Oswald Boecker
Oswald William Boecker, 87, of Brenham, died July 20, 2002, in Trinity Medical Center in Brenham. Mr. Boecker was born March 1, 1915, in Riesel, Texas, to Henry and Emma (Hoffman) Boecker. He was baptized Aug. 5, 1925, in Needville, Texas by the Rev. J.R. Vilt and was confirmed in 1947 in Grace Lutheran Church. He was educated in Needville, Texas. On Oct. 6, 1938, he was married to Lydia Surovik in Wesley Brethren Church by the Rev. H.E. Beseda Sr. Mr. Boecker was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham since 1957 and was also a member of the Men's Club. He was a retired auto body repairman and painter. He loved hunting and fishing. Survivors include his wife, Lydia Boecker of Brenham; son and daughters-in-law, Donald and Nancy Boecker of Brenham and Norma Boecker of Fort Worth; three grandchildren and their spouses, Jeff and Darlene Boecker, Kristin and Henry Mikolajczak and Aimee Boecker; five great-grandchildren, Sarah Boecker, Emily Boecker, Haydon Boecker, Chase Mikolajczak and Kenna Mikolajczak; sisters and brother-in-law, Hilda and Walter Hedt of Needville and Minnie Mikel of Sugar Land; and brother-in-law and sisters-in-law, David and Bessie Surovik, Alice Boecker, Leona Surovik, Vlasta Prescott and Marie Martin. He was preceded in death by his son, Barry James Boecker, Sept. 1, 2000; parents, Henry and Emma Boecker; brothers, Robert and Harry; and sisters, Lydia Hartman, Ellie Meyen and Mary Altimore. The funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. Tuesday, July 23 in Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham with Pastors Matthew Jacobs and William Holzer officiating. Burial will be in Wesley Brethren Church Cemetery in Wesley. The family will receive visitors at Memorial Oaks Chapel from 6-8 p.m. today. Mr. Boecker's nephews will serve as pallbearers. Memorials may be given to Grace Lutheran School or a favorite charity. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St., in Brenham.

Sharon Mossbarger
Sharon Kay Mossbarger, 53, of Houston, died July 20, 2002, in West Houston Medical Center. Sherry was born Oct. 8, 1948, in El Paso, Texas, to Willard and Christine (Chaney) Mossbarger. In 1970, she graduated from Baylor College. She was a member of Bethel Independent Presbyterian Church in Houston. An Army Nursing Corps veteran of the Vietnam War, Sherry devoted her adult life to serving God as a missionary nurse in places such as Nepal, Zimbabwe and the United Arab Emirates. Sherry is survived by her brother Steve, his wife Pam and their children Lucian, Summer and Barak; as well as her brother Ron, his wife Sami and their children Danielle and Jenna. She was preceded in death by her parents. A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 24 in Bethel Independent Presbyterian Church, 825 Bering, in Houston, with Don Babb officiating. Burial will follow in the Houston VA Cemetery. Memorials may be given to Brenham Hospice or a favorite charity. Service arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St., in Brenham.

Ora Nell Quebe
Ora Nell Quebe died Sunday, July 21, 2002 after a courageous battle with cancer. She was born July 16, 1922 in the Prairie Hill community of Washington County to Charlie and Alma Ehlert Quebe. Nell was baptized and confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church of Prairie Hill. She attended Prairie Hill School and Sam Houston State University with a degree in elementary education. Nell taught elementary school children for 40 years. Her teaching career started at Prairie Hill School and she later worked positions with school districts in Needville, Richmond and Victoria, Texas. Nell loved to travel and enjoyed oil painting. Survivors include her loving sister and caretaker, Ella Mae Quebe; sisters, Erna Quebe and Lillian Becker, all of Brenham; sisters and brothers-in-law, Gladys and LeRoy Schroeder and Louise and Lee Roy Neumann, both of Brenham; and numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces and great-nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Charlie H. Quebe; and sisters, Alma Pape and Laura Quebe. The family will receive friends from 6-8 p.m. tonight at Brenham Memorial Chapel. Funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, July 23, 2002 at Grace Lutheran Church. Pastor William Holzer will officiate. Burial will follow in Prairie Lee Cemetery. Pallbearers will be her nephews, Donald Schroeder, Russell Schroeder, Warner Neumann, H.C. Becker, Mike Grunder, Greg Gaskamp, Emery Schulze and Bobby Arndt. Memorials may be given to The American Cancer Society, the Trinity Medical Center Foundation or Grace Lutheran Church. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, (979) 836-3611.

James Turner
Funeral services for James Daniel Turner, 45, of Bryan and a former resident of Somerville will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 24, 2002 from St. Ann's Catholic Church in Somerville with the Rev. Curt Lanzrath, O.F.M., officiating. Interment will follow in Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Cemetery in Frenstat. Visitation will be Tuesday from 8 a.m.-9 p.m. with a rosary being recited at 7 p.m. at Strickland Funeral Home in Somerville. Mr. Turner was born March 22, 1957 in Albuquerque, N.M., the son of James and Delores Fabrizo Turner. After graduating from Somerville High School, he joined the Navy and served his country. He worked as a route carrier for the United States Postal Service in Bryan and was a member of Marion Mays American Legion Post #455 of Somerville. He was a motorcycle enthusiast and also enjoyed boating and fishing. He is preceded in death by his grandparents. Survivors include his father and mother, Jim and Dee Turner, both of Somerville; two sons, James Alan and Johnothan Daniel Turner, both of Bryan; his fiance, Debbie Jenkins and her sons, Logan and Mark Jenkins, all of Bryan; two brothers and sisters-in-law, Joseph and Cheryl Turner of Brenham and Mike and Linda Turner of Frenstat; and numerous other relatives. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Strickland Funeral Home, Somerville, (979) 596-2133.

Franklin
Marguerite Fischer Franklin, born Nov. 13, 1905, in Brenham, of parents Nettie E. and Julius C. Fischer, passed away Saturday, May 25, 2002. A long time resident of Houston, she was preceded in death by her husband, Gerald Franklin Sr.; brother, Julius Fischer of Brenham; her sister, Isabel McElrath of Nashville, Tenn.; and grandson, Donnie Eason of Houston. Upon the death of her husband, she managed the Gerald Franklin Agency in Houston until 1975. Survivors include her sons, Donald E. Eason and his wife Evelyn of Brenham and Gerald Franklin Jr. and his wife Evelyn of Houston; granddaughter, Elise Webb and husband Ron of Smithville, Okla.; grandson, Steven Eason of Gainesville, Ga.; and great-grandson, Ryan Webb of Smithville, Okla. A lifelong Episcopalian, she was a member of St. Stephens Episcopal Church, active in the altar guild, the Thrift Corral, St. Mary's Chapter and most recently in the new Woman's Group. From 1979 until recently, she was an active volunteer at the Escape Family Resource Center, a project of the Exchange Clubs of Houston. A memorial service will be conducted at 4 p.m. Wednesday, May 29, 2002, at St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 1805 W. Alabama (at Woodhead) in Houston with interment Thursday at Prairie Lea Cemetery in Brenham. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 1805 W. Alabama, Houston, Texas 77098 or the Escape Family Resource Center, 3210 Eastside, Houston, Texas 77098. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St., in Brenham.

Mary Carl Barbisch
Mary Carl Tomlinson Barbisch, born Nov. 22, 1917 in Leesville, La., to E. Carl and Harriet Smith Tomlinson, passed away Thursday, Aug. 1, 2002 at her residence in Brenham. She was raised in Hillsboro, Texas, lived in Houston over 50 years and had been a resident of Brenham since 1999. Friends will always remember her as a "red-headed" spirited woman with a quick wit and a great sense of style. She had a great love and appreciation for antiques. We will miss her charm, her grace and her candid remarks. She loved best and was the best. She was preceded in death by her husband, Joseph William Barbisch. She is survived by her sister, Peggy Davis and husband Bill. Survivors also include a niece, Susan Davis; and nephew, Stephen Davis and wife Vickie. She will be greatly missed by her friends and family, especially her dearest friend, Beverly Frew; and her dog companion, Maggie. In the future, a private memorial will be held. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice Brazos Valley/Brenham, 705 S. Austin St., Brenham, Texas 77833 or Trinity Medical Center Foundation, 700 Medical Parkway, Brenham, Texas 77833. Arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St., in Brenham.

Ben Etta Cates
Ben Etta Cates, 91, of Brenham, died July 31, 2002 in Trinity Medical Center in Brenham. Ms. Cates was born Nov. 3, 1910 in Dallas, Texas to John Henry and Mary Brack (Wilson) Mims. She was a member of Brenham Presbyterian Church. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Johnetta and Hugh L. Bradshaw of Brenham; brothers, Edward and Sandi Mims of Bozeman, Mont. and John and Evelyn Mims of Jefferson; sisters, Katherine and J.R. Hatcher of Dallas, Wanda Kelley of Dallas and Elizabeth King of Jefferson; sister-in-law, Eloise Mims of Dallas; and numerous nieces, nephews and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents. A private graveside service will be held in Restland Memorial Park in Dallas with the Rev. Brad Munroe officiating. Memorials may be given to Presbyterian Children's Home and Service, P.O. Box 140888, Austin, Texas 78714-9981. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St., in Brenham.

Patrick Gans
Patrick Michael Gans, 50, of Washington, Texas died Wednesday, July 30, 2002. Mike was born Dec. 5, 1951 in Bethesda, Md. to James Daniel and Patricia (Mason) Gans and served in the Marine Corps. Michael was a master craftsman and was the owner of Design & Construction, Inc. in Brenham, who did quality restorations of antique homes and buildings in the Brenham, Chappell Hill and Independence areas. His projects included the Chapel at the Antique Rose Emporium and the newly completed Baylor University Memorial in Independence. He is noted for his prize winning beer that he made using his own recipes and also, for his wine. He called his brewing activities "Boot Leg Brewing Company." Michael will be greatly missed by his many friends and business associates. Mike is survived by his mother, Pat Gans of Brenham; brother and sister-in-law, Dennis and Patricia Gans of Katy; sister and brother-in-law, Kathy and Joe Boyd of Houston; three nephews, Dustyn Boyd, Ryan Boyd and Sean Gans; niece, Caitlin Gans; and aunt and uncle, Betty and Dave Venable and family of Silver Spring, Md. He is preceded in death by his father. The Gans family will receive friends at Brenham Memorial Chapel from noon until service time Saturday. A memorial service will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 3, 2002 at Brenham Memorial Chapel. Pallbearers will be all his Brenham buddies. Funeral services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, 836-3611.

Henry Hendrickson Jr.
Henry William Hendrickson Jr. was born to parents Henry William Hendrickson Sr. and Mary Hafer Hendrickson Feb. 7, 1925, in Brenham. He was baptized Aug. 30, 1931 at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church of Brenham and was confirmed there March 17, 1940. He graduated from Brenham High School and Blinn College and attended the University of Houston. He served his country in the U.S. Navy from June 1942 through March 1946. When he returned home, he was employed by the U.S. Postal Service and was also a self-employed fencing contractor. Aug. 12, 1950, he was married to Secilia Marie Schroeder in Grace Lutheran Church of Brenham. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church and served on various boards there. He was a member of American Legion Post #48, as well as a member and past commander of Disabled American Veterans Post #139 and VFW Post #7104. He was also a past member of the Lions Club and the Sons of Hermann. After he and Secilia moved to Kruse Village, he became very active in the Men's Club there. Until his health began to fail him, he enjoyed barbecuing and preparing chili and stews for his family and spending time with his friends. He was an avid fan of Brenham Cub and Cubette sports and attended as many games as he could. Mr. Hendrickson died at Trinity Medical Center in Brenham Aug. 3, 2002, having attained the age of 77 years, five months and 27 days. He is survived by his wife, Secilia Marie Hendrickson of Brenham; sons and daughters-in-law, Donald Hendrickson of Bellville, Henry W. III and Marcy Hendrickson and Ricky and Paula Hendrickson of Brenham; daughters and sons-in-law, Marilyn and Adolph Schaefer Jr. of Brenham, Gloria and Steve Shrock of Hempstead, Cheryl and Darrell Meier of Bellville, Margaret Reuter of Brenham and Rhonda and Tony Conner of Chappell Hill; 16 grandchildren, Betty Brending, Steven and Stephanie Shrock, Shawn, Laura and Metri Hendrickson, Nicholas Vierus, Adrienne Meier, Kassie, Krissie and Jaylon Conner, Tiffany and Amber Reuter, Charly Ann and Hanna Hendrickson and Travis Medve; three great-grandchildren, Jason and Justin Brending and Mackenzie Shrock; brother, Leroy Hendrickson of Brenham; and sister, Olivia Scheu of Willis. He was preceded in death by his parents; baby brother, Otto Hendrickson; and sisters, Irene James and Bernice Easterling. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, Aug. 6 at 10 a.m. in Grace Lutheran Church in Brenham with the Rev. Matthew Jacobs and the Rev. William Holzer officiating. Burial will be in Prairie Lea Cemetery in Brenham. The family will receive visitors at Memorial Oaks Chapel today from 6-8 p.m. Pallbearers will be his grandsons and great-grandsons, Shawn Hendrickson, Steven Shrock, Nicholas Vierus, Jaylon Conner, Travis Medve, Jason Brending and Justin Brending. Honorary pallbearers will be Al Novosad, Jim Long, Brenham Postal Service employees, members of Grace Lutheran Church, as well as his friends at Kruse Village and in the veterans' organizations in Brenham. Memorials may be given to Grace Lutheran Church and School. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St., in Brenham.

Harriet Smith
Harriet Ruth "Hattie" Bright Smith, 99, of Brenham, formerly of Nacogdoches, went to be with her Lord and Savior Sunday, Aug. 4, 2002. Dec. 22, 1902, she was born to Carl Bosco and Nettie Florence (Williams) Bright in Geneva, Texas. She married Dr. Clarence Smith in Nacogdoches and he preceded her in death in 1947. Hattie was a school teacher and retired as curator of the Old Stone Fort Museum on Stephen F. Austin State University Campus in Nacogdoches. She graduated from Nacogdoches High School and CIA (College of Industrial Arts – now Texas Women's University) in Denton, Texas. In 1994, Hattie moved to Brenham to with her sister, Lois Hale, who preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by two other sisters and two brothers and her parents. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Brenham and resided at Trinity Care Center. Survivors include nieces and nephews, Amy and Jim Reeves of Brenham, Harriet and Jimmy Blakey of San Antonio, Charles and Nancy Hale of Houston, Bitty Jacobs of Nacogdoches, Florence Ann and Jim Brake of Nacogdoches, Frank Jameson of Port O'Connor, Peggy Jameson of Houston, Judy Wilson of Houston, Mary Frances and Steve Brown of Natchitoches, La. She is also survived by many great-nieces and nephews. Funeral services will be held Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2002 at 2 p.m. at Laird-McGill Funeral Home in Nacogdoches. Family will receive friends there following the service. Burial will be at Oak Grove Cemetery. Memorials may be made to Trinity Care Center, 400 E. Sayles, Brenham. Local arrangements are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, 836-3611.

Helen Booker
Helen Dorothy Booker, 91, passed away Wednesday, July 31, 2002, in Houston, Texas. She was born Oct. 4, 1910 in Chicago, Ill. Helen graduated from University of Houston. She worked as a teacher in Houston for 31 years. Upon retirement she and her husband moved to Brenham, where she enjoyed working as a volunteer at Trinity Hospital. She was a licensed pilot, participated in sports, enjoyed traveling, Bridge, Gardening, and Bingo. Mrs. Booker was preceded in death by her sisters, Vieva Thompson and Virginia Woodrum. She is survived by her husband, Thomas Booker; daughter, Dorothy McDonald; son, Thomas Booker III and his wife, Somphet; sister, Grace Cherry; three grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews. “Burn what is left of me and scatter the ashes to the winds to help the flowers grow. If you must bury something, let it be my faults, my weakness and all prejudice against my fellow man. Give my sins to the devil. Give my soul to God. If, by chance, you wish to remember me, do it with a kind deed or word to someone who needs you. If you do all I have asked, I will live forever." She will be remembered as a sharing and caring person and was an inspiration to all she knew. She will be greatly missed by all her family and friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her name to the charity of your choice.

John R. Kubitza Jr.
John R. Kubitza Jr., 78 of Brenham, died Aug. 5, 2002 in Trinity Care Center. He was born Dec. 21, 1923 to John R. and Mary Ida Wasko Kubitza. He was baptized and confirmed in St. John's United Church of Christ in Burton, Texas. In March of 1949, he was converted to Catholicism in St. Mary's Catholic Church in Brenham by the late Rt. Rev. Msgr. Charles Weisnerowski. Nov. 15, 1949 he married Estella (Stella) Januszewski at St. Mary's Catholic Church by the late Msgr. Charles Weisnerowski. He spent his lifetime in the agri-business with his father, in the operation of a pecan orchard, rose nursery and honey bees and assisting his wife in the operation of Stella's Beauty Shoppe, until ill health forced him to totally retire. John was active at St. Mary's Catholic Church, being one of the first ministers of communion, when laymen were first authorized to be communion ministers, was in charge of the Ushers Club and served on the finance committee for over 20 years during the pastorship of Msgr. Floyd Biel. He was a charter member in the 3rd degree of the St. Joseph's Council #3287 Knights of Columbus. He was a charter member of the St. Joseph's 4th Degree Knights of Columbus of Brenham and a member of the American Legion in Burton, Texas. From 1942 to 1945, he served his country in the 1st Calvary Division in the Asiatic Pacific, where he experienced a very serious illness, but continued to serve in the Army Reserve for an additional six years. John is survived by his wife of 53 years, Stella J. Kubitza; cousins, Willie Mae Schmidt Nutt and husband James and Jeanette Wasko Preuss and husband Robert E.; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Bruno Gorzycki, Mary Januszewski, John C. Januszewski, Deacon Bill Januszewski, Raymond M. Januszewski, Monica Januszewski Krenek and husband Johnnie D.; and numerous other cousins, nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, John R. and Mary Ida Wasko Kubitza; uncles and aunts, Frank J. and Rosa Wagner Kubitza, W.J. (Bill) and Lillie Wasko Schmidt, Dr. Charles and Laura Wasko Bateman and Harry and Elsie Hauck Wasko; cousin, Anna Bell Kubitza Mathis; brother-in-law, Stanley L. Januszewski; sister-in-law, Janie Gorzycki; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Joseph and Mary Januszewski; and grandparents, Raymond and Ida Menk Kubitza and John and Emma Braun Wasko. A rosary and wake service will be conducted at 6 p.m. today by Deacon Bill Januszewski at Brenham Memorial Chapel. Funeral Mass will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 7, 2002 by the Rev. Richard Tijerina as celebrant. Con-celebrating the Mass will be Msgr. Harry Mazurkiewicz from La Grange who will also give the homily; Msgr. Bennie Mazurkiewicz from Fayetteville; Msgr. Sylvester Fuchs from Temple; Fr. David Liebham from Waco; Msgr. Louis Wozniak from Georgetown; Msgr. John Malinowski from Bryan; Msgr. Bolislaus Zientek from Danbury; Msgr. Benedict Zientek from Brownwood; the Rev. Glen Schoeneburg from Burton; and Deacon Bill Januszewski from Brenham. Pallbearers are: Johnnie D. Krenek Jr., David W. Januszewski, James J. Januszewski, Mark Januszewski, Joseph Januszewski, Chris Cangelosi, Ben Bosse and William Wendler. Honorary pallbearers are: Charles Sontag, Larry Pape, Willie Luedemann, R.F. Kramer, Glenwood Prenzler, Alfred Becker, Billy Rosenbaum, L.J. Lacina Sr., David Gerland, Elton B. Anderson Jr., L.J. Lacina Jr., Edward Kwiatkowski, Theodore Kwiatkowski, Abie Lesser, Alfred Muegge, Ben Hajovsky, Albert Rybarski, James Nutt and Robert Preuss. Those who wish may make contributions to the clerical endowment fund of St. Mary's Catholic Church, The American Heart Association or any charity of your choice. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, 836-3611.

Jane Ford
Jane Lillian Smith Ford, beloved mother, devoted wife, stalwart friend and loyal citizen of our country, passed into the eternal peace of her Creator Friday, Sept. 6, 2002 after a lengthy struggle with cancer. Her family was present as she departed peacefully from her earthly home to the eternal reward awaiting all who love, cherish, honor and defend the blessings of family and country we too briefly enjoy in this mortal world. She was born on a cold and snowy night, Feb. 2, 1920, in a farmhouse atop Sorgenfry Hill, just outside Wawaka, Ind., to Guy and Ella Smith, the middle of three children. A lovely child, who came to know both the prosperity and poverty of those who lived in the era of the Roaring 20’s and the Great Depression, she chose a career in business after graduating from Washington-Clay High School in South Bend, Ind. In 1942, she set aside her successful business career to join the Army. She served the USAAF during World War II as a clerk in the South Pacific stationed at Hollandia, New Guinea, then Leyte, Philippine Islands. While in Leyte, even as the air combat raged around her, she discovered and enjoyed the friendship of a Philippine family and became God-parent to their newest daughter, named Liberation Jane after her. From Leyte, she was transferred to Ft. McKinely, near Manila, where she served the U.S. Far East Air Forces until the war’s end, earning a commendation from her colonel, citing her “efficiency, dependability and devotion to duty,” virtues that would later exemplify her vocation as a wife and mother. Upon returning home, she met Henry through mutual friends, at the VFW New Year’s dance in South Bend. Two dates later Henry “popped the question” to her, she accepted, and they married March 1, 1946. They then bought their first home, a three room house, in South Bend. They soon moved to Indianapolis and began their family while working and going to college on the GI Bill. After Henry graduated Lincoln Chiropractic College they moved west with their two young daughters, Mary Beth and Kay, to Phoenix, Ariz., a land she quickly came to love. Shortly after Henry obtained his Chiropractic license, they moved to Bellville, Texas, where their third daughter, Jill, was born. They established Dr. Ford’s clinic there, she working as receptionist and bookkeeper. Later, she operated a beauty shop for seven years, first in Sealy, then Bellville. After she closed her shop, she resumed working with Dr. Ford until he retired. Jane Ford was preceded in death by her parents, Guy and Ella Smith of Indiana. Survivors include her husband of 57 years, Dr. Henry Kenneth Ford; her brother, Mr. Raymond J. Smith of Bellville; her sister, Mrs. Beth Houck of Waymart, Penn.; daughter, Mary Beth Grigar and her husband, Daniel; daughter, Kay Brenner and her husband, James; daughter, Jill Evans; eight grandchildren, Doug Grigar and wife Marion, Kenny Grigar and wife Meredith, Jimmy Brenner, Kristy Jo Brenner, Jake Brenner, Jeb Brenner, Jane Evans and Andy Evans; three great-grandchildren, Henry Grigar, Alicia Grigar and Hayden Grigar. Special little neighbor friend, Audrey Rose Buchtien, also survives, as do family and personal friends too numerous to mention. Pallbearers are six grandsons, Doug and Kenny Grigar; Jimmy, Jake and Jeb Brenner; and Andy Evans. Honorary pallbearers are Gus Riniker, Mike Buchtien, Marvin Sodolak, Father Sylvester Fuchs, Clarence King and Vernon Graf. It is the family’s request that, in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the Bellville General Hospital, 44 N. Cummings, Bellville, Texas 77418. Services are scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2002 at 10:30 a.m. at the Schmidt Funeral Home, the Rev. Ross Worch, pastor of St. John’s Lutheran Church of Bellville, officiating. A graveside service will follow. Family visitation will be Monday, Sept. 9 from 5-8 p.m.

Billy Sohns
Billy J. (John) Sohns, 87 of Brenham, died Friday, Sept. 6, 2002 in Trinity Medical Center Hospital. Mr. Sohns was born July 2, 1915 in Giddings, the son of Charles (Fred) Sohns and Minnie Wettermann Sohns. He was baptized into the Christian Faith Aug. 1, 1915 in the Lutheran Church at Giddings and later confirmed in that faith March 29, 1931 in St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Brenham, by the Rev. Arthur Hartmann. Mr. Sohns was educated in the Brenham public school graduating with the class of 1934 where he lettered in football and track. He graduated from Blinn College with a business and BA degree. On July 11, 1948 he was married to Miss Lorene Kuck in the United Dr. Martin Lutheran Church in Shiner, Texas, by the Rev. Edwin Oehlke. Mr. Sohns was employed by Gordan Sewall Wholesale Grocery from 1936 to 1939. On March 1, 1939 he accepted employment at Washington County State Bank, where he continued to work until 1989, the year of his retirement. While employed at Washington County State Bank he served on the board of directors and also as senior vice president. In 1942, Mr. Sohns joined the Army during World War II serving in the European Theater until 1945 with the 6th Armed Division as M/Sgt. For 20 years he served as secretary-treasurer for Washington-on-the-Brazos State Park Association. He was a member of the American Legion and the VFW Post, a director of the Chamber of Commerce and former Exalted Ruler of the Brenham Elks Lodge in which he was a member for more than 60 years. For many years he contributed his time and efforts to the progress of the Washington County Fair Association and the Brenham Industrial Foundation. Mr. Sohns is a member of St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Brenham where he served on the building committee for the present buildings and as a past church councilman. On May 4, 1990 he was presented in Galveston, the Texas Banker Association of 50 years Banker Awards in recognition of meritorious service, leadership and excellence in banking. For 40 years he took care of the Veterans Panel Board of the State of Texas. After retirement he was still consulted about investments. He was with Germania Farm Mutual for 30 years, serving on the bond committee. Mr. Sohns is survived by his loving wife, Lorene Kuck Sohns, of 54 years; brother, R. C. Sohns, Sr. and his wife Elizabeth of Houston; niece and nephews, R.C. and Laura Sohns and daughter, Kristin of Houston, Al and Joy Janak of Yoakum, Dean and Andrea Janak of Flower Mound, Brian and Evon Janak of Spring, Barbara Otto of Shiner, Cheryl Otto of Austin, Wayne and Christine Otto of Smithville, Keith and Stacy Otto of Schulenburg, David and Lee Ann Otto of Shiner, Carla and Tom Hornseth of San Antonio and Paula Jasek of Blessing; and cousins, Hattie Sohns and Henry Sohns Jr. all of Giddings. Mr. Sohns was preceded in death by his father and mother, Charles and Minnie Sohns; and sister, Mamie Sohns Luckemeyer of Brenham. Funeral service for Mr. Sohns will be held at 10 a.m. Monday at St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church with Pastor Lawrence Bade and Pastor Kim Little-Brook officiating. Interment will follow in Prairie Lea Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers will be Douglas Borchardt, David Sommer, Kirby Lehrmann, William Wendler, Paul Ehlert and Lee Roy Loesch. Serving as honorary pallbearer will be J.D. Mueller. In lieu of flowers memorials maybe given to the St. Paul’s Evangelical Lutheran Church radio and TV ministries. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main, Brenham.

Gaylen Ackley
Gaylen Mark Ackley died peacefully shortly after 6 p.m. Sept. 4, 2002 in Bellville General Hospital in Bellville, Texas. Mark fought a courageous and inspiring battle against cancer. Mark was born to C. Gaylen Ackley and George Ann Johnson Jan. 21, 1960 in Richmond, Texas. He grew up in Austin County and leaves behind a host of family and friends that will miss him always. Mark was employed at Industry Telephone Company in Industry, Texas for 28 years and was elected seven times as Constable of Austin County Precinct 2. Mark was a very loving husband and a great father. When it came to being an exceptional brother and an unbelievable son, we give him an A+. If your telephone needed to be fixed or a police escort was necessary, he was there. There were many, many more tasks Mark handled, all with his special "Ackley" trait. Mark was very active in many organizations and endeavors. They included the Austin County Peace Officers Association, the West End Lions Club, the Industry Volunteer Fire Department, as well as a proud and successful owner of P&M Quick Stop. If you tried to sum up Mark's life, it would be wanting his family, all of his fellow employees, friends and communities to have the "Best of Everything." If a vote was taken, it would be unanimous -- Mark succeeded! Mark was preceded in death by his father, C. Gaylen Ackley; and his mother, George Ann Johnson Janosky. Mark is survived by his devoted, loving wife Michelle Barton Ackley; and their adorable children, Nicholas Mark, Allison Michelle and Christopher Mark; "Other Mother," Mary Ann Ackley of Industry, Texas; "Other Father" Raymond Janosky of Bellville, Texas; in-laws, Barbara and Bob Hedrick of Houston; his brothers, sisters and families, Robin and Harold Marek and family of New Ulm, Texas, Sheila and Curt Raeke and family of New Ulm, Larry Ackley of Austin, Raymond Janosky Jr. of Bellville, Kim and Rodney Wendt and son of Bellville and Scott Janosky of Bellville; and grandmothers, Thelma Walker Ackley of New Ulm, Texas and Clementine Schattel Barton of Houston. Mark leaves behind numerous uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews and cousins. Funeral services under the direction of Knesek Bros. Funeral Chapel (979) 865-3121. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society or Eliminate Children Smoking Corp., P.O. Box 205, Industry, Texas 78944.

Frances Hauerland
Frances Hamala Hauerland was born June 13, 1911 in Shawnee, Okla. The daughter of Frank and Frances Silva Hamala, she was the third of 10 children. She married John Hauerland in St. Peter's Catholic Church in Blessing, Texas Jan. 10, 1933, in which they enjoyed 60 years of marriage. John preceded her in death Jan. 12, 1993. Most of her life was spent living in and around the Sealy area. Frances and her husband were engaged in farming for 17 years and in 1950 they became managers of the Farmers Co-op in Sealy. In 1965 they moved to La Porte and worked at Boys Harbor for several years. Returning back to Sealy, she worked at the Azalea Manor Nursing Home and at the Sealy Hospital, until she retired. She was a member of the Immaculate Conception Church, the Catholic Workman and the altar society. The most important thing in her life was her family and being with them, especially on holidays. Frances passed away Wednesday, Sept. 4 at the Katy Memorial Hospital at the age of 91 years. She is survived by her daughters and sons-in-law, Bernice and James Vavrecka and Doris and Kenneth Stuessel of Sealy; sons and daughters-in-law, Johnnie and Sharon Hauerland of Meridian, Texas and Ben and Billye Hauerland of Burton; grandchildren, Eric and Karen Stuessel, Jennifer and Johnny Caskey, Jenine Stuessel, Lisa Hauerland, Kim and John Davis, Tricia and Chris Todd, Jana and Brad Schmidt, Jamie Hauerland and Jonathon Hauerland; granddaughter-in-law, Peggy Hauerland; sister, Otilie Hickl and her husband Gus of El Maton; brothers, Steve Hamala of Pasadena and James Hamala of Houston; great-grandchildren, Preston and Payton Hauerland, Jessica and Jenna Caskey, Tyler and Meagan David, Michael Todd and Trevor Schmidt; and step-great-grandsons, Kyle and Kevin Parrish. Frances was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; six brothers; and her grandson, Jason Hauerland. Vigil wake service was held at 7 p.m., Friday, Sept. 6, 2002, followed by the parish rosary at Immaculate Conception Church. Saturday, Sept. 7, 2002, the Rev. Octavio Muguerza celebrated the funeral Mass and officiated the Rite of Committal. Interment was in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery in Sealy. Serving as pallbearers were grandsons, Eric Stuessel and Jonathon Hauerland; and nephews, Tony Hauerland, Leroy Hauerland, Michael Hamala and Steven Hamala. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Knesek Family Funeral Chapels.

Burney W. Hugo
Burney W. Hugo, 67, of Brenham, died Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2002 at his residence. Burney was born Aug. 28, 1935 in Brenham to Charles and Tillie (Schroeder) Hugo. He was baptized in Zion Lutheran Church of Zionsville May 8, 1936 by the Rev. Karl Mueller and confirmed. Burney was educated in the Mill Creek School of Washington County. On April 4, 1965 he married Cossette (Cozy) Schwettmann in St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Rosenberg. Burney worked in the road construction business for Washington County Road and Bridge. Burney was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Brenham. Survivors include his wife of 37 years, Cossette (Cozy) Hugo of Brenham; sister, Verna Mae Gee of San Marcos; mother-in-law, Antonie (Toni) Schwettmann of Brenham; brother-in-law, Edwin (Sonny) Schwettmann of Houston; cousins, Esther Liardon of Austin and Gladys Cockrum of Temple; also numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents; and three brothers, Erwin Hugo, Eddie Hugo Sr. and Lonnie Hugo. The Hugo family will be receiving friends from 6-8 p.m. Friday, Sept. 13, 2002 at Brenham Memorial Chapel. Funeral service will be at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 14, 2002 at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church. Pastor Kim Little-Brooks will officiate. Burial will follow in Prairie Lea Cemetery. Pallbearers are Neil Dalka, Bill O'Conner, Kenny Krueger, Erwin Sander, Russell Seeker and J.C. Mondrofsky. Memorials may be given to Hospice-Brenham, St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Brenham or one's charity of choice. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham 836-3611.

Marsha Benson
Marsha Benson, 57, of Brenham, died Sept. 11, 2002 in Brenham. She was born Oct. 5, 1944 in Houston, Texas to William Monroe and Fay (Walter) Rogers. She was a stocker at Wal-Mart. She is survived by her son Derek Benson of Brenham. A memorial service will be Saturday, Sept. 14 at 10 a.m. at Memorial Oaks Chapel in Brenham with the Rev. Cecilia Smith officiating. Arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St., in Brenham.

Nick Bilski Sr.
Mr. Nick P. Bilski Sr., 81, of Anderson, died Sept. 15, 2002. He was born Sept. 11, 1921 in Brenham and was a metal fabricator (welding). Mr. Bilski served in the U.S. Army in World War II and was a member of VFW Post 4006 in Navasota and St. Stanislaus Catholic Church. He was preceded in death by his parents, Will Bilski and Sophie Marzurkiewicz Bilski; brother, the Rev. Harry Bilski; and sister, Tekla Bilski. Mr. Bilski is survived by his wife, Martha Bilski of Anderson; son, Nick P. Bilski Jr. of Magnolia; daughters, Doris and Joe Tykal of Anderson and Frances and Bobby Myer of Brenham; brother, Edmund Bilski of Brenham; sisters, Genevie Stegent of Houston, Barbara Twardowski of Highlands, Texas, Theresa Jozwiak of Houston, Gertrude Schuerer of Brenham and Laura Grocholski of Bryan; and six grandchildren. Visitation will be today from 2-9 p.m. at Nobles Funeral Chapel, Navasota. A rosary will be held tonight at 7:30 at Nobles Funeral Chapel, Navasota. Funeral services will be held Sept. 17, 2002 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church in Anderson with Monsignor Benedict Zientek of Brownwood, Monsignor Billie Zientek of La Porte and Fr. Louis Sikorski of Anderson. Burial will be in St. Stanislaus Cemetery in Anderson. Memorials may be given to St. Stanislaus building fund. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Nobles Funeral Chapel, Navasota, (936) 825-7776.

James A. Blackman
James A. Blackman, 82, of Shelby, Texas, died Friday, Sept. 13, 2002. He was born Dec. 5, 1919 in Houston, Texas to Harry and Lillie Mae (Lowhorn) Blackman. He was baptized Dec. 8, 1919 and confirmed 1932 in Houston. On Nov. 20, 1943, he was married to Gertrude Pfenninger in Houston by Pastor Nathinal Kern. Mr. Blackman was a retired shipping department supervisor with Foley's. He was a member of St. Paul's Lutheran Church of Brenham, the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons of Bellville Lodge #223, Scottish Rite 32 Valley of Houston, Boy Scouts of America for 25 years and scout master of Troop 483 for 10 years. Survivors include: his wife, Gertrude Blackman of Shelby; son, Robert Blackman and wife Irene of Waller; daughters, Betty Moore and husband Milton of Marlin, Barbara Bartels and husband Royce of Shelby; grandchildren, Erika and Hugo Guerrero, Keith Bartels, R.J. and Rebecca Blackman, Michael Blackman, Becky and Trent Seibert and David Moore; and two great-grandchildren. Funeral services will be today at 2 p.m. in Brenham Memorial Chapel with the Rev. Kim Little-Brooks officiating. Masonic graveside rites will follow in Prairie Lea Cemetery. Pallbearers will be members of the Bellville Masonic Lodge. Memorials may be given to Lutheran Seminary Program in the S.W. of Austin or Bread Partners of Brenham. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, 836-3611.

Valeria Kasprowicz
Valeria Kasprowicz passed away Sunday, Sept. 15, 2002 at the home of her loving caregiver in Boerne, Texas. Valeria and her deceased husband Frank were lifelong residents of Brenham and members of St. Mary's Catholic Church. Valeria suffered from Alzheimer's disease the last few years which required that she have full time care. She retained her cheerful disposition throughout this challenge and was gracious and loving till the end. She is survived by the following children: daughters-in-law and sons-in-law, Dan and Beverly Kasprowicz of Fair Oaks Ranch, Texas, Esther Ruth and Webster Hart of Brenham, Charles and Denice Kasprowicz of Carthage, Tom and Patsy Kasprowicz of Brenham, Elizabeth and Clyde Alexander of Houston, Agnes and David Gerland of Brenham, Margaret Kasprowicz of Brenham, Robert Kasprowicz of Jackson, Miss. and Cindy Whitehead of Tucson, Ariz.; and "adopted" child, Cherie Adams. Valeria loved her 21 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren and spent much of her last years recalling them and their antics. Contributions to the American Alzheimer's Association, in lieu of flowers, would be appreciated by the family. Rosary will be said at the Brenham Memorial Chapel tonight at 7 by Deacon Bill Januszewski. Funeral services will be held at St. Mary's Catholic Church Tuesday, Sept. 17, 2002 at 2 in the afternoon with Father Richard Tijerina as Celebrant. Interment will be in Calvary Catholic Cemetery where she will be buried next to her husband of 56 years. Her grandsons will serve as pallbearers. Funeral arrangements are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St. 836-3611.

Nora Rhames
Nora Lee Mackenroth Rhames, 68, of Spring, Texas, died Sept. 14, 2002 in a Houston hospital. She was born March 30, 1934 in Burton, Texas to Adolph and Elsie Arndt Mackenroth. She was a 1952 graduate of Brenham High School and also graduated from North Harris County College. In 1999 she retired from banking and EDS. Survivors include her daughter and son-in-law, Pamela and Randall Hilding of Spring; son, Brian Lee Rhames of Houston; grandson, Grant Rhames Hilding; the father of her children, Bruce L. Rhames of Houston; and sisters and brothers-in-law, Vernell Foyt of Houston, Doris and William Bosse of Houston and Marjorie and Bruce Lemire of San Antonio. The funeral service will be held Tuesday, Sept. 17 at 11 a.m. in Memorial Drive Lutheran Church in Houston with Sam Koenning officiating. A graveside service will be held at 4 p.m. Tuesday in Prairie Lea Cemetery in Brenham. Visitation will begin at 3 p.m. today in Klein Funeral Home, 16131 Champion Forest Dr., in Klein. Memorials may be given to the American Cancer Society or Make a Wish Foundation. Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 W. Main St., in Brenham.