma Villanueva, Rosa Sanchez, Dora Guzman, Susie Campa and Angie Gomez; 11 grandchildren - Michelle Ramos, Kristie Garcia, Philip Leal, Jessica Leal, Debra Leal, Vaughnell Leal, Jaime Leal Jr., Dayna Leal, Cassandra Leal, Miguel Garcia and Kaitlyn Garcia; and five great grandchildren. Visitation was held Thurs., Dec. 26, from 2-9 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. You may leave a condolence or tribute by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Friday, Dec. 27, at 10 a.m. at St. Philip's Catholic Church, Poteet. Burial was in the Madre Dolorosa Catholic cemetery in Poteet. Arrange-ments were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Mercer
Mary Margaret Mercer, age 57, of Jourdanton, passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2002, in a San Antonio hospital. She was born March 1, 1945, in Freer, Texas. She is survived by her mother, Margaret Virginia Martin of Newton, Texas; her husband, David Mercer of Jourdanton; two daughters, Stephanie Ann Mercer of Jourdanton and Jackie Lynn Szakacs of Columbus, Georgia; a brother, Guy Martin of Tilden; two sisters, Patricia Vickery of Newton; and Eulane Redding, George West; and three grandchildren, Darrin Jay, Ariel Nicole and Jarrod Michael. Visitation was held Friday, Dec. 27, at Hurley Funeral Home from 2-8 p.m. You are invited to leave a condolence or tribute by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Saturday, Dec. 28, at 10 a.m. at Hurley Funeral Home. Burial was in Jourdanton City Cemetery. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Salazar
Domingo T. Salazar, age 63, of Leming, passed away Friday, December 20, 2002, in Jourdanton. He was born in Floresville on March 27, 1939. He is survived by his wife, Eva Salazar of Leming; six daughters - Diana Garcia, San Antonio; Mary Alice Monse, Christine; Vivian Mata, Annie Mata, Rosemary Mata and Cristal Preciado, all of Leming; three brothers, Jesus Salazar of Iowa; Manuel Salazar, Lubbock; and Pete Salazar, Leming; five sisters - Emma Delgado, San Antonio; Isabel Ferguson, Stanton; Connie Valdez, Abilene; Adela Rodriguez, El Dorado; and Janie Zamarripa, San Antonio; and 12 grandchildren - Andy Garcia, Tommy Garcia, Lauri Brooks, Joel Mata, Jacob Mata, Justin Brooks, James Mata, Daylon Brooks, David Monse, Maddison Gomez, Jeromie Mata and Jeremiah Mata. Visitation was held Sunday, December 22, from 2-9 p.m. at Hurley Chapel with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. You are invited to leave a condolence at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Monday, Dec. 23, at 2 p.m. at St. Andrew's Catholic Church in Pleasanton. Burial was in San Ysidro Catholic cemetery in Pleasanton. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Almendarez
Juan L. 'Shorty' Almendarez, age 88, of Tilden, Texas passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2002 in a nursing home in Poteet. A lifelong resident of Tilden, he was born there on September 30, 1914. He was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church of Tilden. He is survived by numerous nieces, nephews and friends of Tilden. He was preceded in death by a brother, Alfred Lozano Almendarez. Visitation was held Friday, Dec. 27, at Hurley Funeral Home from 2-9 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. You may leave a condolence by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Saturday, Dec. 28 at 10 a.m. at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Tilden. Pallbearers were Leroy Almendarez, Paul Almendarez, Cody Almendarez, Gentry Almendarez, Terry Smith, Tracy Smith and Mark Gomez Jr. Burial was in Hilltop cemetery in Tilden with arrangements by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Byrne
Donald R. Byrne, age 89, of Tilden, passed away Saturday, Dec. 21, 2002 in Corpus Christi, Texas. The oldest son of Ed and Jennie Byrne, he was born on Oct. 31, 1913 in Christine, Texas. He grew up in South Texas, living in Tilden, Wentz and Three Rivers. Following graduation from Tilden High School in 1929, he worked on the Byrne Ranch near Calliham and also worked for his brother-in-law's father, Mr. Harris, building watering troughs on the Armstrong Ranch. He joined the C.C.C. when he was nineteen and spent 18 months beautifying park lands in Arizona. In 1935 he returned to Three Rivers where he held various mechanic jobs, and in 1937 moved back to Tilden to run the Texaco Station and Garage across from the courthouse. In 1955 he built his welding shop in Tilden. Many of Donald's welding projects can be found throughout McMullen County. Donald has long served the community through his honest welding business, his service as school board president, his service on the water district board and water operations. Donald has also been a spiritual leader in the Tilden Baptist Church, serving as Deacon since 1955. Donald loved to fish in the Frio River and Choke Canyon Lake. He found time for ranching and farming on his father's ranch. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Bernice Hill Byrne of Tilden; sons Roger Byrne of Kingwood; Joe and Nancy Byrne of Corpus Christi; and Walter and Carol Byrne of Carrollton; and grandchildren, Katie Byrne of Corpus Christi, Sara Byrne of Boston, David Byrne of New York City and Andrew Byrne of Carrollton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Edmund and Jennie Martin Byrne; sisters, Helen Beard, Martha Harris, Corrine Black, Virginia Richter and a brother, C.E. (Eddie) Byrne Jr. Visitation was held on Dec. 23 at Hurley Chapel. Services were conducted on Tuesday, Dec. 24, at Tilden Baptist Church at 10 a.m. You are invited to leave a condolence at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Interment was in Hilltop cemetery in Tilden under the direction of Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Huizar
Gilbert A. Huizar, age 65, of San Antonio, passed away in a San Antonio hospital Thursday, Dec. 26, 2002. He was born in Leming, Texas on Sept. 2, 1937. He is survived by his wife, Yolonda Huizar of San Antonio; a son, Raymond Huizar of San Antonio; a daughter, Loretta Pizaro, San Antonio; two brothers, Ernest Huizar, Diboll; and Freddie Huizar, Austin; three sisters, Florentina Trevino and Sarah Murillo, both of Pleasanton; and Minnie Iragorri of San Antonio; and two granddaughters, Cynthia and Trista. Rosary was held Friday, Dec. 27, at 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrew's Catholic Church in Pleasanton. You may leave a condolence of tribute by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services will be held Saturday, Dec. 28, at 2 p.m. at St. Andrew's Catholic Church with Norm Phillips officiating. Interment will follow in St. Joseph Catholic cemetery in Leming. Arrangements are by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Hollins
Randall Wayne Hollins, 38, of Von Ormy, Texas, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2002, of injuries sustained in an auto accident. He was born January 14, 1964 in San Antonio. He is survived by his parents, John and Mattie Hollins of Von Ormy; a son, Ray Lee Hollins, San Antonio; four brothers, John Russell Hollins, Charles Evertt Hollins and James Leroy Hollins, all of Von Ormy; and Paul C. Hollins of Savannah, Tenn.; a sister, Wanda Fay Kerr of Von Ormy; his grandmother, Nancy Wilkerson of Savannah, Tenn.; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by a son, Randall Wayne Hollins Jr. Visitation was held Friday, Dec. 27, from 2-8 p.m. at Hurley Funeral Home in Pleasanton. Graveside services, conducted by Clyde Butter, were held Sat., Dec. 28, at 1 p.m. at First Memorial Park on Hwy. 16. You may leave a condolence at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Leal
Manuela M. Leal, our loving mother, grandmother and great grandmother, went to be with our Lord on December 22, 2002, surrounded by those who loved her. A resident of Poteet, she passed away in a San Antonio hospital at the age of 75 years. She was born in Amphion, Texas on August 13, 1927. She was preceded in death by her parents, Antonio and Blasa Mendez; a brother, Antonio Mendez Jr.; and sisters, Pasquela Contero and Maria Garcia. She is survived by her husband, Samuel Leal Sr. of Poteet; three sons, Samuel Leal Jr. and wife Rebecca; Jesse Leal and wife Rachel; and Jaime Leal and wife Sandra, all of Poteet; two daughters, Carmen L. Garcia and husband Trinidad of Poteet; and Edna Garcia and husband Sammy of Pleasanton; three brothers, Pablo Mendez, Jose Mendez and Rogelio Mendez; eight sisters, Anita Carrasco, Juanita Garza, Margret Pinea, Emma Villanueva, Rosa Sanchez, Dora Guzman, Susie Campa and Angie Gomez; 11 grandchildren - Michelle Ramos, Kristie Garcia, Philip Leal, Jessica Leal, Debra Leal, Vaughnell Leal, Jaime Leal Jr., Dayna Leal, Cassandra Leal, Miguel Garcia and Kaitlyn Garcia; and five great grandchildren. Visitation was held Thurs., Dec. 26, from 2-9 p.m. with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. You may leave a condolence or tribute by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Friday, Dec. 27, at 10 a.m. at St. Philip's Catholic Church, Poteet. Burial was in the Madre Dolorosa Catholic cemetery in Poteet. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Mercer
Mary Margaret Mercer, age 57, of Jourdanton, passed away Tuesday, December 24, 2002, in a San Antonio hospital. She was born March 1, 1945, in Freer, Texas. She is survived by her mother, Margaret Virginia Martin of Newton, Texas; her husband, David Mercer of Jourdanton; two daughters, Stephanie Ann Mercer of Jourdanton and Jackie Lynn Szakacs of Columbus, Georgia; a brother, Guy Martin of Tilden; two sisters, Patricia Vickery of Newton; and Eulane Redding, George West; and three grandchildren, Darrin Jay, Ariel Nicole and Jarrod Michael. Visitation was held Friday, Dec. 27, at Hurley Funeral Home from 2-8 p.m. You are invited to leave a condolence or tribute by visiting: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Saturday, Dec. 28, at 10 a.m. at Hurley Funeral Home. Burial was in Jourdanton City Cemetery. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.

Salazar
Domingo T. Salazar, age 63, of Leming, passed away Friday, December 20, 2002, in Jourdanton. He was born in Floresville on March 27, 1939. He is survived by his wife, Eva Salazar of Leming; six daughters - Diana Garcia, San Antonio; Mary Alice Monse, Christine; Vivian Mata, Annie Mata, Rosemary Mata and Cristal Preciado, all of Leming; three brothers, Jesus Salazar of Iowa; Manuel Salazar, Lubbock; and Pete Salazar, Leming; five sisters - Emma Delgado, San Antonio; Isabel Ferguson, Stanton; Connie Valdez, Abilene; Adela Rodriguez, El Dorado; and Janie Zamarripa, San Antonio; and 12 grandchildren - Andy Garcia, Tommy Garcia, Lauri Brooks, Joel Mata, Jacob Mata, Justin Brooks, James Mata, Daylon Brooks, David Monse, Maddison Gomez, Jeromie Mata and Jeremiah Mata. Visitation was held Sunday, December 22, from 2-9 p.m. at Hurley Chapel with a Rosary at 7:30 p.m. You are invited to leave a condolence at: www.hurleyfuneralhome.com. Services were held Monday, Dec. 23, at 2 p.m. at St. Andrew's Catholic Church in Pleasanton. Burial was in San Ysidro Catholic cemetery in Pleasanton. Arrangements were by Hurley Funeral Home of Pleasanton.