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Baar, Blanche

Final Rites for Miss Blanch Baar Held Wednesday

Funeral services for Miss Blanch Baar, former Weimar resident who had been a teacher in San Antonio public schools for 35 years or more, were held at Hubbard Funeral Home here Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 15, with interment in the Masonic Cemetery.

Rev. W. W. Wooley, Baptist pastor, officiated in the services here.

Miss Baar was a member of the Christian Church in San Antonio and her pastor led services there at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday.

A native of Weimar, daughter of W. A. and Kittie Baar, she began her teaching career in a rural school near Weimar at the age of 16, taught for brief periods at Columbus and Weimar, and was county school superintendent one term. She went from here to San Antonio in the early 1920's and during the past 12 years was with the Japhet School for Handicapped Children, where her work won wide acclaim.

Miss Baar died at 3 p.m. Sunday in Nix Hospital of cancer, but she had continued teaching from her wheelchair until Friday afternoon.

Survivors are two sisters, Mrs. M. C. Rosenthal and Mrs. H. W. Wiseman, both of San Antonio; a brother, B. A. Baar of Houston and three nieces.

Pallbearers were Charles Allen, Walter Williams, Frank Smith, G. W. Shaver, E. Lauterstein and F. F Brasher.

Weimar Mercury, October 17, 1958
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Baar, John P.

Weimar Local Matters

Gloom has been cast over two homes in our little city by the death of two precious little lambs the present week. H. P. Fietsam’s little child about nine months old, died Saturday last, and Mr. and Mr. W. A. Baar lost their only child, little John, Monday evening, aged nineteen months. This poor little darling has been a sufferer for the last five or six months. Oh how heart-rending it is to see these little buds snatched from us. None but a parent can properly sympathize with the bereaved. But how consoling to know that these pure little ones are now safe in the arms of Him who said “Suffer little children to come unto me.” [Both were interred in Weimar Odd Fellows Cemetery]

Colorado Citizen, October 4, 1883

Baar, Leon F.

Leon F. Baar, Former Ranger, Buried Friday

Funeral services for Leon F. Baar, 71, former Texas Ranger, were held at Hubbard Funeral Home here Friday afternoon, July 11, with interment in the Weimar Masonic Cemetery.

The Rev. W. W. Wooley, Baptist pastor officiated in the last rites, with member of the Baptist Men's Bible Class serving as pallbearers.

Mr. Baar died Wednesday night, July 9, at his home, after several years of poor health.

Born in Weimar, the son of W. A. and Kitty M. Baar, he had lived away from here 30 years until retiring 13 years ago and moving back to make it his final home. He married Miss Roxie Garrett in 1916 and they lived at Plum for 25 years, during which time he served as a License & Weight Division inspector and Texas Ranger. About 1940 the Baars moved to Houston and during their 5 years there Mr. Baar served as a guard. He retired in 1945 and they moved to Weimar, where he operated a grade A dairy until his health forced him to give it up.

He was a member of the Christian Church

Survivors in addition to his wife are three sisters, Mrs. Anne Wiseman of Littlefield and Miss Blanch Baar and Mrs. W. C. Rosenthall of San Antonio; and one brother, B. A. Baar of Houston.

Weimar Mercury, July 18, 1958
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Baar, Roxie (Garrett)

FINAL RATES (SIC) FOR MRS. ROXIE BAAR HELD TUESDAY

Funeral services for Mrs. Roxie Garrett Baar, lifelong resident of Weimar, were held Tuesday afternoon, April 23, at First Baptist Church, with the pastor, Rev. Charles Young officiating. Mrs. Baar die Sunday, April 21, in Youens Hospital after two weeks' illness. Born in Weimar, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. S. A. Garrett, she was married here to Leon Baar in 1916. They lived in Plum and La Grange after their marriage and in Houston during World War II, returning here in 1945. Mr. Baar died in 1958. Mrs. Baar was a lifelong member of the Baptist Church and was one of the local church's most active and faithful workers. Surviving here are two brothers, Glenn E. Garrett of Austin and Dick Garrett of New York City. Three brothers and a sister preceded her in death. [Interment in Weimar Masonic Cemetery] Pallbearers were Henry Brasher, Robert Moore, Fritz Tell, Charlie Herder, Frank Pokorny and F. R. Carroll.

Weimar Mercury, April 25, 1963
Submitted by David Hahn

Baar, Shelby T.

The many friends throughout the state of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. Baar will sympathize with them in the loss of their beloved little son Shelby, which sad event took place at the family residence Friday afternoon of last week, after a protracted illness of malignant typhoid fever. Little Shelby was about 13 years old, an unusually bright boy, kind to old and young, popular among his playmates, and fairly idolized by his fond parents. His death was indeed a sad blow to them, and is deeply regretted by the many friends of the family. His remains were laid to rest in the Odd Fellows' cemetery Saturday afternoon, Elder J. J. Cramer of Lockhart performing the impressive burial ceremony, many sympathizing friends being present to pay the last sad tribute to the memory of poor little Shelby. God pity and comfort the bereaved parents in the sad loss they have sustained.

Weimar Mercury, December 15, 1898

Baar, William A.

DEATH OF MR. W. A. BAAR
One of Weimar’s Foremost and Best Citizens Succumbs After Long Illness.

While in a way the news was not unexpected., Yet when announcement was made last Saturday morning that Mr. W. A. Baar, one of our most prominent and best citizens, had died suddenly, a thrill of sadness pervaded every heart, for no man ever lived here who had more friends than "Billie” Baar. Known to every man, woman and child In this section through hIs long residence here, he possessed the friendshIp of all. His genial presence, good humor and jovial attitude ever made him a welcome companion in every gathering, Ill for many months, there was much solicitude over his condition, but as his wonderful vitality and energy kept him up and going almost to the last, but few realized the end would come so suddenly. Saturday mornIng when he arose, his good wife and daughter, Miss Mildred, were assisting him to don his clothes and lead him to a seat near the bed, when he suddenly remarked, “My legs are about to give way on me," and with this he slowly sank to the floor, the death stare entered his eyes, and in a few seconds poor “Billie” Baar, one of natures noblemen, truly, was claimed by Death. Tender hands prepared the body for burial, and the funeral hour was set for 10 :30 Sunday morning, but owing to a steady downpour of rain it had to be postponed until 3:30 that afternoon. Funeral services were held at the residence by Revs. Sellers, Mason and Stack, assisted In touching songs by the choirs of local churches. The Weimar Fire Department of which decedent had been an active and honorary member since organization, marched to the residence In a body, and carrying out Mr. Baar's long expressed wish, the coffin was placed upon the hook and ladder truck, and conveyed to the Odd Fellows' Cemetery for interment., The Masons, of which decedent had been a member since the early eighties took charge of the remains and conducted the ceremonies at the grave. The active pall bearers were A. P. Shatto, E. B. Geisendorff, Mannie Lauterstein, Ben Ahlers, H. Brasher and Jas. McMillan. Honorary pall bearers were T. A. Hill, J. M. Cummins and F. D. Moore. Despite the Inclemency of the weather the funeral was largely attended.

W. A. Baar was born In New Orleans Oct. 23, 1858, and was 65 years, 5 months and 11 days old at the time of his death. His early boyhood was spent In New Orleans. He came to Galveston when 13 years old and worked in the dry goods business, assisting in the support of his parents and two younger brothers--Frank, who afterward was drowned at Galveston, and Ed who was killed later in a railroad accident at Kenedy. From Galveston he and a friend named Ulrich went in the early seventies to Sabinal, where for a year they engaged in the dry goods business. In 1872 or ‘73 he and Ulrich came to Weimar, engaging in he same line, their store being known as "The Blue Store," was known far and wide. He continued this business many years, part of the time with Mr. Ulrich as partner, than by himself, then with his brother-in-law, C. J. Brleger as partner, and afterward again by himself. Ill health in the latter days of his life forced him to give up business activities.

He was a member of the Masonic lodge, the Woodmen, A. O. U. W. and Odd Fellows. He was an honorary member of the fire department for many years, being one of its charter members. He was assistant chief under the late A. F. Rose, and was foreman of the hook and ladder company for many years, being succeeded by W. C. Munn. Mr. Baar also had held many positions of honor and trust during his life time among our people.

He leaves a widow and five children, Misses Annie, Blanch and Mildred, and Messrs. Leon and Bryan.

In the death of this man, the writer feels that he has lost one of the nearest, dearest and truest friends that anyone ever had. When the writer came to Weimar in 1888 the first friend he found was W. A. Baar, who welcomed him and assured him that he stood ready to help him In every way possible. And he never at any time proved recreant to that promise. He was a friend who was the same day In and day out, differing with you at times, perhaps, but always openly and honestly. No man ever had a truer, more sincere friend than W. A. Baar. He was honest, sincere and true, generous to a fault, and while he never affiliated with any church, no man had a higher regard for christianity and christians. To the very last he was interested in his town and people, and even in his last days loved to be among them, sympathizing with them in their troubles and rejoicing with them in their prosperity. Few citizens have lived here who were more beloved than he. In his death our community has suffered a severe blow. To the bereaved widow and children, the heartfelt sympathy of all is extended.

Weimar Mercury, May 10, 1918, page 1

Baca, Frank

Mr. Frank Baca

The Mercury briefly mentioned last week the death of Mr. Frank Baca, a well known farmer living a short distance west of town, which occurred at the family home last Wednesday morning, Aug. 10, of typhoid fever, after a two weeks’ illness. The remains were laid to rest in the Weimar Masonic Cemetery Thursday morning at 9:30 o’clock, Rev. Paul Piepenbrok, Lutheran minister from Schulenburg, performing the burial service.

Mr. Baca was born Aug. 31, 1862, in Moravia, Czecho-Slovakia. His family came to this country in 1874, first settling in the Praha community. He was married to Miss Rosina Hudelka in 1890. Soon after marriage he and his good wife settled on their present home place, where they lived up to the time of his death. Mr. Baca was 68 years, 11 months and 10 days old at time of death. Surviving him are his widow, and two sisters, Mrs. Mary Mi-Miculka[sic] of Nada and Mrs. Josephine Holub of Bomarton. Mr. and Mrs. Baca had no children.

Mr. Baca was an honest, hard-working, good citizen, of quiet disposition, a good friend and neighbor, and a man who enjoyed the respect of all who knew him. He was an active, energetic man up to the time he was stricken with typhoid fever. Being a man well along in years, and doubtless failing in health and strength, this terrible disease made short work of him.

Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his bereaved widow in the terrible loss she has sustained.

Weimar Mercury, August 19, 1932

Baca, Laura M. (Kulhanek)

Laura Baca

Mrs. Laura Baca, 68, of Columbus died Sunday at Holy Cross Hospital in Austin. Funeral services were held Tuesday at St. Anthony's Catholic Church under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home.

Burial was in St. Anthony's Catholic Cemetery.

Mrs. Baca was born Aug. 20. 1909 in Colorado county, the daughter of Albert and Annie Tomastik Kulhanek. She was married to Victor Baca and resided in Colorado County all of her life.

She was a member of the Catholic Church and the Altar Society.

Survivors include her husband. Victor, of Columbus; one son. Ronald Baca of Houston; seven sisters: Mrs. Emil Kovar of Plum, Mrs. Frank Novasad of Fayetteville, Mrs. Ben Zapalac of La Grange, Mrs. Alton Baumbach, Mrs. Robert Schobel and Mrs. John Polach, all of Columbus, and Mrs. Henry Dostal of Eagle Lake, and one brother, Jerry Kulhanek of La Grange.

Pallbearers were Anthony Baumbach. Jerry Baumbach, Terry Dostal, Henry Dostal Jr., James Kulhanek, Bobby Schobel, Andy Schobel, Leslie Kovar, Daniel Kulhanek and John Polach.

Colorado County Citizen, June 15, 1978, page 2

Baca, Rosina (Koudelka)

Funeral Rites for Mrs. Rosina Baca, 77, Held Friday

Funeral services for Mrs. Rosina Baca, 77, were held Friday afternoon from the Hubbard Funeral Home, with the Rev. C.Emigholz, Lutheran minister, officiating. Interment was made in the Masonic Cemetery.

Mrs. Baca was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Koudelka and was born in Moravia, Europe, November 4, 1866, and came to this country in the year 1874. The family settled in the Weimar section and Mrs. Baca had lived here since that time. She was married to Frank Baca in 1891. Her husband preceded her in death several years ago. She had been ill for about four years.

Three sisters survive: Mrs. Annie Kunetka, Mrs. Joe Hanzelka of Weimar and Mrs. R. Petosky of Clebourn, Texas. One sister, Mrs. Mary Folta, preceded her in death.

The pallbearers were: Emil Shumbera, Emil and Albert Folta, Adolph Barta, Alphonse Lichnovsky and Emil Svetlik.

The Mercury extends sincere sympathy to the bereaved.

Weimar Mercury, February 18, 1944

Backus, Karl Gerhard

FUNERAL SERVICES FOR KARL BACKUS HELD YESTERDAY

Remains of Chesterville Young Man Who Died In Oregon Arrived Late Wednesday.

The remains of Karl Backus, who died in Oregon last week, a mention of whose death was printed in last week’s Headlight, reached here Wednesday night and were interred in the cemetery at Chesterville yesterday afternoon.

Karl Gerhard Backus was born at Oldenburg, Germany, on October 10th 1900, and died on November 26th, 1924, at Oregon City, Oregon.

When he was 9 years of age his parents moved to America with their family consisting of 5 children--Antone, Freida (Mrs. Henry Wessels of Chesterville), Karl, Henna[ and Fred. Henna [Henries] dying eight years ago.

They arrived at Chesterville on November 21st, 1909. Karl grew to manhood in that community and was always of a cheerful, fun-loving disposition. His friends were legion and he will be sadly missed.
Three weeks ago Karl left for Oregon City to visit an uncle. Mr. Rheinard Backus. While in that city he was stricken and died after four days’ illness.
The body arrived Wednesday night over the Southern Pacific and was taken to the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Anton Backus, east of Chesterville.

The funeral services were held yesterday afternoon and were conducted by Rev. Mr. Stoppenhagen of Wallis.

The people of the entire community extend to the bereaved family their deepest sympathy.

Eagle Lake Headlight, December 6, 1924

Badder Infant

Died, at the Burk[?] residence, Saturday, Dec. 17, aged about two and one-half months, the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. H. C. Badder. In their sad loss they have the sympathy of the entire community. [burial place unknown]

Weimar Mercury, 24 Dec 1892, page 2

Baer, Cecil Albert Jr.

Funeral Friday For Dr. C. A. Baer, Burial to Be Here

Death claimed Dr. Cecil A. Baer, 42-year-old Columbus dentist, Tuesday at 8:30 p.m. in the new Herman hospital in Houston where he had undergone surgery for a stomach ailment.

Funeral services will be conducted Friday at 11 a.m. by Rev. W. F. Hathaway of the Methodist Church here in the Columbus Funeral home. Dr. Baer was a member of the Methodist church.

Dr. Baer opened a dental office in Columbus Nov. 21, 1949, buying the office and equipment of the late Dr. W. W. Gunn. Dr. Baer also operated the Corner Drug store here for sometime before selling it to Bob Hellrung.

He was a World War II veteran, having served at Lackland Airforce base as chief assistant to the chief oral surgeon there. He graduated from the University of Texas in 1940 and from the UT dental school in 1945.

Dr. Baer is survived by his widow; young son, Jimmy Baer; his mother, Mrs. C.A. Baer Sr. of San Antonio; and a brother Bob Baer of San Antonio; and a sister, Mrs. Paul Mitchum.

Burial will be in Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery.

Colorado County Citizen, September 24, 1959, page 1

Dr. Baer’s Last Rites Are Held Here Friday

Last rites for Dr. Cecil A. Baer were held at Columbus Funeral home Friday morning with the Rev. William F. Hathaway of the Methodist church officiating. Burial was in Odd Fellows Rest.

Dr. Baer died at 8:35 p.m. Sept. 22 in Hermann hospital in Houston when his heart failed after a 2nd operation for stomach ulcers. He had suffered a heart attack in 1958. He was a native of Missouri.

He had practiced dentistry in Columbus since 1949. Survivors are his widow, and 11-year-old son, James Irvin; his mother, Mrs. C. A. Baer Sr. and a brother Robert B. Baer of San Antonio and a sister, Mrs. Paul Mitchum of Wilmington, Del.

His mother, brother and sister were here for the services and also Mrs. Baer’s parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Bodine and her brother-in-law and sister, Mr. and Mrs. Bob Ratliff of Colorado City, and another brother-in-law and sister, Mr. and Mrs. Sefton Pickens of Waco.

Others from out of town here for the rites were Frank Broughton, West Mason, Mr. and Mrs. E. N. Kersey, Mr. and Mrs. Lamar Burges and son, Mrs. Jo Tindel and Mrs. Wm. Woodward of San Antonio; Mr. and Mrs. Floyd Good of Deer Park and Harry O. White, Mr. and Mr. John Bradshaw, Mr. and Mrs. O. C. Benger Jr., Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Evans, Mr. and Mrs. Paul Pronenzano and Mr. and Mrs. Howard Bennett, all of Houston.

Pallbearers were Floyd Good of Deer Park and J. R. Grubbs, L. M. Burton, Paul Ginn, Will Miekow, Ellis Miller, P. K. Shatto and Gus L. Sronce of Columbus.

Colorado County Citizen, October 1, 1959, page 8

Bahm, Elvine (Schiurring)

Bahm

Elvine Schiurring Bahm, 91, of Houston passed away Friday, Sept. 19 in Columbus.

She was born Sept. 10, 1917 in Garwood to Chriss R. and Eleanor Fredrickson Schiurring.

She graduated from Garwood High School and attended the University of Texas. On Nov. 11, 1941 she married Sandy B. Bahm while he was serving as an officer in the U. S. Army in World War II. Following the war, they settled in Houston where he became the owner of an insurance agency and she became a homemaker.

She was an active member of St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, The Lazy Daisy Garden Club and the Blue Bird Circle at Methodist Hospital.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband in 1986. She was preceded in death by her brothers, Waldo and Carl Schiurring and her sister, Ella Beaird, all from Garwood.

She is survived by her son Sandy B. Bahm II, M.D. and his wife Nancy of Columbus and her son S. Christian Bahm, D.D.S. and his wife, Lynn of Houston; her grandchildren, Sandy B. Bahm III of Mesquite, Alexis Newell and her husband Bob of Austin, Jeff Bahm of Houston, and Greg Bahm and his wife Tish of Austin; great grandchildren, Noah, Nicolas and Virginia Rose Bahm of Mesquite and Victoria, Elisabeth and Mary Margaret Newell of Austin; her brothers, Robert Schiurring and his wife Dorothy of Garwood and James Schiurring and his wife Jarvis of El Campo and numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services took place at Memorial Oaks Cemetery in Houston, Monday at 11 a.m.
A memorial service followed at 1:30 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home Chapel in Columbus.

For those desiring, memorial contributions may be sent to the Blue Bird Circle, 615 West Alabama Street, Houston, TX 77006.

Colorado County Citizen, September 24, 2008
Courtesy The Citizen

Bahner

 (Browse all obituaries with Bahner surname)

Bailey, Lena

Eagle Lake, July 24. --Mrs. Weston Bailey died here Tuesday and was buried at the Masonic cemetery Wednesday. Mrs. Bailey’s death has been expected at any time for several months. Although only 41 years-old, she had been in bad health for more than a year.

Weimar Mercury, August 2, 1902

Bain, Rev. David

Practically everyone from Garwood went to Rock Island Sunday afternoon to attend the funeral of Rev. David Bain, which was largely attended. Rev. Bain was a former Pastor of the Presbyterian Church here, having served as its Pastor for more than nine years, when he resigned on account of bad health.

He was loved not only by his congregation but everyone that knew him. His passing is mourned by many throughout the entire Community. [Interred in Myrtle Cemetery]

Eagle Lake Headlight, June 7, 1930
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Bain, Dixie (Flournoy)

Mrs. L.D. Bain, 37 Funeral Services Held at Rock Island

Sorrow was brought to Rock Island relatives. Wednesday, September 9, when news came of the passing of Mrs. L.D. Bain in a Houston hospital. Mrs. Bain was born at Rock Island February 18, 1905. She was known to her numerous friends as Dixie Flournoy. Her parents, Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Flournoy were early settlers in this county. January 26, l936, Miss Flournoy was united in marriage to L.D. Bain, and the couple had made their home in Houston since that time. Funeral services were conducted at Rock Island Saturday morning, Sept. 12, from the Baptist church, with the Rev. J. L. Sheppard officiating. All efforts to locate Mr. Bain previous to the services had failed, but during the progress of memorial services a message came that he was en route from a distant port. His duties at sea made communications difficult. The services were concluded and the body removed to the McCreary Funeral Home at Eagle Lake to await the arrival of her husband. He arrived during the forenoon of Monday and final services were held Monday afternoon at 5 o’clock with burial in the Myrtle Cemetery at Rock Island. Pallbearers were Dan Hooper, Jack Mayes, Ira Curry, J. G. Jenkins, K. Eastland and E. Wright. Survivors include, her husband, her mother, Mrs. Etta Flournoy of Rock Island: three brothers, J. T. Flournoy of San Antonio and M.R and H.R. Flourney of the United States Army; a half sister, Mrs. R.L. Herndon of Crosby and three half-brothers, E.G. Flournoy of Houston, Lee T. Flournoy of Lake Charles, La., and W.D. Flournoy of Goose Creek. To those who held her near and dear the Headlight joins many friends in extending to them heartfelt sympathy in their bereavement.

Eagle Lake Headlight, September 18, 1942
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Bain, Janet (Wilson)

Janet Wilson, wife of David Bain, was born in Scotland December 27th, 1857, and died at Rock Island, Texas, May 17th, 1920 at the age of 62 years, 4 months and 20 days. She came to America in 1877, and was married to David Bain, June 19th 1877. To this union was born nine children, six daughters and three sons; Mrs. Mamie Highland of Nebraska, Mrs. Elizabeth Preston of Kansas City, Mrs. Nettye McClanahan and Mrs. Sadie Frazee of Rock Island, Texas and Grace who passed beyond at the age of ten years and Miss Margaret who resides at home; the sons, James W. and Frank R. live in Chicago and Ross is at home; seven grandchildren and one brother and sister in Scotland to mourn the loss.
Mrs. Bain was converted and became a Christian at twenty-two years of age and has since lived a devoted Christian |life. She was a devout and loving wife, and children never had a better mother than did hers, nor .did a mother have more devoted children to each other.
One of our dearest and best has passed from earth to a better land, but her kind words and loving deeds shall live forever. Laid at rest in Myrtle Cemetery, Rock Island, Texas, May 20th, 1920.

Eagle Lake Headlight; May 29, 1920
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Baines, Joyce

Joyce Baines Funeral Services Slated Feb. 26

Mrs. Joyce Baines, 68, of Oakland died Monday, Feb. 21 at Colorado Fayette Medical Center in Weimar.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, at Tommy E. Taylor Funeral Home with Rev. J. W. Nelson officiating. Interment will follow at the Oakland Hill Cemetery [actually Oakland Cemetery] in Oakland.

She was born Aug. 3, 1936 in Houston to Faurice and Gertrude (Dennis) Woods.

She was a homemaker.

She is survived by her husband, Herbert Baines Sr.; three sons, Herbert Baines, III of Atlanta Ga., Timothy Baines of Austin, and Tyrone Baines of Katy; two daughters, Sabrina Morgan of Humble, and Susette Bacon of Oakland; 10 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren; a host of cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents and one brother.

Weimar Mercury, February 24, 2005

Baird, Robert Lincoln Jr.

R.L. "Bobby" Baird, Jr., 71, of Eagle Lake, passed away Saturday, July 6, at Rice Medical Center, following a sudden illness.

A native and lifelong resident of the area, he was born Dec. 8, 1930 at McDow Switch, Wharton County, one of two children born to Robert Lincoln Baird, Sr. and Alli Monnie Mae (Willtrout) Baird.

He attended schools in Simonton, Missouri City and Eagle Lake and was Baptist. Baird led careers in construction sub contracting, retail and wholesale bulk fuels, service stations, including Meitzen Oil Company of Eagle Lake, hunting clubs and was the current owner of Rice Package Store in Eagle Lake. He was a former member of Eagle Lake Lions Club, Eagle Lake JCs, and coached Little League for a number of years. Baird loved the outdoors, hunting and fishing.

Survivors include children Nancy Zikuhr and husband Leroy of Katy; Frankie Jobe and husband Cowboy of Eagle Lake; Robert Baird III and wife Cindy of Houston; his devoted companion of the past 20 years, Gladys Samora of Eagle Lake; sister Dorothy Noska and husband Archie of Eagle Lake; seven grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and other relatives and a host of loved ones including his former wife and friend, Ruth Thrasher Baird and an aunt, Lucille Drake, both of Houston.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, July 10, from the chapel of Dulany Funeral Home. The Rev. Joe Fling, pastor of Living Hope Church in Eagle Lake, officiated. Following cremation, the family will assemble for private committal services at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested memorials be made to any charity benefiting children.

Colorado County Citizen, July 17, 2002
Courtesy of the Citizen

Baird, Robert Lincoln Sr.

Baird, Sr.

Robert Lincoln Baird, Sr., age 76, of the Eagle Lake-Matthews area, passed away Thursday, January 7 at the Eagle Lake Community Hospital.

Funeral services were held for Robert Lincoln Baird Sr Sunday, January 10 from the Dulany Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Melburn Sibley, pastor, First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake officiating.

Burial was at Willtrout Family Cemetery near Matthews.

Mr. Robert Lincoln Baird, Sr. was born March 18, 1911 in Milam County to Ollie Perry Baird and Fronie Smith Baird. He lived in the area most of his life. He owned and operated the Baird Construction Company for many years prior to his retirement in 1972.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and five brothers, Leo, Henry, Pete, Wlburn and. Gus Baird.

Survivors include his loving wife, Mrs. Allie Willtrout Baird of Eagle Lake; daughter, Mrs. Archie (Dorothy) Noska of Eagle Lake; son., R. L. "Bobby" Baird, Jr. of Eagle Lake; sister, Lucille Drake of Houston; brother, Jack Baird of Houston; six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews; and other relatives and loved ones.

Pallbearers were Archie Noska, J. K. "Cowboy" Jobe, Bobby Baird, Jr., Buddy Baird, Wilburn Baird, Jr. and Tony Hosman.

Honorary pallbearers were Jason Noska, Teddy Ash, John Lewis and Leroy Zikuhr.

Colorado County Citizen, January 14, 1988, page 2

Baird, W. I. "Doc"

W. I. "Doc" Baird
December 19, 1931 - June 30, 2003

W. I. "Doc" Baird, age 71, of Eagle Lake, passed away Monday, June 30, 2003, at Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital in Houston, following a sudden illness.

Born December 19, 1931 at McDow Switch in Wharton County, he was the son of Wilburn Terrell Baird and Lilly Mae Willtrout.

He attended schools in Bonus and Crescent and led a distinguished career as a plant superintendent and plant foreman with Tenneco for 38 years, then Enron Corporation for three years before retirement.

He and Frances Lenard were married at the Wharton County Courthouse on March 1, 1951.

Doc was a member of the Eagle Lake United Methodist Church and an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed deer hunting and his cattle.

Preceded in death by his parents; survivors include his devoted wife of 52 years, Frances Baird of Eagle Lake; daughter, Lana Adamek and husband, Elroy, of Pasadena; sons and daughter-in-law, David and Carolyn Baird of Eagle Lake, Mark and Debbie Baird of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Stephen and Amy Baird of LaPorte; sister, Lucille Davis and husband, James, of Temple; grandchildren, Bridget and Adam Baird, Cory Adamek, and Caleb and Conner Baird; other relatives and loved ones.

Funeral services were scheduled for 10 a.m. Wednesday, July 2, from the Chapel of Dulany Funeral Home in Eagle Lake with Rev. David King, Pastor of Eagle Lake and Lehrer Memorial United Methodist Churches officiating.

Listed as pallbearers were Walter Wilkerson, Howard Wilkerson, Gary Obenhaus, Curtis Hackfeld, Adam Landreault, Ronnie Lock and Joe Lee Perez.

Interment was to follow at Lakeside Cemetery, Eagle Lake.

Dulany Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

For those wishing to send memorials, the family has requested they be directed to either the United Methodist Church, PO Box 695, Eagle Lake, Texas 77434; or Rice District Community Hospital Auxiliary, PO Box 277, Eagle Lake, Texas 77434

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, July 3, 2003
Transcribed by John Konesheck

Baity, Noah

Noah Batey [sic.], a well known colored citizen of this place, died Monday afternoon last of consumption, the funeral taking place the following day. [Interred at Good Hope Cemetery]

Weimar Mercury, January 10, 1913

Baker

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Balas, Brian Thomas

Brian Thomas Balas

August 25, 1969 – March 13, 2001

On March 13, 2001, many hearts were saddened to learn of the death of Brian Thomas Balas.

Brian was born August 25, 1969 in Houston to Steve and Linda Balas.

He grew up in Eagle Lake, among a host of loving relatives and friends.

Brian graduated from Rice High School in Altair in 1988. While attending high school he served on the Student Council, was elected Class Favorite, was an accomplished art student, a member of the football team and the powerlifting team where he earned many awards.

He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Hospital Administration from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston.

He also earned a Respiratory Therapy Certification from Southwest Texas State University where he was a member of Delta Chi Fraternity.

Although he completed these degrees in medical care, the love of the outdoors appealed to Brian more and he returned to Eagle Lake where he enjoyed rice farming, raising cattle and was the owner and operator of the Vineyard Hunting Club and Lodge.

He served as a Director of the Eagle Lake Rice Dryer and was a member of the Eagle Lake United Methodist Church.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Cynthia Renee Bullard.

Brian is survived by his loving wife, Darlene; children, Chase Logan, Aerial Elizabeth and Lauren Paige; parents, Steve and Linda Balas; grandparents, Jimmie and Evelyn Thomas and Jo and Bill Reilly; great grandmother, Lora Baring Thomas; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Steve and Kathy Bullard; nephew, Trevor Thomas Bullard; mother-in-law and father-in-law, Eddie and Donna Russell; brothers-in-law by marriage, Robert and wife, Amy, Ed and Randy Russell; aunts, uncles, other relatives and a host of friends and loved ones.

Brian had a sweet and gentle nature, and a smile that seemed to appeal to everyone he touched.

We will miss Brian greatly; however, our tears will eventually be softened by the memories each of us share of his fun and gentle ways, that special twinkle in his eye, and the knowledge of the Resurrection.

Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Thursday, March 15, from the Eagle Lake United Methodist Church with Rev. Paul Lynn, Rev. Stephen R. Whitfield and Rev. Robbin Clipson, officiating.

Special music was performed by the Eagle Lake Community Choir; Noble Anderson, organist.

A beautiful Eulogy was presented by his father-in-law, Eddie Russell.

Interment followed in the Masonic Cemetery in Eagle Lake.

Dulany Funeral Home of Eagle Lake was in charge of arrangements.

Pallbearers were Billy Cook, Stephen Taylor, Daryl Allen, Bryan Wiese, Kevin Bendy, Paul Marsalia, Steve Almanza, Jr. and Mike McCutchen.

Memorial contributions may be made to the “Brian Balas Children’s Trust”, % First National Bank, P.O.Drawer 247, Eagle Lake, Texas 77434.

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, March 22, 2001
Submitted by Joyce Stancik

Balas, Frank Paul

Frank Paul Balas
August 15, 1921- September 23, 1991

Frank Paul Balas, age 70 of Houston, passed away Monday, September 23, 1991, at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Houston following a lengthy illness.

A native of Eagle Lake born August 15, 1921, to Louis F. Balas and Louise Ressler Balas, he attended local schools and was a graduate of Eagle Lake High in the Class of ’39.

A veteran of WWII, he served honorably with the U.S. Army for over 3-1/2 years before discharge in 1945. He worked as a butcher by trade in Eagle Lake and later in Houston where he lived for over 20 years. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Rudy Balas.

Survivors include his sister, Mrs. Johanna Balas Payne of Houston and her children, Johanna, Joe Paul, Lucy, Mary Jane and their families; a brother and sister-in-law, Louie and Ruth Balas of Jacksonville, Texas, and their children, Steve, Tony, Julie and their families; a sister-in-law, Mrs. Ella Mae Balas Dunston and her children Aurelia, Louis Paul, Felicia and their families.

Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Wednesday, September 25, 1991, from the Dulany Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Jesse Euresti officiating.  Graveside services and interment followed at the Lakeside Cemetery of Eagle Lake with Military Honors provided by the W. Cherry M. Perry Post 108, American Legion of Eagle Lake. Pallbearers scheduled were Joe Paul Balas, Tony Balas, Louis Paul Balas, Steve Balas, Jerry Capps, Michael Schummacher, Dick Napier, Ben Liberty. Honorary Pallbearers were Carl Lewis and Merant Mitchell. Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, September 26, 1991
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Balas, Ruth Lang

Ruth Lang Balas

Graveside services for Ruth Lang Balas, 82 of Jacksonville, Texas, were held at 2 p.m., March 13, at Resthaven Memorial Park in Jacksonville with the Rev. Kevin King officiating, under the direction of Thompson Funeral Home in Jacksonville.

Mrs. Balas died Thursday March 8, at a local hospital.

She was born Sept. 14, 1924, in Jacksonville. She was a member of Beta Sigma Phi-Laureate Chapter; and the First Methodist Church.

She was preceded in death by husband Louis J. Balas; son, John Sanders; grandchildren, Brian Balas and Renee Balas Bullard.

Survivors include sister, Barbara McCullough of Jacksonville; sons, Paul Sanders of New Orleans, Louisiana; Steve Balas of Eagle Lake and Tony Balas of Columbus; daughter, Julia Balas Lobpries of Angleton; granddaughters, Melissa Sanders of Garland and Courtney Lobpries Gholson of Richwood, Texas; grandson, Clint Lobpries of Sargent, TX; and great-granddaughter, Mattie Lynn Gholson of Richwood.

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss. 

Eagle Lake Headlight, March 22, 2007
Submitted by John Konesheck

Baldwin, Ida May

We regret to announce the death of little Ida May Baldwin, which occurred in this city on the 11th inst. She was a bright, intelligent little girl, of much promise. She was buried beside her father [Columbus Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery] on Monday inst; according to the service of the Episcopal church, Rev. Dr. Morris officiating.

Colorado Citizen, August 15, 1878
From the files of Dorothy Albrecht. Contact Rox Ann Johnson.

Ball, George

BALL, George, was born in Lawrence (Laurens) District, S.C. January 5th 1801. Was immersed by Elder Henry HITT into the fellowship of Bethabara church, in said District on the second Sunday in August, 1824. After several removals he located near this place and united with this church, Osage, on Saturday before the 3rd Sabbath in June, 1866...until removed by death. [Interment in Old Osage Cemetery] Mention: bereaved widow, fatherless children. Signed J.J. SLEDGE, W.L. ADKINS, Rowan GREEN. Osage, Colorado County, Texas, Oct. 31, 1867

Transcribed from the “Texas Baptist Historical Collection” by Lisa Bass

Ball, James Edward

James E. Ball, born Jan. 1, 1911 in Bryan died April 23 in the Eagle Lake Community Hospital after a short illness. Funeral services were held from the Methodist Church in Rock Island, Monday with Rev. Thomas Hogare, pastor of the church officiating. Interment was in Myrtle Cemetery. Six United States Navy men from Houston served as pallbearers and a color guard presented Mrs. Ball with the U.S. flag that draped the casket. Mr. Ball went in the United States Navy in1927 and served 30 years, retiring as Chief Radioman. He was involved in 3 wars and was in Pearl Harbor the day it was bombed. Upon his retirement in 1957, he and his wife moved to Houston where he worked for Cameron Iron, retiring in 1974. They later came to Rock Island where they have made their home the past 2 years. Survivors include his wife, Helen, one step-son, 3 grandchildren, one sister, Mrs. Nonie Cameron of Refugio, one niece and 3 nephews.

The Colorado County Citizen, April 29, 1976
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Ball, John Henry G.

EAGLE LAKE MAN DIES FROM GASOLINE BURNS

Henry Ball, the Eagle Lake man who was reported in last issue of the Mercury as severely burned through the explosion of a coffee urn in his restaurant, succumbed to his injuries Wednesday night, and the body was interred Sunday afternoon at Eagle Lake.

In particulars of the accident, published in the Headlight, it is evident Mr. Ball was horribly burned. The Headlight says that after the burning gasoline was thrown over his body, he noticed his wife running toward him, and fearful of her getting burned, he turned and ran from her. Friends ran after him, caught him, and succeeded in putting out the flames, but only after his body from the waist down was horribly burned, and they themselves had received bad burns.

Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon at Eagle Lake and interment in the Masonic Cemetery at that place.

Weimar Mercury, November 6, 1925, page 1

Ballard, Pirley

Deaths of 2 Eagle Lake Negro Women At Their Homes Ruled 'Natural Causes

Two Eagle Lake Negro women died alone at their homes and from natural causes, Justice of the Peace E. J. Frnka of Columbus ruled Monday after being called to substitute for Precinct 8 Justice of the Peace Max Conner, who is ill, in holding the inquests.

Elizabeth Alexander, about 88, was found dead in bed about 10:30 a.m. Monday by her grandniece, Bernice Ward of Garwood. The Alexander woman lived a short distance from Eagle Lake and had been to Schulenburg recently to see a doctor. She was believed suffering from infirmities of old age. [Interred in Rising Star Cemetery]

Pirley Ballard, 55, was the other woman who was found dead at her home by her husband, Lee Ballard, about 5:30 p.m. Monday when he returned from work.

Judge Frnka is quoted as saying she probably had been dead since morning. She was said to have had a bad heart. [Place of interment Eagle Lake East]

Deputy Sheriff Marvin Buller and Eagle Lake Officers—James Adams and Bill Chavis—investigated the deaths.

Colorado County Citizen, March 6, 1958

Ballard, Phoebe

WELL KNOWN COLORED WOMAN BURIED HERE LAST SATURDAY

Phoebe Ballard, aged fifty-five, died on last Friday at the house of her brother, Stanford Anderson. She was also a sister of Mary Boykin, all well known colored people of this city. She was born and raised in this section, but until a year ago had been making her home in San Antonio, having returned to Eagle Lake last year. She had many friends among both the white and colored people. [Place of interment unknown]

Eagle Lake Headlight, May 28, 1921

Ballard, Unknown

Weimar Local Matters

We are indeed sorry to report the sudden death of the bright two-year old little son of Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Ballard, which said event occurred at their residence on the 19th inst. The little fellow was taken away by congestion, and was sick only fourteen hours. We extend our deepest sympathy to the bereaved parents. [Place of interment unknown]

Colorado Citizen, October 25, 1888, page 3

Ballard, Will

NEGRO KILLED AT MATTHEWS SATURDAY

Will Ballard, a negro living at Matthews, was killed by a pistol shot at that place late last Saturday night in a raid made by Deputy Sheriff W. F. Causey and special deputy Claire McClanahan. [Place of interment unknown]

Mr. McClanahan waived examining trial in Justice Court at Eagle Lake and was released on $1000 bond.

Colorado Citizen, September 17, 1925

Baller, Anton

The week-old baby of Anton Baller, a farmer of this vicinity, died and was buried at St. Michael’s cemetery last Monday afternoon.

Weimar Mercury, February 2, 1907

Baller, Emilie

Content Notes

We regretted to learn of the death of Mrs. E. Baller, which occurred Sunday, after a brief illness and was buried the following day in St Michael’s cemetery. We extend our deepest sympathy and condolence to the bereaved ones in their irreparable loss.

News from New Bielau and Content

We are all very sorry to report the death of Mrs. J. Baller. She was sick since the 13th of March of last year. She had been doing very well since Christmas, but received some kind of back-set Saturday and died two days later. Our deepest sympathy goes out to those she left behind.

Weimar Mercury, May 7, 1909

Ballew, J. C.

Grocery Man Murdered at Columbus

Aged Man Murdered in Cold Blood at Rear of His Place of Business

At 5 o’clock this, Thursday, morning a cold blooded murder was enacted at Columbus. At that hour an aged man named Ballew, who conducted a grocery store next to the fire station, went to the back door of his establishment, and as he stood in the doorway he was fired upon by some unknown party with a double barrel shotgun and killed. Whether Mr. Ballew heard some noise and got up to investigate, or was naturally an early riser, is not fully determined. At any rate the assassin, concealed behind an outhouse in the rear, fired upon and killed him, the building was then fired, probably in an effort to conceal the crime. The fire was discovered, the alarm turned in, and in a few minutes many citizens were on the scene and by hard work the fire was extinguished. It was then discovered that Mr. Ballew had been murdered. Sheriff Wegenhoft was out of the city, but Deputy Hillmer secured the bloodhounds and is actively engaged in trying to run down the murderer. Mr. Ballew is described as an aged, inoffensive man, attentive to his own affairs, and why he should have been made the victim of the assassin’s bullets is difficult to understand. We understand that a certain negro man is suspected, and an early arrest is looked for. [Interred at Mount Houston Cemetery, Harris Co, TX]

Weimar Mercury, September 16, 1921, page 1

Ballverde, George
Ballverde, Peter

MEXICANS KILLED IN TENANT HOUSE

Eagle Lake, Tex., Dec. 28.--A horrible double murder was brought to light this morning when the bodies of two Mexicans, Peter and George Ballverde, brothers, about 55 and 60 years of age, respectively, were found in a tenant house on the Engelhard brothers; farm, a few miles south of this city. Both had been knocked in the head while they slept with some heavy instrument, and both had been struck in about the same place, behind the ear. The crime is believed to have been committed some times during Tuesday night and one of the Mexicans had evidently been killed instantly. the other was still alive, tho' unconscious, when found, dying a few hours later. There seems to have been no clew left by the murderer, but the officers are of the opinion that robbery was the motive. One of the Mexicans had on two pairs of pants and in a small purse in one of the pockets of the under pair was $160.04. Under the pillow of the other was a billbook, but contained no money. [Place of interment unknown]

Weimar Mercury, January 4, 1918

Balusek, Allen Wayne

Balusek Infant Buried Aug. 2

Funeral services were held August 2 at St. Michael's Catholic Church for Alan Wayne Balusek, infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Balusek.

Surviving in addition to his parents, are a sister Doris Jean Balusek of Weimar; his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Schimcek, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Balusek, and his great grandmother, Mrs. John Kovarek, all of Hallettsville. [Interred at St. Michael Cemetery]

Weimar Mercury, Thursday, August 15, 1968
Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

Balusek, Eddie Lee

EDDIE LEE BALUSEK

EL CAMPO - Eddie Lee Balusek, 52, passed away on Nov. 18, 2007. He was born on March 24, 1955, in Provident City, to Emil and Virginia Krhovjak Balusek.
He was an oilfield consultant at Balusek Consulting and a rancher.

He is survived by his wife, Lori Gail Balusek of El Campo; parents, Emil and Virginia Balusek of Garwood; stepson, Michael Mobley of Austin; brother, Tommy Balusek of Columbus; and sister, Shirley Johnson of Nursery.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. today at Triska Funeral Home with a wake service at 6 p.m. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Nada.

Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at St. Mary's Church with the Rev. Tony Boateng-Mensah officiating.

Burial will follow at Golden Rod Cemetery near Garwood.

Pallbearers will be Huck Cranek, Shannon Garner, Brian Hyek, Jerry Labay, Todd Mathews, R. Todd Poehlmann, Sterling Reimert,and Ricky Yackel. Honorary pallbearers will be Tommy Balusek, Ronnie Korenek, Anthony Labay, George Yackel, Clarence "Bouncie" Cerny, Ricky Leopold, and Randy Pozzi.

Memorial donations may be made to Eddie Lee Balusek Memorial and Scholarship Fund, c/o First State Bank, El Campo.

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

Published in the Victoria Advocate on 11/20/2007.
Submitted by Catherine Ryan

Eddie Lee Balusek, 52, of El Campo, died Sunday, Nov. 18, 2007.

He was born March 24, 1955 in Provident City to Edwin and Virginia Balusek.

Mr. Balusek was baptized at St. Philip's Catholic Church in El Campo by Father Marcus Valenta. Godparents were Pat and Lucille Smidt of El Campo. He was confirmed at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Nada and his sponsor was Charles McDonald of Richmond, Texas.

He was educated in Garwood public school, graduating from Rice High School in Altair.

On May 14, 2005, he married the love of his life Lori Gail Mayo in New Taiton with Pastor Art Weiss officiating.

Mr. Balusek, in the course of his life, was a self made prominent businessman, developing numerous businesses in addition to Balusek Consulting.

Besides spending time at their ranch in El Campo and Sandy's Creek, one of his favorite getaways was hunting with friends at his King Ranch lease in Kingsville. In addition to his special friends and family was his loving companion, Ranchero.

Eddie will be remembered for his kindness, his generosity, and his outgoing personality. He was always the first to organize benefits or endeavors that needed attention. He will be loved and missed by all who knew him.

Surviving Mr. Balusek are his wife, Lori Gail Balusek of El Campo; parents, Edwin and Virginia Balusek of Garwood; sister and brother-in-law, Shirley and Bryan Johnson of Nursery; brother, Tommy Balusek of Columbus; step-son, Michael Mobley of Austin; brothers-inlaw and sister-in-law, R. Todd Poehlmann and Brian and Dana Bradford; and parents-inlaw, Ralph and Jeanette Poehlmann, all of Brenham; nephews and nieces, Todd Lee Mathews, Eric Johnson, Megan and Mollie Poehlmann and Brittany Gallaher.

A wake service was held Tuesday, Nov. 20 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Nada at 6 p.m.Funeral services will be today, Wednesday, Nov. 21 at 10 a.m, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Nada. Interment will be at Golden Rod Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Huck Cranek, Shannon Garner, Brian Hyek, Jerry Labay, Todd Mathews, R. Todd Poehlmann, Sterling Reimert and Ricky Yackel.

Honorary pallbearers will be Tommy Balusek, Ronnie Korenek, Anthony Labay, George Yackel, Clarence "Bouncie" Cerny, Ricky Leopold and Randy Pozzi.

For those desiring, memorials may be made to: Eddie Lee Balusek Memorial and
Scholarship Fund, c/o First State Bank in El Campo.

El Campo Leader News, November 21, 2007
Submitted by Catherine Ryan

Balusek, Emil Edwin

Balusek

Emil Edwin Balusek, 80, of Garwood, passed away at Seton Hospital in Austin on April 6.

He was born August 15, 1927 in Provident City to Emil Bates and Lena Emmagene Brownson Balusek. He married Virginia Lea Krhovjak on April 16, 1949 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Nada by Rev. Edmund Bily. They were married 58 years. He was a retired oilfield gauger and rancher. His love in life was to rodeo and hunt.

He was preceded in death by his parents, son Eddie Lee Balusek, who passed away on Nov. 18, 2007, sister Annie Estelle Balusek Sherrill and brother Johnnie Bates Balusek.

He is survived by his wife Virginia Balusek of Garwood, son Tommy Dee Balusek of Columbus and daughter Shirley Ann Balusek Johnson of Nursery; two grandsons Todd Lee Mathews and Eric Dwayne Johnson and three great-grandchildren Tobias, Courtnee, and Khloe Mathews; sisters, Bessie Alice Hinze of Sheridan and brother William Balusek of Nada.

Funeral services will take place Wednesday, April 9 at Triska Funeral Home with Deacon Edward Wendel officiating. Burial will follow at Golden Rod Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Clarence Cerny, Cody Cerny, Cody Leopold, Jerry Labay, Harold Mathews, Jr., Larry Smidovec, Shannon Garner, Larry Cranek, Ronnie Korenek and Bryan Hyek.

Memorial donations may be made to Garwood Fire Department or donors choice.

Colorado County Citizen, April 9, 2008
Courtesy The Citizen

Balusek, Lou Ann

Baby Strangles At Sheridan

Hallettsville, Feb. 1--The 5-months old baby girl of M?r. and Mrs. Alton Balusek of Sheridan apparently died of strangulation Tuesday morning, Jan. 30.

According to information received, the little child vomited some milk and some of it got into her bronchial tube and lungs. The parents rushed the choking child to the hospital in Weimar, where she was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Mr. and Mrs. Balusek operate a ranch in the Sheridan area. The father is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Emil Balusek.--Tribune [Burial was in the Wharton Cemetery]

Weimar Mercury, February 8, 1962, page 1

Balusek, Virginia Lea (Krhovjak)

Balusek, Virginia Lea Krhovjak

Virginia Lea Balusek 81 of Garwood, passed away on July 4.

She was born Feb. 7, 1928 in Novohrad to the late John and Ida Starustka Krhovjak. She was a teacher, a homemaker and a member of the Catholic Daughters, K.J.Z.T. and Christian Mothers.

Survivors include son, Tommy Balusek of Columbus; daughter, Shirley Johnson of Nursery; brother, Gilbert Krhovjak of Engle; two grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

Funeral Services will take place Wednesday, July 8 at 2 p.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Nada with the Rev. Joe Vrana officiating. Burial will follow at Golden Rod Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Todd Mathews, Larry Cranek, Ronnie Korenek, Bryan Hyek, Larry Smidovec, Shannon Garner, Jerry Labay and Harold Mathews.

Memorial donations may be made to the Garwood Volunteer Fire Department or donors choice.

Colorado County Citizen, July 8, 2009
Photo courtesy of The Citizen. Submitted by Judy Talkington

Balzer

Browse all Balzer obits

Banks, Arthur

Negro Man Dies Of Heart Attack While Fighting Fire

Funeral services were held in St. Paul Methodist church on the afternoon of Wednesday, April 15, for Arthur Banks, 71-year-old Columbus Negro who died early the preceding Monday morning as he was attempting to put out a fire at his home.

Death was attributed to a heart attack. He had made the fire and had gone back to bed when he saw the house was filled with smoke. The excitement proved too much for him. Little damage was done to the house where he and his wife, Josie, lived on Malleck st.

Rev. La Valle Lowe officiated and burial was in the Willing Worker cemetery. Davis Funeral home was in charge.

Born May 4,1888 near Borden, Banks had spent his entire life in Colorado County. He did farm work before retiring after he developed heart trouble 15 years ago. He and his wife had been married 54 years. He was a member of Green’s Chapel Methodist church, south of Columbus. Besides his wife, he is survived by a step-granddaughter Maggie M. Gant of Houston, and a sister, Hattie Johnson of Buckhorn.

Colorado County Citizen, April 23, 1959, page 11

Banks, Ella Mae (Shirley)

Funeral services were held for Mrs. Ella Mae Banks, Monday, December 23 at the Wright Grove Baptist Church in Altair with the Rev. Lester Turner officiating.

Burial was held at Williams Paradise.

Mrs. Ella Banks was born in Colorado County to Otto Shirley and Ellen Champ Shirley. She was united in marriage to Shelly Banks in 1935.

She became a Christian when she was a very young girl and began to work in Christ's Kingdom in South Point Baptist Church. She later moved her membership to the Wright Grove Baptist Church and has been a faithful and ardent worker for many years.

Mrs. Banks was especially loyal to the work of the usher society never refusing a task because she was already too busy, or because she was too tired.

Mrs. Banks was a lovable character, a person everyone chose to have as a friend and willing to be a friend to all.

She was a board member for Combined Community Action Agency, Inc., a member of Busy Bee Home Demonstration Club and a member of the O.E.S. A. H. Simmons Number 217 Eagle Lake.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

Survivors include three sons, A. C. Banks, Otis Carter and Rev. Arthur C. Banks; one daughter, Mella Dee Rowe; eight grandchildren, Janell Banks, Karl, Kristie, Karmen, Kayline Banks, Melvin Carter, Yolanda Turner and Byron Rowe; two brothers, Eddie Leo and Cleo Shirley; two sisters, Connie Crawford and Ora Lee Shirley; one aunt, Ida Woodard; one uncle, R. A. Shirley; nieces, nephew and a host of relatives and friends.

Honorary Pallbearers were Tony Williams, Eddie Leo Shirley, Albert Banks, Rev. Lester Turner, Rev. McMorris Turner and Billy Rosemore.

Active Pallbearers were Larry Turner, Bobby Turner, David McGrew, George Hurd, Reed Carter and Wilbert Williams.

Colorado County Citizen, January 9, 1986
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Banks, Lem

Another negro killed. The Galveston News of Wednesday printed the following special:
Alleyton, Tex., May 23.--A shooting bee took place yesterday, 22d, between Lem Banks and another negro, to which Banks received a load of shot in the breast, killing him instantly. It occurred on W. F. Neal’s farm, about four miles southeast of Alleyton. [Place of interment unknown]

Weimar Mercury, May 27, 1903, page 2

Banks, Minnie (Farrow)

Banks

Minnie Farrow Banks, 80, of the Garwood-Nada area, died Friday, Aug. 11, 1995.

Born Nov. 15, 1914, she was the daughter of Ferdinand and Annie Gayle Farrow. She grew up and attended school in the Garwood-Nada community, before moving to Corpus Christi and marrying Nathaniel Banks. She resided in Corpus Christi for 31 years before returning to the Garwood-Nada area and rejoining the New Home Baptist Church.

Funeral services were held Aug. 19 at new Home Baptist Church with Rev. Lemmie McGrew officiating. Interment followed in Rose Hill Cemetery in Corpus Christi. Ben Davis Funeral Home, Columbus, was in charge of arrangements.

Serving as pallbearers were Thekod Perkins, Hubert Thomas, Anthony Smith, Rev. Frankie Germas, Joe Johnson and Willie Johnson. Honorary pallbearers were Marvin Farrow, Gus Farrow, Andrew Lee Howard, Rev. Arthur Lee Banks, Jimmie Carter and Jimmie Earl Farrow.

Mrs. Banks is survived by her children, Rev. Arthur Lee Banks and Lynette Banks; a sister, Josephine Carter; three brothers, Gus Farrow, Marvin (Jack) Farrow and Andrew Lee Farrow; a great-grandson, Khalet Z. Johnson, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two sons, Lindsey E. Keno and Larry G. Banks; and seven brothers.

Colorado County Citizen, August 23, 1995, page 16

Bankston, Deborah Kay (Poenitzsch)

Deborah Kay Bankston
February 14, 1960 - August 20, 1996

Services for Deborah Kay Bankston, 36, of Spring were held Aug. 22 at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus with the Rev. John Hunsicker and Dan Kahlich officiating.

Burial followed at the Poenitzsch Family Cemetery in Shaws Bend.

Bankston died Aug. 20 at Houston Northwest Medical Center in Houston.

She was born Feb. 14, 1960, in Columbus, Texas the daughter of Lloyd Poenitzsch and Lillie Stancik.

Bankston was united in marriage with Billy Bankston on March 7, 1981.

She was a P.E. teacher at Klein Independent School District and a member of the St. James Catholic church.

Bankston was preceded in death by her sister Polly Poenitzsch McRoberts.

Survivors include husband, Billy Bankston of Spring; parents, Lloyd and Lillie Poenitzsch of Shaws Bend; daughter, Abby Bankston of Spring; son, Chuck Bankston of Spring; sisters, JoAnn Vaclavik of Patterson, Sandy O'Leary of Columbus and Pam Evans of Deer Park; and brothers, Harvey, Robert and Jeff Poenitzsch, all of Shaws Bend.

Memorial contributions may be made in the form of a Memorial Trust Fund for Chuck and Abby Bankston to Bank One - Greenspoint, 12450 Greenspoint Dr., Houston, TX 77060, Attn: Becky DeLeon.

Henneke Funeral Home Inc., Columbus, directors.

The Banner Press Newspaper, August 29, 1996
Submitted by Joyce Stancik

Banse

Browse all obituaries wih Banse surname

Barak, Jerry

Funeral For Former Resident Here Wednesday

Funeral services were held at Columbus Funeral Home here yesterday for Jerry Barak Sr., 47, with burial in Odd Fellows Rest, the Rev. C. B Diltz of the Methodist church officiating.

Mr. Barak was found dead in his hotel room in Oakland, Calif., on April 24. Autopsy revealed death from natural causes. He had recently been discharged from the army, having also served with the navy in World War I.

He operated a shoe repair shop here 18 years ago and was a member of the local Methodist church.

Services at the grave were in charge of the American Legion, the flag being presented to his son, Jerry Jr., stationed with the Army air forces in Arizona.

A brother, Adolph, of Kansas was also present for the funeral.

Pallbearers were Sam Harbert, Bennett Hastings, Fred Woodard, Claude Graves, Rev. J. K. Ridgeway and Pfc. Al Radke.

Colorado County Citizen, May 3, 1945

Barcak, Annie (Zapalac)

Funeral Services for Mrs. Barcak, 67, Held Saturday

Funeral services for Mrs. John (Annie) Barcak, 67, who died at 1 a.m. Friday in Youens Hospital, were held Saturday, July 221, at Hubbard Funeral Home and St. Michael's Catholic Church, with interment in the church cemetery.

Rev. Henry Rolf officiated.

A resident of Oakland area most of her life, Mrs. Barcak had been in the hospital one week, for treatment of a heart condition.

Born Jan. 27 1895, at Moravia, Fayette County, she was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Zapalac. The family later moved to the Shimek community north of Weimar, and she was married to Mr. Barcak there Nov. 11, 1914, They settled in the Oakland area. Mrs. Barcak continued to live there after her husband's death 10 years ago until the past year in which she has been staying with relatives in Weimar. She was a member of St. Michael's Church.

Surviving are her mother, Mrs. Joseph Zapalac of Weimar; three daughters, Mrs. Agnes Surine of Adair, Okla., Mrs. Martha Harper of Austin and Mrs. Lillie Mayes of Weimar; one son, Eddie Barcak of Oakland; 9 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren; three brothers, Frank and Joe Zapalac of Weimar and Louis Zapalac of Flatonia; and two sisters, Mrs. Bessie Oeltjendiers of Weimar and Mrs. Willie Wasek of Wharton.

Pallbearers were her nephews: Erwin Zapalac and August Valla of Weimar, August Gold of Columbus, Ed Teichmann of Schulenburg, Edward Wasek of Wharton and Roland Schaefer of Houston.

Weimar Mercury, July 26, 1962

Barcak, Eddie C.

Heart Attack Is Fatal to Ed Barcak, 48

Eddie O. Barcak, 48, of Oakland, died at 2:30 a.m. Saturday, November 30, immediately after a heart attack. Family members said he had had no previous heart trouble, to their knowledge.

Mr. Barcak, a lifelong resident of Oakland, where he farmed and raised cattle, was born there Aug. 4, 1920, the son of John and Annie Barcak. He was in the US army three years during World War II, serving two years in Europe, where he earned the EAME medal with six battle stars and the Distinguished Unit Badge. He returned to the USA in July 1945.

On Nov. 25, 1946, he married Miss Henrietta Ulbrich, and they have made their home in the Oakland community ever since.

Mr. Barcak is survived b his wife; two daughters, Mrs. Herbert (Diane) Neubauer of Hallettsville and Sandra, a senior at Weimar High School; two sons, Thomas and Jeffrey, also still at home; one grandchild, Kimberly Neubauer; and three sisters, Mrs. Richard Surine of Adair, Okla., Mrs. Lillie Mayes of Weimar and Mrs. Martha Harper of Austin.

He was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church and VFW Post 5875 at Weimar.

Rev. Albert Hubertus officiated in services Monday morning, Dec. 2, at Hubbard Funeral Home and St. Michael’s Catholic Church. Burial was in St. Michael’s Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Oscar Guenther, August Valla, Rudy Gold, Charles Harper, Robert Helmcamp and William Neubauer.

Weimar Mercury, December 5, 1968, page 5

Barcak, Ignac

IGNAC BARCAK, 73, BURIED WEDNESDAY

Funeral services for Ignac Barcak, 73, of the Bila Hora community, who died Monday, were held from the Hubbard Funeral Home Wednesday morning.

The Rev. Jos. J. Szymanski led services at the grave. Interment was in St. Michael’s Cemetery.

Weimar Mercury, April 11, 1947, page 1

Barcak, John Paul

Last Rites for John P. Barcak, 67, Held Tuesday

Funeral services for John Paul Barcak, 67, a resident of Oakland for the past 38 years, were held Tuesday morning from Hubbard Funeral Home and St. Michael’s Church, Msgr. Anthony F. Drozd officiating. Burial was in St. Michael’s Cemetery.

Mr. Barcak, a retired farmer, died here Sunday after an illness of about two weeks.

Born at St. John June 24, 1884, he was the son of John and Annie Orsak Barcak. He married Miss Annie Zapalac here Nov. 11, 1914. Mr. Barcak was a member of St. Michael’s Catholic Church.

Surviving in addition to his widow are three daughters, Mrs. Curtis Harper of Austin, Mrs. Richard Surine of Adair, Okla., and Mrs. Roy Mayes of Weimar; one son, Eddie Barcak of Oakland; two sisters, Mrs. Frances Kusey of Bila Hora and Mrs. Mary Teichman of Schulenburg. A brother, Ignac Barcak, preceded him in death in 1947, at the age of 73.

Pallbearers at the funeral were Erwin Zapalac, Joe Zapalac, Jr., Adolf Teichman, Ed Teichman, August Wasek Jr. and LeRoy Fitzgerald.

Weimar Mercury, May 16, 1952, page 1

Bargett, John

Eagle Lake, March 7.--John Bargett and Pat. Corrigan were run over and killed here this morning by No. 9 westbound Sunset passenger train. Pieces of clothing and one of the bodies were scattered along the track for nearly almost half of a mile. Both of the dead men are strangers in Eagle Lake, though letters addressed to the names above mentioned at Chesterville were found in the clothing. Three pictures, two of a little girl and one of a baby girl, were also found, and $1.05 was picked up along the track. It is learned that the two men had been engaged in putting down wells in the Chesterville community. [Place of interment unknown]

Weimar Mercury, March 12, 1909, page 1

Baring, Arthur L.

FUNERAL SERVICES FOR MR. A. L BARING SATURDAY MORNING

Esteemed Citizen and Veteran Business Man of Eagle, Lake Passes Away in Temple Hospital Early Thursday

Genuine regret is felt throughout this community and expressions of sorrow are heard from many lips since a message yesterday brought the sad news of the passing of Mr. A. L. Baring. He died at 6:30 Thursday morning at the King's Daughters hospital in Temple, following an operation more than two week previous.

Mr. Baring was one of the veteran business men of Eagle Lake, having been continuously in business here since 1899. In October of that year he moved to Eagle Lake and opened a saddle and harness business later taking on a line of buggies and surries. His first business stand here was in a building about where the Avalon Theatre now stands. Later he moved further east on Main Street to somewhere near the present Rotary Club hall, and then to the stand now occupied by Harry Landa when that brick building first completed. He moved to the west side of the square in 1913, and in this stand has continuously operated his business since that time.

When automobiles began to show promise of a business, he took them on as a side line, and though not giving all of his attention to motor curs, he was engaged in that line, with his other business from 1916 to 1924. Realizing that the motor car was a coming business, and that horse and buggy days were numbered, he discontinued the saddle. harness and buggy business in 1924 and entered exclusively into the automobile industry, handling the Chevrolet car. He built up a wide business and has been unusually successful in that line.

He was the oldest Chevrolet automobile dealer, in point of years in car salesmanship and in the service within the Houston zone of the agency.

With the exception of the Frank Stephens Company and the B. F. Daily store, there are no other businesses in Eagle Lake that were in existence at the time Mr. Baring began his business activities here.

Mr. Baring was a straight-forward, honest business man, a progressive citizen and a good man. He has frequently held positions of trust, having served as a member of the city board of aldermen and a member of the local school board. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church, and was active withIn the duties of his church.

He enjoyed a wide acquaintance and had many friends in this city, community and throughout the section, all of whom join the Headlight in expressions of sympathy, deep and sincere, for the bereaved relatives.

Mr. Baring was born at Welcome, in the north end of Austin county, December 14th, 1876, and would have been 60 years of age the coming December. He was married on January 30, 1900, to Miss Louise Lingnau of New Ulm, who, with one son, Edgar Baring, and two daughters, Misses Lora and Katharine, all of this city, survives him. He is also survived by two brothers, Otto and Albert Baring of Houston, and three sisters, Mrs. Charlotte Grote, Houston; Mrs. Amelia Reichle, New Ulm and Miss Johanna Baring of this city.

Funeral services will be, held at 10 o'clock Saturday morning from the family home in Eagle Lake, with Rev. W. M. Logan, local Presbyterian minister, conducting the services. Burial will be made in the Lakeside Cemetery.

Eagle Lake Headlight, August 28, 1936, page 1

Baring, Elisa I. (Randow)

Elisa I. Baring
December 8, 1904 – December 21, 1996

Services for Elisa I. Baring, 92, of Eagle Lake were held Dec. 23 at the Dulany Funeral Home in Eagle Lake with the Rev. Scott Skogen, pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Yorktown, officiating.

Burial followed at Masonic Cemetery in Eagle Lake.

Baring died Dec. 21 at Cuero Community Hospital.

She was born December 8, 1904, in Lavaca County, Texas, the daughter of William “Willie” and Sophie Obelgoner Randow.

Baring had been a resident of Eagle Lake for most of her life and has resided in the Yorktown Manor Nursing Home for the past two years. Early in her life, she worked in the bank in Eagle Lake and later alongside her husband and they operated A. L. Baring Inc. Chevrolet dealership in Eagle Lake. She was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Eagle Lake and Order of the Eastern Star.

She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Edgar Baring; and two brothers, William Randow Jr. and C. K. “Buddie” Randow.

Survivors include a sister, Cymbeline Deborah of Yorktown, Texas; two nieces, Billie von Roeder of Yorktown and Deborah Schmitt of Eagle Lake; a nephew, Jerry Deborah of Beaumont, Texas; and two sisters-in-law, Amanda Randow and Lora Thomas, both of Eagle Lake.

Banner Press, January 2, 1997
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Baring, Josephine (Leyendecker)

Mrs. Josephine Baring died at her home in Houston, Tuesday, November 5 and was conveyed to Columbus last Thursday and from the passenger depot the remains were transferred to the Leyendecker private graveyard, 5 miles this side of Frelsburg, for interment. Mrs. Baring was a lady of many estimable qualities, and had many relatives and friends who deeply regret and deplore her demise. She was a sister to the Messrs. Leyendecker of Frelsburg and a sister-in-law of Mrs. Henry Ilse of this city. To the bereaved is tendered our sincere sympathy.

July 1907 Unidentified news clipping
Contributed by Mary Anne Pickens

Barker, Clyde M.

EAGLE LAKE YOUTH MEETS SUDDEN DEATH

Clyde Barker, 20, of Eagle Lake met death in an automobile accident at an early hour Monday morning. He had been to Columbus with Ben Huvar, another youth, and was returning home. When about two miles from Eagle Lake the car suddenly left the highway, overturned and young Barker was killed. Huvar, it is said was not injured.

Young Barker is a brother of Mrs. Frederick Duve, who formerly lived in this city, and was known to many of our people.

Huvar, if we are not mistaken, is a son of Henry W. Huvar, former Weimar man, now living in the Garwood section. [Interment in Lakeside Cemetery]

Weimar Mercury, December 29, 1933, page 8

OAK GROVE
(Clara Berthold)

Relatives here received the sad news early Monday of the accidental death of Clyde Barker, son of Jno. Barker and wife of Eagle Lake, which happened early that morning, two miles west of Eagle Lake. Clyde was not so well known here, but his parents formerly lived here and are well and favorably known by everybody. Mrs. Barker is a half sister of our neighbor Mr. R. B. Miles, and to these devoted parents and other relatives our deepest sympathy is extended in this sad and so unexpected death. (Interment in Lakeside Cemetery)

Colorado County Citizen, January 4, 1934, page 4

Barker, John B.

Final Services Held Last Thurs. For J. B. Barker

Eagle Lake citizens mourned the loss of another long-time Eagle Lake resident last week when John B. Barker passed away at the Columbus Nursing home after a short illness at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, May 13th. Prior to his retirement Mr. Barker was a farmer and merchant in the Eagle Lake community.

Funeral services were held at 4:00 p.m. last Thursday, May 14th from the Mill-Bauer Funeral Home with the Rev. Ralph A. Jones, pastor of First Baptist Church officiating. Mrs. Clara May Nash played favorite hymns at the organ and accompanied her daughter, Miss Claire Nash in “Rock of Ages.”

Interment was in the Lakeside Cemetery with the following serving as pallbearers: Alvin Kohleffel, Simon Sinclair, Miles Theuman, Albert Pustjovsky, Sam Davidson and Harold Thomas.

John B. Barker was born on Feb. 16, 1874 in Arkansas. He came to Texas when a young man and has been a resident in this section most of his life.

He was married on June 12, 1898 in Weimar to Agnes Miles and she preceded him in death on March 25, 1941.

Surviving are his wife by a later marriage, Mrs. Katherine Barker; three daughters, Mrs. Sam Austin of Eagle Lake, Mrs. F. B. Duve of Galveston and Mrs. L. C. Burdette of San Francisco, California; one son, Pervy Barker of Rayville, La.; nine grandchildren, Glen Duve of Galveston, Douglas Wayne and Dennis Clay Burdette of San Francisco, Gene Austin of Bakersfield Calif., and Carl W. Austin, Kenneth Austin, Larry Austin, Dorothy Austin and Erline Reuther of this city and five great grandchildren, David, Gail and Pamela Austin, Denice Austin and Kathy Reuther, all of this city.

He was preceded in death by one son, Clyde Barker on Dec. 25, 1933, and two grandchildren.

Mr. Barker was loved by all who knew him and friends join in extending sympathy in the loss of this loved one.

Eagle Lake Headlight, May 21, 1959
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Barlow, Mary (Howatt)

Mrs. Mary Barlow

The death of Mrs. Mary Barlow occurred at the home of her sisters, Misses Hewitt[sic], in this city last Saturday morning. Funeral services were held Sunday afternoon. Rev. T. F. Brooks of the first Baptist Church officiating, and the remains laid to rest in the City Cemetery.

Mrs. Barlow had been living here for some six months, having made her home with her sister in Houston previous to coming here.

She is survived by five sisters, Mrs. Belle Seymour and Misses Nettie, Tillie and Sudie Howitt[sic] of this city and Mrs. Maggie Harris of Houston to whom our sympathy is extended.

Colorado County Citizen, March 21, 1929

Barnes, Kate Eliza (Montgomery)

On Wednesday night of last week at the age of 93 years, without an ache or a pain, Mrs. Kate [Montgomery] Barnes quietly and peacefully crossed the great divide and entered into rest on the eternal shore and her body was laid to rest in Lakeside cemetery the following day. Mrs. Barnes was a native of the loyal state of Mississippi came to Eagle Lake 15 years ago, where she has been living with her two grandchildren since. She was a woman of powerful intellect and her knowledge of past events and the bible were truly remarkable. She had been a consistent member of the Methodist church for many years and was willing and fully prepared to answer the last great call. She left to mourn her death two very devoted grandchildren, Miss Kate Pegram and her brother, Robert. Pegram. [She was preceded in death by her husband, Thomas Barnes of Mississippi]

[Mrs. Barnes was the sister of Robert Fulton Montgomery who married Frances Jane Thatcher]

Source and date is unknown but probably Eagle Lake Headlight, but she died 26 May 1921.
Submitted by Dorothy Cox

Barnett

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Barrera, Leona (Shimek) Joseph

BARRERA

Leona Barrera, 79, of Garwood passed away Sept. 25.

She was born in Ellinger Oct. 29, 1923 and married Abelino Barrera.

She was a homemaker and a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Nada as well as Christian Mothers and Catholic Daughters of America.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Cyril and Sophie Shimek; first husband, Lee Joseph; and an infant daughter.

She is survived by her sisters Lydia Schoellmann, Martha Ott and Ella Mae Merta all of El Campo; and brother, Lawrence Shimek of Garwood.

Funeral services were Saturday, Sept. 27, at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Nada with the Rev. Joseph Koebel officiating. [Interment in St. Mary's Cemetery]

Pallbearers were Bruno Shimek, Anthony Ott, Michael Kaspar, Don Merta, Blake Lurker and David Shimek.

Honorary pallbearers were Eugene Ott, Daniel Kaspar, Joe Janecka, Gary Cerny, Carl Merta and Kevin Kresta.

Colorado County Citizen, October 8, 2003
Courtesy of the Citizen

Barrett, Charlie

At Columbus, Texas, Charlie, son of L. and H. B. Barrett; born Sept. 5, 1879, and died Feb. 2, 1886. He lives with Jesus in peace. [Place of interment unknown.]

Rev. E. E. Cooper, pastor

Southwestern Christian Advocate, March 25, 1886, p. 8
Submitted by Bill Stein

Barrett, Irene Louise (Henicke)

Funeral Services Tomorrow Morning For Mrs. Barrett.

Funeral services for Mrs. Irene Louise Barrett will be held at 10 a.m. tomorrow at Columbus Funeral Home with interment in Odd Fellows Rest, the Rev. G. G. Cecil of the Methodist church officiating.

Mrs. Barrett, who died at a La Grange hospital Wednesday morning, was born on June 26, 1917, at Alleyton, a daughter of Charles and Louise Theumann Henicke. She had spent her entire life in Alleyton.

She is survived by her husband, L. H. Barrett; a daughter, Mary Louise; a son, Charles Luther, and her parents. A sister, Mrs. Lee Meyer of Columbus, and a brother, Ernest Henicke of Bernardo, also survive.

Colorado County Citizen, Nov 29, 1945
Transcribed by Tammy Blandino

Barrett, Shelly

Died, in this city Monday night, February 1st, Shelly, only son of Hamilton and Lizzie Barrett, (col.) aged six years and four months, after a protracted and complicated illness. He was interred in the City cemetery from their dwelling Tuesday at 2 P.M., amid a large concourse of friends, the Rev. Daniel Whitley (Col.) officiating. Requiescat in pace.

Colorado Citizen. February 14, 1886

Barrett, Tom

Eagle Lake Negro Is Killed Sunday By Shot in Body

Tom Barrott [sic.], negro about 30, was killed when he was shot through the chest at his grocery store in Eagle Lake Sunday night around 8 o'clock. Neighbors, hearing the shot, rushed over to the store, where the negro has his living quarters, and found him alone. The assailant had apparently shot through the doorway and fled. An inquest was held by Max Connor, Eagle Lake Justice. [Buried at Rout 1, Eagle Lake]

Several suspects were arrested by Sheriff Harvey Lee and brought to Columbus for questioning Monday, but later released. Offices are still working on their meager clues.

Colorado County Citizen, December 11, 1941

Barrington, Susan Fay

Memorial Services Held For Barrington

Susan Fay Barrington, 32, of Weimar, died on July 22. Susan was born November 13, 1961 in San Antonio.

She was a twin daughter of Pattie (Ammann) and Charles Barrington of Weimar. She lived in San Antonio until 1991 when she moved to Weimar. She worked at Parkview Manor.

Susan graduated from Alamo Heights High School in San Antonio. She was active in basketball and other sports.

Survivors include her parents, a brother, Gary, his wife Kathy and son, Andrew, of Anderson, S. C. ; and a niece, Deidra Lynn Barrington, of Webster, Texas.
She was preceded in death by her twin sister, Sandra Kellam and a brother, Charles Barrington, Jr.

A private memorial service was held. [Burial in Weimar Odd Fellows Cemetery]

The Weimar Mercury August 4, 1994
Transcribed by Jennie Muggli

Barrow, William H.

William H. Barrow of Eagle Lake passed away Saturday at Caney Valley Hospital in Wharton. He was 80 years of age.

Funeral services were held Tuesday at the Masonic Cemetery in Eagle Lake, under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home. Interment was at the cemetery. The Rev. Homer Davenport officiated. 

Mr. Barrow was born at Columbus May 16, 1899, the son of V.N. Barrow and the former Nannie Smith.

He had resided at Eagle Lake for 77 years. He was a member of the Methodist Church.

Survivors included one sister, Alice Dupree of Rosenberg, and one brother, Monroe Barrow of Splendora, Texas.

Colorado County Citizen, March 6, 1980, Page 2
Transcribed by Laurie Albrecht

Barry, George W.

Funeral Services for George Barry Held Last Sunday

Well Know Farmer Of Eldridge Section, Field Manager On The Herbert Plantation, Died Friday In Houston Hospital

George W. Barry, 58, of near Eldridge, died at 3:30 o'clock last Friday in a Houston hospital, having gone to Houston for treatment two days previous. He had been in ill health for several years.

Mr. Barry, who was born in Fowler, Bosque County, came to the Eagle Lake section when he was about 18 years of age, and his entire life since that time has been spent in this community, having been engaged in farming. For the past fourteen years he was field manager on the Herbert plantation.

Mr. Barry was well known to many people throughout this section and was regarded highly as a farmer and as a citizen. His death is regretted by all who knew him.

Funeral services were held from the parlors of the Eagle Lake Undertaking Company at 2:30 Sunday afternoon, Rev. C. G. Marrion, Episcopal rector, conducting the services. Interment was made in the Lakeside Cemetery.

The pallbearers were L. W. Stiles, E. H. Rodgers, T. W. Mueller, B. J. Carney, H. A. Dromgoole and H. W. Strahan.

Mr. Barry is survived by his wife and stepson, four sisters, Mrs. John Lipps, Anthony, New Mexico; Mrs. Herman Tracy, Austin; Mrs. W. B. Hale, Eagle Lake, and Mrs. Frank Krumptz, Sealy, and two brothers, S. W. Barry of Fort Worth and C. M. Barry of Bellville, who have the sympathy of the people of this community in their sorrow.

Eagle Lake Headlight, March 16, 1935

Barry, Stacey William "Bill"

Bill Barry Dies Here on Last Saturday

Funeral services were held here on Monday afternoon at 2:30 o'clock from the Mill Funeral Home for Stacey William Barry who passed away at the home of his sister, Mrs. Susie Hale at 5:10 o'clock last Saturday afternoon.

Mr. Barry was born on June 14, 1889 at Meridan, Texas, and came to Eagle Lake with his parents, William David and Elizabeth Barry to make his home in 1900. He served for many years as brakeman for the Santa Fe Railway on the Cane Belt from Sealy to Matagorda, and later worked in that capacity on their main line.

About three years a[g]o he came to Eagle Lake to make his home with his sister, Mrs. Hale, and two years ago suffered a stroke which kept him confined to his home. On last Saturday he suffered another stroke and failed to rally, passing away that afternoon.

Rev. Chas. L. Culpepper, Jr.,of First Baptist Church conducted [t]he funeral services and officiated at the burial in Lakeside Cemetery. A trio of ladies from the Baptist church sang "Asleep in Jesus" and "In The Garden."

Pallbearers were Geo. Kieth, Max Conner, S. O. Boothe, Chas. McLellan, Ernest Seaholm and D. S. Taylor.

Mr. Barry's wife preceded him in death about six years ago. His father and mother and one brother, George also passed away some years ago.

Survivors include four sister, Mrs. Hale, Mrs. F. J. Krampitz of Sealy, Mrs. H. Tracey of Austin, and Mrs. J. O. Lipps, Fountana, California and a brother C. M. Barry of Bellville.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the family of Mr. Barry in his passing.

Eagle Lake Headlight, January 18, 1946

Barta

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Bartels, Anton

Columbus, Nov. 7.--The funeral of Mr. Anton Bartels, who died yesterday, was held at the same hour as that of Judge McCormick and was also largely attended. The service was conducted by Rev. Parker of the Baptist church. (Interment in Odd Fellows’ Rest]

Weimar Mercury, November 11, 1905, page 1

Barten, Henry William

Funeral Services for Henry Barten Held Wednesday

Funeral services for Henry William Barten, 87, were held Wednesday afternoon from the family residence near Alleyton, with interment in the Mentz [Zoar] Lutheran cemetery. Columbus Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements and Rev. Leo Simon of Frelsburg officiated.

Mr. Barton died at his home Tuesday morning at 10:30 o'clock. He was the son of Henry and Mary Eckelberg Barton, German immigrants, and was born at Alleyton on July 25, 1856. He was a retired farmer and was affiliated with the Lutheran church and the Sons of Herman.

Besides his widow, Mrs. Louise Barten, he is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Lydia Meyer of Alleyton, and three sons, Herman Barten of Shaws Bend, Edwin Barten of Columbus and Louis Barten of Alleyton, nine grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

Colorado County Citizen, February 10 1944

Barten, Herman August

Herman Barten

Funeral services for Herman August Barten, 85, of the Shaw's Bend community were held Tuesday afternoon from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Columbus. Rev. H. L. Anderson, pastor, officiated at the service. Burial was in the Blume's[sic] [Brune Cemetery] Cemetery, Shaw's Bend.

Barten passed away Sunday morning at 11:30 in the Columbus Hospital.

He was born Nov. 25, 1884, the son of Henry and Louise (Meyer) Barten. He was united in marriage with Emma Brune of Shaw's Bend Nov. 11, 1908. Two Children were born to this union, Mrs. Homer (Elsie) Meyer of Bernardo and Mrs. L. P. (Linda) Aurich of Columbus.

Surviving are: his wife, Emma; the two daughters, Mrs. Meyer and Mrs. Aurich; one sister, Mrs. Hugo Meyer of Mentz; 3 grandchildren, David Meyer of Houston, Mrs. Harold Peschel and Mrs. Daniel Kautz of Columbus and 6 great-grandchildren. Two brothers, Edwin and Louis, and one grandson, Homer Ellis Meyer, preceded him in death.

Pallbearers were his nephews, Harry Barten, Reuben Barten, Dennis Meyer, Marvin Hillmer, Thurman Brune and Henry Hillboldt.

Columbus Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Colorado County Citizen, September 17, 1970
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Barten, Lillie (Krueger)

Lillie Barten

Funeral services for Lillie Barten, 86, were held Thursday at St. John's Lutheran Church in New Ulm. Rev. Lynn Rostedt officiated.

Interment was in the Zoar Lutheran Cemetery in Mentz under the direction of the Henneke Funeral Home.

Barten died Tuesday, Oct. 20 at the Sweetbriar Nursing Home In Bellville. She had been in the nursing home for 10 years.

Barten was born in New Ulm Nov. 9, 1894, the daughter of Reinhold Krueger and Ida Newmann.

She married Lewis Barten in Mentz on April 25, 1943. Her husband preceded her in death on March 19, 1955.

She was a lifetime resident of New Ulm and Mentz and belonged to St. John's Lutheran Church.

Barteni is survived by several nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers at the funeral were Emmet Berger, Douglas Lillie, Dennis Meyer, Willie Ruhmann, Arthur Krueger and Ruben Barten.

Colorado County Citizen, October 29, 1981, page 2

Barten, Louise Wilhelmine (Meyer)

Mentz Resident Is Interred Friday

Funeral services were held at the family residence in Mentz Friday for Mrs. Louise Barten who died early Thursday. Burial was in Mentz Lutheran cemetery, the Rev. G. Wolf of St. Paul’s Lutheran church of Columbus officiating. Arrangements were in charge of Columbus Funeral Home.

Assisting Rev. Wolf in the burial rites were members of the Columbus Lutheran choir, J. Mattern, O. G. Hoegemeyer and Mesdames Wolf, W. J. Litzmann, E. J. Untermeyer and Cornelius Fowler.

Mrs. Barten was born Louise Wilhelmine Meyer, a daughter of John Wilhelm and Maria Find Meyer, at New Ulm on November 30, 1860. She was baptized in 1863 at Frelsburg and was confirmed in the Lutheran church in her youth. On October 28, 1879, she was married to Henry W. Barten who died in 1944.

She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Hugo Meyer, Mentz; three sons, Louis, Mentz; Herman, Shaws Bend, and Edwin, Columbus; a brother Louis Meyer, Alleyton; ten grandchildren and ten great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Harry Barten, Homer Meyer, Lester Aurich, William Ruhmann, William Nelson and Elmer Dennis Meyer.

Colorado County Citizen, June 7, 1945

Barten, Minnie (Stolle)

Minnie Barten Funeral Held At Columbus

Funeral services for Minnie Stolle Barten, 97, of Rt. 1, Columbus, were held Wednesday, March 6, from St. Paul Lutheran Church at Columbus, with burial in Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery. Pastor Robert Schlortt officiated.

Mrs. Barten, a resident of River Oaks Nursing Home since November, 1968, died there Saturday, March 2.

Born July 22, 1893, at Ellinger, she was a daughter of Gerhardt and Johanna (Huls) Stolle. She was married to Edwin John Barten on Nov. 11, 1914. He died July 23, 1962. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Surviving are a daughter and son-in-law, LaVerne and Herbert Graham of Pasadena; two sons and daughter-in-law, Reuben and Lee Barten of Columbus and Harry and Alta Barten of Columbus; nine grandchildren, 21 great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild.

Pallbearers ere Mano Graham, Noel Barten, Mark Barten, Jamie Wood, Jack Winslow Jr. and John Barten.

Weimar Mercury, March 14, 1991

Barten, Rhett Blayne

Barton

Rhett Blayne Barten, 25, entered into the Lord's presence on June 11, 2004.

Rhett was born in Wharton, Texas on January 11, 1979 to John and Bobette Barten. After attending school in Columbus for eleven years Rhett then moved to Colorado and graduated from Pagosa Springs High School in Pagosa Springs, Colorado in 1997. After graduation Rhett moved back to Columbus to go to work for his father in the family business. In 2002 Rhett joined his brother's business, Sand Express, as sales manager.

Rhett was a lover of rock and roll, good times and good food. He will be remembered for his quick wit, sense of humor and hard work, but most of all his sense of love and devotion to all of his family and friends and caring for others.

Rhett is preceded in death by his paternal grandparents Harry and Maude Barten, and his maternal grandfather Robert V. Senf Sr.

He is survived by his father and mother John and Bobette Barten; his brothers, Shane Barten, Brandon Barten and wife Jennifer and Todd Barten; sister Kari and husband Dr. Dan Moeller; and three nieces, McKenzie, Miranda and Madalyn Moeller, that he loved and adored more than anything. He is also survived by his maternal grandmother Elizabeth Senf.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, June 16th from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Henneke Funeral Home and services will be held Thursday, June 17, 2004 at 10 a.m. at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus, Texas with Minister Lynn Wilson officiating. Burial in Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Columbus, TX.

Pallbearers scheduled are Chris Archuletta, Randy Ahlschlager, Jim Saner, Kirk Lowe, George Ortolon, Larry Werland, Bill Heffley and Nick Youens.

Rhett's family would like to express their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from all of his friends. Rhett was blessed with many friends whom he held very close to his heart.

We have lost a beautiful angel that has gone to a better place. Rhett will be forever loved and missed by all.

The Colorado County Citizen, June 16, 2004
Courtesy of The Citizen

Barton

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Bartosh

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Bartz, Ferdinand A.

Mr. F. A. Bartz

The death of F. A. Bartz, a well known and popular citizen and businessman of this place for a number of years past, occurred abut 7 o’clock Wednesdar[sic] evening, at the family residence in the western part of the city. Mr. Bartz had been ill for a number of months, and his death was not entirely unexpected. However, he was able to sit up in a chair up to within a short time before his death, hence the end was not expected so quickly. Mr. Bartz moved here from Velasco a number of years ago, engaging in the bottling and restaurant business, which occupations he pursued up to the time of his death. He was a clever, sociable gentleman, honest, a hard worker, and well liked by all who knew him. He was a seafaring man in the early days of his life, visiting many foreign countries, and was perfectly familiar with the country where the present great war is raging, in which he was greatly interested, so much so that he had his good wife read to him daily up to the time of his death, of the occurrences over there. Mr. Bartz was a member of the Woodmen of the World, and will be buried under the auspices of that order at 4:30 this afternoon at the Weimar Masonic cemetery. He leaves a bereaved widow and several children, to whom the heartfelt sympathy of the entire community is extended.

Weimar Mercury, August 28, 1914, page 1

Basham, Dorothy Allen (Munn)

Dorothy Allen Munn Basham Services Held

Dorothy Allen Munn Basham, 96, died Monday morning, Feb. 17, in Galveston. Funeral services were held Thursday, Feb. 20 with Dr. Gayle Grubbs presiding.

Mrs. Basham was born on Sept. 20, 1900 in Weimar, a town her grandfather, Squire D. W. Jackson, founded. Her father, W. C. Munn was a prominent Houston businessman in the early 1900’s and owned the Munn Department Store in downtown Houston. Her mother was Georgia Allen Jackson Munn of Houston.

She was a member of St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church of Houston. Mrs. Basham was active in the old Second Presbyterian Church where she played piano for the primary grade Sunday School.

Mrs. Basham lived the majority of her life in Houston, but moved to Galveston in January of this year.

She was preceded in death by her husband Howard Basham, sisters: Eunice Jackson Munn Bryan, Nell Jackson Munn Keith, Wilma Georgia Munn Smith and Kathleen Douglas Munn, all of Houston.

Survivors include her niece Jacqueline Keith MacDonald of Galveston; Rev. Dr. Gayle Grubbs and husband Jim of Kingwood; and Keith Gudger and wife Karen of Soquel, Calif. Also great-great nieces and nephews Kenneth and Keitha MacDonald, Susan and Eric Grubbs and Ian and Erin Gudger.

The family requests that memorials may be sent to St. Luke’s Presbyterian Church, Houston, or the American Humane Society.

The Weimar Mercury, February 27, 1997
Transcribed by Jennie Muggli

Basquez, George W.

George Basquez, 52, Dies Suddenly, Rites Held Wednesday

Friends in the community learned with great sadness of the death, Tuesday morning, of George W. Basquez of Houston, son-in-law of Mr. and Mrs. S. C. (Jake) Smothers of this city. Mr. Basquez became ill when he and his wife were visiting in Smothers home during the weekend. He was taken to Eagle Lake Community Hospital but expired at 8:00 a.m. Tuesday at the hospital.

Mr. Basquez, a resident of Houston for 16 years, was born on August 14, 1914, in Lake Charles, La., the son of Capt. Joe G. and Stella Basquez. He was united in marriage with Miss Caroline Smothers in Eagle Lake on January 1st, 1948.

He served in the U. S. Army during World War II and was honorably discharged with the rank of Captain.

Funeral services were held at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 5th, from the chapel of the Mill-Bauer Funeral Home in Eagle Lake with the Rev. Irvin F. A. Kracke, rector of Christ Episcopal Church, officiating. Burial was in the Lakeside Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were: Roy Street, W. A. Mitchum, Karl Stefan, Carnes Weaver of Houston Cal Gertson and Harold Thomas of Eagle Lake.

The family named as honorary pallbearers Fred H. M. Traweek, Crawford Jackson, Dr. Charles L. Leach, Dr. Henry Withers of Houston, Welvin (sic) Blum of Bay City, Marvin Tyler of Altair, E. C. Terrell, Dr. J. R. Laughlin and Boggess of Eagle Lake.

Surviving are: his wife, Mrs. Caroline Basquez; four sisters, Mrs. Leroy Smith of New Orleans, La. Mrs. John Dunwoody of Fort Worth, Mrs. I. Austin Meyer of Wilmington, Delaware, and Mrs. Earl Horton, Jr., of Houston and one brother, J. Gilbert Basquez of Houston.

Deepest sympathy is extended to the family in the loss of this loved one.

The Eagle Lake Headlight, April 6, 1967
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Bass, Elmira P. (Burgess)

We are sorry to pen the death of Mrs. Myra Bass, which occurred at her home three miles west of here Monday, at 2:30, after an illness of ten days. She was buried at the Clear Creek cemetery, Tuesday evening, by the side of her husband, Rev. J. E. Burk performing the funeral rites. Mrs. Bass was born in Alabama, Nov. 13th, 1827. She united with the Methodist church at the early age of 14, and has lived a consistent member ever since. In 1850 she was married to Mr. Wm. Bass, and moved to Texas, where she has lived up to the time of her death. She was the mother of four children, three of whom have preceded her to the other world, and Mr. C. A. Bass, her youngest child, with whom she lived. We certainly sympathize with him and his family in their bereavement, and commend them to the God their mother worshiped. Ye scribe has known Mrs. Bass from childhood, and always believed her to be a true christian, and we know as she lived so she died.

Weimar Mercury, Oct. 20, 1906
Submitted by Ernest Mae Seaholm

Bass, James Robert

James Robert Bass

James (Jamie) Robert Bass, 21 months old, died on Thursday, November 8 at 4:15 p.m. at the Ben Taub Hospital in Houston following a brief illness.

The funeral was conducted at 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 10 from the Dulany Funeral Home Chapel with Rev. Russell Kope, pastor of the Victoria Church of God, officiating. Burial was in Cheatham Cemetery in Sheridan.

He was born January 21, 1983 in Houston, a son of Robert D. and Jackie Briscoe Bass of Houston.

Survivors, in addition to his parents, include grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. James Briscoe of Victoria, Ray C. Bass of Daytona Beach, Florida and Sherrill Farrell of Greenville, South Carolina; numerous other relatives and a host of loved ones.

Pallbearers were Buddy Barlatta, Ervin Briscoe, Randall Luker and Charlie Guinn.

Sympathy is extended to the family in the loss of their loved one.

Eagle Lake Headlight, 22 Nov 1984, page 10
Contributed by Matt Cross

Bass, Myrtle Elmira

On last Friday afternoon, after a short illness, Myrtle E., the 2-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Asberry Bass, living southeast of Schulenburg, breathed her last. Little Myrtle was the idol of the family, and her death will be deeply regretted by friends, whom the Sticker joins in extending heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved.—Schulenburg Sticker.

Weimar Mercury, Jan 22, 1898

Bass, Seaborn "Sam"

Seaborn "Sam" Bass, 65, of Rock Island passed away April 9, 1995, at V.A. Hospital in Houston. He was born April 3,1930, in Poplarville, Miss., the son of Washington Julius and Sarah Lewis Bass.

Bass was a resident of Rock Island for three years. He was united in marriage with Margaret Warren Lyles on February 11, 1987. Bass was self employed as a carpenter. He was affiliated with the Baptist church and served in the Korean War while in the Army. Survivors include his wife, Margaret Lyles of Rock Island; two daughters and sons-in-law, Theresa and Tony Lostracco of Weimar and Vivian and Jeff Knape of Alvin; three sons and two daughters-in-law, DJ. and Carol Bass of Denver, Colo., Donia Bass of Rosharon and Bryan and Carol Bass of Alvin; four step children, John, Patti, Buddy and Allen; four sisters, Velma Smith, Candice Widden, Bonnie Jean Sumall and Shirley Mae Bennett, all of Mississippi; three brothers and sisters-in-law, Eari and Lucille Bass and their daughters, Loraine and Earline, of Houston, and Wessley and Mary Bass and Lonnie and Frances Bass, all of Mississippi; 12 grandchildren, Julie, Amy, Shannon, Preston, Wesley, Lauren, Robby, Bryan, Chris, Bryce, Winston and Rachel; and six great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were held April 12 at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus with the Rev. David Lowe officiating. Burial followed at Myrtle Cemetery in Rock Island. Seving as pallbearers were Hector Gallegos, Victor Lowe, Preston Persons, Stephen Koestler, Donnie Spiers and Scott Nicely. Henneke Funeral Home Inc., Columbus, was in charge of arrangements. Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, April 20, 1995
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Batla, Johnny A.

Batla

Johnny A. Batla, 76, of Bernardo, passed away Nov. 29 at Rice Medical Center in Eagle Lake.

He was born in Altair, Nov. 1, 1928 to John J. and Ora Mae (Kveton) Batla and married Jean Waddell, Nov. 24, 1954. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Columbus as well as a charter member of the Bernardo Volunteer Fire Department.

His parents preceded him in death.

He is survived by his wife; daughter and son-in-law, Maridee and Billy Corley of Frydek; son, John Dudley Batla of Columbus; sisters, Ora Lee Plengemeyer of Bernardo and Bobbie Jean Boatright of Friendswood; grandchildren, Samantha Draper and husband Ross, James Robert Jordan and Natalie Batla; step-granddaughter, Tracie Corley; and step-great-grandson, Tyler Lezak.

Funeral services were conducted Dec. 2 at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus with the Rev. John Hunsicker officiating. Interment followed at Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Columbus.

Pallbearers were Everett Wright, Joe Waligura, Justin Kennedy, James Stock, Joe Trojacek, David Boatright, Rex Thumann and Steve Mahalitc.

Colorado County Citizen, December 8, 2004
Courtesy of The Citizen

Batla, John J.

Funeral services were held Thursday, June 17, at 4 PM for John J. Batla, 78, of Altair who passed away June 15, in a Wharton hospital after a lengthy illness.

Mr. Batla was born in Cat Spring, April 14, 1893, the son of John and Annie (Schiller) Batla. He attended public school in Garwood and Columbus.

On Dec. 27, 1922, he married Miss Ora Mae Kveton of Cat Spring. He made his home in Altair where he lived for the last 50 years. He was a retired farmer and rancher and a veteran of World War I.

He is survived by his widow, one son, Johnny A. Batla of Bernardo, 2 daughters, Mrs. Oralee Plengemeyer of New Gulf and Mrs. Bobbie Jean Boatright of Miami, Florida; 6 grandchildren, Maridee and John Batla, Debbie, Donna and Diana Plengemeyer and David Boatright.

Pallbearers were J. E. Meismer, Elmo E. Werla, Bill Abell, Marvin Tyler, James Dennis and George Stafford.

Burial was in Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Columbus. Services were conducted by Pastor Wm. Feller of Cat Spring.

Sealy News, June 18, 1971
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Batla, Ora Mae (Kveton)

Funeral services for Ora Mae (Kveton) Batla, age 90, of the Bernardo Community were held Monday, February 28, 1994, at 2:00 P.M. at the Henneke Funeral Chapel in Columbus, Texas with Pastor John Hunsicker officiating. Interment was in the Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Columbus, Texas.

Ora Mae Batla was born May 3, 1903, in Cat Spring, TX to Albert and Theresa (Sens) Kveton. She attended school at the Bretschneider Public School in Bernardo. On December 27, 1922, she married John J. Batla and they made their home in Altair for forty-eight years, until her husband passed away on June 15, 1971. She then moved to the Bernardo area and lived there for 22 years. She passed away February 25, 1994, in a local area nursing home after a long illness. She was a homemaker.

Survivors are daughters and sons-in-law, Ora Lee and Howard Plengemeyer of Bernardo, TX and Bobbie Jean and Dennis Boatright of Friendswood, TX, son and daughter-in-law Johnny and Jean Batla of Bernardo, TX. Also surviving, sister Elsie Schultz of Sealy, TX and sister-in-law, Lillian Kveton of Bernardo, six grandchildren, Debbie (Plengemeyer) Hubenak, Donna (Plengemeyer) Kennedy, Diana (Plengemeyer) O'Teter, David Boatright, John Batla and Maridee (Batla) Jordan, nine great-grandchildren, Blake and Bart Hubenak, Justin and Bo Kennedy, Steven and Christopher O'Teter, James and Samantha Jordan and Natalie Batla and, also, two nephews and five nieces.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John J. Batla, parents, Albert and Theresa Kveton, sister, Estella Frazier, brothers, Herman, Hugo, Leo and Emmett Kveton all of Bernardo.

Pallbearers were Alvin Hubenak, Pat O'Teter, David Boatright, John Batla, Justin Kennedy, James Jordan Lee Kveton and Rubin Kveton. Honorary pallbearers were all grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Bernardo Volunteer Fire Department, Rt. 1, Cat Spring, Texas 78933 or to the charity of your choice.

Colorado County Citizen, March 2, 1994
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Batot, C. V.

Batot Funeral Services

Funeral Services were held for C. V. Batot of Columbus Tuesday, November 17, 1987, at St. Anthony's. Catholic Church in Columbus with Msgr. Tom Collins and Bishop Hugo Gerbermann officiating.

Burial was at La Grange City Cemetery.

Mr. Batot, a long-time civic leader in Columbus, was born December 23, 1901 in Eagle Pass, Texas, to Joseph Batot and Catherin Rudinger Batot. He married the former Lillian E. Sladczyk on February 9, 1929 in La Grange.

Mr. Batot was a retired railroad locomotive engineer for Southern Pacific, a member of Knights of Columbus Council 2971, 3rd and 4th Degree Knights of Columbus 113, and Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers Lodge 197.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lillian, on March 26, 1961.

Survivors include a son, Paul J. Batot of Irving; sister, Elsie Wipff of Tucson, Arizona; and four grandchildren, Mike, David, Susan and Linda Batot.

Pallbearers were Doug Potter, Frank Olivarez, Gilbert Elizondo, Lonnie Coleman, Mike Batot and David Batot.

Honorary pallbearers were Doug Hastedt, Howard Besch, Mickey Schmidt, Charlie Klein, Jimmy Seymour, Leon Rosenberg, Jake Obenhaus, Fred Wallace, Henry Potter, Jim Stein and Bill Cobb.

Services were under the direction of Hennke[sic] Funeral Home of Columbus.

New Ulm Enterprise, November 19, 1987, page 3

Batot, Paul J.

Batot

Paul J. Batot, 75, of Irving passed away Saturday, Aug. 9 in Irving.

He was born Feb. 17, 1933 in LaGrange to C. V. and Lillian Batot. He was a retired aircraft mechanic for Braniff and Dalfort Aviation. He coached football and basketball for the YMCA and was Coach of the Year three times.

He was a member of Woodhaven Presbyterian Church in Irving.

He was preceded in death by a grandson, Adam Joseph Batot and daughter-in-law, Nancy Batot.

Survivors include his wife of 51 years, Georgie of Irving; sons, Mike Batot of Irving and David Batot of Overland Park, Kan.; daughters, Susan Batot of Colleyville and Linda and husband Carlos Rebora of Irving; and three grandchildren, Jennaleigh Hoelscher, Caroline Pittet and Ashley Rebora.

The family will receive friends at the funeral home Thursday 6-8 p.m.

Funeral service will take place Friday, Aug. 15 at Woodhaven Presbyterian Church, 3650 N. O'Connor, beginning at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at 2 p.m. at Dallas Fort Worth National Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to Woodhaven Presbyterian Church or Irving YMCA.

Colorado County Citizen, August 13, 2008
Courtesy The Citizen

Batot, Lillian E. (Sladezyk)

Mrs. Lillian Batot

Mrs. Lillian E. Batot, 535 Travis, passed away in Columbus Hospital Friday, March 26.

Born in La Grange Feb. 2, 1902, she was the daughter of Paul and Auguste (Nollkamper) Sladezyk. She was a graduate of La Grange High School and attended Texas State College for Women at Denton.

She was united in marriage with C. V. Batot Feb. 9, 1929 in La Grange. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Columbus Music Club and the Columbus Foundation Auxiliary.

Funeral services were held at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at St. Paul Lutheran church with the Rev. H. L. Anderson officiating. Burial was in City Cemetery in La Grange. Columbus Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Surviving are: her husband, C. V. Batot; a son, Paul and wife Georgie (Hickman) Batot of Irving and 4 grandchildren, Mike, David, Susan and Linda Batot.

Pallbearers were Marley Giddens, Ernest Lawrence, Douglas Hastedt, Jimmy Seymour, John Wagner and Neville Miekow.

Colorado County Citizen, April 1, 1971
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Battle O. L.

EAGLE LAKE ITEMS

Last Saturday Dr. F. O. Norris received a telegram to start immediately for Waco to see Col. O. L. Battle, who was very ill, and before starting Sunday morning a dispatch was received announcing his death. Col. Battle was for many years a resident of this county, and is well and favorably known here, as a man of superior abilities, and a great moral worth. What the nature of malady was, we have not yet learned. [Place of interment unknown]

Colorado Citizen, March 11, 1886, page 3

Baty, Johanna

“AUNT JOE” DEAD.

“Aunt Joe” Baitey [sic.], one of the oldtime slavery black mammies of the south, of whom there are so few now living, and who ever proved themselves worth their weight in gold, died Saturday and the funeral was held the following day. The funeral was largely attended, and much sorrow was expressed by both whites and blacks over the death of this good old woman. [Interred at Good Hope Cemetery]

Weimar Mercury, April 23, 1920, page 4

Bauer, Alma

Alma Bauer, 59, of Columbus, passed away May 9, at Columbus Care Center following a lenghty illness.

She was born in Lampasas, on May 29, 1942. She was a former resident of the Brookshire--Katy area, Eagle Lake's Kevin Court Apartments and Heritage House Nursing Home and the Columbus Care Center since April 2002.

A memorial service was conducted May 15, from the chapel of Dulany Funeral Home in Eagle Lake with the Rev. Don Delaplain, pastor of Eagle Lake and Lehrer Memorial United Methodist Churches and Gulf Coast Hospice Support officiating. Following cremation, interment followed in Lakeside Cemetery in Eagle Lake.

In lieu of flowers, memorials should be made to Hospice Support, Inc., 1102 N. Mechanic, El Campo, TX 77437.

Colorado County Citizen, May 15, 2002
Courtesy of the Citizen

Bauer, Fredrick Edward “Fritz”

SP Worker, 61, Killed In Switching Mishap

Fritz Bauer, 61, of Columbus, a longtime employee of Southern Pacific Railroad Lines, was killed at 4:30 a.m. Wednesday in the Glidden switching yard when two freight cars ran over him.

It was not immediately known whether he tripped and fell into the car’s path or whether he had a heart attack or fainting spell. Justice of the Peace Mrs. Bonnie Jackson of Columbus returned a verdict of accidental death.

The tragic accident occurred on a switching track, 600 feet east of the depot, where an engine was pushing the two cars. One arm was cut off but the rest of Mr. Bauer’s body, lying between the rails, was not badly mangled, Chief Deputy Sheriff M. H. Buller said.

He had been employed in the car department at Glidden 25 years.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16, at Untermeyer Funeral Home, Columbus, with burial in the church cemetery. The rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Thursday in the funeral home.

Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Emma Buxkemper Bauer of Columbus; two sons, Edgar L. and Joseph M. Bauer, both of Houston; two daughters, Mrs. Floyd Neuendorf[sic] of Columbus and Mrs. Edwin Gassmann of Phoenix, Ariz.; 14 grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters.

Weimar Mercury, December 8, 1966, page 1

Bauer, J. Fritz

Funeral Rites for Fritz J, Bauer, 61, Held Here Sunday

Funeral services for Fritz J. Bauer, 61, who died at his home in Houston, were held at Hubbard Funeral Home here last Sunday with burial in Weimar Masonic Cemetery.

Mr. Bauer, whose occupation was that of a service supernitendent[sic], was a native of Seguin, son of Fritz and Johana Bauer. He married Miss Georgia Chapman here in 1916 and they had lived in Houston for a number of years. He was a member of the Lutheran Church

Surviving are his widow Mrs. Georgia Chapman Bauer, a son, R. I. Bauer, a daughter, Mrs. Sybil McDonald and a brother, Richard P. Bauer, all of Houston.

Pallbearers were Bill Hewitt, Tom Penick, Carl Brown, Sidney Shakelford, James Chapman and Louis Castelannos.

Weimar Mercury, June 26, 1953, page 4

Bauer, Julia

Columbus Citizen: The death of Mrs. Julia Bauer of this city occurred at 1 o’clock yesterday afternoon, just as we were going to press. Funeral will take place from the residence of Mr. T. P. Luck at 9 o’clock tomorrow morning. A more extended notice will appear next issue. [Interment in Odd Fellows' Rest]

Weimar Mercury, September 22, 1906, page 1

Bauer, Walter Lee

Bauer

Walter Lee Bauer, 76, of Eagle Lake passed away Jan. 8 at the Heritage House Nursing Home in Eagle Lake.

He was born Dec. 8, 1926 to Kennie Eugene and Ina (Ferguson) Bauer in Eagle Lake.

He was a licensed funeral director and embalmer in the state of Texas since 1949 and served in the US Army during WW II as a Sergeant. He was a deacon and member of First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake, V.F.W. Post 8783 Eagle Lake Lodge 366 A.F. and A.M. and various other organizations.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Owen Thomas Bauer.

He is survived by wife, Virginia Mill Bauer, children; Jennifer Obenhaus, Janet Bauer, Jacalyn Warner and husband Steve, Janelle Hooper and husband Jackson; sisters; Willie Mae Ramsey, Kay Wells and husband Glen and Fay Rutledge; brother, Kenneth Eugene Bauer and wife Roberta; grandchildren; Kenneth Reese, Dale Obenhaus, Camille Ashby, Caroline Ashby, Charles Hooper and Rebecca Hooper; nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Funeral services were held Jan. 11 at the First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake with the Rev. Brent Beasley, the Rev. Melburn Sibley and the Rev. Henry Adrion officiating.

Graveside services and interment were at the Lakeside Cemetery of Eagle Lake under the auspices of Eagle Lake Lodge #366 A.F. & A.M. and Commanders from American Legion Post #108 and V.F.W. Post #8783.

Pallbearers were Louis Matthews, Kenneth Reese, Dale Obenhaus, Jackson Hooper, Charles Hooper and Steve Warner.

Honorary pallbearers were Arthur Anderson, Frank Higgins, Charles Spalinger, Gene Selph, Hugh D. Sheridan, Lee Barnett, Melvin Stancik, Robert Wilcox, Deacons of First Baptist Church, Eagle Lake Lodge #366 A.F. & A.M. and American Legion Post # 108..

Colorado County Citizen, January 15, 2003
Courtesy of the Citizen

Baumbach, Sidonie (Kulhanek)

Mrs. Alton "Sideline" Baumbach, 81 of Santa Anna Community, passed away Jan. 9 at Columbus Community Hospital.

She was born in Santa Anna Community, Aug. 30, 1919 to Albert and Annie (Tomastik) Kulhanek and married Alton J. Baumbach, Oct. 8, 1940. She was a member of St. Mary Catholic Church and Hermann Sons in Ellinger.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; a brother; and four sisters.

She is survived by daughter and son-in-law, Margie and Bob Bell of Houston; sons and daughters-in-law., Anthony and Marilyn Baumbach of Mente and Jerry and Faye Baumbach of Carrolton; sisters, Lillie Zapalac of La Grange, Nolle School of Columbus, Gladys Dotal of Eagle Lake and Margie Half-moon of Columbus; brother, Jerry Kulhanek of La Grange; nine grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Funeral services were conducted Jan. 12 at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Dan Kahlich officiating. Interment followed at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers were: James Lee Kulhanek, Henry Dotal Jr., Terry Dotal, Mike Quisling, Don Quisling, Andy School, Bobby School and Edward Peters.

Colorado County Citizen, January 17, 2001
Courtesy The Citizen

Baumert, William Adolf

Baumert

William Adolph Baumert, age 82, of Eagle Lake, passed away November 15 at the Eagle Lake Community Hospital.

Funeral services were held November 17 at Dulany Funeral Home Chapel under the direction of Dulany Funeral Home. Pastor Paul Krupicka of Grace Lutheran Church officiated. [Interment in Lakeside Cemetery]

Mr. Baumert was born January 18, 1902 in Kingsbury to Adolph and Ann Jacobs Baumert.

Mr. Baumert was a resident of Eagle Lake for almost 60 years. He was a member of Grace Lutheran Church in Eagle Lake.

He was preceeded[sic] in death by his parents; his wife, Melonie Harborth Baumert; one daughter, Billie Faye Perry.

Survivors Include three sisters, Julia Harborth of Kingsbury, Irma Stanford Steward of Sealy, and Edna Dudley of Beaumont; one grandson, James Zickuhr of Eagle Lake. He has a host of other relatives and loved ones.

Colorado County Citizen, November 29, 1984, page 2

Baxter, Elizabeth E.

Mrs. Elizabeth E. Baxter, wife of John Baxter, of Rock Island, Texas, was born January 1st, 1857 in Cooper County, Mo. Departed this life, November 7th 1934, at Rock Island. Mrs. Baxter was converted and joined the Baptist church, in Fayette County, Mo. She was educated in State Normal School of Warrensburg, Mo., and taught school about 12 years.

United in matrimony, with John Baxter, in Cooper Co., December 17th, 1885, to this union was born two sons, C. W. Baxter and E. J. Baxter, and their families, she has two sisters surviving her, Mrs. M. B. George of Rock Island and Mrs. Jessie K. Allen of Otterville, Mo. And three grandchildren of Houston, Texas.

John Baxter and family moved from Otterville, Mr., to Rock Island in May 1896, and located at Rock Island and lived here up to the time of her death. They helped to organize the Baptist church at Rock Island in 1897, she and her husband were the only charter members of said church living here.

Funeral services conducted at the family residence, November 8th, and interment at Myrtle Cemetery. Funeral services conducted by Rev. Wm. D. Wyatt, pastor of Columbus Baptist and Master of A. F. & A. M. Lodge No. 68, assisted by Rev. Estes, pastor of Methodist church at Columbus, and H. L. B. Skinner, of Columbus.

Pallbearers: S. K. Seymour, Emil H. Rabel, F. F. Hoegemeyer, Ellis Miller, and E. E. Irwin all of Columbus and W. Roy Wright of Rock Island all members of Caledonia Lodge A. F. & A. M., No. 68.

Floral offerings and wreaths from Houston, Columbus, Garwood, Yoakum and Rock Island and vicinity were beautiful. A large crowd attended funeral services.

Colorado County Citizen, November 15, 1934
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Baxter, John

John Baxter, Pioneer of Rock Island dies December 22nd

John Baxter, 75, of Rock Island passed away in Houston December 22nd at 2:30 p.m. He was born April 26th 1862 near Tipton, Missouri and came to Rock Island, May 9th 1896, where he resided until a short time before his death. At an early age he united with the Baptist Church. On December 17th 1885 he was united in marriage to his cousin, Miss Bettie E. Baxter, who preceded him in death November 7th, 1931. Two sons, Charles W. and E.J. both of Houston were born to this union. In addition to these two survivors there are three grandchildren, one half-brother of Colorado Springs, Colorado, three nephews and two nieces. Services were held December 24th at the E.E.J. Untermeyer home with Rev. Frank D. Chariton, Pastor of Columbus Methodist Church officiating. Interment was in Rock Island [Myrtle Cemetery] with the Masons in charge.

The Colorado County Citizen, January 2, 1941
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Bayardo, Manuel H.

BAYARDO

Funeral services for Manuel Bayardo were held June 30 at graveside in Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery in Frelsburg with Father Werner Bockholt officiating. Services were under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home.

Manuel Bayardo was born June 5, 1924 in Orange Grove, Texas. He married Guadulupe Magallan who preceded him in death. He worked as a gravel truck driver for Moore Sand & Gravel Company.

Survivors are his parents: Jose and Maria Bayardo of Robstown; his three daughters: Maria Bayardo Garcia of New Ulm, Diana Moreno of Arizona, and Rocio Bayardo of Mexico; four sons: Jose and Santiago Bayardo of Robstown, Jacob and Ernest Bayardo of Mexico; three sisters: Maria D. Carranz, Socorro Soliz of Robstown, and Elvia Megerle of Houston; one brother: Refugio Bayardo of Chicago, Ill.; and 15 grandchildren.

The pallbearers were Joe Bayardo, Jessie Garcia, George Moreno, Ray Bayardo, Joe Bayardo Jr., Santiago Bayardo.

Colorado County Citizen, July 5, 1984, page 2

Beadus, Caleb

Oakland Notes

Caleb Beadus, colored, who lived on Honey creek, about six miles south of this place was shot by Jack Gordon, colored, a few nights ago, the Winchester ball passing through the middle portion of the thigh, crushing the thigh bone in the passage severely, necessitating amputation. Beadus died the next day. It seems that Caleb and Jack had returned home together from Sublime, and went to the latter's home and remained there late. Caleb was drinking, and after so long a time started home, biding Jack good night. Awhile after this Jack Gordon's wife called to him and said she saw a man down the fence, whereupon Jack grabbed his gun, and went to the door and seeing no one, concluded to shoot down the fence, with the above results. [Place of interment unknown]

Colorado Citizen, December 20, 1888

Beaird, Ella (Schiurring)

Ella Schiurring Beaird

January 12,1913 - February 29,1996

Ella Beaird, 83, of Garwood, passed away Thursday, February 29, 1996. She was born January 12,1913, in Garwood to Chriss R. and Nora Frederickson Schiurring. Beaird retired from work as a bookkeeper and computer operator for Garwood Implement & Supply Company. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in El Campo and the Circle of Presbyterian Women. Beaird was preceded in death by her husband, Harold L Beaird on August 1, 1979. She is survived by her son, Jim Beaird and his wife, Bonnie, of Frelsburg; a daughter, Jackie Gilbreath of Houston; brothers, Robert Schiurring of Garwood and James Schiurring of El Campo; a sister, Elvine Bahm of Houston; and three grandchildren. Funeral services were held Saturday, March 2,1996 at 2 p.m. in Columbus from Henneke Funeral Home with Rev. Richard Gould officiating. Burial followed in Lakeside Cemetery in Eagle Lake. Serving as pallbearers were David, Steven, Walde and J. Brent Schiurring, Sandy and Chris Bahm, Hugo Bubela and Randy Schulte. Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer's Association. Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, March 7,1996
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Beaird, Harold L.

Harold L. Beaird, 65, Garwood rice farmer, died Wednesday, Aug. l in the Caney Valley Memorial Hospital in Wharton after illness for several weeks. He had been in failing health for some time. Funeral services were held from the. chapel of the Wheeler Funeral Home in El Campo Friday, Aug. 3, with The Rev. Lloyd Nixon of the First Presbyterian Church of El Campo, officiating. Burial was in the Lakeside Cemetery in Eagle Lake. Mr. Beaird was born April 14, 1914 in Cuba, Ill., the son of Charles Beaird and Ella Hinderliter Beaird. He was a 32nd degree Mason with membership in Clement Lodge, No. 680, of Colona, Ill..; and received his 33rd degree in Masonary with membership in the Scottish Rite Bodies, Moline, Ill. Mr. Beaird was formly employed at the International Harvester Co., in East Moline, Ill. as a tool and die maker. He came to the Garwood community in 1946 and was active in rice farming until his retirement. He and Ella Schmrring were united in marriage on July 3, 1936 in Garwood. In addition to his wife, Ella, he is survived by one daughter, Jacquelyn Bonin and her husband, Clayton Bonin of Houston; one son, James K, Beaird and his wife Bonnie of Frelsburg; and three grandchildren, Darrell Gilbreath of Houston, and Jennifer and Matthew Beaird of Frelsburg; two sisters, Mrs. Wilda Newton of Branson, Mo., and Mrs. Melba DaRenzy of Canton, Ill. and two brothers, Lyndall Mahr of Riverside, Calif., and Eldred Mahr of Covina, Calif.; and other relatives and friends. Pallbearers were I. A. Plnchback, Wilbert Martin, B. F. Turner, W. N.Lehrer, David Schiurring, Walda Schiurring, J. Brent Schiurring and Chris Bahm.

The Colorado County Citizen, August 16. 1979
Contributed by Pattie Hall-Smith

Beakes, Vaughan

VAUGHAN BEAKES KILLED.

Shot and Instantly Killed in Brosig’s Saloon Monday Night.

In a difficulty at C. H. Brosig’s saloon about 8 o’clock Monday night, Vaughan Beakes was shot and instantly killed with a 44-caliber Colt’s pistol in the hands of Joe Duke.

Immediately after the shooting Duke left the saloon, going out the side door, and was not located until the following night, when he telephoned City Marshal Harvey Vineyard to come and get him, stating that he had not been trying to evade the officers, but had acted as he had thinking it for the best.

Only one shot was fired, the bullet striking Beakes in the forehead over the left eye, passing through his head, breaking the skull in the back and lodging under the skin, killing him instantly.

From the best accounts obtainable the killing seems to be the result of a trouble between the two that had been brewing during the afternoon. Duke was bartender at the saloon and when Beakes entered the saloon about 8 o’clock the fuss was renewed with the result as told above. There were several eye witnesses to the tragedy but other than has been stated above no particulars have been made known.

Duke is about 35 years of age and unmarried. Up to a month or six weeks ago he had been working in Saratoga. The dead man, for some time past, has been making his home in San Antonio and was a fireman on the Sunset railroad out of that city. He was about 23 years old and also a single man. Both young men were raised in Eagle Lake and have known each other all their lives. The affair is deeply regretted and much sympathy is felt for the families on both sides.

Duke was taken to jail in Columbus Tuesday night by Sheriff Bridge.

The funeral of Vaughan Beakes was held at 9 o’clock Wednesday morning from the residence of his brother-in-law, Mr. Dempson Reed, Rev. Mr. McDonald, pastor of Christian church, conducting the funeral services. Interment in the Lakeside cemetery.

Eagle Lake Headlight, 7 Nov 1908, page 1
Contributed by Matt Cross

Beaks, Maggie

Eagle Lake News

Mrs. Maggie Beaks, the devoted wife of George Beaks, died Tuesday evening after a short but very painful illness, and was buried on the lake Wednesday evening, surrounded by a host of loving, sympathizing friends. Mrs. Beaks was a noble Christian woman, and will be greatly missed, not only at home, but by the entire town. This is indeed a very sad death, as it leaves a husband and nine children to mourn her loss, all of whom have the sympathies of the people. [Interment in Lakeside Cemetery]

Colorado Citizen—March 26, 1896
Submitted by Ernest Mae Seaholm

Beal, Anna Marie (Waligura)

Mrs. Joe Beal, a resident of the Garwood community and Colorado County for the past 26 years, passed away in Nightingale Hospital, El Campo, Saturday, February 4, 1967 at the age of 68 years, 6 months and 24 days.

Funeral services were held from Triska Chapel, El Campo, Tuesday, February 7 and continued at St. Mary’s Catholic Church, Nada, at 9:30 a.m. with the Rev. Edmund J. Bily officiating. Interment was in St. Mary’s Cemetery at Nada.

Serving as pallbearers were Lawrence Beal, Ben Waligura, Johnnie Pavlu, Ben Beal, Frank Jezisek and Victor Valigura.

Mrs. Beal, nee Anna Marie Waligura, was born July 10, 1898 near Taiton. She was married to Joe F. Beal September 9, 1919 at Taiton.

She was a member of the KJZT Society and the Christian Mothers Society of Nada.

She is survived by one daughter, Mrs. Jerry (Rose Marilyn) Kocurek of El Campo; one son, Emmery Beal of Midland; eight grandchildren; two brothers, John Valigura of El Campo and Clement Valigura of Rockport.

Her husband, Joe Beal, preceded her in death on December 22, 1960.

Attending the last rites from Shiner were Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Beal and Mrs. John Beal.

Shiner Gazette, Thursday, February 16, 1967
Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

Beal, Joseph Frank

Rites Conducted For Joseph Beal At Nada Church

Special to The Citizen

Nada, Jan 11.--Funeral services for Joseph Frank Beal, 89, were held from the Charles Pavlu residence at 10 o'clock Sunday morning with requiem high mass conducted by Rev. A. J. Weber in St. Mary's church. Interment was in St. Mary's cemetery.

Mr. Beal was born in Czechoslovakia on February 2, 1854, and married Miss Rosa Paprokas in 1882. The family came to Galveston in 1898, later moving to Garwood. Mrs. Beal died in 1902. Eleven children were born to the union seven of whom survive.

Survivors include four sons, Joseph and Alvin Beal of Garwood, Frank Beal of El Campo, and John Beal of Shiner; three daughters, Mrs. Charles Pavlu of Garwood, Mrs. William Herman of Louise and Mrs. L. Pavlu of Columbus; 23 grandchildren and five great grandchildren. Five of the grandchildren are in the armed forces.

Colorado County Citizen, January 14, 1944

Beal, Joseph Frank, J.P.

Justice of Peace Beal of Garwood Buried at Nada

GARWOOD--Funeral services were conduced Saturday at St. Mary’s Catholic church at Nada for Joe F. Beal of Garwood, who died at his home Thursday morning. Mr. Beal had suffered a long illness. [Interment in the church cemetery]

He was elected justice of the peace in Precinct 2 in 1954 and had served continuously in that office since that time. His present term expires Dec. 31, 1962.

Commissioners court is expected to discuss appointment of a successor at the regular meeting Jan. 9.

He was a former school teacher and also served as Wharton county school superintendent for several terms.

He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Rose Kudcerek of El Campo, a son, Emery Beal; a number of grandchildren; and his widow.

Colorado County Citizen, December 29, 1960, page 1

Bean

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Beane

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Bearce, John A.

Alleyton, May 1.--John A. Bearce, aged 33 years, a workman on Southern Pacific P. D. gang No. 35, at work on the cut-off between here and Columbus, was accidentally killed by two large pilings rolling down an embankment onto him at 8:35 this morning. His home was in Portland, Me. The remains were interred in the local cemetery at 4 o’clock this afternoon.

Weimar Mercury, May 11, 1907, page 3

Beard, John Ficklin

BLESSING STOCKMAN'S FUNERAL SERVICES ARE HELD AT EAGLE LAKE

Eagle Lake, Texas, Jan. 7.--Funeral services for John F. Beard. 43. who died suddenly at his home at Blessing, were. held at. the home of his mother-in-law, Mrs. Sallie Westmoreland, here Tuesday afternoon, by Bishop Clinton S. Quin of Houston. Mr. Beard was a prominent stockman and was born and reared in Eagle Lake. He is survived by his wife and one son, John Warren Beard: his mother, Mrs. Ed. Rand, of San Antonio; one brother Dr. W. T. Beard, of San Antonio and three sisters, Mrs. Mentor Northington of Egypt, Mrs. J. J. Whatley of Houston and Mrs. Rowena Monahan of San Antonio. [Interment in Eagle Lake Masonic Cemetery]

Weimar Mercury, January 16, 1931

Beard, John Warren

John Warren Beard Sr., 82, passed away May 30, in Sun City Center, Fla.

He was born in Eagle Lake April 24, 1920 to John Ficklin and Esther (Westmoreland) Beard. He attended school in Blessing, and high school in Eagle Lake, graduating in 1937. While serving his country in the U.S. Navy during World War II, he met and married Ruth Ezzell of San Antonio.

He completed his education with a master's degree from Trinity University and taught school in the northeast district of San Antonio for 25 years. He married Beverly Cross of Virginia in 1991, and after spending several winters in Florida, they made that state their home. His hobbies were jazz music, photography and the circus; he was a member of Circus Fans of America for 54 years.

He is preceded in death by an infant son, Thomas Alan.

He is survived by his wife Beverly; sons and daughters-in-law, John and Kathy Beard, and Robert and Jean Beard; daughter and son-in-law, Ruth and Edward Coffey; step-daughters Judy Satterfield and husband Jim, and Sheri Pinto and husband Michael; step-son Richard Cross and wife Sue; grandchildren Becky and Will Beard, Andy and Cammie Coffey, Bill Souder, Jennifer Butler, Stephanie and Stacie Beard, Forrest Satterfield, Sarina, Brandi, Stephanie and Megan Pinto, Amanda and Keri Cross; great-grandchildren Daniel and Johnathan Beard; and former wife Ruth Beard.

A service will take place at Christ Episcopal Church in Eagle Lake at 10 a.m., Saturday, June 8, with burial to follow at the Masonic Cemetery.

Colorado County Citizen, June 5, 2002
Courtesy of the Citizen

Beard, Lillie Augusta (Boeer)

Lillie Beard Funeral Services Held April 28

Lillie Augusta Beard, 94, died April 26 at Colorado-Fayette Medical Center in Weimar.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, April 28, at United Church of Christ in Weimar with Rev. Karen Buck Nelson officiating. Interment followed at the Masonic Cemetery in Weimar.

Mrs. Beard was born July 30, 1909 in Weimar to William Carl and Sophie (Brunkenhoefer) Boeer. She attended school in Weimar.

She married Lonnie Moore Beard on April 5, 1952 in San Antonio.

She was in the Civil Service and served two years in Guam and 30 years in San Antonio at Ft. Sam Houston Army Base. She was a retired manager of Commissary.

She was also the president of the Dorcas Circle of Weimar, a member of the United Church of Christ and AARP.

She has great love and appreciation for her six nieces and three nephews and their children. She loved the outdoors and its beauty, she loved to hunt and fish with her brothers and their families.

She is survived by one brother, Werner “Chuddie” Boeer; six nieces and three nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband; parents; four brothers, Albert, Hilbert, Walter, and William Jr.; and one sister, Wilma.

Pallbearers were Brent Boeer, Gary Boeer, Werner Boeer Jr., William Boeer, Willie Farmer, Christopher Boeer and Wilton Leppin.

The Weimar Mercury, May 6, 2004
Transcribed by Jennie Muggli

Beard, William G.

Capt. W. G. Beard, a prominent citizen of Eagle Lake, died Wednesday morning, aged 46. [Interment in Eagle Lake Masonic Cemetery]

Weimar Mercury, January 5,1895

Beasley, Agnes

Accidental Death Ruled In Shooting Of Matthews Woman

Justice of the Peace M. M. Jones has ruled that Agnes Beasley, 53-year-old colored woman who died from a shotgun blast at her home on Strickland Lane at Matthews community on Dec. 12th, died of an accidental gunshot.

Judge Jones made the ruling after considerable investigation with the cooperation of Sheriff J. O. Walker and officers and Chief of Police Buster Semora. It had not been determined definitely if the shotgun was accidentally fired or was a self-inflicted gunshot.

The woman was found, barely alive, at her home at around 9:30 a.m. shortly after the shot was fired. She died soon afterward.

Justice of the Peace Jones said that all evidence pointed to the fact that the shot was brought about as an accident. [Interment at Union Hill Cemetery

The Eagle Lake Headlight, January 21, 1965
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Beavers, Nellie M. (McNeel)

BAY CITY RESIDENT BURIED HERE SUNDAY

Funeral services were held at the First Baptist Church here Sunday at 3:30 for Mrs. Nellie Beavers of Bay City. Rev. Odis Rainer of Bay City officiating, assisted by Rev. Milton O. Davis of this city. Burial took place at Odd Fellows Rest.

Mrs. Beavers was Miss Nellie McNeel before her marriage. She was born in Mississippi in 1866 and came to Texas at the age of three. The family has lived in Bay City for some 25 years. Mr. Beavers has been totally blind for about 17 years and has a dog that leads him about town in that city where he conducts a newsstand and tobacco store.

Survivors are the husband, one son, Robert H., and one brother, Jim McNeel of Bay City, two aunts, Mrs. Bettie Walker of this city and Mrs. Willie Ory of San Antonio. Mrs. J. M. Patton of this city is a cousin of the deceased, as is also Mrs. T. J. Wyndham of Houston.

The Citizen extends deep sympathy.

Colorado County Citizen, January 14, 1937

Becak, John Sr.

AGED NADA MAN'S FUNERAL CONDUCTED

El Campo, Texas, Jan. 25.-- Funeral services for John Becak, Sr., 84, for many years a resident of the Nada community, werre held Thursday from the family residence. Requiem high mass was held at St. Mary's Catholic Church of Nada with Rev. A. J. Weber officiating. Burial was in the Nada Catholic Cemetery.

He had five children, four of whom live in this section. They are Mrs. Frances Kana, El Campo; Mrs. Emil Kubesch, Sr., Hillje; John Becak, Jr., Garwood; Joe Becak, Nada. He also had 19 grandchildren, four of whom live in El Campo -- Mrs. Richard Kruppa, Mrs. Albert Ranly, Emil Kubesch, Jr. and John Kana.

Mr. Becak was born on Christmas day, 1857, in Czecho-Slovakia, coming to the United States more than 60 years ago.

Weimar Mercury, Friday, January 31, 1941
Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

Becak, John Charles

John Charles Becak, 86, of Garwood passed away Dec. 30.

He was born Sept. 5, 1916 to John J. and Louise (Gerla) Becak in Garwood. He was a member of St. Mary's Catholic Church and a retired heavy equipment operator and farmer. He was a veteran of World War II, serving in the United States Army with the rank of sergeant.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and brothers, William and Jim Becak.

He is survived by his brother, Frank Becak of Garwood; and nieces and nephews.

Funeral services were held Jan. 2 at Triska Funeral Home with Deacon Edward Wendel officiating. Interment followed at St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery in Nada.

Pallbearers were Wayne Becak, David Becak, Jarrod Becak, John David Becak, Ross Ellis Becak and Mark Lambert.

Honorary pallbearers were Ben Pavlu, Henry Labaj, Laddie Lee Krenek and Erwin Stienke.

Memorial contributions may be made to Garwood Veterans Library, Garwood Volunteer Fire Department and/or St. Mary's Church Building Fund.

Colorado County Citizen, January 8, 2003
Courtesy of the Citizen

Becak, John J.

Heart Failure Claims Life of John J. Becak

Last rites were to be held at Untermeyer Funeral home this (Thursday) morning at 8:10 for John J. Becak of Garwood who was found dead about 8:30 p.m. Monday near a creek adjoining his land. His death was attributed to heart failure.

Rev. Edmund Bily of St. Mary's Catholic church at Nada was to officiate and burial will be in the Nada Catholic cemetery. Rosary for Mr. Becak was said yesterday evening at 8 in the funeral home.

A son of John and Johanna Waligura Becak, he was born in Garwood May 25, 1885, and spent his entire life in the community. He and his wife, the former Louise Gerla of Schulenburg, were married about 42 years ago.

His widow survives along with 4 sons, John and Frank of Garwood, ??? of ????????????? and Jim a captain in the U. S. Airforce stationed in Massachusetts, also a foster daughter, Mrs. E. S. Richardson of Laredo. A brother, Jos. of Nada also survived. Three sisters died earlier.

Colorado County Citizen, October 8, 1959
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Becak, Joseph John

Joseph John Becak died August 1, 1970 at his home in Nada, Texas.

He was born July 19, 1888 in Ellinger, Texas to John Becak and Johanna Waligura.

The body lay in state at the Triska Funeral Home in El Campo until services in St. Mary's Catholic Church in Nada at 9:00 AM Monday August 3rd.  The Rev. James Conway officiated at Requiem Mass. Burial was in the St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery, Nada, Texas.  He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Juliana Bubela Becak of Nada, one son Frank of Garwood, two daughters Mrs. Lucille Koenig of Alvin and Mrs. Mary Mahon of Houston.  Also surviving are eleven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and other relatives and friends.  Mr. Becak was a prominent farmer in the Nada community for many years.  He was a long time member of the Nada K.J.T. Lodge.

Paullbearers were Frank Becak, Howard Lopries, Hugo Bubela, Jr., Julius Tupa, Frank Kasmiersky, Jr. and Ludwig Zbranek

Submitted by Mary Koenig Duplichan with the following note: This was copied from a newspaper article from my mother's (Lucille Koenig) records.

Becak, Juliana (Bubela)

Juliana Becak, 92, of Alvin, formerly of Nada, died Monday April 19, 1993.  She was born Dec. 19, 1900 in Ellinger to the late Frank Bubela and Mary Mikulec.  She was a housewife and catholic.  She was a member of the St. Mary's Catholic Daughters, Christian Mothers and the KJZT Society.  She is survived by two daugthers, Lucille Koenig of Alvin and Mary Mahon of Dickinson, three sisters, Mary Bilek of Hillje, Leona Socha of El Campo and Celestine Ammann of Nada; two brothers, Frank Bubela of Nada and John Bubela of El Campo; 11 grandchildren 12 great grandchildren and 14 great great grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband Joseph Becak and one son Frank Becak, Sr.  The body lay in state until 8:30 am today (Wednesday April 21) at Triska Funeral Home.  A rosary was held at 9:30 am today at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Nada.  Funeral services were held at 10 am today at St. Mary's with Msgr. Victor Schmidtzinsky officiating.Burial was in the St. Mary's Cemetery in Nada.  Pallbearers were Frank Koenig, Kenny Bouma, Earl Koenig, Jr., Ricky Flores, John Gamble Sr., Frank Becak Jr. and Nelson Blackwell.

Alvin Sun & Advertizer April 21, 1993
Submitted by  Mary Koenig Duplichan

Beck

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Becker

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Beckman, L. C.

OAKLAND NOTES

Died at his residence, two miles west of Oakland, at 6 p.m., Wednesday, Feb. 4th, 1885, Mr. L. C. Beckman, aged 89 years. He was a good citizen, a kind neighbor, an affectionate father, and an upright Christian gentleman, whose death will be sadly regretted by all who knew him. He leaves a son, two daughters and a host of friends to mourn his loss. He was interred in the Simons’ burial ground near county line Thursday evening.

Colorado Citizen, February 12, 1885

Beckmeyer, Bertha Helen (Stallman)

Services for Mrs Bertha Helen Beckmeyer. 94, of Baytown were held at 10 am Saturday, Feb 23 at the Paul V Lee Funeral Chapel in Baytown with Dr William Edward Thiele officiating.

Mrs Beckmeyer, a 14 year Baytown resident, died Wednesday, Feb 20 in a Baytown hospital. She was a member of Memorial Baptist Church.

She was born in Frelsburg, the only daughter of George and Pauline Stallman. She had six brothers, August, Edward, Henry, George, Reinhold and Walter, who preceeded her in death, as did her husband Ben Beckmeyer.

She is survived by one son and daughter-in-law, Max F and Thelma Beckmeyer; one granddaughter, Kathryn and one grandson, David all of Baytown also several nieces and nephews.

Burial was in the Cedar Crest Cemetery in Baytown.

Colorado County Citizen, February 28, 1980
Contributed by Terry Jackson

Beckmeyer, F. William

Mr. Wm. Beckmeyer Dead.

Mr. Wm. Beckmeyer, one of the old citizens of this section, died at his home near Vox Populi Sunday morning at the advanced age of 70 years. Mr. Beckmeyer was a native of Prussia. He made his home in Garwood up to about two years ago, when he movied to the place where he was claimed by death. Funeral services were held at the residence Monday morning at 10 o’clock by Rev. Wm. Menking, interment being made in the Rock Island [Myrtle] Cemetery. Mr. Beckmeyer leaves to mourn his death his aged wife, several children and other relatives, to whom we extend our sympathy. Mr. Beckmeyer was an old soldier, he with Mr. G. Winzenried being the only two in this section to draw a pension.

Garwood Express; November 13, 1914
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Beckmeyer, Maria Sophie

Mrs. L. C. Beckmeyer of Sparenberg arrived Sunday to attend the funeral of Grandma Beckmeyer of San Antonio, who was buried at Rock Island [Myrtle Cemetery] Sunday evening at 4 o'clock, by the side of her husband who preceded her in death many years.

The Colorado Citizen, August 12, 1926
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Beckmeyer, Rebecca (Becker)

Mr. and Mrs. Tressenteitter and family of Dallas, Mrs. John Woodruff and daughter, Geraldine, Mrs. Tom Brower, Mrs. Newt Harrison and Mrs. Geo. Brower of Houston and Mr. and Mrs. Ben Beckmeyer and son Max of Dickinson were here Thursday to attend the funeral of Mrs. L. C. Beckmeyer; who passed away in a Houston hospital Wednesday. [Myrtle Cemetery]

Colorado County Citizen, April 7, 1938, page 8, Garwood column
Contributed by Terry Jackson

Bedford, Melissa

Two Negroes Dead, Two Ill of Poisoned Meat.

Eagle Lake, Texas, Feb. 14.--Melissie Bedford and Oscar Bedford [sic] are dead, and John Crowder and Wesley Long are seriously ill from eating meat last night that is thought to have been poisoned

All parties are colored and live on the McCarty plantation, six miles from Eagle Lake.

The officers are investigating the case and arrests are looked for.

Charged With Poisoning

Eagle Lake, Texas, Feb. 16.--Nat Parker, a negro, was arrested Sunday morning by Deputy Sheriff N. W. Callison, charged with having connection with the poisoning of a negro family near Eagle Lake on Saturday night. Immediately after eating supper at the home of Piney Warner, colored, Melissie Bedford, 17 years old, her nephew, Oscar Warner, 10 years old; Piney Warner, her 4-year-old baby, John Crowder and Wesley Long were taken violently ill, the first named two dying within a few hours, and only by hard work of the physicians were the lives of the others saved. Two, Crowder and the Pine baby, are yet critically ill. Some of the food eaten at the supper table is believed to have been poisoned. The stomach of the dead boy was sent to Houston for examination. [Place of interment unknown]

Weimar Mercury, February 20, 1914, page 7

Bedford, Walter Andrew

Card of Thanks

We wish to thank our relatives and friends, who were of such great service and comfort during the illness and passing of our father, Walter Bedford.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the Rev. Green for his comforting words and the Davis funeral directors for the service rendered.

Thanks to our friends for the cards, telegrams and food.

Son and Daughter.

[Interment in Willing Workers Cemetery]

Colorado County Citizen, January 16, 1958, page 11
Transcribed by Dorothy Albrcht

Bedient, Alice C. (Craig)

Alice C. Bedient, 86, of Columbus died Monday, Dec. 6, 1993 at her residence.

Born Dec. 18. 1906 in Garrett, Ill., the daughter of Joseph and Christina (Hammer) Craig. On Aug. 25, 1926, she married Lester E. Bedding.

Funeral services were held Thursday, Dec. 9 at Henneke Funeral Home, Columbus, with Rev. Raymond Cox and Rev. Sammy Carr officiating. Interment followed in Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery, Columbus.

Pallbearers were Jeffrey Hopper, Scott Hopper, Jimmy Jones Steven Hopper, Lloyd Cryer and Harlan Dodson.

Mrs. Bedient is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, LaRue and Lyle Hopper of Columbus; three sisters and one brother, all of Illinois; five grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband on June 4, 1988; three sisters and one brother.

Colorado County Citizen, December 15, 1993
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Bedient, Lester E,

Funeral services were held for Lester E. Bedient Tuesday, June 7 from Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus with Rev. Raymond Cox officiating.

Burial was at Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery in Columbus.

Mr. Lester E. Bedient was born May 8, 1902 in Tolono, Illinois to Walter H. Bedient and Eva Watts Bedient. He married Alice Christena Craig Bedient August 25, 1826.

Mr. Bedient was a retired owner and operator of a Grocery Store and a school bus driver for many years.

Survivors include his wife, Alice Bedient of Columbus; daughter, Mrs. LaRue Hopper of Columbus; brother, Harry Bedient of Tolono, Illinois; five grandchildren; and six great grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Jeffrey Hopper, Steven Hopper, Scott Hopper, Randy Miller, Wayne Williamson and Leonard Frank.

Colorado County Citizen, June 9, 1988

Beethe, William

Mr. William Beethe, for about thirty years a resident of this place, died at Dr. Harrison’s hospital last Monday from injuries resulting from burns received on the 4th of July, when he fell into the barbecue pit. He was a generous hearted, clever man, at one time well off in this world’s goods, and had many friends. He was buried a the city cemetery at 5 o’clock last Monday afternoon, there to await the resurrection morn.

Colorado Citizen, July 28, 1887

Behlen, Eugenia Marie (Wagner)

Mrs. Behlen's Funeral Held Here Jan. 27

Funeral services for Eugenia Marie Behlen, 57, of Weimar were held Friday, Jan. 29, from Faith Lutheran Church, with burial in Masonic Cemetery. Pastor Vernon Rabel officiated.

Mrs. Behlen died Jan. 27 at 3 p.m., of cancer.

Born July 25, 1930, at Shiner, she was a daughter of Frank C. and Ludmilla (Darilek) Wagner. She was married to Milton J. Behlen Nov. 22, 1949, at Moulton. They had lived here the past 26 years.

Her husband survives her, along with four sons and daughters-in-law, Glenn and Denise Behlen of Weimar, Wayne and Beverly Behlen of Columbus, Kenneth and Debbie Behlen and Douglas and Susie Behlen of Schulenburg; two daughters and a son-in-law, Cheryl Behlen of Weimar and Milissa and John Fojt of Columbus; 10 grandchildren; her parents, Frank C, and Ludmilla Wagner of Shiner; and three brothers and sisters-in-law, Leroy and Edna Wagner of Lavaca, Dennis and Laverne Wagner of Manvel, and Eugene and Ingrid Wagner of Houston.

Serving as pallbearers were Raymond Darilek, a cousin, and Lloyd Fulkerson, Eugene Barta, Johnny Schultz, Wilbert Otto and Laddie Hajek.

Weimar Mercury, February 4, 1988, page 11

Behlen, Frederick

Relatives Search For Behlen Grave

One afternoon back in January, 1895, as relatives and friends of the late Frederick Behlen returned from burying him in the Weimar cemetery, they heard the tragic news that Dr. Grace had been shot and killed.

Much water has passed under the bridge since these two events, but it is because both events took place on the same day that relatives of Mr. Behlen today are able to place an exact date on his burial . Now they are trying to find his grave here.

Mr. and Mrs. G. Behlen of Cost, accompanied by their brother-in-law and sister, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Flessner of Moulton, were here this week in another attempt to locate the grave. If one of the old citizens recalls the spot, he can render a service to the Behlens by leaving word at the Mercury office.

Weimar Mercury, May 23, 1952, page 8

Behlen, Lillie (Barcak) Mayes

Lillie Behlen Funeral Services Held July 30

Lillie Behlen, 82, of Oakland, died July 27 at Colorado-Fayette Medical Center.

Funeral services were held Friday, July 30, with Rev. Charles Eckert officiating. Services were held from the Hubbard Funeral Home with burial at the Masonic Cemetery in Weimar. A prayer service was given by VFW Auxiliary at graveside.

Mrs. Behlen was born Sept. [15] 1921 in Oakland to John and Annie (Zapalac) Barak. and attended the Oakland School.

She married Roy Mayes on May 4, 1942 and he preceded her in death in 1961. she later married Milton Behlen on May 13, 1995 inWeimar.

She was a housewife and a member of the VFW Auxiliary, living in Weimar her entire life.

Mrs. Behlen is survived by her husband, Milton Behlen, one sister-in-law, Henrietta Barcak, of Oakland, two brothers-in-law, Jimmie Mayes of Waco and Richard Surine of Adair, Okla. and ten nephews and nieces.

She was also preceded in death by her parents, an infant son, sisters Martha Harper and Agnes Surine; and brother Eddie Barcak.

Pallbearers included Glenn Behlen of Weimar, Kenneth and Douglas Behlen of Schulenburg, Ben Munch of Alleyton and Jeff and Thomas Barcak of Oakland.

Weimar Mercury, August 12, 2004
Transcribed by Harold T. Matthews
Photo courtesy of Harold Thomas Matthews

Behne, Edward Lee

Behne

Retired Major Edward Lee Behne passed away Sept. 8 in Las Vegas.

He was born Jan. 2, 1941 in Abilene, to Lyle Leroy "Dick" Behne and Mary Lee (Russell) Behne.

His family moved to the Columbus area in 1949 and he graduated from Columbus High School in 1959.

He joined the army Nov. 10,1959. He also served three consecutive tours in Vietnam, with "Little Bears", A Company 25th Battalion, 25th Infantry Division (Flight Class 67-11). He flew UH-1 Hueys and received two Distinguished Flying Crosses, one Legion of Merit, VN Cross of Gallantry with Silver Star and Palm, two Silver Stars, six Bronze Stars, VN Service Medal (nine campaigns), two Meritorious Unit Citations and 80 Air Medals. His most memorable military experiences were during the 1968 TET Offensive. He was the second most highly decorated pilot having served in the US Army in Vietnam. He retired as Major from the Army in 1979. In 1988, he founded Tex-Air Helicopters, Inc. with one helicopter. With his unique laugh and a handshake, Tex-Air grew to a fleet of 41 helicopters. In 2003, he sold Tex-Air and retired to his ranch, at Bracketville where he worked, hunted, entertained many friends and spent time with family. He was a member of St. John's Episcopal Church.

He was a 12th generation American who had ancestors in Maine and New Hampshire in the mid-1600s. He was proud of his country and was a true American. His will be remembered for his generosity to his country, family and friends.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Lynne Behne of Houston and Bracketville; sons, Mark and Mike; grand-daughter, Josephine; four step-children; 14 step-grandchildren; brother, Richard Behne, of Bracketville and Laramie, Wyo.; and sister, Gwen Paschall of Eagle Lake.

He was preceded in death by his parents and step-mother.

Funeral services were conducted Sept. 15 in the chapel of Forest Park East Funeral Home, in Houston.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots Assoc., General Fund, 5530 Birdcage St. Suite 200, Citrus Heights, Calif.

Colorado County Citizen, September 20, 2006
Courtesy The Citizen

Behne, Lyle L. "Dick"

Services For Dick Behne, 52, Held Monday

Funeral services of Dick Behne, 52, were held at First Baptist Church Monday afternoon, Dr. Farrar Patterson officiating. Burial was in Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery.

Mr. Behne, who had been ill for the past 3 years, died in the Bellville hospital Saturday. He had been active until last November, when he closed the welding shop at Alleyton which he had operated for the past 6 years. Before that time, he had sold his welding shop in Columbus to Dick Gates. Mr. Behne did much of the welding of Superior Oil Co. at its location near Alleyton. He was a member of the First Christian Church. A native of Nebraska, he was born in Osceola June 12, 1915 to Leroy and Bessie Cox Behne. The family came to Texas when he was a young boy. He had lived in Colorado County 17 years. He married Miss Nita McGill in Breckenridge in 1946. She survives.

Other survivors include: a daughter, Mrs. Gwendolyn Paschall of Alleyton and 2 sons, Richard Behne of Alleyton and Warrant Officer Edward Behne, stations in Vietnam, who came home for the services; a step-daughter, Miss Mary Ann Lee of Alleyton; a sister, Mrs. Maxine Davidson of San Antonio; a brother, W. E. Behne of Houston; 5 grandsons and a niece, Mrs. Ray Weeks of San Antonio.

Pallbearers were Jerry Pretige, Edgar Brandt, J. C. McAllister, A. H. Janow, G. M. Johnson and Ray English.

Colorado Citizen, September 21, 1967
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Behrens, A. L. “Al”

Behrens

Funeral services for Mr. A. L. (Al) Behrens, 75, were held Friday, October 25 at the St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Columbus under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home with the Pastor Robert Schlortt officiating. Burial was held at the Masonic Cemetery in Eagle Lake.

Mr. Behrens was born January 23, 1910 in Olenberg[sic] to Adolph Behrens and Gesing Knake Behrens. He married Pauline Schneider Behrens on July 1, 19833[sic] in Lardsbird, New Mexico. He work for the Texas Highway Department from 1935-51; from 1951-66 he was a Maintenance Supervisor for the City of Eagle Lake; from 1966-70 he was a Strand Steel Salesman; and from 1970-83 he was a Deputy Sheriff's Dispatcher.

Mr. Behrens was affiliated with the St. Paul Lutheran Church in Columbus.

Mr. Behrens was a graduate of La Grange High School on May 27, 1929; a member of the Civilian Conservation Corp during the early 1930's; and he was also Past Master of Columbus Masonic Lodge No. 68.

Survivors include his wife, Pauline Behrens of Columbus; one daughter, Mary Lyn Casebier of Austin; three sons, Ben Benhrens[sic] of Columbus; sons and daughter-in-laws, John and Pat Behrens of Austin and Jim and Caron Behrens of Warrenton, Va.; three sisters, Dora Mullenberg of La Grange, Velma Speed and Laura Teach both of Houston; three brothers, Arthur Behrens of Eagle Lake, Guenther and Rudolph Behrens both of La Grange; and four grandchildren, Eric, Kari Ann, and Terra Almond Behrens and Amanda Casebier.

Pallbearers were: Lennardt Stolle, Harold Hohlt, Sam Kaiser, Gary Pflughaupt, H. E. Gate and Henry Kretzschmar.

Colorado County Citizen, October 31, 1985

Behrens, Ben F.

Behrens

Ben F. Behrens, resident of Leander and San Saba passed away Tuesday, April 29 at the VA Hospital in Temple.

He was born October 9, 1939 in La Grange the son of Almond (Al) and Pauline (Schneider) Behrens. He attended school through the eighth grade in Yoakum. The family moved to Eagle Lake in 1953, where he graduated from Eagle Lake High School in 1957. Ben excelled throughout his high school years as student council president, National Honor Society, science, Spanish and speech clubs, declamation and debate team, class plays, active in sports (Two-year letterman in football), Boy and Explorer Scouts and served as a lifeguard during some of the summer months. He was also an active member in Grace Lutheran Church in Eagle Lake and was a deeply religious person.

After graduating high school, he served in the U.S. Marine Corps for a period of two years, where he made PFC in boot camp as Right Guide and was honorably discharged with the rank of Lance Corporal.

He attended the University of Texas at Austin and studied physics. He lived at Campus Guild Co-Op becoming its vice-president in his second semester at the University of Texas. In 1960 he was one of the prime initiators in making Campus Guild Co-Op the only fully integrated University of Texas approved housing at the time.

After two years at UT he attended Texas Lutheran College to study theology but did not complete his studies. He then re-enlisted in the Marine Corps but only to be medically discharged after being diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Shortly after, he was diagnosed with cancer and given an even chance of survival. He beat the cancer but spent a lifetime struggling with neurological disorders and depression. In 2006 the cancer returned and he succumbed to parotid gland cancer.

Ben was a born leader struck down early in life.

After his devoted parents passed on he was in the private care of Sierra Mayfield of San Saba, for whom the family is deeply grateful.

The family is also deeply grateful to Dr. Shirley Richards and her nursing staff, Ms. Carla Sims (social worker for Ben) and her staff and all service personnel of Ward 5J at the VA Hospital in Temple. They are the angels of Ward 5J "Hero Haven." Their devotion to duty, service, care and love for Ben cannot be exceeded by anyone.

He is survived by his brothers, John A. Behrens of Leander; James E. Behrens and sister-in-law Caron of Warrenton, Va.; his sister Mary Lyn Behrens Casebier Snyder and brother-in-law Bryan "Chan" Snyder of Austin; nieces Amanda Casebier of Boulder, Colo; KariAn Behrens Treyes and husband Darren Treyes of Leonardtown, Md.; Terra Behrens of Melbourne, Fla.; his nephew Eric Behrens of Warrenton, Va. and his grandnephew's Liem and Devin Behrens of Schenectady, N.Y.

He was dearly loved and cared for and will live forever in the hearts of friends and family who knew and loved him. Private services will be held and his ashes will be interned at the Masonic Cemetery in Eagle Lake near the gravesite of his father and mother.

Memorials may be given in Ben's name to the American Cancer Society or charity of choice.

Colorado County Citizen, May 7, 2008,
Courtesy The Citizen

Behrens, Josephine P. (Novosad)

Behrens

Josephine P. Novosad Behrens, 69, of Frelsburg, passed away Monday, Feb. 14, in Houston.

She was born May 10, 1935 in Plum to Paul and Maira Novosad.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and nine brothers and sisters.

She is survived by husband, Clarence F. Behrens, of Frelsburg; sons, Gary W. Behrens and wife, Dolores, of Houston, David W. Behrens and wife, Maria, of Waller and Ronnie Behrens and wife, Danelle, of Houston; sister, Alberta Novosad IWBS, of Houston; and grandchildren, Chris Behrens and wife, Christie, Craig Behrens and fiance, Ryan Combs, David Behrens Jr., Justin Behrens, Brandon Behrens, Colby Behrens and Ashley Behrens.

Funeral services were at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 17, from Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Plum with Father Stanley Petru officiating. Interment followed at Plum Catholic Cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Plum.

Colorado County Citizen, February 23, 2005
Courtesy of The Citizen

Behrens, Pauline Caroline (Schneider)

Behrens

Former Columbus resident Pauline “Polly” Caroline Schneider Behrens, 89, died Wednesday, Jan 24, 1996 in Pflugerville.

Born Dec. 31, 1906 in Holman, she was the youngest of 11 brothers and sisters. On July 1, 1933, she married Almond “Al” Louis Behrens in Lordsburg, N.M. Mr. and Mrs. Behrens were secretly married for five years, since Mrs. Behrens was employed by a La Grange telephone company which hired only single female operators. The couple then relocated to Yoakum,where they lived for 11 years, followed by Eagle Lake for 16 years and a 23-year residency in Columbus. Mrs. Behrens was a member of the Lutheran churches and Eastern Star Lodges in Yoakum, Eagle Lake and Columbus. She had been a leader in several youth civic organizations and a volunteer at Columbus Community Hospital.

A memorial service and reception was held Jan. 26 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Columbus with Rev. Robert Schlortt officiating. Graveside services followed in Masonic Cemetery in Eagle Lake. Services were under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home, Columbus.

Serving as pallbearers were John Behrens, James Behrens, Chan Snyder, Gilbert Kiel and Buddy Zapalac.

Mrs. Behrens is survived by three sons, Ben Farrell Behrens and John Almond Behrens, both of Austin and James Edward Behrens of Warrenton, Va; a daughter, Mary Lyn Behrens Caschier-Snyder, also of Austin; daughter-in-law Caron; grandson Eric James Behrens and granddaughters Kari An Behrens and Terra Almond Behrens, all of Warrenton; son-in-law Bryan “Chan: Chandler Snyder, and granddaughter Amanda Faith Caschier of Austin.

She was preceded in death by her brothers and sisters; and her husband, in 1985.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Austin.

Colorado County Citizen, January 31, 1996, page 14

Beiersdorfer, Ernest E.

Young Veteran of 2 Wars Dies from Wreck Injuries

Ernest E. Beiersdorfer, 28-year-old veteran who had survived combat wounds of two wars, died in Youens Hospital here Sunday morning, 9 hours after fracturing his skull in a car wreck.

The accident occurred at about 11 o'clock Saturday night on the Weimar-Osage farm-market road. Mr. Beiersdorfer's 1950 Ford sedan, in which he was alone, failed to make the curve near the Foxhall Parker home and overturned in the ditch.

Thought He Was Not Hurt

The driver was conscious but in a dazed condition when he was picked up a few minutes later and taken to his home in the Osage section by Bob McMillan, local service station operator. He was able to walk into the house, arid insisted that he was not hurt badly enough for a doctor to be called. In a short while, however, his condition became worse, and the doctor who was summoned advised immediate hospitalization. He lapsed into unconsciousness as he was being put into an ambulance and never regained consciousness. Death came at 8 o'clock the following morning. (It was the second serious accident on that curve of the Osage road since it was paved about 18 months ago. In December, 1951, Hix Klare overturned his car, also a 1950 Ford, at almost the exact spot of last Saturday's wreck. His injuries were not serious but his car was demolished.)

Funeral Here Tuesday

Funeral services for Mr. Beiersdorfer were held Tuesday afternoon at Hubbard Funeral Home, with Rev. W. L. Weideranders of Smithville officiating. Interment was under direction of Msgr. A. F. Drozd in St. Michael's Cemetery.

Members of the local American Legion and VFW posts held graveside rites,

Mr. Beiersdorfer was employed as a cattle truck driver for Walton Beken. Originally from the Schulenburg area, he had lived at Osage since his marriage to Miss Leona Witt October 2, 1946.

Wounded in Both Wars

Born Dec. 8, 1924, at Freyburg, he was the son of Mrs. Emma Beiersdorfer and the late Philip Beiersdorfer. In World War II, he served in the infantry from August 2, 1943 till March 20, 1946, and was awarded the Purple Heart for wounds received in the fighting in Germany.

In September, 1950, he was the first Weimar area reserve to be called back to active duty, and served in the infantry again until August 12, 1951. He spent about a year in Korea and suffered two wounds in combat.

Survivors in addition to his widow and his mother (who now lives in Schulenburg) include five brothers, Oswald of La Grange, Herbert of Eagle Lake, William of Schulenburg, Bennie of New Braunfels and Leslie of Rosenberg; and three sisters, Mrs. Otto Ladewig of La Grange, Mrs. John Havrda of Shiner, and Mrs. Harvey Lamascus of Smithville.

Weimar Mercury, February 13, 1953, pages 1 and 8

Beinhauer, Hattie Ann (Pavlas)

Beinhauer

Hattie Ann Pavlas Beinhauer, 54, of Glidden, passed away May 9 at Columbus Community Hospital.

She was born in La Grange, Aug. 4, 1950 to Johnnie F. and Eva Mae (Lentz) Pavlas and married William Charles Beinhauer, Oct. 28, 1978.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her husband; daughters, Virginia (Jenny) Marie Beinhauer of San Antonio and Linda Sue Beinhauer of Glidden; sister, Amelia Pavlas of Ammansville; brothers and sister-in-law, Clarence Pavlas and Carl and Rebecca Pavlas of Ammansville; and granddaughter, Mia Ann Folmar.

Funeral services were conducted May 12 at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus with the Father Dan Kahlich officiating. Interment followed at St. John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Ammansville. Services were under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus.

Pallbearers were Howard Chollett, Karl Hill, Don and Kevin Orey, Bobbie Haddock and Tom Foster.

Honorary pallbearers, Mike Wick and Raymond Heine.

Colorado County Citizen, May 18, 2005
Courtesy of The Citizen

Beken

Browse all Beken Obits

Bell

Browse all obituaries with Bell surname

Bellah, Jewell Irene

Jewell Irene Bellah

October 15, 1906 - October 24, 1996

Jewell Irene Bellah, 90, of Eagle Lake and longtime resident of Houston, passed away October 24, 1996. She was preceded in death by her husbnd William Odell Bellah. Survivors include daughter and son-in-law, Mary and Ken Johnson of Tomball; sisters, Jima Junkins of Lancaster and Cora Sorrells of Spring; brother, Henry Ford Sorrells of Santa Anna; granddaughters and husbands, Karen and David Lovell of Hockley and Dixie and Ernie Rodgers of Eagle Lake; great-grandchildren, Jason, Rebekah and Benjamin Lovell, Heather and Josh Allen and Vanessa Rodgers; numerous nieces and nephews. Funeral services were held at 11 a.m. Saturday, October 26, at Brookside Funeral Chapel, Houston, with Rev. James M. Lovell officiating. Graveside services were held at 2p.m. Saturday at the Masonic Cemetery in Eagle Lake with Rev. David Mann officiating. Serving as pallbearers were Josh Allen, Ken Johnson, Wayne Linbrugger, David and Jason Lovell, and Earl and Ernie Rodgers. “Grandma” leaves behind a legacy of love that will remain in our hearts forever. Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, October 31, 1996
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

BelMonte. Georgie (Heger)

Georgie BelMonte, 51, of Columbus, passed away March 27, at UTMB Galveston.

She was born Aug. 14, 1950 in Columbus to Fred Heger Sr. and Sylvia Hernandez and had been a lifetime resident of Columbus.

She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Robert and Alfredo Hernandez; and one sister, Barbara Jean Heger.

She is survived by her husband, Ruben BelMonte, and sons, Paul Hernandez, Eric BelMonte and Billy BelMonte, all of Columbus; sisters and brothers-in-law, Delores and Manuel Estrada of Weimar and Patricia and Thomas Morris of Pasadena; brothers and sisters-in-law, Joseph Hernandez, Daniel and Geneva Heger, Fred and Janis Heger, all of Columbus, and Roy and Stacey Heger of Ammansville.

Funeral services were conducted April 1, from St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Dan Kahlich officiating. Interment followed in St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery in Columbus.

Pallbearers were Cruz Hernandez, Rocky Hernandez, Rocky Manadha, Manuel Estrada, Raymond Rios and Max Navarro

Colorado County Citizen, April 3, 2002
Courtesy of the Citizen

 

 

 

Belota, Clement J. Sr.

Belota Funeral Services

Funeral Services for Clement J. Belota. Sr. of Frelsburg were held Friday, March 12, 1993 at 10 a.m. from Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Frelsburg with Fr. Dan Morales officiating.

Burial was in the church cemetery.

K of C Rosary was recited Thursday evening followed by parish rosary at the funeral home. St. Ann's Altar Society and KJT rosaries were recited Friday morning at the church.

Mr. Belota passed away March 10 at his residence in Frelsburg. He was 72 years of age.
Born November 22. 1920 in Plum, he was the son of John Joe and Annie (Matocha) Belota. He married Lydia Evanicky October 6, 1942 and was a resident of the Frelsburg area 51 years. A gravel plant foreman, he was retired from Thorsenberg Materials Co.

Mr. Belota was a member of the K of C Council 5157 of Frelsburg, the KJT, an honorary member of the Church Cemetery Assn. and was a Veteran of World War II.

Survivors include his wife, Lydia Belota of Frelsburg: mother, Annie Belota of Plum: daughter and son-in-law. Lucy and Steven Markwardt of Frelsburg; sons and daughters-in-law, Erwin J. and Gerri Belota of Houston, Clement J. Jr. and Mary Jane Belota of New Ulm and Gilbert R. and Brenda Belota of Fayetteville; sisters, Betty Baca of La Grange and Agnes Hengst of Eagle Lake; brother, Fred Belota of Plum: grandchildren. Jennifer O'Brien, Gregory Belota, Stephen Wayne Belota, Suzie Belota, Clement J. Belota Ill, Patrick Markwardt, Stacy Markwardt, Matthew Belota and Michael Belota.

He was preceded in death by his father, John Belota.

New Ulm Enterprise, March 18, 1993, page 2

Belota, Lydia Sophie (Evanicky)

Lydia Sophie Evanicky Belota, 77 of Frelsburg, passed away Jan. 12 at her residence.

She was born in Frelsburg, March 19, 1923 to Rudolph and Mary (Noska) Evanicky and married Clement J. Belota Sr., Oct. 6, 1942. The lifetime resident of Frelsburg was a member of Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church and St. Ann Altar Society in Frelsburg, KJZT #25 of Plum and Catholic Family Fraternal of Texas.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; sister, Elsie Kubecka and brother, Eddie Evanicky.

She is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Lucy and Steven Markwardt of Frelsburg; sons and daughters-in-law, Erwin J. and Lois Belota of Houston; Clement J. Belota Jr. and Mary Jane Belota of New Ulm, Gilbert R. and Brenda Belota of Fayetteville; sisters, Mary Schertz and Bernice Warschak of Frelsburg; brother, Clarence Evanicky of El Campo; grandchildren, Jennifer O'Brien, Gregory Belota, Stephen Belota, Suzie Blansit, Clement J. Belota III, Patrick Markwardt, Stacy Markwardt, Matthew Belota and Michael Belota; and great-grandchildren, Trenton Blansit, Meghan Belota, Dawson Belota and Collin O'Brien.

Funeral services were conducted Jan. 15 at Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Frelsburg with Father Wayne Flagg officiating. Interment followed in Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers were: Gregory Belota, Stephen Belota, Clement J. Belota III, Patrick Markwardt, Matthew Belota and Michael Belota.

Colorado County Citizen, January 17, 2001
Courtesy The Citizen

Bender, Frank

Horrible Death of Frank Bender.

News was received here late Thursday afternoon of last week that a young Bohemian farmer, named Frank Bender, living on the E. L. Townsend place, a few miles southeast of Weimar, had been burned to death in a barn. No further details were learned until the following morning when the charred remains were taken from the smouldering[sic] fire. Judge Van Alstyne and Constable Oscar Sanders went down Friday morning to hold the inquest. From Judge VanAlstyne we learn the following particulars regarding the horrible affair: Bender had for several days been in the notion of suiciding, and at one time a butcher knife was taken from him. On Thursday afternoon he went out to the barn, fastened himself in, set fire to the hay in the loft above, then deliberately took a seat in a buggy, drew a case knife across his throat, probably bleeding to death ere the flames touched him. The remains when dragged from the fire consisted only of a charred trunk. Brooding over imaginary troubles is the alleged cause. Everything in the barn, including a buggy and wagon, was consumed by the flames. [Place of interment unknown]

Weimar Mercury, February 18, 1910, page 4

Benedict, Bernhardt.

FUNERAL SERVICES HELD HERE SUNDAY FOR B. H. BENEDICT

Final rites for Bennett H. Benedict, aged 36 years, 10 months and 9 days, whose death occurred here Saturday after an illness of approximately one year, were held here Sunday at the Hubbard Funeral Home and at the Weimar Cemetery, with Rev. R. Uhlhorn, Weimar Evangelical pastor, officiating.

A son of the late Mr. and Mrs.Paul Benedict, the deceased was born at Holman May 30, 1902. Until approximately a year ago, he had been employed in the oil fields at Sullivan City. In ill health for about a year, for the past three months he had made his home in Weimar with his sister, Mrs. Erna Carey.

Pallbearers included Harry Oncken of Gonzales, Alfred, Gerhard and Arthur Oncken, all of Weimar area; E. Brandt and Chas. Trefny.

Survivors include his widow, Mrs.Clara Benedict of Lockhart; a son Paul Henry, aged 5, and a daughter, Violet Joyce, aged 7, both of Lockhart; two sisters, Mrs. Theo Brandt and Mrs. Erna Carey, both of Weimar; four brothers, Hubert of Cuero, Paul of Belmont, Emil of Denver, Colo. and Walter of El Paso.

Interment was in the Weimar Masonic Cemetery.

Those who were acquainted with Mr. Benedict knew him to be a gentle-mannered and amiable sort of man. For about a year he had suffered with pellegra and despite all efforts of medical science, he expired Saturday. He was the youngest member of the Benedict family.

To bereaved family members, and his sisters and brothers, the Mercury publisher extends sincere condolence.

Weimar Mercury, April 14, 1939

Benedict, Emil

Emil Benedict Funeral Held Here Friday

Funeral services for Emil Benedict, 85, of Fredericksburg, a former Weimar area resident, were held Friday, July 6, at Masonic Cemetery, with Rev. Ernest S. Dean officiating.

Mr. Benedict died at Fredericksburg Tuesday, July 3.

Born September 21, 1893, at Holman, he was a son of Paul and Helen (Oncken) Benedict.

He leaves one brother, Walter, of El Paso, and one sister, Mrs. Erna Cary of Weimar. A sister, Mrs. Selma Brandt, and three brothers, Benhard, Herbert and Paul, preceded him in death.

Weimar Mercury, July 12, 1979
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Benedict, Helene (Oncken)

DEATH OF MRS. PAUL BENEDICT,

Beloved Wife of Paul Benedict of Gonzales County Succumbs to Pneumonia While Waiting on Sick Relatives Near Town.

Mrs. Helena Benedict, the beloved wife of our good friend, Paul Benedict of Gonzales county, while here last week waiting on the sick at the home of her brother, Gerhard Oncken, was herself stricken down, and the disease soon assumed the form of that dreaded complaint, pneumonia. Everything that medical skill and loving hands of relatives and friends could do to arrest the disease was done for Mrs. Benedict, but It was without. avail, and after a brief struggle her poor spirit gave up the battle Sunday evening about dusk, and she was gathered to the bosom of her Creator, there to join the one child gone on ahead and to await the comIng of beloved husband, daughters and sons.

The funeral took place at the Masonic Cemetery Monday afternoon, a large crowd witnessing the last sad rites so feelingly administered by Rev., Paul Piepenbrok, Lutheran minister.

Mrs. Helena Benedict was 67 years old at the time of her death. She was born in Germany, but came to this country at an early age. Up to a few years ago the family made their home in this section, living near Holman. Afterward they moved to the vicinity of Belmont, Gonzales county, where they have since resided. Mrs. Benedict was a lovable type of wife, mother and friend. Wherever she was known she was beloved by all. Kind- hearted and generous to a fault, of sympathetic, thoughtful disposition, she was ever on the alert to administer to those about her. Hearing of the distress In her brother's family, she quickly came to the rescue and worked unremittingly to help them in every way possible. It was a labor of love to her, and she never faltered until herself stricken with disease. Mrs. Benedict possessed a noble character, and she will be sadly missed by family and a large circle of relatives and friends.

Besides a heart-broken husband, she leaves seven children--Mrs. Theo. Brandt, Herbert, Paul, Emil, Miss Erna, Walter and Bernhart Benedict--besides three brothers. Wm. Oncken of Gonzales county, and Henry and Gerhard Oncken of this section, to all of whom our heartfelt sympathy is extended.

Weimar Mercury, March 12, 1920, page 1

Benedict, Paul

MR. PAUL BENEDICT, FORMER CITIZEN, DIES AT GONZALES

Mr. Paul Benedict of Belmont, Gonzales county, died at a hospital in Gonzales Thursday night of last week and the remains were brought here for interment in the Masonic Cemetery by the side of his beloved wife, the following afternoon. Mr. Benedict had been in ill health for some time past, but friends had not thought the end was so near. Many relatives and friends were present to pay the last tribute of respect to this truly good man and citizen.

Mr. Benedict a number of years ago lived in this section, owning a farm a short distance from Holman. Selling his farm at Holman, he moved to Belmont, Gonzales county, where he purchased a large farm and settled on same. Here he lived up to the time of his death.

Paul Benedict was a good, true man and citizen in every sense of the term. He was loved by his friends and neighbors as few men are. Always upright and honest, as true friend and neighbor as any man ever possessed, industrious and frugal, a devoted husband and father, few men have ever lived in this section who were more popular or had a better character. Many friends deeply and sincerely mourn his passing.

Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his bereaved ones.

Weimar Mercury, August 14, 1925, page 1

Benes, Rev. Charles J.

TWO THOUSAND AT FUNERAL FOR LOVED PASTOR

Services Tuesday For Rev. C,. J. Benes, Who Died In San Antonio, Most Largely Attended Ever Held In Nada Parish.
(By Nada correspondent)

Rev. C. J. Benes, pastor of St. Mary's Church at Nada, died in the Santa Rosa Hospital at San Antonio early Saturday.

Father Benes was ordained to the priesthood 46 years ago. He was born in Czechoslovakia on March. 12, 1866, He immigrated to Texas in 1889 and finished his studies for the priesthood in Victoria and was ordained there in 1890. He was stationed at Hallettsville, the Sacred Heart Church, as assistant, and owing to scarcity of priests in the early days he did missionary work nearly all over the country, traveling on horseback, and often was handicapped with great hardships, especially during the winters when his life was endangered by freezing weather on long and tiresome trips through sparsely settled country.

Alter two years in Hallettsville he was stationed at various places, as pastor in Lavaca, Fayette and Colorado counties for over forty years, having many missions to attend. For the past four years he was pastor at Nada, and though his health and strength were failing, he was a tireless worker in the parish and it can be truly said of him that he rests In peace and his memory will live long among this people whom he loved.

Though always very plain and humble, Father Benes was pius[sic] and dignified. He classed among the most talented and gifted writers, and countless articles and editorials from his pen on various subjects were featured in Czech's newspapers. As a translator, he had few, even if any, equals among Catholic writers in the translating of both short and long novels from the German, English, French, Italian and Greek languages for Czechs' newspapers Though handicapped through failing eyesight and faltering strength, Father Benes still assumed editorial supervision of the history of the Czech parishes In Texas to be published in commemoration of the Texas Centennial.

Funeral services were held Tuesday morning at 10 o'clock at St. Mary's Church, with the Most Rev. Archbishop Drossaerts, D. D., L. L. D., of San Antonio, presiding. Solemn Requiem Mass was offered with the Very Rev. Dean Szymanski of Weimar, celebrant; Rev. J. A. Pustka of Flatonia, deacon; Rev. J. Anders of Praha, subdeacon and Rev. J. J. Hilderbrandt of St. John, master of ceremonies; The Rt. Rev. L. P. Netardus of Shiner delivered the sermon in Czech, while the Rev. Bonaventure Alerding, O. F. M., of San Antonio poke in German, and His Excellency made a very impressive sermon in English. There were present in the Sanctuary over thirty priests of the San Antonio and Galveston Dioceses. Sisters M. Frapeis, Margaret, Beatrice, Michael, Raphael. Xaveria, Hedwig and Wenseslaus of the Incarnate Word Convent of Shiner were also present.

The greatest number of people from here, and from neighboring counties ever gathered attended the funeral, only about one half of the people being able to get inside the church, with a seating and standing capacity for one. thousand. Many others were unable to attend owing to Impassable roads and threatening weather.

The Nada community is grateful and appreciates deeply the closing of all places of business in Garwood during the funeral hours of 9 to 12. All places of business in Nada were closed until after the funeral. Interment was made in St. Mary’s Cemetery.

May this good man rest in peace!

Pallbearers were six members of the KJT and six members of the St. Joseph's Societies, Martin Koreneck, Louis Labay, Vaclav Safer, Frank Wesselski Sr., Albert Arnold and Joe Stoker were honorary, and Fr. Wesselski Jr., George Gerbermann, Rud. Bittner, Louis Labay, Charles Trcka and Ben Krenek were the active pallbearers. The Rev. Dean Szymanski of Weimar was appointed administrator in the Nada parish by the Most Rev. Archbishop until an appointment is made.

Eagle Lake Headlight, July 10, 1936, page 1

Bennett, Earl Frank

Final Rites Held Wed. for E. F. Bennett buried in Rock Is.

Funeral services were held at the Mill-Bauer Funeral Hone in Eagle Lake at 2:30 Wednesday for E. F. Bennett, 64, who passed away Monday In the Laughlin Hospital. Burial was in the Myrtle Cemetery in Rock Island. He is survived by his wife, the former Retha White; a stepdaughter, Mrs. C. C. Trapp, Jr.; two stepdaughters, two sisters and a brother.

Eagle Lake Headlight, November 30, 1961
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Bennett, G. W.

WEIMAR LOCAL MATTERS

G. W. Bennett, a well to do farmer, near Weimar, died the evening of the 11th inst., of pneumonia after lingering for several weeks. He leaves a wife and large family of children to mourn the loss of their protector snatched from them in the very prime of manhood. Peace to his ashes. [Place of interment unknown]

Colorado Citizen, March 19, 1885

Bennett, Henry Walden

CITIZEN 102 YEARS OLD DIED AT COLUMBUS THUSDAY

Mr. Henry W. Bennett was born March 10, 1815, in Martin County, North Carolina, and in about four months would have been 103 years old. He died at his home in Columbus on Thursday of last week. He is survived by three children, two daughters and one son, Mrs. Beulah Hightower, living near him and Miss Neomi Bennett and W. H. bennet[sic], with whom he lived. He was buried at the Odd Fellows’ Rest in Columbus Friday afernoon, Rev. W. D. M. Marshall of the Baptist Church, peerforming the funeral services.

Eagle Lake Haadlight, December 14, 1918

Bennett, Lovick Thomas

With sentiments of profound sorrow we record the death of our young friend, Mr. Lovick Thomas Bennett, which occurred at 7 o’clock, a. m., on the 4th of April, 1882. The deceased was born on the 24th of July, 1860, and from boyhood was a resident of our county. Of exemplary habits, just entering upon manhood’s estate with the brightest anticipations and highest hopes for usefulness, the future seemed freighted with the roseate hues of happiness and content. Alas! the dread Archer, Death, singled him out for his victim, and transferred him to realms unknown and unexplored, but to one of his amiable character and kindly disposition, assuredly better, happier than this; and to the bereaved parents and relatives this consolation is given. [Interment in Columbus Odd Fellows Rest]
“When the dread morn came, dim and sad,
And fraught with tearful showers,
His quiet eye lids closed--he had
A brighter morn than ours.”

Colorado Citizen, April 6, 1882, page 3

Bennett, William H.

Death of Old Settler

Columbus, Texas, July 16--W. H. Bennett, born in Tennessee, came to Columbus, Colorado county, at the age of 7 years, died Wednesday night at his residence south of town and was buried Thursday afternoon at the Odd Fellows Rest. Rev. H. H. Garrard, of the Baptist Church officiated. He is survived by two sisters, Miss Omi Bennett and Mrs Beulah Hightower of Columbus.

Eagle Lake Headlight, July 23, 1921

Benoist, Henrietta Catherine (Lassen)

Services in Rock Island Saturday for Mrs. Benoist

Mrs. Katherine Benoist, aged eighty-three years, passed away on Friday morning at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Artila Vamer in Houston. She was buried Saturday afternoon in the Myrtle Cemetery at Rock Island. Mrs. Benoist is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Isam Brisco, Sr. of Sheridan, Mrs. Anna Varner of Houston and a son, Houston Benoist of Bryan, seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren also survive. Mrs. Benoist had been quite ill for several weeks.

Eagle Lake Headlight, September 2, 1954
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Benoist, Houston

Benoist

Houston Benoist, 92, of Schulenburg, passed away Dec. 16 at the Colorado-Fayette Medical Center in Weimar.

He was born Jan. 1, 1912 in Rock Island to William R. Benoist and Henrietta Catherine Lassen and married Mary Louise Strait Feb. 10, 1934. He worked for Missouri Pacific Railroad and was retired for 44 years. He was a member of Masonic Lodge 1155 Ancient Free and Accepted Masons in Pasadena and American Legion Earl Graham Post 159 of Bryan. He served in World War II and was a member of the Methodist Church.

He was preceded in death by his parents; and sisters, Anna Varner Hester and Edna Brisco.

He is survived by his wife, Mary, of Schulenburg.

Funeral services were at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 18, at the Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus with the Rev. Phillip Gary Robberson officiating. Interment followed at Myrtle Cemetery in Rock Island.

Colorado County Citizen, December 22, 2004
Courtesy of The Citizen

Benson, Israel

ISREAL BENSON, COLORED, BURIED HERE YESTERDAY

Isreal Benson, about 62 years of age, a colored farmer in this section for the past fifteen years or more, died suddenly at his home here Wednesday morning. He had been ill, however, for about three months, suffering with heart trouble. He came to Eagle Lake from Bonus, where he farmed for 12 years.

He is survived by his wife and 15 children, twelve children by his second wife, and three by his first wife, who, with the three children live in Fort Worth. [Interment in Farmers Improvement Society Cemetery]

Eagle Lake Headlight, January 7, 1933

Bentley, Charles Wesley

Death Claims C. W. Bentley On Sunday

One of Eagle Lake's most beloved citizens was called to he just reward on Sunday morning, when Charles Wesley Bentley passed away quietly at Laughlin Hospital.

Mr. Bentley who would have been 90 years old in June, suffered a stroke while sitting in the living room of his home on last Thursday afternoon, March 14th, chatting amiably with his two daughters and a grandson, Carl Bentley of Fulshear, who had spent the day with his grandfather, having just returned from the armed service.

Mr. Bentley had prevailed upon his grandson to take him for a ride during the afternoon so he might point out additions and improvements made in the city during his absence. On returning home the grandson made preparations to leave for home, and turned to address his grandfather, when the family noted the old gentleman's head had dropped forward and he had passed into a faint from which he never regained consciousness.

Born June 20, 1856 in Forsythe County, Georgia, he was the seventh child and fifth son of Jeremiah Hall Bentley and Emily C. Bentley who migrated to Georgia for England. He spent his childhood on a farm in Georgia and recalled many events of the Civil War, including Sherman's march to the sea. He was only a lad of about nine years when soldiers paid visits to the farm, and many interesting events of history were made in his section of the nation.

At the age of 20, in 1876, he became a member of the Baptist faith, and remained ever true and active in that church during his many years of life. In 1877, when only twenty-one, he joined the Masonic Order and was the oldest living member of the Eagle Lake Lodge.

During his residence in Georgia he operated a combination mercantile store, a blacksmith shop and Post Office. He was married to Miss Sarah Frances McNeely in 1878 in Georgia.

Possessing the same pioneer spirit that brought his parents from England to America, Mr. Bentley, with his wife and children, came to Texas, undeveloped and rugged country at the time, where he joined his brothers in business in 1889, settling in Atlanta.

The following year, 1890, his wife died, and in 1892 he married Miss Cora S. Simmons who came to Eagle Lake with Mr. Bentley and the children to make their home ins 1915. Mr. Bentley was active in a number of positions here, but for the most he was a member of the personnel of The Frank Stephens Company for many years.

He and his beloved wife operated The Bentley House, and all of the boarders became members of the Bentley family. Mr. and Mrs. Bentley showed them interest and devotion and everyone whose pleasure it was to have lived or boarded with the Bentleys felt a special spot in the affections of the family.

In August 1936, Mrs. Bentley passed away after an illness of some time, and left a decided vacancy here where she was a favorite with all who knew her.

Five of Mr. Bentley's children preceded him in death, they being Norman who died in East Texas in 1909; Mrs. W. S. Tomlinson whose recent death in Marietta, Georgia in 1943 caused him much grief; a five-year-old daughter, Beulah, died in 1901; Jessie, a son, died during the influenza epidemic in 1918 at the age of 32 and his son, Carl Bentley, who passed away in 1928.

Four children survive: Mrs. S. A. Davidson and Mrs. M. G. Calvert of Eagle Lake; Mrs. John Winston of Ardmore, Oklahoma and Ellison Bentley of Beaumont. 12 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren also survive.

Funeral services were held at three o'clock on Monday afternoon from the First Baptist Church, where he had worshipped so faithfully. Only the Sunday before he was at his accustomed task of taking up the collection at the morning services. Rev. Chas. Culpepper Jr., pastor of the church, officiated and paid tribute to his exemplary life.

Mrs. Cora Mae Nash was at the piano to play several numbers before the services began, and to accompany Mesdames C. L. Culpepper Jr., Orville Powers, H. W. Graves, W. E. McRee, Hayes Stephens and J. C. Lockwood for their singing of two of his favorite hymns, "In the Sweet Bye and Bye" and "On Jordan's Stormy Banks."

Pallbearers were prominent laymen of the church, including E.H. Shirley, Sam H. Broyles, F. N. Davidson, H. W. Graves, S. O. Boothe and J.G. Jenkins.

Funeral services at the Masonic Cemetery were conducted by his Lodge Brothers from the Masonic Lodge. Rev. J. W. Griffin, W. H. Albrecht, A. H Seaholm and G. Y. Morgan were in charge of this ritual.

Thus ended a useful and active life of a man whose devotion to his family, to his church, to his community and to his fellowmen made him one of the most revered citizens of the community.

His gentle, pleasant personality and his honest dealings at all times were outstanding virtues of his life, and the communities where he chanced to live were make better by his citizenship.

To his family we express regret in their sorrow.

Eagle Lake Headlight, March 22, 1946
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Bentley, Jesse

JESSE BENTLEY DIED FRIDAY IN CALIFORNIA

Mr. Jesse Bentley, thirty-one years old, son of Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Bentley of this city, died last Friday at his home in Redwood City, California, of influenza. The remains are being shipped to Eagle Lake and the funeral will take place this afternoon with interment in the Lakeside [Masonic] Cemetery.

Jesse is a former Eagle Lake boy, having made his home here for a number of years He was a most excellent young man, and was respected and esteemed by every one who knew him. He, accompanied by his wife, visited in Eagle Lake about two months ago, renewing old acquaintances and introducing his wife to his relatives and his friends here.

Mrs. Bentley is also very ill and was unable to accompany the body here, but recent telegrams to relatives here state that she is now improving, and will come to Eagle Lake as soon as she is able to stand the trip.

Besides the parents here, Mr. Bentley leaves three sisters, Mrs. M. G. Calvert and Mrs. S. A. Davidson of this city and Mrs. S. W. Tomlinson of Georgia, and a brother Mr. Carl Bentley of Fulsher, who have the sympathy of all of our people in their sadness.

Eagle Lake Headlight, October 26, 1918
Transcription by Dennis Boatright

Benton, Heather Vanessa

Benton

Heather Vanessa Benton, 36, of Eagle Lake passed awss

Benton, Henry

ALLEYTON LOCALS

During the interval Mr. Burton from the neighborhood below us was killed on the railroad by a train.

Colorado Citizen, January 24, 1884

We made two mistakes last week. It was Mr. Benton, instead of Burton, who was killed on the railroad, and . . .
[Place of interment unknown]

Colorado Citizen, January 31, 1884

Berger

(Browse all Berger obits)

Berkenhoff, August/Gustav

We regretted to hear of the death of Mr. Gustav Berckenhoff, a citizen of Frelsburg, which occurred last Saturday. He was an old citizen of the county, straight-forward, honest man, with many friends, who morn his demise. [Place of interment Sts. Peter and Paul Cemetery]

Colorado Citizen, August 6, 1885

Berry, Basset

Eagle Lake Items

Basset Berry, col., died at his residence in town Tuesday evening. Basset was one of the best negroes in this community, and his death is regretted by all. [Burial place unknown]

Colorado Citizen, March 24, 1892
Contributed by Deborah Smith

Berry, J. Clifton

Rock Island, July 26.--Died, at his residence in rock Island, July 25, J. C. Berry, aged 65 years 6 months. The deceased was a valued citizen and prominent Odd Fellow Interment took place Sunday afternoon at Myrtle cemetery under the auspices of Rock Island lodge, I. O. O. F., assisted by members of he Columbus (Tex.) Lodge.

Weimar Mercury, August 1, 1903, page 4

 Berthold

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Bertsch, Clarence J.

Clarence J. Bertsch, 69, of Columbus, passed away April 6 at his residence.

He was born in Plum, July 3, 1932 to Emelia Annie (Zajicek) and Henry Bertsch Sr. and married Dorothy Franta, June 14, 1954. He was a member of St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus, SPJST and KJT and served in the the U.S, Army Reserve.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Henrietta Wimberly; brothers, Edwin and Clinton Bertsch; two infant brothers; father-in-law, Ludwig Franta; and brother-in-law, Max Vasek.

He is survived by his wife; daughter, Darlene Bertsch of Columbus; son and daughter-in-law, Mark Sr. and Tina Bertsch of Columbus; sister, Olga House of Midway; brother, Henry Bertsch Jr. of Industry; grandson, Mark Bertsch Jr. of Columbus; mother-in-law, Frances Franta of Plum; and sister-in-law, Elsie Vasek of Plum.

Funeral services were conducted April 9 at St. Anthony Catholic Church with Father Dan Kahlich officiating. Interment followed at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Roy Wimberly, Gilbert Kiel, Norbert Sablatura, Daniel Kovar, Freddy Bertsch, Louis Bertsch, Jim Bertsch and Russell Renick.

Colorado County Citizen, April 10, 2002
Courtesy of the Citizen

Bertsch, Conrad E.

C. E. Bertsch, TCM Foreman, Buried Feb. 14

Eagle Lake--Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Monday, Feb. 14, for Conrad E. Bertsch of Columbus, yard foreman for the Texas Construction Material Company’s Eagle Lake plant.

He had been employed by TCM for some 20 years.

Mr. Bertsch died in the Gulf Coast Medical Hospital in Wharton Sunday morning after an illness of several months.

Services were held from the Lutheran Church in Columbus with interment in Odd Fellows Rest Cemetery.

Surviving are his wife, Angeline; sons, Jimmy of Baytown, Steven of Weimar; a stepson, Lynn Rae Meyer of Weimar; his mother Mrs. Dora Richter of Columbus; two sisters, one brother; and two grandchildren, Lisa and Craig Bertsch of Baytown. (Eagle Lake Headlight).

Weimar Mercury, February 24, 1966, page 10

Besch

Browse all obituaries with the surname Besch

Beseda, Evelyn (Piwetz)

Beseda

Evelyn Beseda, 80, of Eagle Lake, died Sunday, Feb. 4, 1996 at Heritage House Nursing Home in Eagle Lake.

Born June 28, 1915 in Fayetteville she was the daughter of Robert and Mary (Topalnek) Piwetz.

Funeral services were held Feb. 6 at the Eagle Lake Parish of the Nativity’s Our Lady of Perpetual Help with Rev. Father Eddie Winkler officiating. Interment followed in Lakeside Cemetery. Dulany Funeral Home of Eagle Lake, was in charge of arrangements.

Serving as pallbearers were Mrs. Beseda’s grandsons and nephews.

Mrs. Beseda is survived by daughters and son-in-law, Carol Beseda of Dallas and Patricia and Stanley Huffmann of Rosesharon; son and daughter-in-law, John Jr. and Patricia Beseda of Killeen; sister Lorrayne Mosher of Campton, N.H.; brother L. J. Piwetz of Houston; six grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and a number of nieces, nephews and loved ones.

Colorado County Citizen, February 7, 1996, page 12

Beseda, John Thomas

Beseda

John Beseda, age 77, of Eagle Lake, passed away October 15 at his residence.

Funeral services were held for Mr. Beseda, Thursday, October 17, from Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church in Eagle Lake with the Rev. Ray Widacki officiating. Arrangements were under the direction of Dulany Funeral Home.

Interment was held at Lakeside Cemetery in Eagle Lake.

Mr. Beseda was born February 24, 1908 in Ellinger to Tom Beseda and Rosie Hubenak Beseda. He married Evelyn Piwetz Beseda in Fayetteville on December 15, 1935. Mr. Beseda had lived in Eagle Lake for the past 40 years.

He was a retired plant foreman for Ideal Cement Co. (formerly Thorstenberg Sand and Gravel). Mr. Beseda was a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church of Eagle Lake and a member of the Knights of Columbus.

He was preceded in death by his parents, one sister and one brother.

Survivors include his wife, Evelyn Beseda of Eagle Lake; two daughters, Carol Beseda of Dallas and Patricia Huffman of Rosenberg; one son, John Beseda, Jr. of Killeen; two sisters, Mrs. Tonie Orsak of Wharton and Mrs. Betty Krenek of Ellinger; one brother, Jerry Beseda of Wharton; six grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews.

Colorado County Citizen, October 24, 1985

Beseda, John Thomas Jr.

Beseda

John Beseda, 66, of Harker Heights, passed away Oct. 27, in Temple.

Born Dec. 15, 1936 in La Grange, to John Thomas Beseda Sr., he was raised and educated in Eagle Lake. He and Patricia Russek were married July 1, 1961 and have resided in Harker Heights since 1966.

Beseda was an alumnus of Texas A & I at Kingsville as well as the University of Houston. He was employed with Killeen ISD since 1966 and coached 12 years with Killeen High School, 17 years at C.E. Ellison High School, six years as athletic director for the school district and retired in 2001. Prior to Killeen, Beseda coached in Bishop and Alice. He was a member of the Texas High School Coaches Association, Texas High School Athletic Association, Killeen Retired Teachers Association, and was named Coach of the Year twice in District 13-5A. He was a member of St. Paul's Catholic Church in Harker Heights.

He is survived by his wife; sons, Scott Beseda of Dallas, Todd Beseda of Arlington and Brett Beseda of Huntsville; daughter, Renee Ham of Huntsville; sisters, Carol Ann Beseda of Dallas and Patricia Huffman of Rosharon; and two granddaughters.

A rosary will be conducted at 7 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 29, from the chapel of Crawford-Bowers Funeral Home in Killeen. Funeral services will take place at 9 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, from St. Paul's Catholic Church in Harker Heights, with the Rev. Richard O'Rourke officiating. Immediately following services in Killeen, the body will be taken to Dulany Funeral Home in Eagle Lake. The family will receive visitors at the chapel of Dulany Funeral Home from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Graveside services and burial will follow at 4 p.m. at Lakeside Cemetery in Eagle Lake, with the Rev. Eddie Winkler, pastor of the Roman Catholic Parish of the Nativity, presiding.

For those desiring, the family has requested memorial contributions be directed to either St. Paul's Catholic Church Building Fund or American Heart Association.

Colorado County Citizen, October 29, 2003
Courtesy of the Citizen

Bess, Andrew C.

Andrew Bess Funeral Held Here Mar. 23

Funeral services for Andrew C. Bess, 73, of Weimar were held Sunday afternoon, March 23, from Greater Macedonia Baptist Church, with burial in Good Hope Cemetery. Rev. M. L. Williams officiated.

Mr. Bess died March 18, at Youens Memorial Hospital.

Born Sept. 8, 11908, at Pledger, Texas, he was a son of Rev. and Mrs. D. R. Bess. He lived in Los Angeles, Wharton and San Antonio before joining the regular army in 1942. He was a surgical technician in the dispensary and in the field with Headquarters Detachment, 379th battalion, through North Africa, Italy, France and Germany, and was discharged in 1945 as a technical sergeant.

For several years he worked for Brasher Motor Co. here before retiring as a disabled veteran. Active in various civic affairs of his community, he was a member of American Legion Post 849, the AFAM Lodge, the Law Enforcement Officers Training School, Harris County Sheriff's Academy and the Texas Gulf Coast Crime Prevention Association.

He married Mrs. Mabel Baity on Dec. 7, 1942. She survives, along with a daughter, Mrs. Dorothy Henry of Weimar; seven grandchildren; three sisters, Elnora Dixon of Galveston, Mrs. Ida M. Williams of San Francisco and Mrs. Jessie M. Runnels of Wharton; a brother, Eunice Bess of Wharton and a number of nephews and nieces.

Pallbearers were Larry D. Henry, Roy L. Henry, Wilbert Johnson Jr., James A. Henry, Rodney Whitmore and Wiley J. Carter. Honorary pallbearers were members of American Legion Post 849.

Weimar Mercury, April 3, 1980
Transcription by Dennis Boatright

Best, Fannie

Colorado Citizen:

Last Sunday morning about 10 o’clock at the home of her parents, little Fannie Best, aged 10 years, died of a relapse of scarlet fever, and was buried the next day in the Odd Fellows Rest. The Citizen sympathizes with the bereaved.

Weimar Mercury, December 9, 1899

Best, George

Pioneer Citizen Called by Death

Mr. George Best, 81, died at the County Farm here on Wednesday evening of last week. Funeral services were held at Odd Fellows Rest at 1:00 o'clock Thursday, Rev. J. W. E. Airey of the St. John's Episcopal Church officiating, and the remains laid to rest in that place.

Mr. Best was for many years a familiar figure in Columbus. He was born in Lanchester, Kentucky, on June 26th., 1848 and came to Columbus in the year 1874. After coming here he married Miss Nora Wells, who preceded him to the grave seven yearss ago. He was for many years a deputy sheriff in this county. He saw life in all its various phases and met the problems of early days in this section with a stout heart and fearless judgment.

Of late years Mr. Best had been weak and failing in health. Financial difficulties caused a despondent air about him from which he rallied only intermittently. For the past few months he had been given care and attention at the county farm, where he became absolutely helpless during the past few weeks. His end was a relief to his suffering and the dependency which he resented.

George Best had many friends in this section who view his passing with sorrow and regret.

Colorado County Citizen, December 5, 1929, page 1

Old Time Citizen of Columbus Dies

One item know to the Mercury but overlooked in the stress of getting out last week's paper was the death of our old time friend and citizen of Colorado county since the early seventies, Mr. George Best, which occurred the first part of last week at the county farm, where he had been a patient for several weeks.

Mr. Best in his early days was a prominent citizen of Columbus and Colorado county, a peace officer for a number of years, and business man of Columbus up to a few years ago, His wife died several years ago, from which time this good man seemed to decline in health and vigor,until a few weeks ago it was decided to commit him to the county farm where he might have attention at all times, as he had become practically helpless.

The remains were laid to rest by the side of his wife, who preceded him to the grave several years ago. [Odd Fellows Rest]

George Best was a splendid, good man and in his prime did much for the community in which he lived. He was well and favorably known to many citizens of this section, having been for a number of years a cotton seed buyer for the Weimar Oil Works. He proved faithful to every trust imposed upon him, was a true friend under any and all circumstances, and in his passing the writer drops the tear of sympathy in the realization of having lost a good, true and tried friend.

Weimar Mercury, December 13, 1929

Best, Hazel (Wilson)

Mrs. George C. Best Is Buried Here

Graveside services for a Houston resident, Mrs. George Caleb Best, were held here yesterday afternoon at Odd Fellows Rest cemetery. Funeral services were conducted in the morning at Pat H. Foley chapel in Houston.

Mrs. Best, aged 59, of 3418 East Lockwood st., Houston died Monday.

Survivors are her husband George Best; and a daughter, Mrs. H. W. Wilkerson, both of Houston. Mr. Best is a native of near Columbus, a son of the late Mrs. Margaret Harrison, who once lived south of here.

Colorado County Citizen, September 24, 1959, page 10

Best, James Byars

Masonic Rites Held at Graveside For James B. Best

Graveside services were conducted at Odd Fellows Rest cemetery at 2 p.m. Monday by the Masonic lodge for James B. Best, 62, who died at 5:30 p.m. Friday in Houston where he had lived for 13 years.

Mr. Best was born about 2 1/2 miles south of Columbus on what was known as the old Harrison place and graduated from high school in Columbus. His son, J. B. Best Jr. died several years ago and his mother, Mrs. Margaret Best Harrison, also died several years ago in Ft. Worth and was buried in Columbus.

He was a member of the South Main Baptist church and was connected with the Southwest Trading co. of Houston. Survivors include his widow, Mrs. Clara Best, a sister, Mrs. Martha Yarborough, Ft. Worth, and a brother Caleb Best, of Houston.

Columbus Funeral home was in charge of burial here.

Colorado County Citizen, February 18, 1960, page 12

Best, James Byars Jr.

James B. Best Jr. Services Held Here

Graveside services were held [in Odd Fellows Rest cemetery] here Monday afternoon for James B. Best Jr., 29-year-old Houston man who shot himself to death in Houston Friday night.

Columbus Funeral Home was in charge.

Mr. Best’s relatives formerly lived in Columbus.

Colorado County Citizen, May 24, 1956, page 8

Best-Harrison, Margaret Elizabeth (Maret)

95-Year-Old Former Resident To Be Buried Today

Funeral services were set for this morning at 10:30 for Mrs. Margaret E. Harrison, 95, who died at her home in Fort Worth Tuesday.

Columbus Funeral Home is in charge of the services and burial will be, in Odd Fellows' Rest cemetery.

Mrs. Harrison was born in Kentucky. Feb. 3, 1859 and came to Columbus with her parents when she was 14. At the time of her death she was owner of a farm south of Columbus where she resided for many years. She was one of the oldest subscrIber to The Citizen in terms of a continuous subscription.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Mrs. Margaret Thompson and Mrs. W. T. Yarborough of Fort Worth and 2 sons, George Caleb Best and James Byars Best of Houston.

Her grandsons were to be her pallbearers. [Mrs. Harrison was first married to William Clayton Best and her tombstone is for Margaret Elizabeth Best.]

Colorado County Citizen, January 28, 1954

Best, Nora Warner (Wells)

MRS. NORA BEST OF COLUMBUS DIED LAST WEEK

From the Columbus Citizen we learn that Mrs. Nora Best, beloved wife of Mr. George Best of that city died last Tuesday and the remains were laid to rest in the Odd Fellows Cemetery the following day, Rev. T. J. Windham and Rev. A. I. Townsley of Columbus officiating at the grave. Mrs. Best, it will be remembered, recently sustained a severe fall, in which her hip bone was fractured. She never rallied, and due to her advanced age, 79 years, soon passed away. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the bereaved husband.

Weimar Mercury, June 15, 1922, page 4

Betancourt, Maria L. (Robles)

Betancourt

Maria L. Betancourt, 45, of Eagle Lake died Dec.25, 1995 in Columbus following a lengthy illness.

Born June 18, 1950 in Monterrey, Mexico, she was the daughter of Fermin and Aurelia (Sanchez) Robles. Mrs. Betancourt was a homemaker and a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Funeral services were held Dec. 27 at the Columbus branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints with President Kenneth Turner officiating. Interment followed in Lakeside Cemetery, Eagle Lake.

Mrs. Betancourt is survived by husband Julian Betancourt of Eagle Lake; sisters Marie Vargas of Eagle Lake and Alecia Robles of Monterrey, Mexico; brothers, Ernesto Robles and Francisco Robles, both of Monterrey, Mexico; and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and loved ones.

Colorado County Citizen, January 3, 1996, page 10

Beyer

(Browse all obituaries with Beyer surname)

Bibb, Sallie (Daniels)

FORMER LADY RESIDENT BURIED AT SHAWS BEND

The daily papers of the last week told of the death of Mrs. Sallie Bibb, 80, widow of an old time printer, which occurred in Houston Friday night. The remains were brought to Columbus and from there to Shaws Bend, in the northeastern part of Colorado county for interment in the family burying ground. [Fitzgerald Cemetery] Mrs. Bibb was a descendant of the late Judge Williamson Daniels, who held the first civil court in Columbus. Judge Daniels settled at what is now Columbus and some of his direct descendants still reside there. Mrs. Bibb was at one time one of Columbus’s most popular young ladies
She is survived by two brothers, James W., Daniels of Houston and V. V. Daniels, Sr. of Corpus Christi, the only surviving pioneer descendants of the original Daniels family.

Weimar Mercury, October 21, 1938, page 1

Bieler, J. E.

Sheridan News

News was received here of the accidental drowning of J. E. Bieler at Garwood last Friday afternoon. Mr. Bieler formerly lived at this place, being interested in that saw mill at this place. The mill was moved to Garwood some time ago. Mr. Blaney and wife went down to Garwood that night. We are not in possession of any of the particulars concerning his death. [Burial place unknown.]

Weimar Mercury, 22 Aug 1913, page 1
Contributed by Matt Cross
Death certificate for Jack Beeler lists him as J. E. Beiler with birth date of 26 May 1872 in Wheaton, Kansas, death on 15 Aug 1913 by drowning.

Bierwirth, Judy (Kring)

Bierwirth

Judy Kring Bierwirth, 79, of Columbus, formerly from Houston passed away Jan. 23, at her residence among her family members.

Born Sept. 21, 1928 in Houston, the daughter of William Louis and Beatrice Regina (Otto) Kring. she graduated from Reagan High School in 1945 and was a retired personal secretary for Preston Oil Company.

She was preceded in death by her parents; and two sons, William L. and Randall L. Bierwirth.

She is survived by her husband of 58 years, William "Bill" Bierwirth of Columbus; daughter, Bealinda O'Brien and husband Francis "Buddy" of Columbus; sisters, Patty Hall of Spicewood, Peggy White of Bryan and Betty Coffer of Kerrville; five grandchildren, Kimberly Bierwirth, Brent Bierwirth, Joseph O'Brien, Sean O'Brien and Corey O'Brien; one great-granddaughter, Rachael Rivas; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral Mass was conducted Sunday, Jan. 27, at St. Anthony Catholic Church in Columbus with Father John Bily and Deacon Bennie Holesovsky officiating under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home. Interment followed at St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery in Columbus.

Pallbearers were Brent Bierwirth, Joseph O'Brien, Sean O'Brien, Corey O'Brien, Bill Decker and Terry Hall.

Honorary pallbearers were Kevin Bierwirth, Waid White and Luther Bierwirth Jr.

Memorials may be made to St. Anthony Catholic Church, 1602 Bowie St., Columbus, TX 78934; Brazos Valley Hospice, 302 E. Bluebell Rd., Brenham, TX 77833; or the charity of your choice.

Colorado County Citizen, January 30, 2008
Courtesy The Citizen

Bierwirth, Randall

RANDALL BIERWIRTH , 45, of Houston, Texas, beloved son of Bill and Judy Bierwirth of Columbus, Texas, died June 28, 2001. He is survived by his parents; one sister, Bealinda & husband Buddy O'Brien of Columbus, Texas; sister-in-law, Jan Bierwirth of Houston, Texas; one niece, four nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins. A brother, Bill L. Bierwirth , preceded him in death. Funeral services at 10:00 A.M., Monday, July 2, 2001 at St. Anthony Catholic Church, Columbus, Texas. Rosary, Sunday, 6:00 P.M., at Henneke Funeral Home, Columbus, Texas. Visitation, Sunday from 5:00 to 7:00 P.M. at Henneke Funeral Home. Burial in St. Anthony Catholic Cemetery, Columbus, Texas. Serving as pallbearers: Eddie Pollanez, Floyd Belye, Bill Decker, Buddy O'Brien, Sean O'Brien, Brent Bierwirth . Honorary pallbearers: Waid White, Terry Hall, Jr. 

Houston Chronicle, Saturday, June 30, 2001
Submitted by Rob Brown

Biggins, Sandra Kay (Hardy) Taylor

Biggins

Sandra Kaye Hardy Biggins, 57, and her husband, Dennis Biggins, passed away Jan. 8 in their home in Jacksonville, Fla.

Sandy was born Aug. 30, 1949 in Carbondale, Ill. to Dr. Paul and Edith Hardy. They moved to Columbus in 1951. After graduating from Columbus High School Sandy attended Texas State University and later earned a bachelor's degree from the University of South Florida. A life-long learner Sandy loved to read and study. She was a licensed esthetician, real estate agent and completed a modeling certificate.

In 1968 Sandy married her high school sweetheart, Jimmy Taylor. They had three children, Ted Alan, Audrey Ann and Jeremy John Taylor. Sandy later married Dennis Biggins and they made their home in Clearwater, Fla. until a recent move to Jacksonville, Fla. They enjoyed the Florida beaches, their little dachshund Mona, and each other.

Survivors include her children Jeremy, Audrey and Ted; her parents; brother Gary Hardy and wife Kim of Columbus; sister Paula Brady and husband Jim of Austin; nephews Cole, Zachary, Jacob and Tyson Hardy; Dennis' sons Matthew and Todd Biggins; and their families of Connecticut.

Sandy will be remembered for her loving ways, elegance and kind spirit. She was deeply devoted to her family. The family's love for Dennis along with the deep love for both of them remains in the hearts of family and friends.

Funeral services were held on Jan. 21, at Henneke Funeral Home. Burial followed in Odd Fellows Cemetery, Columbus.

Pallbearers were Jeremy Taylor, Gary Hardy, Charles Wesenberg III and Dr. Vincent Stewart, Jim Brady and Gary Purcell. Dr. Harry Wallace was an honorary pallbearer.

Memorials may be made to St. Paul's Lutheran Church or to the charity of your choice.

Colorado County Citizen, January 24, 2007
Courtesy The Citizen

Bilek, Alvin E.

LA MARQUE – Services for Alvin E. Bilek, 63, a retired railroad employee, will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, the Rev. Douglas J. Guthrie officiating. Graveside services and burial will be at 3 p.m. Saturday at St. Michael's Catholic Cemetery In Weimar, the Rev. Gregory O'Connor officiating.

A rosary will be at Crowder Funeral Home in La Marque at 7 p.m. today.

Mr. Bilek died Thursday at Memorial Hospital of Galveston County in Texas City.

He was born March 28, 1920 In El Campo and resided in La Marque the past 27 years.

Mr. Bilek was a World War II veteran, a member Of Disabled American Veterans, a member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church in La Marque, assistant scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 222, a member of K.J.T. St. Sylvester Chapter 119, and a member of the Brotherhood of Railroad Car Men of America.

He was retired from the Texas City Terminal Railroad mechanical department.

Survivors include his wife, Henrietta F. Bilek of La Marque; mother, Frances Bilek of Hillje, Texas; three sons, Roland E. Bilek and Gordon Bilek, both of Texas City, and Randal J. Bilek of La Marque; two sisters, Lillian Pavlu of La Marque and Juanita Bilek of Houston; two brothers, Emil Bilek of El Campo and Frank Bilek of Texas City; two grandsons; and one granddaughter.

Members of Boy Scout Troop 222 of La Marque will serve as pallbearers.

Visitors may call at the funeral home after 3 p.m. today.

Memorials may be sent to the American Cancer Society.

Galveston Daily News, Friday, August 5, 1983
Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

Billeck

Browse all obituaries with Billeck surname

Billert, George

See article about Masonic burial services at the graves of several men, including Noah Bonds, who died during the 1873-1874 yellow fever epidemic.

Billings, Frank David

Youth Dies In Cave-In At Gravel Pit

Death came suddenly to little, likable Frank Billings, 13, of Glidden Monday afternoon as he played with a companion in an old gravel pit about 3 miles southwest of Columbus.

Tons of earth rolled over him and Harold Rollins of Columbus, also, 13, as they scooped a shelter from light rain under a dragline made cliff, and a part of the dirt covered Frank about 4 feet deep.

Harold, son of Mrs. Dorothy Rollins of Columbus, scratched his way from underneath loose sad that covered all but his legs, at one time, and ran almost a mile over the dunes and pits to a Horton and Horton Gravel co. office to spread the alarm.

Dozens Help

Columbus firemen and dozens of others searched for about 30 minutes before they found where Frank was buried. His body was recovered about 2 1/2 hours after the avalanche, and he was pronounced dead of suffocation on arrival at Columbus hospital.

The 2 boys, both Columbus Little League baseball players had been seen in the area both Monday morning and afternoon by Horton and Horton employes and had been warned away at one time.

The cliff under which they sought shelter from the light rain about 4 p.m. Monday rose possibly 50 feet above the bottom of the gravel pit.

They Dug Shelter

Harold, in Columbus hospital with a broken rib, scratches and bruises, told Justice of the Peace E. J. Frnka that they had scooped out an opening under the bluff when it began to rain.
Both boys were on their hands and knees when the earth above them began to crumble, he said. He tried to dig out Frank, but couldn’t and fled to the office where they had parked their bicycles. Joe Gold found the stunned boy there and brought him to the hospital.

Frank is the son of Mr. and Mrs. L. A. Billings of Glidden. Mr. Billings is a Southern Pacific section foreman.

It was Frank who was with Robert Earl Grace, Glidden Negro boy, 13, when he drowned while seining in the Colorado river. Frank escaped then to spread the alarm, but it was companion Monday who was lucky.

Last rites for the boy who would have entered school here next Tuesday were held at Columbus Funeral home Tuesday morning with Church of Christ Minister Edgar Furr officiating.

His fellow Little League baseball players were pallbearers.

Survivors are his parents, 3 sisters, Mrs. Doris Nell Clark of Marion, Tex., Mrs. Lucille Van Cleve of Wallis and Ms. Betty Lou Samson of Uvalde; and 3 brothers, Lee Amon Billings Jr. of Corpus Christi and M. C. Billings with the army in France.
Burial was in the Odd Fellows Rest cemetery.

Colorado County Citizen, August 30, 1956, page 1

Billingsley, Eliza

Eliza Billingsley, 77, Buried Oct. 27

Funeral services for Eliza Billingsley, 77, wife of Caleb Billingsley, were held Tuesday morning, Oct. 27, at Macedonia Baptist Church here, with burial in the local cemetery. The Rev. T. R. Simmons officiated.
Mrs. Billingsley became ill Oct. 1 and grew gradually weaker until her death Oct. 21. Surviving her are five children, a sister, and a number of other relatives.

Weimar Mercury, November 13, 1959, page 1

Billot, William

William Billot, 76, of Columbus, died Thursday, Aug. 4, 1994, in Columbus.

Born March 18, 1918, he was a former member of the U. S. Merchant Marines and a Baptist.

Graveside services and interment were held Aug. 5, at Columbus City Cemetery with Rev. Vernon Griffin. Services were under the direction of Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus.

Colorado County Citizen, August 10, 1994
Transcription by Dennis Boatright

Binder, Alfred J. "Fritz"

Final Rites for Fritz Binder, 61, Here Wednesday

Funeral services were held in Houston Wednesday, June 10, for Alfred “Fritz” Binder, 61, who died unexpectedly at his home Monday, June 8, of a heart attack.

Mass was said by Rev. Jerome Powers at Immaculate Conception Church in Houston before the body was brought to Weimar, where it lay in state at St. Michael’s Church.

Burial was in St. Michael’s Cemetery with Rev. Oswald Kahlich officiating.

Born in Schulenburg in 1909, Mr. Binder married Miss Henrietta Hoelscher here Nov. 13, 1934. They lived in Houston more than 30 years. For more than 20 years he worked as an electrician for Shumberg Electric Co.

He was a member of St. Alphonsus Catholic church, where he served on the parish council and was the Southeast Deanery representative.

Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Henrietta Binder; three daughters, Miss Charlene Binder, Mrs. Cathy Widner and Mrs. Joyce Cude, all of Houston; two sisters, Mrs. Tillie Miller of Houston and Mrs. Frances Skipper of Florida; four brothers Frank Binder of Jacksonville, Fla., John Binder of Waco and Paul and Edwin Binder of Weimar; and six grandchildren.

Pallbearers were his nephews; Horace Hoelscher, Werner Hoelscher, Elliott Hoelscher, Frank Freis, Thomas Janda and Ed Binder.

Weimar Mercury June 18, 1970

Binder Annie L.

Annie L. Binder Funeral Services Held April 30

Annie L. Binder, 88, of Schulenburg died April 27 at Colonial Nursing Home. Funeral services were held April 30 at Faith Lutheran Church with Pastor Vernon Rabel and Father John Peters officiating. Burial followed at Masonic Cemetery.

Doris Hoeinghaus gave a Reading, Louis Nitschke served as Communion Assistant and Adolph and Rosie Shumbera presented the Communion gifts. Procession and Recession music was sang by Margaret Raabe and Jaunita Rable and Sherise Davis served as organist.

Annie was born Jan. 15, 1911 to Emil and Mary Doubrava Shumbera in Skidmore. She married Paul Binder on Dec. 26, 1932 at St. Michael Church in Weimar.

She attended school in Borden and Weimar., She was a member and past president of Oak Grove Home Demonstration Club and Priscilla Women’s Guild of Faith Lutheran Church.

Mrs. Binder was a housewife living her entire life in this area.

Survivors include: nieces, Sidney LaValle of Hitchcock and Judy Shumberg of Houston; a nephew, Jimmy Shumberg of Houston; a cousin, Adolph Shumbera and wife, Rosie of Weimar and numerous other cousins.

She was preceded in death by : her parents, her husband and one brother, Emil Shumbera.

Memorials may be given to Faith Lutheran Church, Colorado-Fayette Medical Center or any charitable organization.

Pallbearers were: Bob Binder, Melvin Otto, Marivn Otto, Jimmie Shumberg, Melvin R. Shumbera, Paul Billeck, Reagan Marshall and Edwin Binder.

The Weimar Mercury, May 6, 1999
Transcribed by Jennie Muggli

Binder, Charlene B.

FuneraI for Miss Binder Here June 22

Funeral services for Charlene Binder, 52, of Weimar were held Monday, June 22, from St. Michael's Catholic Church, with burial in the parish cemetery. Father John C. Bily officiated.

Miss Binder died June 20 at 6:30 a.m. at Monument Hill Nursing Horse, La Grange.

Born here Sept. 3, 1935, she was a daughter of Alfred and Henrietta (Hoelscher) Binder.

She is survived by her mother, Mrs. Henrietta Binder of Weimar; two sisters, Mrs. Cathy Widner and Mrs. Joyce Cude, both of Houston; and six nieces and nephews. Her father preceded her in death.

Serving as pallbearers were Keith Cude, Wray Widner, Tony Janda, Bob Binder, Frank Freis Jr., and Ivan Muras.

Weimar Mercury, June 23, 1988, page 10

Binder, Frank A.

Oak Grove Community Loses Good Citizen

Mr. F. A. Binder, on e of Oak Grove community’s best citizens passed away early Thursday morning of last week and the remains were laid to rest in the Masonic Cemetery at this place the following Friday afternoon. Rev. W. A. Flachmeier of Columbus officiating in a touching burial service. Pall bearers on this sad occasion were Messrs. Adolf Schindler, Henry Guenther, F. F. Gold, Julius Haas, Henry J. Laas and John L. Mozisek.

Mr. Frank A. Binder was born Nov. 18, 1870, in Czechoslovakia. At the age of 14 years he came to America landing at Galveston in the fall of 1888. From Galveston he came to Schulenburg. On July 14, 1895, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Ocber, the ceremony taking place at Shiner, making their home in Schulenburg. Eight children were born to this union – two girls, Mrs. Tillie Lux and Mrs. Frances Stover, both of Houston and six boys, George of West Texas, John of Houston, Frank of Long Beach, Calif., Alfred, Paul and Edwin of Weimar; one brother, Jacob Binder of Jourdanton; one sister, Mrs. Val Kusey of Borden community. In the year 1919 the family moved from Schulenburg to the Oak Grove community, southeast of Weimar, where the remainder of his life was spent. He died July 21, 1938 at the age of 67 years.

Mr. Binder was an honest, upright, progressive, good citizen, highly regarded by his friends and neighbors; a splendid husband and father and a man whom to know was to esteem highly. In his passing all of us feel that we have lost a splendid, good citizen, friend and neighbor.

Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his bereaved ones.

Weimar Mercury, July 29, 1938
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Binder, Mary/Marie (Oehler)

Final Rites for Mrs. Marie Binder, 85, Wednesday

Funeral services for Mrs. Marie Binder, 85, widow of the late Frank A. Binder were held at Hubbard Funeral Home and St. Michael's Catholic Church here Wednesday, Oct. 4, with interment in the city [Masonic] cemetery.

Rev. Thomas O'Callaghan officiated, assisted by Rt. Rev. Msgr. A. F. Drozd and Ref. Thomas Flannagan.

Mrs. Binder died Monday, Sept. 29, in Colonial Rest Home at Schulenburg, where she had lived the past 5 years. She had been ill about three weeks.

She would have been 86 on October 21. Born in Moravia, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Ochler, she came to this country in 1890 and was married to Mr. Binder Jan. 14, 1895 at Schulenburg. They lived there until 1918, when they moved to the Weimar area. Mr. Binder died in 1938.

Mrs. Binder is survived by two daughters, Mrs. Allie Hiller and Mrs. Frances Skipper, both of Houston; five sons, John of Waco, Frank of Jacksonville, Fla., Alfred of Houston and Paul and Edwin of Weimar; 17 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren and two great-great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers in the services were Oscar Hoelscher, Rudolph Thumann, Alfred Kainer, Frank Kroboth, John Hajovsky and Ed Bohac.

Weimar Mercury, October 3, 1958
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Binder, Paul

Paul Binder Funeral Held Here May 13

Funeral services for Paul Binder, 82, a lifelong resident of Weimar, were held here May 13 at Faith Lutheran Church with burial in Weimar Masonic Cemetery. Pastor Vernon Rabel officiated.

Binder died May 10 at Colorado-Fayette Medical Center of a heart attack.

He was born August 30, 1910, In Schulenburg to Frank and Marie (Ohler) Binder. He attended Oak Grove Community School.

He married Annie Shumbera on Dec. 26, 1932, in Weimar. Binder was a farmer.

His wife survives him, along with two brothers, Edwin Binder of Weimar and Frank Binder of Jacksonville, Florida.

He was preceded in death by three brothers and two sisters.

Pallbearers were Bob Binder, Dan Binder, Melvin Otto, Marvin Otto, Jimmie Shumbera, Melvin Shumbera, Charlie Hattermann and Paul Billeck.

The Weimar Mercury, May 20, 1993
Transcribed by Jennie Muggli

Bingaman, Bruce B.

Funeral Services for Bruce Bingaman held at Rock Island

Funeral services were conducted Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock from the Rock Island Methodist Church for Bruce B. Bingaman, 52, of Houston. Burial was in the Myrtle Cemetery at Rock Island, Texas. Mr. Bingaman was engineer of a Southern Pacific passenger train on a run from Corpus Christi to Houston, Sunday, at 8a.m. Mr. Bingaman and his fireman M.G. Guthrie also of Houston were trapped in the cab of the engine and were scalded by steam and hot water before being pulled out of the wreckage. Bingaman was alive when he was lifted out of the cab but died a few minutes later. He is survived by two sons, Hawkins Benjamin Bingaman and J. D. Bingaman of the United States Army: a sister, Mrs. Faith Tate of Rock Island, two brothers, Miles Bingaman of Asherton and Paul Bingaman of Alice, and a nephew, Dreesc Rote of Houston. The body arrived here Tuesday afternoon on the 7:15 S. P. and was conveyed to the McCreary Funeral Home, where it rested until Wednesday morning and was then removed to Rock Island. At 2:30 p.m. Tuesday special services were held in the Fogel-West Chapel in Houston by the Brotherhood of Engineers of which Mr. Bingaman was a member. Chief engineer Jim Ferguson presided. One of Mr. Bingaman’s sons being stationed in Hawaii could not be present. The other son was on a troop train en route to a transfer and was located by the Red Cross and reached Rock Island in time for the services. Only a few weeks ago, Mr. Bingaman was in the Headlight office completing funeral arrangements for his mother. The same ministers conducted his burial services that had charge of his mother’s. They were the Rev. J. C. Young of Edna and the Rev. J.H. Thompson of Garwood. J.G. Jenkins gave a special vocal number. Pallbearers were D.E. McNeil, Fred Hughes of Houston; W R Tally, T.J. Simota of Victoria; N.G. Ney and E.H. Shirley of Eagle Lake. A large crowd was in attendance at the services and the floral emblems were very beautiful. Among the railroad fraternity from out of town who were General Chairman B. of L.E.D.C. McNeil and wife; Fred C. Hughs, S.P. engineer, Houston; W.R. Tally, conductor, S.P. railroad, Victoria. The Headlight offers profound sympathy to the bereaved. [Interred in Myrtle Cemetery]

Eagle Lake Headlight, May 14, 1943
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Bingaman, Jacob D.

Prominent Farmer of Rock Island Succumbs

Funeral services were held last Thursday afternoon for Mr. D.J. Bingaman, long time resident of Rock Island, who passed out of this life at his home in that town Wednesday. Rev. A.F. Forester of Garwood and Rev. J.C. Young of Edna officiated, and burial took place at Myrtle Cemetery in Rock Island. Mr. Bingaman had lived in Rock Island since 1909 and was well known throughout this section as an upright and genial character, always having a quaint remark to pass with friends. He was a native of Pennsylvania, Harleton County, where he was born on May 10, 1859. He was 78 years of age at death. Survivors are the wife and four children, Bruce of Victoria, Paul of San Antonio, Miles of Rock Island, and Mrs. Faith Rote of Rock Island. Six grandchildren also survive him. The sorrowing ones have the sincere sympathy of the entire community and section.

The Colorado County Citizen, September 16, 1937
Contributed by Patti Hall-Smith

Bingaman, Lillie Jane

Services Scheduled For Mrs. Bingaman

Funeral services for Mrs. D. J. Bingaman were to be held this afternoon at 2 o'clock at the Rock Island Methodist Church, to be followed by interment in Myrtle Cemetery.

Colorado County Citizen, April 1, 1943
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Binkley, Freddie

DISTRESSING CASUALTY— About 3 o’clock last Friday evening our little town was thrown into commotion by the announcement that little FREDDY, youngest son of Mr. J. N. Binkley had been drowned. The report proved, alas! too true. In company with three other little boys, he had been in bathing in the river near Wallace’s field, and playing upon a log. Slipping off the log, and being over his depth, he was unable to swim out, and drowned in the presence of his little playmates, all of whom were too small to render any assistance. Quite a number of young gentlemen sedulously endeavored to recover the body by diving, and the bottom of the river was thoroughly dragged, but without avail; and the dead child was not recovered until Sunday evening, having arisen and floated down the river to within a short distance of Herbert’s ferry. Monday morning at 10 o’clock the mortal remains of little Freddy were committed to the dust. He was a bright, intelligent lad, of perhaps twelve years, the youngest child, and special care of the household, and his tragic end has stricken them with the most poignant grief. The sympathy for the distressed father, whose agony and sorrow for his lost son was almost unendurable, was universal, and what poor duty could be rendered by our people was freely offered. [Interment in Columbus Odd Fellows Rest]

Colorado Citizen, June 20 1878, page 3
Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

Binkley, Jasper N.

Mr. J. N. Binkley, an aged and respected citizen of Columbus, died at the family residence last Tuesday afternoon, and his remains were laid to rest in the Odd Fellows’ cemetery Wednesday morning at 10 o’clock. Peace to his memory.

Weimar Mercury, December 14, 1895

Binkley, Jerline

Jerline Binkley

Mrs. Jerline Binkley, sister of Beatrice Grimes, passed away Saturday, November 12.

Funeral services are scheduled for Saturday, November 18 at 11 a.m. at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church, 303 N. 10th St., in Richmond. Rev. C. Lucas will officiate the service. Burial will follow in Williams Paradise Cemetery in Garwood.

Gooden Funeral Home of Rosenberg is in charge of arrangements.

A full obituary will follow in next week's Headlight. [Did not find the promised obit. DA]

Sympathy is extended to the family in their loss.

Eagle Lake Headlight, November 16, 2006, page 4

Binkley, William A.

WILS BINKLEY KILLED

Wils Binkley of Columbus--well-known throughout this section--was killed at Cameron, Tex., Sunday morning. From the Galveston News we glean the following particulars of the deplorable affair:

Cameron, Tex., Jan. 14.--D. H. Meyers of the firm of D. H. & L. Meyers of this city last night about 2 o’clock shot and instantly killed W. A. Binkley of Columbus,Tex., and mortally wounded A. H. Jones of Meridian, Miss. The difficulty took place in the house of two women of ill repute.

[Interment in Odd Fellows Rest]

It appears that the women had repeatedly requested Binkley and Jones to leave, but they refused to do so, whereupon Meyers dressed himself, and coming into the parlor, demanded that they go at once, and being refused, fired upon them, with the above results. Binkley was shot while sitting in a chair, the ball severing the femoral artery and death following almost instantly.

After shooting Binkley, Meyers turned to Jones, whom he found crouching in a corner, and shot him through the bowels. His wounds are considered fatal.

After the shooting Meyers, in company with one of the women, went to a livery stable, secured a buggy, and drove to the residence of Sheriff Bickett and surrendered.

The facts of the killing were developed from the inquest trial--the two women and Jones testifying.

Meyers refuses to make any statement in regard to his action. He and the two women are in jail awaiting the action at the examining trial, which will be held tomorrow, when new developments are looked for, as Meyers is expected to testify.

Later.--Jones died after the effect of the wounds received. At the examining trial Meyers was refused bail.

Weimar Mercury, January 20, 1894

Birdwell, Charlie

Services Today for Year-Old Charlie Birdwell

Funeral services for Charlie Birdwell, 16-month-0ld infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Birdwell will be held this afternoon, Thursday, at 2:30 o’clock at the Mill-Bauer Funeral Home with the Rev. Joe Anderson of the Evangelical United Brethren Church of Lissie officiating. Interment will be at Lakeside Cemetery.

Baby Birdwell passed away yesterday, January 5th, at 9:48 a.m. at Laughlin Hospital following a choking spell of very brief length.

He was born August 29th 1953 in Laughlin Hospital in Eagle Lake and was the youngest of six children for the Birdwells who reside between Eagle Lake and Ramsey.

Survivors include his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Birdwell; four brothers, Harvey, Jr., Roger, Richard and Johnny and one sister, Carol Ann; and grandfathers B. C. Birdwell and Will Kessler.

Eagle Lake Headlight, January 6, 1955

Last Rites Held for Charlie Birdwell

Friends and relatives gathered last Thursday afternoon at 2:30 o clock to pay final tribute to little Charlie Birdwell, year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Harvey Birdwell who died suddenly last week during a choking spell.
The Rev. Joe Anderson of the Lissie Evangelical United Brethren Church officiated at services at Mill Bauer Funeral Home and at interment in Lakeside Cemetery. Mrs. Clara Mae Nash and Miss Mary Carolyn Nash rendered favorite hymns during the services.

Pallbearers were: George Birdwell, Buddy Tise, Willie Kessler, and Eugene Engbrock.

Eagle Lake Headlight, January 13, 1955
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Birdwell, Emma N. (Berry)

Funeral Services for Mrs. Birdwell This Afternoon

Funeral services will be held for Mrs. B. C. Birdwell from the home of her son, Gordon Birdwell, in Eagle Lake at 3:30 this Friday afternoon, and will be conducted by Rev. B. S. Lee, local Baptist pastor. Interment will be made in the Lakeside Cemetery.

The funeral hour, arranged for Thursday afternoon, was postponed until today awaiting arrival of a son from the western part of the State.

Mrs. Birdwell died at the family home five miles north of Eagle Lake at 6:25 Wednesday morning following a ten day illness of double pneumonia.

Mrs. Birdwell, who was formerly Miss Emma Berry, was born in Georgia fifty-six years ago on the fourteenth of last June. She was married in 1896 to Mr. Birdwell in McKinney, Texas, the family moving to the Eagle Lake community in 1920.

Mrs. Birdwell was a dutiful wife and loving, tender mother. She was a splendid neighbor, and those who knew her best speak highly of her kind and neighborly deeds. Many friends deeply regret her passing.

She is survived by her husband and five sons, W. C. Birdwell of Pecos, Texas; Harvey Hughy, Gordon and Newell Lee, the latter probably better known to his friends as "Dink" Birdwell. Three daughters preceded their mother in death.

The people of the Eagle Lake community extend to the family deepest sympathy in their hour of dark sorrow.

Weimar Mercury, January 31, 1936
Transcribed by Judy Talkington

Birdwell, George

Birdwell

George Birdwell, 70, of Columbus, passed away Jan. 29 at Columbus Community Hospital.

He was born in Ramsey, Aug. 5, 1934 to Newell Lee and Thilda Ella (Schmidt) Birdwell. He lived most of his life in Eagle Lake and was a retired rice field laborer.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by sons, Frank Newell Birdwell of Ft. Knox, Ky. and Ryman Lee Birdwell of Friendswood; and sisters, Ethel Engbrock of Eagle Lake and Emily Frank Columbus.

Funeral services were conducted Feb. 1 at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus with the Rev. John Hunsicker officiating. Interment followed at Lakeside Cemetery in Eagle Lake.

Pallbearers were Heath Ray, Kenny Dodgen, Roger Birdwell, James Enbrock, Hugo Richter Jr. and Johnnie Schmidt Jr.

Honorary pallbearers were his friends at Blue Plate Café in Eagle Lake and Columbus Livestock Commission Company

Colorado County Citizen, February 2, 2005
Courtesy of The Citizen

Birdwell, Mary (Andrews) Stall Linnemier

Mrs. Birdwell Is Buried Here On Tuesday

Funeral services were held at 2:30 o’clock on Tuesday afternoon from the Mill Funeral Home for Mrs. Mary Andrews Birdwell who died on Monday. Rev. Oscar E. Linstrum of the Colly Memorial Methodist Church officiated at the services at the Funeral Home and at Lakeside Cemetery, where interment was made. Mrs. Birdwell was born 67 years ago, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Andrews of Weimar, Texas. She married Will Stahl in 1905 and five children were born of this marriage. Her husband preceded her in death and in 1921 she married Joe Linnemier who died in 1937. Later she married B. C. Birdwell. She is survived by three children, Mrs. Lonnie Ringgenberg, Mrs. Tillie Kosler of Oakland, Texas, and Joe Stahl Linnemier of Eagle Lake, six grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Frank Wanjura. Deepest Sympathy is expressed to the family in their loss. Pallbearers included Morris, Leroy, and Roy Briggs, Doc Tise, H.T. Nicewander and Fred Addicks.

Weimar Mercury, Jan. 24, 1947, page 4
Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

Birdwell, Thilda Ella (Schmidt)

Thilda Birdwell.

Funeral services were held for Thilda Ella Birdwell. February 20 at Dulany Funeral Home with Rev. J. Melburn Sibley of First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake officiating. Interment was at Lakeside Cemetery.

Thilda Ella Birdwell was born June 27, 1912 in Columbus to George and Bertha Findlesen Schmidt. She was a resident of Colorado County all her life, she has been in Brenham since October of 1982. She was a member of First Baptist Church of Eagle Lake.

She is preceded in death by her parents, one brother, Arthur Schmidt Sr. and her husband, Newel Lee Birdwell.

Survivors are two daughters, Ethel Engbrock of Sugarland and Emily Frank of Columbus; one son, George Birdwell of Eagle Lake; three sisters, Erna Cloat, Mary Zahradnick both of Eagle Lake and Alena Richter of Weimar; three brothers, Johnnie Schmidt Sr. of Cat Spring, Henry Schmidt Sr. and August Schmidt both of Eagle Lake; seven grandchildren and two great grandchildren; numerous nieces and nephews and other ralatives[sic] and loved ones.

Pallbearers were Roger Birdwell, Cecil Newsom, Johnnie Schmidt Jr., Hugo Richter Jr., Henry Schmidt Jr., Arthur Schmitt Jr., Richard Schmidt and Harvey Birdwell, Jr.

Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Dulany Funeral Home.

Colorado County Citizen, March 1, 1984, page 2

Birkhead, Minnie Evelyn

Mrs. W. G. Birkhead Buried Here Tuesday

Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon at 3:30 for Mrs. Minnie Evelyn Birkhead, 75, Rev. C. B. Diltz officiating.

Burial was in the Odd Fellow’s Rest with Untermeyer Brothers in charge of arrangements.

Mrs. Birkhead was the wife of W. G.Birkhead and lived in San Antonio for one year and thr[sic] months, havng formrely[sic] resided at Glidden.

Colorado County Citizen, August 2, 1945

Birkman, Henry

Weimar Man Dies

Henry Birkman, 73, died at his home in Weimar Sunday. Funeral services were held at the Lutheran Church Monday. [Interment in Weimar Odd Fellows Cemetery]

Mr. Birkman was widely known in the county, having been in business many years in Weimar until he retired a few years ago. He was an ex-fireman, a member of the O. D. H. S. Lodge and of the Lutheran church.

He is survived by a daughter, Mrs. Hilda Watson, a grandson, Ralph Watson, and four sisters.

Colorado County Citizen, June 29, 1933
Transcribed by Dennis Boatright

Another Good Citizen Gone to Last, Long Rest

There were many sad hearts in and around Weimar last Sunday evening when it became known that Mr. Henry Birkmann, one of our oldest and finest citizens, had gone to his last reward.

Mr. Birkmann had been in bad health for a number of months, but as from time to time he came to town and seemed his same good natured self many of us felt that he would eventually outgrow his physical troubles and be with us a long while yet. But it was a vain expectation. His health toward the last grew worse and it was realized the end was near. Soon after midnight Saturday he grew weaker very rapidly, and soon the tired spirit of our good friend had gone to join the innumerable throng who had gone on before.

Funeral arrangements were made and the body laid to rest in the Odd Fellows' Cemetery Monday afternoon at 4 o’clock, after appropriate services had been held at the family residence and at the Evangelical Church. Pall bearers were as follows: Messrs. Geo. And Chas. Herder, J. F. Walker, Hugo Seydler, Steve J. Kaspar, Emil H. Rabel, Henry Guenther, Sr., and Henry J. Laws. One of the largest crowds we ever saw at a Weimar funeral was present to pay the last sad tribute of respect to a worthy, good man. The floral tributes were many and beautiful. Rev. G. A. Meyer officiated in a touching burial service.

Henry Birkmann was born at Ellinger May 2, 1860. He lost his parents at the age of 14 years, after which he was raised by Mr. John L. Meyer, an uncle. He was baptized and confirmed in the church at an early age. He came to Weimar at the age of 25 years. He was married to Miss Lottie Richter, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adolf Richter, at the age of 28 years. The remainder of his life was spent here in Weimar. One child was born to this union, Mrs. Hilda Watson of this city. Mr. Birkmann was a member of the Hermann Sons and also the Weimar Fire Department. His survivors are his widow, Mrs. Lottie Birkmann, one daughter, Mrs. Hilda Watson, one grandson, Mr. Ralph Watson, and four sisters, Mrs. Mary Koehl, Mrs. Chas. Ehlinger of Ellinger, Mrs. Louise Beyer, Ellinger, and Mrs. Emilie Koehl of Wharton.

Mr. Birkmann could rightfully claim to have been one of this city’ oldest inhabitants. He came to Weimar at the age of 25 Years and had been a continuous resident here for forty-eight years. He was a man of rather retiring disposition, but those who knew him well realized he was a dependable man, a man you would place confidence in without any fear of later results. Henry Birkmann was what you would call in this day and time a “four-square” man. He never forced himself forward, was quiet, orderly, law abiding, a friend that could be depended upon under and and [sic] all circumstances, a man of honor and integrity, and was regarded as one of our best and most substantial citizens. He was engaged in business here for many years, but the past few years retired from active business pursuits. His familiar face and figure will be sadly missed by many of our people who were wont to see him daily on our streets. The writer of these lines knew Henry Birkmann for a long, long time, and in all that period never for once heard anyone speak ill of him. He was a devoted husband and father, a splendid neighbor and friend, and his departure from among us is deeply and sincerely regretted by the entire citizenship of this community.

Our deepest sympathy goes out to his bereaved ones.

The Weimar Mercury, Friday, June 30, 1933, p. 1
Submitted by Judy Koeh

Out of Town Visitors Here to Attend Funeral

Out of town visitors here Monday afternoon to attend the funeral of Mr. Henry Birkmann included Senator Gus Russek, Julius Schwartz, Fred Bittner, Ray. F. Kusey, Schulenburg; Mr. and Mrs. Anton Guenther, Houston; Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Herder, Sr., Mrs. Fred Lengerke, Mrs. Hettie Carey and daughter, Miss Lorease, Mr.Chas. Lengerke, Eagle Lake; Mrs. Bettie Bock, Smithville; Mr. and Mrs. Geo. F. Hillje, Mrs. J. F. Howard, San Antonio; Mrs. Minnie Shimek, Houston; Rev. Paul Piepenbrok and family of Schulenburg; Sheriff P. P. Hoegemeyer, Tax Assessor H. Buscher, County Treasurer John Kunetka, District Clerk W. C. Papenberg, Tax Collector E. H. Rabel and family, Deputy Sheriff E. L. Townsend, Owen Hoegenmeyer of Columbus.

There were scores and scores of others, but many of them we failed to see and so many whose names we failed to learn. There were more visitors here to Mr. Birkmann’s funeral than any we believe we saw in Weimar.

Other visitors here last Monday to attend the funeral of Mr. Henry Birkmann, not mentioned above, included the following: From Wharton—Mr. and Mrs. Ed Koehl, Mrs. Schlick, Mrs. Carle and daughter, Mrs. Buenger, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Koehl, Mr. and Mrs. John Meyer. From Sugar Land—Mrs. Gus Ulrich, Mrs. Henry Herder. From Ellinger, Mr. and Mrs. C. W. Ehlinger, Mrs. Beyer, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Meyer, Mr. and Mrs. C. O. Meyer, Mr. and Mrs. Leslie Ehlers, Mssrs. C. W. Meyer, Elo Meyer, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Koehl and daughter, Mr. Jack Koehl and sons, Mrs. Mary Koehl, Emil Koehl, Mrs. Smith, Mrs. Joe Fritsch. From Shiner—Mr. and Mrs. Edmund Herder, Mr. Willie Herder, Mr. and Mrs. A. Richter, Mrs. Birkenhoff, Max Wolters, Mrs. Chas. Eschenberg and son. From Columbus—Mrs. Denk, Mrs. Brooks and children, Mr. and Mrs. Pepenberg, Mrs. Cordes, Mrs. Willie Brandt. From Glidden—Mrs. Glithero and son, Mrs. Hope. From Schulenburg—Mrs. Kemper, Mrs. Graf, Mr. and Mrs. Fritz Nordhausen. From Gonzales—Mr. and Mrs. Walter Klein, Mrs. W. F. Birkmann From La Grange—Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Girndt, Mrs. Frank Fritsch.

The Weimar Mercury, 30 June 1933, p. 8
Submitted by Judy Koehl
[Many of those in the last paragraph are relatives—Mrs. Mary Birkmann was Henry Birkmann’s sister, and Mrs. Glithero was one of her daughters. Mrs.Emil Koehl, Mrs. Beyer and Mrs. Ehlinger were other sisters. Mrs. W. F. Birkmann was the widow of his brother. The Birkmann siblings were raised by their aunt and her husband, the John Meyers, whose children are probably also in the list.—J K]

Birkmann, John

Mr. John Birkmann, brother of Mr. Henry Birkmann of this city, died at his home at Columbus Wednesday afternoon after a comparatively brief illness. He had only resided in Columbus a short time previous to his death, so we learn. He was a man of genial disposition, a hard worker, honest, sober and upright, and the possessor of a large circle of friends. HIs remains were laid to rest Thursday. [Place of interment unknown] Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the family in the severe loss they have sustained.

Weimar Mercury, March 30, 1901, page 5

Birkmann, Lottie (Richter)

Mrs. H. Birkmann, Succumbs At 89; Rites Held Tuesday

Funeral services for Mrs. Henry Birkmann, 89, were held Tuesday afternoon, October 13, at Hubbard Funeral Home, with Rev. Charles Bawel officiating. Burial was in the Masonic [Odd Fellows] Cemetery.

Mrs. Birkmann died Sunday, after a 7 month illness, at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Hilda Watson.

The former Miss Lottie Richter, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Adolph Richter, she was born January 1, 1870, at High Hill, Fayette county. They moved to Weimar when she was 12 years old, and she was married to Mr. Birkmann here in 1888. He died in 1933. She was a member of the Weimar United church of Christ and the Frauenverein, now called the Women's Guild.

Surviving in addition to her daughter are two sisters, Mrs. O. A. Rose of Waco and Mrs. Hal Chinn of Paradise, Calif.; a grandson, Ralph Watson, and a great-granddaughter, Sue Ellen Watson, of El Campo; and several nieces. Preceding her in death were a brother, Hugo Richter and two sisters, Mrs. Frank Russek and Miss Bertha Richter.

Pallbearers were Charlie Allen, Billy Strunk, Henry Beken Jr., John Hajovsky, Henry Ed Rabel and Edwin Berger.

Weimar Mercury, October 16, 1959

Bishop, Christina (Morrow)

A daughter of John Morrow and wife, colored, of the Clear Creek section, the wife of Billie Bishop, died in Houston one day last week and the remains were brought here for interment Saturday afternoon. [Place of interment unknown]

Weimar Mercury, November 1, 1918, page 1

Bishop, George

The news of the death of Mr. George Bishop, which occurred last Tuesday night on his farm near Weimar, has cast a gloom over his many friends in this community. He had been very sick for two or three weeks. He leaves a wife and children and numerous friends to mourn his loss. [Interment in Weimar Masonic Cemetery]

Weimar Gimlet, June 3, 1886

WEIMAR LOCAL MATTERS

George Bishop, one of the first settlers of Weimar, who a few months ago bought and moved on a farm near the Sam Houston School house, died Tuesday evening at 5 o’clock of a complication of diseases, first congestion, then hemorrhage of the bowels, after being sick about ten days. He had the best of medical attention. Dr. E. B. Bouldin, his attending physician, had complete control of the congestion and was confident of his recovery, when to the astonishment of every one the hemorrhage set in and in his exhausted condition he was taken off in a few short hours. He was buried in the Masonic Cemetery near Weimar Wednesday evening, the 2nd inst. Mr. Bishop was a kind husband and affectionate father and a good citizen. He was a member of the A. O. U. W. He leaves a wife and five small children to mourn the loss of a protector. May the goodness of a protecting Father be with the bereaved in their hour of sadness.

Colorado Citizen, June 3, 1886

Bishop, John

Johnnie Bishop, Wreck Victim, Buried Monday

Funeral services were held Monday for Johnnie Bishop, 71, who lost his life early Saturday morning as he atempted[sic] to help some strangers out of their wrecked car.

The car was hit a second time, injuring him fatally. He died a few hours later, at 5:55 a.m., in Youens Memorial Hospital.

A service was held at St. James AME Church with Rev. D. A. Smith officiating. Burial was in Odd Fellows Cemetery.

Mr. Bishop was a lifelong resident of Weimar and a member of one of its oldest families. His father, Mose Bishop, came here in 1878 as an employee of the Hilljes when they moved their oil mill here from High Hill. Johnnie Bishop began work at the mill too as a young man and worked there about 35 years. After that he worked for Herder Truck Lines 12 years until retiring five years ago. He was the last of Mose Bishop’s children living.

His wife, Mamie, was also a Highway 90 traffic victim, killed in a bridge accident in December, 1959. A daughter also preceded him in death.

Surviving are a son, Leslie Bishop of Weimar; a daughter, Mrs. Ida Dee Green of San Antonio; and three grandchildren.

Weimar Mercury, July 4, 1968, page 1

Bishop, Lelia Selma

Lelia Bishop, about 65, widow of Lawrence Bishop who died in May of this year, died Tuesday after a heart attack in the hospital where she was recovering from a minor operation.

Funeral services had not been completed at this writing. [Interment in Paradise Gardens]

Weimar Mercury, July 3, 1959, page 1

Bittner

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