Leo Henry Meyer
Leo Henry Meyer, 74, of Lakehills, died at Poudre Valley Hospital, Fort Collins, Colo. On May 13, 2002. He was born in Postville, Iowa, the son of Helmuth and Florence Eggert Meyer on Sept. 4, 1927. He attended Postville schools and graduated in 1945. He was active in all sports. Mr. Meyer was inducted into the US Army in the Fall, 1945, and served in the US Army of Occupation in Germany, receiving his Honorable Discharge in 1947. Upon returning home he attended the University of Wiscon-sin, Madison, studying Light Building Industry, a division of the School of Architectural Engin-eering. Meyer married Elinor Englehorn on June 18, 1950, at the Evangelical United Brethren Church in Lansing, Iowa. They are the parents of two daughters, Valerie Girard (Anthony) of Albuquerque, N.M. and Jodi Meyer, San Antonio. Mr. Meyer spent a lifetime in the building materials trade, managing retail lumber yards in East Dubuque, Ill. And Oregon, Ill. In 1956 he moved to Phoenix, Ariz. where he sold building materials for US Gypsum Co. and Wholesale Lumber for Kaibab Lumber Co. and American Forest Products. Upon retiring he began Meyer Inspection Service in San Antonio and did home inspections in the area of 15 years. He was a respected business man and leaves many friends in the building trades. In 1993 he moved to Lakehills on Medina Lake and built his retirement home. Summers for the next nine years were spent at the YMCA of the Rockies, Estes Park, Colo., where he was a valued employee and friend to all. Mr. Meyer was a lifelong devout Lutheran presently belonging to Grace Lutheran Church of Bandera. He was also a member of the Davy Crockett Masonic Lodge, San Antonio, and the Hoo-Hoo Club Lumbermen's Fraternity. He is survived by his wife of 51 years, Elinor; daughters, Jodi Meyer and Valerie Girard; sisters Doris Embretson and husband Paul, and Mary Thompson Allen, both of Springfield, Mo. Also three nephews and two nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents. A memorial service was held on May 14, at the Hyde Chapel, YMCA of the Rockies. Additionally, a service will be held at Grace Lutheran Church of Bandera on July 28, at 3 p.m. Inurnment will be at Oak Hill Cemetery, Lansing, Iowa, on Aug. 9. Memorials may be sent to Grace Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 1226, Bandera, TX 78003.

Katherine B. Jones
Katherine B. Jones, 82, of Bandera, died on May 27, 2002. She was born Dec. 11, 1919 in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Frank Mix and Mary Olivera Mix. On May 16, 1942, she married Charles F. Jones, Sr., a first sergeant with the U.S. Army Air Force, stationed at Wheeler Field. Both were survivors of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. Her husband and a son, Charles F. Jones, Jr., preceded her in death. She is survived by her children, Durk Jones of Corpus Christi and Kathi Vander Zee of Bandera; two sisters, Faye Young of Hawaii and Lavina Galbraith of California; and nine grandchildren, Krishna Weltens of Bandera, Tasha Carter of Brownwood, Jacob Vander Zee of Bandera, Terri Real of San Antonio, Kerri Trainer of San Antonio, Dana Hilton of Corpus Christi, Kevin Jones of West Virginia, Leanda DeDonder of Missouri, and Kristen Jones of Corpus Christi. She has 15 grandchildren. She was a member of the First Baptist Church in Bandera. Her memorial service was held Saturday, June 1, with Reverend Frank Pullin officiating. The family would like to extend special thanks to Peterson Hospice of Kerrville for their wonderful assistance and support.

Jennie Teague
Jennie V. Teague, 63, died on Tuesday, June 11, 2002 at a Bandera care center in Bandera. She was born on Nov. 16, 1938 to George Calvin Teague and Octavia Genell Teague in West Field. Survivors include three sons, James Teague and wife Denise of Costa Mesa, Calif., Daniel Teague and wife Nelda of Arlington, and Larry Marchand and wife Patricia of Mesquite; four brothers, David Teague and wife Shirley of Bandera, Charles Teague and wife Betty of Kerrville, James Teague of Houston, and Joseph Teague; two sisters, Betty Jalufka of Kennedy and Mary. She is also survived by eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. She was loved by many family and friends and will be greatly missed. The family appreciates Vista Care Hospice for all their help and support. Graveside services were held on Saturday, June 15 at 11 a.m. at the Bandera Cemetery with Rev. Janet Hunter officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Wright's Funeral Parlor.

Kenneth G. Willis
Kenneth G. Willis, 67, of Bandera and formerly of Eastland, died on Thursday, June 13, 2002 in New Mexico. Services were held on Tuesday, June 18 at 11 a.m. at the First Baptist Church in Eastland with Dr. Shawn Brewer officiating, assisted by Dr. Stephen Barry. Services were under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home. Mr. Willis was born on Sept. 7, 1934 in Idabel, Okla. to Jesse and Edna Estelle (Ives) Willis. He married Margaret Wilkins on Feb. 27, 1954 in Reno, Nev. He was a district service manager, working for IBM for 11 years and Digital for 21 years in the Albuquerque, N.M., Tulsa, Okla. And Dallas areas. After his retirement in 1991, Ken and Margaret moved to Eastland where they owned and operated the Budget Host Hotel until 1995. They moved to Bandera in 1999. Mr. Willis was a veteran of the U.S. Navy. Survivors include his wife Margaret Willis of Bandera; his mother, Edna Willis of Brentwood, Calif.; four children, Debbie Moore of Coffeyville, Kan., C.J. Teare of Spicewood, Melody Akins of Antioch, Calif. and Ken Willis Jr. of San Antonio; two brothers, Robert Willis and wife Kathryn of Auburn, Wash. And Charles Willis and wife Betty of Mena, Ark; seven grandchildren, Dyan Smith, David Moore, Jeremiah Johnson, Gydel Moore, Jason Renshaw, Megan Renshaw and Savannah Teare; 11 great-grandchildren and several aunts, uncles, nieces and nephews.

Paul Lynch Westerfield
Paul Lynch Westerfield, 70, died Thursday, June 13, 2002, in Carrollton. Westerfield was born March 25, 1932, in Gruver, to P.H. "Mickey" and Rebecca Westerfield. He attended Gruver schools and Texas Tech University, where he was a 1953 graduate and a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. Flying was his passion. Learning to fly at age 13, he had to wait until his 16th birthday to receive his license. He entered the Army as a second lieutenant, where he flew helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. He was honorably discharged in 1957 as a first lieutenant and returned to Gruver to farm, ranch and work in the family business. He was past grand master of Gruver Masonic Lodge and a president of Lions Club of Gruver. He moved to Carrollton in 1981 and later became active as the president of the Woodcreek Homeowners Association. Survivors include his wife, Glenda; three children, Paul and wife Lee of Austin, Steve and wife Judi of The Colony, and Lee and husband Mike of Wolfe City; six grandchildren; his mother, Rebecca of Spearman; a brother, Pat of Utopia; and a host of friends. He was preceded in death by his father; and a grandson. Graveside services will be at 2 p.m. Friday in Gruver Cemetery with the Rev. Jerry L. Moore, pastor of Gruver United Methodist Church, officiating. Arrangements are by Brown Funeral Directors.

Nathan Brantley
Nathan Brantley, 22, of Pipe Creek, died Sunday, June 23, 2002, in a motor vehicle accident in Uvalde County. He was born Dec. 24, 1979, in League City to James M. Brantley and Melinda Brown Brantley. Nathan loved to write poetry, served in the U.S. Marine Corps which was a very important part of his life, and had a heart as big as his smile. Survivors include his mother, Melinda Hargrove of Hondo; father, Jim Brantley of Pipe Creek; grandmothers, Dorothy Brown of San Antonio, and Margaret Brantley of San Antonio; sister, Natasha; brothers, Christopher, Shaina and Matthew. He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Harvey Brown and Bob Brantley. Memorial services were held on Thursday, June 27, at Grimes Chapel, with Rev. Bubba Tracey officiating. In lieu of flowers the family asks that you spend time with your family and realize what is really important. Arrangements were under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Rogers Oliver
Rogers Oliver, 71, of Lakehills, died Monday, June 24, 2002, at his residence. He was born Aug. 24, 1930, in Taft to Edward L. and Frances W. Payne Oliver. On March 11, 1956, he married Ruby Wells in Corpus Christi. She survives. Mr. Oliver served his country during the Korean War in the US Navy doing duty on the East and West Coast, Pearl Harbor, Bermuda and New York; worked six years as a fireman in Corpus Christi and retired from the El Paso Fire Department after 20 years service. In addition to his wife Ruby of Lakehills, survivors include on daughter, Carol Jean Ashby and husband Charles G. of Chesapeake, Va.; four sons, Jimmy Rogers Oliver of Lexington, Tenn., William Oran Oliver of Lakehills, Ollis Dean Oliver of Grand Junction, Colo., and Randall Joseph Oliver of Lakehills; two brothers, William H. Oliver of Corpus Christi, and Edward F. Oliver and wife Lyndia of Dripping Springs; sister-in-law, Rita Peterson; five grandchildren, Guy Ashby, Clayton and Kayleen Oliver, and Hillary and Lesley Oliver; and one great-grandchild Dakota; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward L. and Frances Oliver, and brother Walter Lafed Oliver. Graveside services were held Thursday, June 27 at Pipe Creek Cemetery with Rev. Jerry Brown officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Barbara Ann Mitchell
Barbara Ann Mitchell, 67, of Utopia, died June 26, 2002, at the Methodist Speciality and Transplant in San Antonio. She was born Feb. 11, 1935, in Utopia to parents Carl and Thelma Porter. She married James B. Mitchell on Feb. 11, 1956. Mrs. Mitchell is survived by her husband, James Brad Mitchell of Utopia; daughter, Cindy Waltisperger and husband Larry of Tarpley; and grandson, Mitch Waltisperger of Tarpley. She was preceded in death by parents, Carl and Thelma Porter. Services were held Saturday, June 29, Methodist Church of Utopia. Interment followed at Jones Cemetery, with Rev. Don Tumlinson and Rev. Kent Kepler officiating. Services were under the direction of Rushing-Estes-Knowles Mortuary, Inc., of Uvalde.

Albert John Clark Sr.
Albert John (Johnny) Clark Sr., born Aug. 16, 1924, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, June 27, 2002, at the age of 77. Mr. Clark was born in Tarpley and was a former resident of Bandera County and had lived in San Antonio for 55 years. Mr. Clark was the grandson of Amasa Gleason Clark, who was a prominent settler of Bandera. He was the ninth of 12 children born to John William and Daisy (Bryant) Clark. Mr. Clark served in the U.S. Navy during World War II. Mr. Clark worked for H.B. Zachry, E.E. Hood, and Kelly Construction and was very well known in the road construction industry. In 1978, he and his wife started Clark Construction Company. Mr. Clark was a hard working man who was not afraid to take on extra jobs to make sure that his family's needs were met. He was preceded in death by his wife, Elene Ruth Clark and daughter, Barbara Elene Clark. Survivors include four children, one brother, Robert Clark of Bandera, and 10 grandchildren. Funeral arrangements are pending with Mission Park Funeral Chapels North.

Virginia Gorman
Virginia (Pilcher) Gorman, 51, of Lakehills, died June 29. She was born in Coronado, Calif. on July 22, 1950. She was known as Ginger to family and friends. She had been in poor health for the past several years and died of complications following surgery. She lived in California for the first nine years of her life, then moved to Oahu, Hawaii with her Navy father and her stepmother. She was educated in Manassas, Va., where she met and married James Gorman, her husband for 14 years. She gave birth to a daughter, Cherokee, in 1974. Her son, Casey, was born in 1979 in San Jose, Calif. She lived in Las Vegas, Nev. until she came to visit her parents for Thanksgiving in 1994 and decided she liked Texas. When she arrived in Lakehills, she worked as a waitress. She knew everyone by name, and had their coffee poured and waiting at their favorite table as they came in the door. It was a disappointment to many when she went to work for QVC, where she was employed until the time of her death. She loved interacting with people and refused to work in any occupation that did not involve direct contact with the public. She made friends quickly, and was always happy. She was an avid reader. When she wasn't reading, she spent her time on the computer. Her children considered her to be the best mom in the world. Her happiest moment was when her grandson, Trent, was born last September. Ginger was preceded in death by her biological mother, Donnene Brennan; two younger brothers, Forest Kent and Robert Glenn Pilcher; and an infant grandson, Adrian. She is survived by her father and stepmother, Bob and Cam Pilcher of Lakehills; daughter and son-in-law, Cherokee and Fred Sigers of Front Royal, Va.; son and daughter-in-law Casey Gorman and Betty Sue Kruse of Pipe Creek; grandson, Trent Joseph Sigers; and her long time partner and best friend, Mike Hamel of Lakehills. Her wishes were to be cremated and to have no service. She hoped that her friends will remember her as healthy, happy and smiling. Memorial contributions may be made to the Lakehills Library Fund, 9657 FM 1283, Lakehills, TX 78063.

Irene Ada Schmidt
Irene Ada Schmidt, 62, of Comfort, died Thursday, 11, 2002. She was born Aug. 27, 1939, in Fredericksburg to Edward and Eleanora Marie Schmidt. Mrs. Schmidt was the assistant manager of food service at the Hermann Sons. Survivors include daughters and sons; Denis Edward Starr of Comfort, Sharon Lynette and Steven Rogers of Pipe Creek, Jeffrey Charles and Elizabeth Wilton of Hondo, Renea Lee and Donald Friedrichs of Bandera, Leann and Billy Blevins of Maryland, John Edgar Jeffers, Vernell Cora Homilius of Fredericksburg, Ida Mae and Alton Moehle of Kingwood, and Brenda Lee Schmidt of Austin; 17 grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She was preceded in death by her parents. Services were held Saturday, July 13, at Schaetter Funeral Home in Comfort, with Alton Moehle officiating. Interment followed at Comfort Cemetery. Pallbearers were David Esser, Noel Jones, Donavan Friedrichs, Alan Moehle, Kris Morris, and Clyde Moehle. Arrangements by Schaetter Funeral Home of Comfort.

Mary Wheeler Calloway
Mary Ella Wheeler Calloway, 80, of Bandera, died Saturday, July 13, 2002, in Easton, Pa. She was born on June 16, 1922, in San Antonio to Mary Larman Wheeler and Carl F. Wheeler, Sr., of Medina. On Dec. 29, 1948, she married Raborn Calloway and they resided in southern Bandera County where they reared their family. She grew up in Bandera County and was a graduate of Medina High School. She attended Graceland University in Lamoni, Iowa and furthered her education at colleges in Texas to prepare for a career in elementary education. At Southwest Independent School District she served as an elementary teacher 15 years and as a tutor for children of family and friends in every community in which she ever lived. After retirement she and her husband resided in the Medina and Dripping Springs communities. He preceded her in death on Sept. 26, 1987. Ella was a lifelong member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints now known as the Community of Christ, and was always interested in family, friends, the teachings of Jesus, music, and harmony, both in music and human relations. A scripture which typifies her life is "Come ye blessed of my Father and inherit a kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the earth for I was hungered and ye gave me to eat, thirsty and ye gave me drink...sick and ye came unto me." She looked on service to others not as an obligation, but truly as the element that gave life meaning. Survivors include a daughter, Nancy Sheppard and husband David of Easton, Penn.; son, Steven Calloway and wife Susan of St. Joseph, Mo; sister, Laura Nelson of Temple; brother, Elbert Wheeler of Medina; grandchildren, Wade and Bryce Sheppard and wives Andra and Mayra, Cara, Christy, Curtis and Cameron Calloway; and two great-grandchildren, Adam and Rosalynn Shepperd. In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her parents and three brothers, Preston, Linden and Carl F. Wheeler, Jr. Funeral services will be held Saturday, July 20, 2002, at 10 a.m. at Grimes Funeral Chapel in Bandera, followed by interment at Oak Rest Cemetery in Medina. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to: Outreach International, P.O. Box 210, Independence Mo 64051-0210; Peace Unlimited, 5124 Faraon St., St. Joseph, MO 64506; or Graceland University, 1 University Place, Lamoni, IA 50140.

Richard (Dick) Howden Johnson
Richard (Dick) Howden Johnson, 61, died Sunday, July 14, 2002, at his home in Bandera. He was born Feb. 14, 1941, in Carlsbad, N.M. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps, was a Vietnam veteran, retired air traffic controller, and a member of the Exotic Wildlife Association. He is survived by his wife, Kathryn Kyle; a son, Kent Johnson of Santa Fe, N.M.; sister and brother-in-law, Nancy and Lief Isacson of Albuquerque, N.M.; brother and sister-in-law, Don and Nora Johnson of Albuquerque, N.M.; and several nieces and nephews. A private memorial service at the Kyle Ranch is pending. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to 2nd Ark Foundation, c/o Kerrville Wildlife Association, 1600 Harper Rd., Kerrville, TX 78028 or Medina Volunteer Fire Dept., P.O. Box 1885, Medina, x 78055. Arrangements are under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Edwards Evans Rolls
Edwards Evans Rolls, 84, a resident of Kerrville since 1991 and prior resident of Pasadena, died Friday, July 19, 2002, at a San Antonio hospital. He was born on March 31, 1918, in Tomball. He married Lilly Vaquera in Bandera. Mr. Rolls worked for the public works department for the City of Houston. He was also a member of Twin Lakes Baptist Church in Bandera and Sunrise Baptist Church in Kerrville. Survivors include his wife, Lilly Rolls of Kerrville; daughters, Pat Guillory and husband Tommy of Kerrville, Sandra Kay Riffle of Kerrville, Brenda Lou Lamar and husband David of LaPorte; sons, Robert McComb and wife Rebecca of LaPorte, James McComb of Pasadena, Ronald McComb and wife Lynn of Hondo; brothers, Tommy Rolls of Houston, Lee Rolls of Mass.; one sister, Peggy Rolls of Houston; grandchildren, Tricia Blundell and husband Shannon of Kerrville, James McComb, Jr. of LaPorte, Mark McComb and wife Erika of Friendswood, Clint Potter and wife Sarah of Austin, Jennifer Trammel and husband Robert of LaPorte, Michael McComb of Kerrville, Bennie Lamar of LaPorte, Kelly McComb of LaPorte; great-grandchildren, Leann Blundell of Kerrville, Larry Blundell, Jr. of Kerrville, Ronald McComb, Jr. of Hondo, Skylar Page Trammel of LaPorte and Emily Eileen Blundell of Kerrville. Services for Mr. Rolls were held at Grimes Funeral Chapels, Sunday, July 21, with the Reverends Jerry Kral and Mel Hardin officiating. Interment was at Forest Park Cemetery East in Webster on Monday, July 22. Funeral arrangements are under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Kerrville.

Jim Henderson
Jim Henderson, 69, of Lakehills, died Friday, July 19, 2002, at his residence. He was born Oct. 26, 1932, in Brownsfield to Frank and Fern Carlile Henderson. On Sept. 3, 1955, he married Patricia Davis in Shertz. She survives. He retired from the Air Force as a Chief Master Sergeant, a member of the American Legion, loved to travel, was a people person, loved country and western music, loved to party and had a great sense of humor. In addition to his wife Pat of Lakehills, survivors include one daughter, Tammy Monjaras and husband Richard of Cincinnati, Ohio; one son, Daryl Henderson and wife Melinde of San Antonio; one sister, Dorothy Wimberly of Austin; four grandchildren and one great-grandson. A memorial graveside service was held Tuesday, July 23, at Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery, Ft. Sam Houston. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association. Arrangements are under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Louis John Mazurek
Louis John Mazurek, of Hondo, died July 23, 2002, at the age of 70. He was born in Bandera on Aug. 28, 1931. He was a retired construction equipment superintendent for H.B. Zachry Company and a 1950 graduate of Bandera High School. Survivors include his wife, Mary Louise "Mitzie" Mazurek; daughters and sons-in-law, Brenda and David Maytum of Boerne and Linda and Rick Love of New Braunfels; son and daughter-in-law, Terry and Becky Mazurek of Buda; four grandchildren, Erin, Garrett and Mitchell Mazurek and Matt Love; and twin brother, Lawrence Mazurek of Bandera. Pallbearers were Charles Schulte, Stanley Franklin, Bruce Hyde, Jack Talbert, Alfred Schulte Jr. and Thomas Schulte. Funeral service was held at 10 a.m., Thursday, July 25, at Guinn-Horger Funeral Home Chapel with Father Wallis Stiles officiating. Interment followed in Quihi Cemetery. Arrangements were by Guinn-Horger Funeral Home, Hondo.

Clifford A. Maston
Clifford A. Maston, 82, of Bandera, died Friday night, July 26, 2002, in a Kerrville hospital. He was born to Aaron B. Maston and Maggie Myrle Totten Maston on Aug. 2, 1919, in Cushing, Okla. In 1936, he served with the Civilian Conservation Corps, Company 836. In Lyons, Kan., on April 1, 1939, he married Mary Louise Underwood, who preceded him in death on Aug. 3, 1993 in Bandera. Maston was a licensed street car operator, who during WWII served his country in the Army where he was assigned the position of brakeman on the Katy Railroad, which transported American troops and war supplies. Prior to moving to Bandera County in 1980, the Mastons had resided in Oklahoma and San Antonio, where he was an independent trucker, owning his own trucking company. In Bandera, Mr. Maston became active in the community and served as president of the Board of Directors of Helping Hand in 1987-1988. He served Helping Hand in various capacities and transported foods and supplies from San Antonio to the Helping Hand facilities in Bandera as long as he was able to do so. Survivors include two daughters, Karen L. Queen of Bandera and Genevia N. Smith of San Antonio; four grandchildren, Daniel G. Queen, Sherri L. Vakey, Clifford A. Queen, and Brenda L. Queen; and nine great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his parents, five sisters and three brothers. Graveside services will be held Wednesday, July 31, at 1 p.m. at Bandera Cemetery with Chaplain Janet Cook of Vista Care Hospice officiating. Visitation was 7-9 p.m., Tuesday, at Grimes Funeral Chapel in Bandera. Memorials may be made to Helping Hand of Bandera. Arrangements are under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Travis Holland Redman, Sr.
Travis Holland Redman, Sr., died Tuesday, July 30, after a lengthy illness. Mr. Redman was born Jan. 25, 1915, in Houston to C.W. and Lillie Redman. He graduated from Rice University with a degree in physics in 1937, the same year he married Nina Underhill of Pooler, Ga. Upon graduation, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and served his country by teaching physics at Harvard, Princeton and MIT. After the war, he began a long career that spanned 37 years, primarily as a geophysicist with Texaco. He retired early to Bandera and enjoyed photography and woodworking. After Nina's death in 1983, he began writing poetry and returned to academics to study philosophy at Trinity University in San Antonio. In 1985, he married Martha DePriest of Clearwater, Fla., and they spent many years traveling the country in their motorhome. Mr. Redman is survived by his wife, Martha; his children, Travis Rolland Redman Jr., of Florence, Vt., Harnet Soil-berger of New Braunfels, and Cynthia Hoff of Austin; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. A memorial service was held Aug. 2, at Sunset Northwest Chapel. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that contributions be made to your local hospice or the American Heart Association or to the charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements were by Sunset Northwest Funeral Home.

Johnny Rodriguez, Sr.
Johnny Rodriguez, Sr., died Monday, Aug. 5, 2002, in a San Antonio hospital. He was born May 16, 1943, in Hondo to Jose and Theodora Gonzalez Rodriguez. He was a member of St. Stanislaus Catholic Church and for many years owned and operated the Bandera Body Shop and Towing Service. Survivors include two daughters, Debbie Lemus and Marlene Conde both of Hondo; three sons, Johnny Rodriguez, Jr., of Bandera, Hector Rodriguez of Big Spring and Eddie Rodriguez of Hondo; four sisters, Martha Escamilla of San Antonio, Linda Alvarado of Hondo, Rose Flores of Hondo and Sylvia Wren of Hondo; two brothers, Arthur Rodriguez of San Antonio and David Rodriguez of Hondo; and two grandchildren, Sierra Dee Rodriguez of Bandera and Rodney J. Rodriguez of Bandera. A rosary was recited Aug. 8, at 7:30 p.m. at Grimes Chapel in Bandera. The funeral mass was Aug. 9, at St. Stanislaus Church, with Father Stanley Oleksy officiating. Interment followed in the Hondo Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Lillie Sutton Noyes
Lillie Sutton Noyes, 89, of San Antonio, died Thursday, Aug. 23, 2002, in a San Antonio hospital. She was born May 7, 1913, in Bandera to Samuel and Fannie Coker Sutton. Survivors include her son, Melvin B. Myers and wife Judy of Pleasanton; two sisters, Vivian Neal of Medina and Iona Fern Pyka of La Ward; seven grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband Carl Otis Noyes; sisters, Tillie B. Cade, Lee Anna Click, Iva Bunch, Dorothy Evans; and brothers, Jim, Louis and Bud Sutton. Graveside services were held Saturday, Aug. 24, at Oak Rest Cemetery in Medina with Rev. Wade Strother officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Grover "George" Thomas Williams, Jr.
Funeral services for Grover "George" Thomas Williams, Jr., will be held Friday, Aug. 30, 2002, at 10:30 a.m. at the Medina United Methodist Church with burial following at the Oak Rest Cemetery in Medina. He was born Oct. 18, 1908, in Kaufman County. He was the second child of seven born to Grover Thomas and Winnie Beavers Williams, Sr. Mr. Williams came to Bandera County as a power lineman in the late Œ30s to help build electrical power lines for the Bandera Electric Co-op. He transversed Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Arizona, helping to connect the state's power lines. In 1954, he formed his own company, Williams & Company, later known as Williams & Co. Contractors, Inc. Around 1960, he had earned enough to fulfill his dream of owning a ranch in the Hill Country, his first purchase was Love Creek Ranch. Mr. Williams was an active citizen. He was a member of the Power & Community Contractors Assoc., a 50-year member of the Masons, also a member of the Scottish Rite and Shriners. He was a past Worshipful Master of the Medina Lodge #1319, past patron of the Eastern Star Chapter #988, and past Medina Rotary President (honored with a Paul Harris membership). For many years he was the Chairman of the Board of the Medina United Methodist Church (honored with a life membership by the United Methodist Women's Group). He helped to organize and equip the Medina Volunteer Fire Department and Ambulance Service and worked with the Rotary Club to establish the Medina Children's Home, which enabled the MISD to avoid consolidating with the BISD and he served on the Medina Texas Development Board. George went to his heavenly reward on Sunday afternoon Aug. 25. He was preceded in death by his wife of 48 years, LaVora Williams; his parents Grover and Winnie Williams, Sr.; son Johnny Williams; grandson, Wayne "Cotton" Williams; twin, great-granddaughters; four brothers; and one sister. Survivors include his wife, Helen Williams of Medina; son, Larry T. Williams of Boerne; granddaughter, Vera Helen Barrett and spouse Rev. Danny Barrett of Texarkana; grandsons, Johnny M. Williams of Lompos, Calif.; and David Williams and spouse Beverly of Riesel; Geoeff Williams of Arlington; and Mark Williams and spouse Lisa of Midland; sister, Helen Hart of Bryan; two great-grandsons and four great-granddaughters. In lieu of flowers, the family would prefer that donations be made to the Medina United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 208, Medina, TX 78055 or to a charity of one's choice. Arrangements are under the direction Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Mary Mathis
Mary Mathis, 89, of Bandera, died Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2002, in a local care center. She was born June 6, 1913, in San Antonio to Harry O. and Ella May Doogan Felthouse. On Sept. 2, 1933, she married John Mathis in San Antonio. He preceded her in death on March 24, 1999. Survivors include three daughters, Johnette Brown and husband Pat, Peggy Ashmore and husband and Judy Dunn and husband John, all of Bandera; step sister, Betty O'Neill and husband Bob of San Antonio; six grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. Services were held Thursday, Aug. 29, at Grimes Chapel with Rev. Ellen Ely officiating. Interment followed at the Pipe Creek Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Vitas Hospice, 5430 Fredericksburg Rd., Ste 200, San Antonio, TX 78229. Arrangements were under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Shane Whitus
Shane Whitus, 15, of Bandera, died Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2002, in Pipe Creek. He was born Oct. 13, 1986, in Dallas to Steven Ray Whitus, Sr., and Corina Kay Smalley Whitus. Mr. Whitus was a member of First Baptist Church of Bandera and an active member of the Baptist Youth Group. He went on a mission trip with the youth group to Mexico; played basketball, loved children; was a very compassionate person towards the underdog; and he always had a smile on his face. Survivors include his mother, Corina Kay Whitus of Bandera; his father and step-mother, Steve and Tracy Whitus of New Jersey; maternal grandparents, Albert and Berneice Smalley of Bandera; paternal grandparents, Leonard and Jackie Whitus of Dallas; two brothers, Steven Whitus, Jr., and Joshua Whitus, both of Bandera; and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins. Services were held Saturday, Sept. 7, at First Baptist Church of Bandera, with Rev. Frank Pullin officiating. Interment followed in Bandera Cemetery. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church Youth Group, P.O. Box 278, Bandera, TX 78003. Arrangements were under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Harlan Dan VanderZee
Harlan Dan VanderZee, 72, of San Antonio died on Saturday, Sept. 14, 2002. He was a U.S. Air Force veteran, a banker and businessman. He was a graduate of the Texas Military Institute, Shriner College and North Texas University. Survivors include his wife, Donna L. VanderZee of San Antonio; son Dan VanderZee and wife Kathy of Granbury; son Dirk VanderZee and wife Sarah of St. Louis, Mo.; grandchildren Lindsey, Lacey, Lilley, J.D. and Eden; brothers Rein VanderZee and family and Russ VanderZee and family all of Bandera; and mother-in-law Zuleika O'Daniel of Tulia. Services will be held on Wednesday, Sept. 18 at 11:30 a.m. at Porter Loring North Chapel with Rev. Charles Johnson officiating. Interment will follow in Ft. Sam Houston National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorials be made to a church or charity of one's choice.

Thelma Jeane Vawter
Thelma Jeane Vawter died Sept. 18, 2002, in Bandera at the home of her grandchildren, Daria and Jason Williams. Born Thelma Jeane Johnson in Wagoner, Oklahoma March 28, 1914, she was the daughter of Edward Asa and Bessie Sheppard Johnson. The family moved to Texas in 1916. On Dec. 7, 1936, Miss Thelma Jeane married Edwin Vawter of Pipe Creek, and they were married for more than 65 years. He preceded her in death in April of this year. Survivors include daughters Patricia and husband Thomas Renton and Joy and husband Thomas Richter, all of Pipe Creek. The Vawters were blessed with five grandchildren, Jordan, Daria, Marcus, Susan, and Tommy; four great-grandchildren. Frances, Kaitlin, Krista, and Luke; and one great-great-grandchild, Brooklyn. One of three children, Thelma Jean was preceded in death by sister Faye Ivy and brother Edward Johnson. Thelma Jeane loved to play bridge and travel. She will be greatly missed by a loving family and many friends. Services were held Saturday, Sept. 21, 2002, at Grimes Funeral Chapel with The Reverend Sheryl Owens officiating. Interment followed in the Bandera Cemetery. Pallbearers were Wayne Rogers, Ray Marvin Hay, Thomas Kindla, Jay Edwards, Doug White and Thomas Christopher Richter. Although Thelma Jeane did not have a lengthy illness, the family requests that her memorials be made in memory of her loving husband to Vista Care Hospice , 420 Water St., Suite 104, Kerrville, TX 78028. Arrangements were under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.

Richard D. Andress
Richard D. "Dick" Andress, 82, of El Paso, died Sept. 22, 2002. Graveside services were held at Rose Lawn Memorial Park in El Paso on Sept. 26. Mr. Andress honorably served his county during World War II, after which he married Miss Carrie Ruth Leibold at the Methodist Church in Bandera in December of 1946. They resided in the Ysleta community near El Paso where he farmed until his retirement. Survivors include his wife, Ruth Andress of El Paso; sisters-in-law, Olga Browning of Bandera, Louise Leibold of Pipe Creek and Valincia Andress of El Paso; nephews, Guy Andress of El Paso, Eddie Leibold of Lakehills, Edwin Browning and Bodie Browning of Bandera; niece, Julie Andrews of El Paso; a great niece and several great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Guy C. Andress and a brother, Carlton Andress.

Patricia Joe Camp Springfield
Patricia Joe Camp Springfield, 74, died Tuesday, Sept. 24, 2002, at 3:10 a.m. under the bright harvest moon. A member of the Choctaw Nation, she was born on Nov. 4, 1927, in Pauls Valley, Okla. to Joe A. Camp and Vashti Garvin Camp. Her parents and two brothers precede her in death. She had been a resident of the River Hills Care Center in Bandera for nearly four years, formerly residing in Austin. Prior to moving to Texas to be with her daughter and granddaughter, she was a resident of Maysville, Okla., where she maintained the family home and farm. Survivors are daughter and son-in-law, Roma and Van Carlson of Bandera and granddaughter, Hilary Lauren Jones of Austin. On Friday, Sept. 27, there was a brief memorial service at the River Hills Care Center in Bandera. The family will have a "Celebration of her Life" at a later date. Those who desire may make a memorial contribution to the local chapter of the Alzheimer's Association. Arrangements are under the direction of Grimes Funeral Chapel of Bandera.