Roland Walter Avenell
Roland Walter Avenell passed into the presence of his Lord on July 26, 2003. He was born in Winnipeg, Canada to Bertrand Sydney Avenell and Emily Thomas Avenell on Jan. 16, 1910. He came to the United States with his parents as an infant. Roland married Ruby Lucille Gaither on July 22, 1933, and they were together happily for 70 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, one brother and one sister. Roland is survived by his wife, Ruby Gaither Avenell; sisters Marjorie Avenell Peters of Manvel, Texas, and Janelle Avenell Paris of Huntsville, Texas; one son, Paul Roland Avenell and wife, Daia of Houston, Texas; and a daughter, Barbara Gordon and husband Howard of Seguin, Texas. He had five grandchildren: Kimberly Avenell Linker and husband Johnny of Spring, Texas; Steven Avenell and wife Denise of Magnolia, Texas; Mark Bilbo of California; Timothy Bilbo and wife Alice of Elgin, Texas; and David Bilbo and wife Michelle of Port Neches, Texas. His great-grandchildren are Paul David Linker, Tyler Avenell, Zane and Makayla Bilbo and Alexandria Rocha. He is also survived by various nieces and nephews. Roland was very active in the assemblies in Houston throughout his married life, serving as an elder in the Pineview Bible Chapel for many years. He spent many years preaching the Gospel and serving meals on holidays at the Star of Hope Mission in Houston, and also counseling and teaching at Cedar Hill Bible Camp and Sandy Creek Bible Camp. In recent years, Roland and Ruby resided in Cut N Shoot, Texas, where he served as a mentor to his family members as well as many other friends. His knowledge and understanding of the Scriptures was second to only a few in this world. We, who stay behind, sorrow at his home-calling, but as believers we can only rejoice in the fact that he is now serving his Lord in Glory. Many times he was heard to say that the first thing he wanted to do when reaching Heaven was to shake the hand of the Lord and gaze upon His nail-pierced hands. We will celebrate his joining his Lord at 2 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003, at Forest Park-Lawndale Cemetery, 6900 Lawndale, Houston, Texas.

Ray Gerhardt
Dr. Ray Gerhardt died on Monday, Nov. 10 at the age of 81. Visitation will be held 4-9 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 13, 2003, with the family receiving friends from 5-7 p.m. at Goetz Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be 1 p.m., Friday, Nov. 14, 2003, at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church. Interment will follow at San Geronimo Cemetery. He was born on Jan. 31, 1922 in Cisco, Texas. His mother, Emma Weiser Gerhardt and father, Carl Gerhardt, precede him in death. He is survived by his wife, Anita Gerhardt, two sons, Mike and Tim Gerhardt, daughter-in-law, Beth Gerhardt, two grandchildren, Emily and Travis Gerhardt, who are all of Seguin. He is survived by five sisters, Pauline Hamil, Marilyn Berner, Kathlyn Gerhardt, Nancy Daggett and one brother, Gerald Gerhardt. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Ray enjoyed many interests: he enjoyed the circus, politics at all levels, listening to classical music, reading, writing to family and friends as well as swimming, sun-tanning and camping. In 1959 he taught civics at Seguin High School. He earned a doctorate degree in history from Texas Tech University and he was a professor of history at Texas Lutheran College for over 30 years, where he specialized in teaching world civilizations and European history. He was a sponsor of many campus and student organizations, as well as a member of numerous faculty committees. He had the opportunity in that time to meet and teach literally thousands of students. His door was always open for his students, and he was always approachable for any matter. Dr. Gerhardt practiced what he preached: he organized college student tours of Europe, West Texas, Mexico and the former Soviet Union. He was devoted to politics, serving as president of the Democratic Club of Seguin, precinct judge for Ward 4, and county coordinator for several statewide elections. In addition, he was elected for the office of Seguin City Councilman for Ward 4, serving four consecutive terms in which he also served as Mayor Pro Tem, seeing numerous improvements to the City of Seguin. After retiring from teaching, Dr. Gerhardt continued to be active in Seguin’s Silver Center, serving as Secretary and working at the Center in any role needed. He enjoyed talking with people, lending a helping hand or listening to one’s concerns, and could always be counted on for giving an honest opinion. He loved and supported his wife and children but particularly loved his grandchildren and enjoying the time watching them play, or getting on the floor himself to play with them. The family asks that memorials be sent in lieu of flowers to Texas Lutheran University, Emmanuel’s Lutheran Church of Seguin, Texas, or the Senior Center of Seguin. Memorial tributes may be sent to the family online at www.mem.com . Arrangements by Goetz Funeral Home (830) 379-2313.

Harley Millar
Harley Millar passed away Nov. 9, 2003, in Seguin. A memorial visitation will be held Friday, Nov. 14, 2003 at 1 p.m. at the Millar residence, 2241 E. Walnut St., in Seguin. Arrangements by Goetz Funeral Home; (830) 379-2313.

Jeremy L. Henson
Jeremy L. Henson of Seguin passed away Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2003 at the age of 48. A memorial service will be held Friday, Nov.14, 2003, at 11:00 a.m. at Palmer Mortuary. Arrangements by Palmer Mortuary; (830) 379-9430.

Anna Belle Liles-Childers
Anna Belle Liles-Childers, 90, of Crockett, Texas, and a resident of La Porte, Texas, from 1936-1973, died Nov. 11, 2003. Born Feb. 18, 1913, to Albert and Letitia (Brewer) Gist in Vandervoort, Ark., Mrs. Liles-Childers was a member of the La Porte Chapter of the Order of Eastern Star and the Bayshore Baptist Church. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Jack Moore, William Liles and Clarence Childers, and daughter, Laura Lee Crow. Mrs. Liles-Childers is survived by her daughter, Jeanette Franks and husband Rex of Trinity, Texas; grandchildren, Tommy Crow and wife Kelly of Conroe, Ronny Crow and wife Sandy of Brazoria, Laura Jo and husband Joseph of Sweeny, Robert Crow of Brazoria, Cliff Willson and wife Brenda of La Porte, Lynda Evans and husband Larry of La Porte; 12 great-grandchildren, including Tommy D. Crow and wife Amanda of Seguin, and 12 great-great-grandchildren, including Malerie and Mason Crow, also of Seguin. Graveside services were held Thursday, Nov. 13, 2003, at Grand View Cemetery in Pasadena, officiated by the Rev. Mark Redd. Arrangements by Paul U. Lee-La Porte Funeral Home; La Porte, Texas.

Joseph A. Artimez
Joseph A. Artimez 81, of Seguin passed away Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2003, at his residence. The family will receive friends from 3-5 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 15, 2003. at Goetz Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 16, 2003, in the Goetz Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. Mr. Artimez was born Oct. 21, 1922, in Clarksburg, W. Va., the son of Marcelino Artimez and Carmen Menendez Artimez. He married Emily B. Lemon at high noon June 20, 1945, in Houston, Texas and they resided for over 48 years in Niagara Falls, N.Y. Mr. Artimez was employed for many years as General Manager with the Levy Brothers Furniture Store in Niagara Falls, N.Y. He was an active volunteer at Guadalupe Valley Hospital, volunteering at the Imaging Center. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Emily B. Artimez; brother, James S. Artimez of Brazil; Godson and nephew, James M. Artimez of Florida; brother-in-law, Craig M. Lemon and wife Robbie of La Vernia; sisters-in-law, Doris J. Smith of Seguin and Landerth P. Purvis of Nixon; and numerous nieces and nephews. Memorial tributes may be sent to the family online at www.mem.com . Arrangements by Goetz Funeral Home; (830) 379-2313.

Elmo Ulrich
Elmo William Ulrich, age 87 of Seguin, passed away Nov. 17, 2003, in Seguin. A memorial service celebrating his life will be held at 10:30 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 22, 2003, at The Country Church in Marion with the Rev. Butch Ikels officiating. Elmo was born Oct. 6, 1916, in Kingsbury, Texas to Hellmuth and Hilda Derham Ulrich. He farmed and ranched in Guadalupe County and will be remembered as serving as the Guadalupe County Farm Bureau President for five years. Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Stella Ulrich; daughter, Jo Ann Visosky and husband Stephen; son, Jonathan Ulrich and wife Sandy; grandchildren, Geny Cook and husband Ronny, Greg Ruttenbur, Jonathan Ulrich, Jr. and wife Jaime, Chris Ulrich and Brenda Sczepanik and husband Robert; five great-grandchildren; sister, Olivia Wieters; and several nieces and nephews. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to The Country Church in Marion or Hospice of Guadalupe Valley Hospital. Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, (830) 379-2313.

J. W. Hudson
J. W. (Hoot) Hudson passed away Friday, Nov. 14, 2003, at the age of 73. Visitation was from 3-7 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 16, 2003, at Sunset Funeral Home with a funeral service conducted at 3 p.m., Monday, Nov. 17, 2003, in Sunset Funeral Home Chapel. Interment followed in Sunset Memorial Park. Arrangements by Sunset Funeral Home; (210) 828-2811.

Ramona P. Trigo
Ramona P. Trigo died Nov. 18, 2003, in Stockdale. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, 2003, at Finch Funeral Chapel in Nixon. A rosary service will be held at 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, 2003, at Finch Funeral Chapel in Nixon. Mass will be held at 10 a.m., Friday, Nov. 21, 2003, St. Joseph Catholic Church in Nixon. Interment will be in the Nixon Latin American Cemetery in Nixon. Arrangements by Finch Funeral Chapel; (830) 582-1521.

Gerald Gandesbery
Gerald Leo Gandesbery of Seguin died Thursday, Nov. 13, 2003, at the age of 72. Memorial services were held at 11 a.m., Monday, Nov. 17, 2003, at McQueeney Baptist Church. Interment will be at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Arrangements by D. W. Brooks Funeral Home; (210) 223-2045.

Azalea Zuehl Mays
Azalea Zuehl Mays died Nov. 18, 2003 at the age of 97.
Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10 a.m., Monday, Nov. 24, at St. James Catholic Church with Msgr. Albert Hubertus officiating. Burial will follow at San Geronimo Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, and 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., Sunday, with family receiving friends from 3-4 p.m., with a rosary recited at 4 p.m. at Goetz Funeral Home. Born July 7, 1906 in the farming community of Zuehl, Texas to Henry Louis Zuehl and Florence Hagan Zuehl, Azalea was a lifelong resident of Guadalupe County, having left only during her education at Our Lady of the Lake High School and Our Lady of the Lake College in San Antonio and then the University of Texas in Austin. Azalea and husband, Anthony Watkins Mays Sr., had been married 65 years before his death in 1992. They married as students of the University of Texas at the old St. Austin’s Chapel in Austin and they lived in Seguin thereafter. They instilled in their children the pride they held in being from Texas and Guadalupe County pioneer families. Azalea led an exemplary life as a loving wife, mother, and role model to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, and to all who were privileged to know her. She and her husband were long-time members and supporters of St. James Catholic Church and St. Joseph’s Academy, now known as St. James Catholic School. As well as being leaders in Seguin’s community life, Azalea and Anthony were avid supporters of the University of Texas and proud lifetime members of the University of Texas Ex-Student’s Association. Their Longhorn traditions remain alive in their children and their families. Besides her parents, Henry Louis and Florence Zuehl, Azalea is predeceased by all of her brothers and sisters, Adolph Zuehl, Rosalie Huebinger, Matthew Zuehl, Agnes Herden, and Henry Ambrose Zuehl. Left behind to honor and continue her family traditions, Azalea is survived by her three children: Mary Lee Mays Roberts of Seguin; Anthony Watkins Mays, Jr., M.D. and wife, Jeri, of Universal City; and Azalea Rita Mays Konop and husband, Edward John Konop, Sr., of Austin. Grandchildren and great-grandchildren include Rowena Roberts-Waxdol, Ph.D. and husband, Myron Waxdol, Ph.D., of Laytonville, Maryland; Jerry Leon Roberts of Austin. Also Anthony W. Mays, III and wife, Carrie, and their children, Stephanie Elizabeth Mays and Michael Anthony Mays, of Cibolo; Kimberly Anne Mays of San Antonio; Melissa Mays Drennan of San Antonio; Robert Williams Mays, Sr. and wife, Elizabeth, and their son, Robert Williams Mays, Jr., of Schertz. Also Kathryn Konop Rostow and husband, Peter Rostow, and their daughter, Diana Leigh Rostow, of Rio Dell, CA; Edward J. Konop, Jr. and wife, Lynn, and their children Edward J. Konop, III, Anthony Francis Konop, and Margaret Azalea Konop, of Austin; Lucy Konop Villarreal, M.D. and husband, Gustavo Villarreal, Jr., M.D., and children, Joseph Victor Villarreal and Emma Christine Villarreal, of Waco; Sandra Konop Legieza and husband, Michael Legieza, and children, Ashley Michelle Legieza and Michael Stephen Legieza, of New York City; Robin Konop Winter and husband, William Winter, III, and their daughters, Hannah Lee Winter and Abigail Bryn Winter of McKinney. Many loving nieces and nephews. Serving as pallbearers will be Anthony W. Mays, III, Robert W. Mays, Sr., Edward J. Konop, Sr., Edward J. Konop, Jr., Myron Waxdol, PhD., and James Huebinger. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com .
Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin, Seguin, TX, 78155, (830) 379-2313.

Edward Robert Scales
Edward Robert Scales, age 64, died Nov. 18, 2003. He is survived by wife, Catherine Weil Scales of McQueeney; daughters, Terry Bodin and Husband Gerald of Seguin and Misty Pieper and husband Ronnie of Canyon Lake; son, Edward Robert Scales Jr. of Brighton, Colo.; sisters, Carol Weeks, Elnora Klambrorowski and husband Michael and Vickie Vineyard and husband Don; grandchildren, Eric Bodin, Justin Bodin, Kevin Stigal, Cory Pieper, Noami Sanchez, Robert Scales, Jennifer Scales, Jessica Scales, Ashley Scales and J. R. Scales; and great-grandchild, Austyn White. A memorial service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hope Hospice of New Braunfels or Guadalupe County Humane Society. Arrangements by Charlie Morales Funeral Home, P. O. Box 310192, New Braunfels, TX 78131-0192; (830) 606-6224.

Frank K. Hernandez
Frank K. Hernandez of Seguin passed away Nov. 21, 2003, at the age of 72. Born June 19, 1931, in Seguin to the late Catarino and Estefana Hernandez, he spent his early childhood in the Capote Road area and always enjoyed sharing stories of those childhood years. He joined the Army at an early age and proudly served his country in the Korean War. Upon returning to Seguin, he met and married Gloria Gonzales, his wife of 51 years. He spent most of his working life as a truck driver. He was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. He loved the outdoors, playing his guitar, writing songs, storytelling, woodworking, painting and other hobbies. He touched many lives and will be greatly missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Gloria Hernandez of Seguin; four daughters, Emma and husband Jim Duke of Corpus Christi, Gloria and husband Benito Martinez Jr. of New Braunfels, Ruby and husband Mike Perales of Seguin and Elaine Soto of Seguin; grandchildren, Monica Martinez, Stephanie Vela, Carlos Martinez Jr., Benito Martinez III and Savannah, Cassandra and Michelle Soto; eight great-grandchildren; and mother-in-law Catalina H. Gonzales. He is also survived by sisters, Anita Gonzales and Adela Arce, both of Seguin; brothers, Antonio Hernandez of Cibolo, Catarino Hernandez of San Antonio, Ignacio Hernandez of Seguin and Robert Hernandez of McQueeney; several in-laws, nieces, nephews and other relatives and friends. Visitation begins at 9 a.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, 2003, at Palmer Mortuary. A rosary service will be held 7 p.m., Sunday, and funeral mass is at 10 a.m., Monday, Nov. 24, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Our Lady of Guadalupe Cemetery. Pall bearers are Cesareo Guadarrama III, Ruben Gaytan, Carl Bittner, Carlos Martinez Jr., Benito Martinez III and Jesse Gonzales. Memorials may be made to the charity of one’s choice. Arrangements by Palmer Mortuary, (830) 379-9430.

Ramon R. Chapa Sr.
Ramon R. Chapa Sr., age 70, of New Braunfels passed away Saturday, Nov. 22, 2003, at Methodist Hospital in San Antonio. Ramon was born April 26, 1933, in Eagle Pass, Texas, to Desiderio and Timotea Chapa. Ramon lived an active life. He began his various careers at the age of 7 on his bicycle by running a paper route and a delivery service to and from Mexico for various stores and a pharmacy. His last job before moving to New Braunfels was in the fields picking cotton, spinach, carrots, and he always said, “The onions were the worst!” Upon moving to New Braunfels he soon quit school “because I thought I knew more than the teacher.” Thus he continued spreading his talents by starting his own yard work company, one of many things he started. He was one of the first Hispanic deputies for Sheriff Fellers and one of the first Hispanic car salesmen at Bock Motor Company. He wore many hats; the one which he was most known for was master electrician. Ramon began his electrical career part-time and earned his way up to electrical foreman working Civil Service at Randolph Air Force Base before retiring and continuing his “part-time” electrical contracting business, Chapa Electric. In addition to his many jobs, he began his “true vocation” in community service at a young age. Ramon was an active member of his communities, volunteering in both Eagle Pass and New Braunfels. He helped raise funds for Sacred Heart Church in Eagle Pass, and once in New Braunfels he was involved in: American Legion, First Commercial Bank Board of Directors, Habitat for Humanity, Knights of Columbus, Lions Club, assisting the Little League with the electrical work to light the fields, serving as Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church parishioner and usher, Sophienburg Museum Board, Veterans of Foreign Wars, Wurstfest Association, serving as the 2003 Chairperson for the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce and much, much more. Ramon had many interests. The most well-known passion was his love for sports, especially for baseball. He loved to play baseball and played in many locations and at many levels from backyards to semi-professional. Ramon also played in many places, from the West End of New Braunfels to overseas in West Germany. In addition to his time and service to his community, Ramon was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. Ramon is survived by many who will continue to carry on his legacy. He is survived by his wife Berta Chapa; two sons: Ramon Jr. and wife Arla of San Antonio and Michael and his wife Rose from Somerset; and one daughter, Sonya Marie and her husband Nicholas Weber from New Braunfels. He had six “termites”/grandchildren: Ramon Chapa III, Michael Chapa Jr., Chasity Chapa, Sasha Chapa Breda, Bianca Chapa and Brianna Chapa. Ramon is also survived by six siblings including his brother, Frank Chapa and his wife Ruth, and sisters: Angelita Velasquez and her husband Ramon, Amalia Martinez and her husband Damacio; Lucia Virginia Ayala and her husband Jesse, Lourdes Gonzalez and her husband David and Arjelia Chapa. He also had numerous nieces and nephews. Ramon was preceded in death by his son, Victor Manuel Chapa, his parents Desiderio and Timotea Chapa and his sister Maria Teresa Montanez. The pall bearers will include: his grandsons Ramon Chapa III, Michael Chapa Jr. and Manuel Chapa; his cousin, John Chapa; his nephew, Antonio Chapa; his “patron” Eduardo “Lolo” Saldivar; his godson, Eddie Campos; and his longtime friend, Guy Paul; with his only brother Frank Chapa as the honorary pall bearer. Ramon Chapa Sr.’s life will be celebrated with his family and friends at Zoeller Funeral Home until 5 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 25. Visitation will resume at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church at 6 p.m. with a rosary at 7 p.m. The funeral mass will be held at 10 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 26, with visitation beginning at 9 a.m. at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. In lieu of flowers the family has established the Ramon R. Chapa Sr. Scholarship Fund at First Commercial Bank, 1656 W. State Highway 46, New Braunfels (phone (830) 625-2661). “I want to leave you with one last wish: My wish is that each of you understand the importance of living each day to the fullest and acknowledge each of God’s blessings from the smallest wildflower to the people you pass each day, keep smiling and appreciate each blessing God has given you, even in our most trying times He does smile upon us.” Arrangements by Zoeller Funeral Home, 615 Landa St., New Braunfels, (830) 525-2349.

Felice Ruiz
Felice Ruiz, 80, of San Marcos, died Nov. 23, 2003. Rosary was held at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Nov. 24, at Los Angeles Funeral Home in San Marcos. Services will be held at 10 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 25, at St. John’s Catholic Church in San Marcos. Burial will be at the Comal Cemetery in New Braunfels. Arrangements by Mission Funeral Home, 1615 E. Cesar Chavez, Austin, (512) 476-4355.

Evelyn Rose Hartsfield
Evelyn Rose Hartsfield of Adkins died Nov. 21, 2003. Visitation will be from 5-9 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 25, at Finch Funeral Chapel in La Vernia. Services will be at 11 a.m., Wednesday, Nov. 26, at Finch Funeral Chapel. Arrangements by Finch Funeral Chapel — La Vernia, (830) 779-1090.

Willeford (Willa) Traeger
Willeford (Willa) Traeger, age 87, of Seguin, passed away Nov. 25, 2003. Funeral services will be conducted at 10 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 29, 2003, at First United Methodist Church with the Rev. Lonnie Phillips officiating. Interment with military honors under the auspices of American Legion Post 245 of Seguin will follow in San Geronimo Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday, Nov. 28, 2003, at Goetz Funeral Home from noon to 9 p.m. Mr. Traeger was born Oct. 7, 1916, in Seguin to Wesley Gustav and Nathalia Blumberg Traeger. He married Elvira Von Minden Jan. 11, 1942. He retired May 4, 1982, after 38 years with the United States Postal Service. He received the “Million Mile” Award for service in an “outstanding performance in driving 1,000,000 miles of 25,000 hours without a preventable accident.” He served as a Texas Peace Officer Reserve for 15 years for Guadalupe County. He served as a Sergeant in the 56th Calvary Brigade during World War II. He attained the rank of Eagle Scout in the Boy Scouts of America and was a member of the American Legion Post 245 in Seguin. He was preceded in death by a son, Ford Traeger. Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Evie Traeger; children, Sherry Isbell and husband Bill and Scott “Skip” Traeger and wife Jackie; sister, Anthonette Hyman; eight grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; serving as pallbearers will be Robert Scott Isbell, Cliff Bading, Dr. George Bachman, Dr. Bob Pape, Richard Von Minden and Harry Schiebele; honorary pallbearers will be Malcolm Marion and Dr. Leroy Weiss. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church 710 Austin, Seguin, TX 78155, or to Guadalupe Valley Nursing Center, 1210 Eastwood Dr., Seguin, TX 78155. Willa was a wonderful husband, father, friend, and fisherman of all fisherman. The fisherman’s prayer – “I pray that I may fish until my dying day when it comes time for my last cast. I then most humbly pray: when in the Lord’s Great Landing Net I’m peacefully asleep, that in his mercy I be judged big enough to keep.” Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin St., Seguin, TX 78155, (830) 379-2313.

Sandy Rae Lindig
Sandy Rae Lindig died Nov. 23, 2003. Family visitation was held 6-7 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 26, at Bratcher Funeral Home. Church services will be held Friday, Nov. 28, at 2 p.m. at Woodlawn Baptist Church. Arrangements by Bratcher Funeral Home, 401 W. Woodard, Denison, TX 75020, (903) 465-2323.

Ada Arocha
Ada Arocha, age 67, of Seguin, passed away Nov. 25, 2003. A memorial service will be held at 7 p.m., Friday, Nov. 28, 2003, at Goetz Memorial Chapel with Rev. Alvaro Guzman officiating. Private graveside services and interment of Mrs. Arocha’s cremated remains will be held at a later date at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . Memorial contributions may be made to La Trinadad United Methodist Church. Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin, Seguin, TX 78155, (830) 379-2313.

Melvin D. Tate
Lt. Col. Melvin D. Tate, U.S. Army (Ret.), age 82, passed away at his home in San Antonio, Texas, Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003. Mel was born in Binger, Okla., March 23, 1921. He is preceded in death by his father C.V. Tate, mother Anna D. Tate and brother Clay Tate. Mel is survived by his wife of 61 years, Evelyn Clifton Tate; daughter Kaaren T. Blumberg and husband Hilmar of Seguin; daughter Kathy Tate of Dallas, brother Leo Tate of Union City, Okla.; sister Clariann Dula of Dallas; grandchildren Monica Young and her husband Robert of Houston; Roland Blake Blumberg and Jordan Tate Blumberg of Seguin; and great-granddaughter Maren Young. Mel was a truly remarkable man and will be dearly missed by family and friends. Mel had a distinguished military career as a Master Aviator, logging over 6,000 flying hours flying planes and helicopters for the U.S. Army. He joined the Army Air Corps in 1942, where he served in Europe with the 258th FA Bn. of the Second Armored Division (Hell on Wheels Division). In World War II he flew in more than 250 artillery reconnaissance flights for which he received a Presidential Unit Citation. In addition to combat flights, he also flew Chiefs of Staff, Generals and performers. He especially liked Danny Kaye. After World War II, he returned to the University of Oklahoma, College of Pharmacy, receiving a degree in 1947. In 1949 he sold his drug store in Bristow, Okla., and moved his family to Fort Worth, where he continued practicing pharmacy until he was recalled to active duty in 1950. In Korea, he served with the 2nd Infantry Division and at I Corps Hdq. After the Korean War, because of his love of flying, he stayed in the Army and in 1964 was sent to Vietnam as Commanding Officer for the 92nd Avn. Co. and 51st Transportation Detachment for which he received a Presidential Unit Citation. Col. Tate retired from the Army in 1968. Among his many decorations he was awarded the Silver Star; a Bronze Star for Valor; a Bronze Star for Outstanding Service; 12 Air Medals; Five Battle Stars for Europe (Normandy, Rhineland, Central Europe, Northern France and Ardennes-Alsace); Korean Service Medal; Vietnam Service and Campaign Medals, and the master Army Aviator Badge. He was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds he received in World War II but refused to accept it because he believed that this award should be reserved for soldiers who gave their lives fighting for their country. A memorial service celebrating Melvin’s life will be held at 2:30 p.m., Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2003, at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery with full military honors. Memorials may be made to the American Diabetes Association (www.diabetes.org) and the American Heart Association (www.americanheart.org). Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin, Seguin, TX 78155, (830) 379-2313.

Wilfred “Doodle” Martin
Wilfred “Doodle” Martin, age 73, of McQueeney, passed away Nov. 27, 2003, in San Antonio. Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2003, at First United Methodist Church in Seguin with the Rev. Lonnie Phillips and the Rev. Linda Montgomery officiating. Graveside services and interment with military honors will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Visitation will be held from 5-9 p.m., Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, at Goetz Funeral Home with the family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m. Mr. Martin was born Dec. 8, 1929 in Floresville, Texas, to Lesley Franklin and Gertrude Ables Martin. He retired from the Texas National Guard after 42 years of service. He was a member of the First United Methodist Church in Seguin, Seguin Elks Lodge and a charter member of the McQueeney Lions Club. He is preceded in death by his parents and his sister Dora Chidgey. Survivors include his wife Catherine Martin of McQueeney; daughter, Cindy Pullin and husband Bob of New Braunfels; son, Leslie Martin and wife Linda of Seguin; grandchildren, Kyle and Kirk Pullin of New Braunfels and Austin and Amanda Martin of Seguin; brother, Leslie F. Martin and wife Wanda; sister-in-law, Mary Ann Hooten and husband Bill; and numerous nieces and nephews. His workshop and his family were his greatest joys. Serving as pallbearers will be Michael Colby, Ronald Colby, John Colby, Don Pollock, Guy Weldon and Charles Barnes. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Building Fund, 710 Austin, Seguin, TX 78155. Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin, Seguin, TX 78155, (830) 379-2313.

Willie Mae Morawietz
Willie Mae Engbrock Morawietz passed away Nov. 28, 2003, at the age of 100. Mass of the resurrection will be recited at 11 a.m., Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, at St. James Catholic Church with Msgr. Albert Hubertus officiating. Interment will follow in St. James Catholic Cemetery. Visitation will be from 3-5 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 30, 2003, at St. James Catholic Church, with a rosary being recited at 5 p.m. Willie Mae was born Nov. 4, 1903, in El Campo to William J. Engbrock and Mary Burtchell Engbrock. They moved to Seguin from El Campo when she was 3 years old. Willie Mae graduated from what is now known as Saint James School and attended Draughan’s Business College. Upon graduating from business college, she accepted a banking job in Falls City. It was while working at the bank she met her husband, Louis Thomas Morawietz. They were married Nov. 18, 1928, at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Falls City. Ten years later, they moved to Seguin, where Louis joined his wife’s father and brother in the produce business. Louis later ran for and was elected Justice of the Peace, Pct. 1, Guadalupe County. Louis served that office for numerous years, until his untimely death in August 1961. Willie Mae was offered the unexpired term of Louis and accepted. Willie Mae then ran for and was elected to that office until she retired in 1978. She was a member of St. James Catholic Church, St. Ann’s Circle, Seguin Fire Department Auxiliary and the American Legion Auxiliary. Preceding her in death were her parents, brothers Jerome, Robert and Monroe Engbrock and sisters Dorothy Heinemeyer, Josie Schulz and Lavine Jaeckle. Surviving are a sister, Margaret Norris of New Braunfels, and brother, Anthony Engbrock and wife Rowena of Cuero. She will be missed by her children Mary and husband Cleve Hunter, of Kerrville, Betty and husband Reg Ponsford III of California, Donald and wife Barbara Morawietz and Larry Morawietz and Karen Lewis, all of Seguin; grandchildren Shane Churchwell, Michelle Churchwell Fite, Reg Ponsford, IV, Brad Ponsford, Shawn Ponsford, Christie Morawietz Aldridge, Kary Morawietz, Kim Morawietz, Larry Louis, Erin, Dawn and Patrick, all of California; and great-grandchildren Cory Fite, Kye and Kory Morawietz and Carson Aldridge. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the St. James Catholic Church Family Center, 510 South Camp St., Seguin, TX 78155 or the American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Blvd., Ste. 1010, Rockville, MD 20852-9813. Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin, Seguin, TX 78155, (830) 379-2313.

Willie Mae Engbrock Morawietz
Willie Mae Engbrock Morawietz passed away Nov. 28, 2003, at the age of 100. Mass of the resurrection was recited at 11 a.m., Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, at St. James Catholic Church with Msgr. Albert Hubertus officiating. Interment was held at St. James Catholic Cemetery. Visitation was held from 3-5 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 30, 2003, at St. James Catholic Church, with a rosary recited at 5 p.m. Willie Mae was born Nov. 4, 1903, in El Campo to William J. Engbrock and Mary Burtchell Engbrock. They moved to Seguin from El Campo when she was 3 years old. Willie Mae graduated from what is now known as Saint James School and attended Draughan’s Business College. Upon graduating from business college, she accepted a banking job in Falls City. It was while working at the bank she met her husband, Louis Thomas Morawietz. They were married Nov. 18, 1928, at the Holy Trinity Catholic Church in Falls City. Ten years later, they moved to Seguin, where Louis joined his wife’s father and brother in the produce business. Louis later ran for and was elected Justice of the Peace, Pct. 1, Guadalupe County. Louis served that office for numerous years, until his untimely death in August 1961. Willie Mae was offered the unexpired term of Louis, and accepted. Willie Mae then ran for and was elected to that office until she retired in 1978. She was a member of St. James Catholic Church, St. Ann’s Circle, Seguin Fire Department Auxiliary and the American Legion Auxiliary. Preceding her in death were her parents; brothers Jerome, Robert and Monroe Engbrock; and sisters Dorothy Heinemeyer, Josie Schulz and Lavine Jaeckle. Surviving are a sister, Margaret Norris, New Braunfels, and brother Anthony Engbrock and wife Rowena of Cuero. She will be missed by her children, Mary and husband Cleve Hunter, of Kerrville, Betty and husband Reg Ponsford III of California, Donald and wife Barbara Morawietz and Larry Morawietz and Karen Lewis, all of Seguin; grandchildren, Shane Churchwell, Michelle Churchwell Fite, Reg Ponsford IV, Brad Ponsford, Shawn Ponsford, Christie Morawietz Aldridge, Kary Morawietz, Kim Morawietz, Larry Louis, Erin, Dawn and Patrick, all of California; and great-grandchildren, Cory Fite, Kye and Kory Morawietz, Carson Aldridge, Kohl and Jake Ponsford and McKenzie and Quentin Ponsford. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the St. James Catholic Church Family Center, 510 S. Camp St., Seguin, TX 78155 or the American Kidney Fund, 6110 Executive Blvd., Ste. 1010, Rockville, MD 20852-9813. Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin St., Seguin, TX 78155, (830) 379-2313.

Audra Mae Naumann
Audra Mae Naumann passed away Nov. 27, 2003, at her home in McQueeney. Funeral services will be conducted at 3:30 p.m., Monday Dec. 1, 2003, at Goetz Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow in the Belmont Cemetery in Belmont. Visitation will be held from noon to 9 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 30, 2003, at Goetz Funeral Home with the family receiving friends from 5-7 p.m. She was born March 12, 1921. She was preceded in death by her first husband Marion Earl Jones and second husband Herman E. Naumann; a son, Johnnie Carroll Naumann; her parents, William Sparks Hardin and Ethel Mae (Smith) Hardin; a brother, Billy Doyle Hardin; two sisters, Zella (Hardin) and Mary Ellen (Hardin) Newman; and two siblings who died at birth. Audra is survived by a son, W.E. “Bill” Jones and wife Vernelle of Belmont; two daughters, Casey Price and husband Jimmie of McQueeney and Melody Shaw and husband Craige of Ontario, Calif.; five grandchildren, Annette Roecker of Belmont, Yvonne Foerg of Topeka, Kan., Jimmie Lee Price of McQueeney, Jonathan Shaw of Twenty-Nine Palms, Calif., and Chris Shaw of Wimberley; 10 great-grandchildren: Wendy Kleinschmidt, Travis Hawkins, Michelle Roecker, Colby Foerg, Joey Price, Olivia Price, Austin Shaw, Natalie Shaw, Evan Shaw and Alex Shaw Also brothers, Cecil Marion Hardin of Eden and W. Leo Hardin of Amarillo. The family wishes to thank the Guadalupe Valley Hospital Hospice Services Team; Dr. Dean Zincone; Laurie Draeger, R.N.; Danna Dyess R.N.; Chaplain Jeremy Roy; Pauline Elkey, R.N., mother’s nursing angel, Kristy Serold, R.N.; and Pastor Paul Smith from the Belmont Methodist Church for their loving care, prayers and support. We also wish to thank the other caregivers, neighbors, friends and relatives for their prayers and support. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . The family wishes for any donations to be made to the Guadalupe Valley Hospital Hospice Services, 1215 E. Court, Seguin, TX 78155. Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin, Seguin, TX 78155, (830) 379-2313.

Allie V. Abercrombie
Allie V. Abercrombie, 69, of Seguin, passed away Thursday, Nov. 27, 2003. Visitation will be held from 1-3 p.m., Sunday, at Goetz Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m., Sunday, at Goetz Memorial Chapel. Mrs. Abercrombie was born March 23, 1924 in Pearsall, the daughter of Benjamin A. Landrum and Virginia P. Stendebach Landrum. She is survived by her husband, Russell J. Abercrombie of Seguin; sons, Kenneth Landrum and wife Reña of New Mexico, Robert Hampton of Huntsville, Chuck Hampton and wife Deanna of New Mexico; daughters, Beth Caddell and husband Ronny of Seguin and Barbara Grossi of Seguin; 14 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren; sister Susan Landrum; and father and mother-in-law, Clyde and Vicki Abercrombie. Memorial tributes maybe sent to the family online at www.mem.com . Arrangements by Goetz Funeral Home, (830) 379-2313.

Ruthie Mae Gordon Hoff
Ruthie Mae Gordon Hoff, age 85, passed away at her home in Pawnee, Texas, Thanksgiving evening, Nov. 27, 2003, surrounded by her daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren and great-grandchildren after a two-and-a-half-year battle with cancer. She was born in Huntsville April 7, 1918, to Albert and Lenora Dedear Gordon. The sixth of nine children in a close and loving family, she was affectionately known as “Jane” by her sisters and brothers, five of whom survive her. As a partner with her husband Sam, she kept the books for the farm and ranch and the Pawnee Cotton Gin and worked as a paraprofessional for the Pawnee and Kenedy independent school districts until her retirement. Ruth became an avid hunter after marrying Sam in 1937. She was an active member and chairman of the administrative board of Pawnee United Methodist Church and a life member of the United Methodist Women. Preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Sam Hoff, in 1997, she continued the cattle ranching operation until her death. Also preceding her in death are her parents Albert and Lenora Gordon; brothers Charlie, Virdus and Roy Gordon and son Major Sammie Don Hoff. She is survived by daughters Janice Windham and husband Noel and Pam Colvin and husband Jim; grandchildren Lesly Windham Haygood and husband Bill, Jennifer Windham and Chris, Clint, Corrie and Cathie Colvin; great-grandsons Preston, Hunter, Caleb and Samuel Haygood; sisters Ethel Benham and Ima Hurley; sister-in-law Lenora Crews; brothers Raymond, Gilbert and Alfred Gordon; and numerous nephews and nieces and cherished friends. As a loving mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Ruth was the “tie” that bound together her family, church and community. The family received friends at Eckols Chapel from 4-6 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 29. Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 30, at the Eckols Chapel. Interment will follow at the Pawnee Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, Contributions may be made for the repairs/reconstruction of Pawnee United Methodist Church c/o Alice Johnson, treasurer, 15470 Hwy. 72 West, Kenedy, TX 78119. Arrangements by Eckols Funeral Home Inc., Kenedy, Texas, (830) 583-2533.

Calvin R. Weir
Calvin R. Weir passed away Nov. 27, 2003, in Seguin. Funeral service will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, at Goetz Memorial Chapel with the Rev. James Witschorke officiating. Interment with military honors will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery in San Antonio. Visitation will be from 6-9 p..m., Sunday, at Goetz Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Marion, St. John’s Lutheran Church in Marion and/or charity of one’s choice. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . Arrangements by Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin St., Seguin, TX 78155, (830) 379-2313.

Farin Dean Martinez
Farin Dean Martinez died Nov. 25, 2003. Visitation was from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 29, 2003. Services will be at 10 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 30, at Finch Funeral Chapel in Stockdale. Interment will follow in Steele Branch Cemetery in Stockdale. Arrangements by Finch Funeral Chapel in Stockdale, (830) 996-3811.

Awilla F. Penshorn
Awilla F. Penshorn died Nov. 26, 2003. Services were held from 4-8 p.m., Friday, Nov. 28, at Finch Funeral Chapel in La Vernia. Services were held at 10 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 29, at Finch Funeral Chapel in La Vernia. Burial followed in San Fernando III Cemetery in San Antonio. Arrangements by Finch Funeral Chapel in La Vernia, (830) 779-1090.

Irene Catherine Felux
Irene Catherine Felux died Nov. 28, 2003. Visitation will be from 2-6 p.m., Sunday, Nov. 30, at Finch Funeral Chapel in Stockdale. Services will be held at 11 a.m., Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Interment will follow at Richter Cemetery in Wilson County. Arrangements by Finch Funeral Chapel in Stockdale, (830) 996-3811.

Karl Lehmann Sr.
Karl Lehmann Sr., 92, of Staples, passed away Saturday, Nov. 29, 2003. Visitation will be held from noon to 9 p.m., Tuesday, with the family receiving friends from 5-7 p.m. at Goetz Funeral Home. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 3, 2003, at Goetz Memorial Chapel. Interment will follow at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park, New Braunfels. Mr. Lehmann was born Aug. 29, 1911, in Redwood, the son of Charles Lehmann and Lydia Rauch Lehmann. He was a farmer and rancher in the Staples area all his life. Mr. Lehmann is survived by his daughter, LaVerne Luensmann and husband Richard of Marion; sons, Karl Lehmann Jr. of Staples and Dan Lehmann and wife Lucille of Staples; two grandsons, Horace Luensmann and wife Laura of Marion and Aric Lehmann of Staples; and two great-granddaughters, Kayla and Sabrina Luensmann of Marion. He was preceded in death by his wife Lola Wersterfer Lehmann; parents Charles and Lydia Lehmann; brothers, Arnold, Valentine, Oswald, Erwin and Adolph Lehmann; and sisters, Elsa Bierstedt and Thekla Wersterfer. Memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation or a charity of your choice. Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin St., (830) 379-2313.

Lottie F. King
Funeral arrangements are pending at the Zoeller Funeral Home for Lottie F. King, who passed away Saturday, Nov. 29, 2003, at her residence in McQueeney. Arrangements by Zoeller Funeral Home, 615 Landa St., New Braunfels, TX 78130, (830) 625-2349.

Wilfred “Doodle” Martin
Wilfred “Doodle” Martin, age 73, of McQueeney, passed away Nov. 27, 2003, in San Antonio. Funeral services will be conducted at 11 a.m., Tuesday, Dec. 2, 2003, at First United Methodist Church in Seguin with the Rev. Lonnie Phillips and the Rev. Linda Montgomery officiating. Graveside services and interment with military honors will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Visitation was held from 5-9 p.m., Monday, Dec. 1, 2003, at Goetz Funeral Home, with the family receiving friends from 6-8 p.m. Memorial tributes can be made online at www.mem.com . Memorial contributions may be made to the First United Methodist Church Building Fund, 710 Austin St., Seguin, TX 78155. Arrangements under the direction of Goetz Funeral Home, 713 N. Austin St., Seguin, TX 78155, (830) 379-2313.