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Leona Irene Mitschke Knippa
(December 22, 1924 - April 25, 2010)

Leona Irene Mitschke Knippa was welcomed into this world in the Lincoln area on December 22, 1924, as one of twelve children born to Oswald and Emma (Benad) Mitschke. She was baptized into the Christian faith on January 4, 1925 at Christ Lutheran Church in Loebau, Texas by Rev. Carl Durow and was confirmed into her life-long faith on September 4, 1938 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Dime Box, Texas by Rev. George Kautz. Her confirmation verse was 1 Timothy 4 vs. 8 “Godliness is profitable unto all things having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.”

On November 8, 1942, Leona was joined in marriage with Alfred Isedor Knippa at Christ Lutheran Church in Loebau by Rev. Herbert Hartfield. To their life-long union, they were blessed with three children, sons Jim and Wayne, and daughter, Tricia.

Leona was a devoted wife and sister and a loving, kind and supporting mother and grandmother who was very proud of her children and granddaughter and who loved each of their spouses as her own. She loved her Lord, her family and her friends.

As a homemaker, Leona was blessed with many talents which she joyfully employed for the benefit of others such as cooking, baking, sewing, quilting, gardening and singing hymns. She was also a dedicated employee at various jobs including Invader Boat Factory, the GHS cafeteria and Lee Memorial Hospital.

Leona and Isedor enjoyed their 57 years of marriage while living in Loebau, Dallas, Giddings and mostly, their happy 45 years on the farm in Lincoln. They were active members of St. Johns Lutheran Church in Lincoln and after their move to Giddings, became members of Immanuel Lutheran Church. Throughout their lives, Leona and Isedor always provided a happy home and welcome place for their family and friends to visit. They were also unfailing examples of Christian love and faithfulness. After Isedor’s death on September 11, 2000, Leona was called to her eternal rest on April 25, 2010 while residing at Country Care Plex in Giddings at the age of 85.

Leona is survived by her children, Jim and Billie Knippa of San Antonio, Wayne and Arlene Knippa of Katy, Tricia and Mark Krugler of Giddings and by her granddaughter Julie and husband, Steve Colby of Salem, Massachusetts. She is also survived by her dear sisters Gertrude Nimtz, Minnie Nimtz, Ella Schaefer and husband, E.B. Schaefer, Rose Davenport, Joyce “Mickey” Mitschke and husband, Marvin Mitschke, by her dear brother Arthur “Sonny” Mitschke and wife, Marie Mitschke, by numerous nephews, nieces and the extended Mitschke family and by many beloved members of the Knippa family. She also left behind numerous neighbors and friends who found it natural to refer to her as “Mom”. As she did so frequently during her lifetime, Leona will be extending a welcoming invitation to all of her friends and family to ultimately join her in her heavenly home.

Leona was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two brothers, Charlie and Walter Mitschke, by her sister, Rubyle Rost, two infant siblings, sisters-in-laws, Ella Mitschke and Amanda Mitschke, and by brothers-in-law Albert Nimtz, Edwin Nimtz, John Davenport and Bubba Rost.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 29, 2010 from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Friday, April 30, 2010 from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Knippa family will be present for visitation Thursday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Leona will be laid to rest on Friday, April 30, 2010, following her funeral service at 10:30 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings with interment to follow at the Giddings City Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers will be Hal Ripple, Ralph Mutscher, Ron Knippa, Johnny Kieschnick, Dwayne Mitschke, Don Spivey, Lummus Hannes and Mark Schatte.

Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings, Texas or St. John Lutheran Church in Lincoln, Texas.

Vicki Lee Zoch
(December 29, 1950 - April 14, 2010)

Vicki Zoch, 59 of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, passed away on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at her home in Baton Rouge.

Funeral arrangements in Louisiana include visitation on Friday, April 16, 2010 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Rabenhorst Funeral Home in Baton Rouge. Funeral services will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 17, 2010 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Baton Rouge with Rev. Ben Bahr officiating.

Local funeral arrangements include visitation from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 18, 2010 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A visitation will also be held from 8:30 a.m. until the start of funeral services at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, April 19, 2010 at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Winchester, Texas with Rev. James Herzog officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Vicki Lee Clifton Zoch was born on December 29, 1950 in Spur, Texas to Randolph & Ruby Lee (Barclay) Clifton. She was united in marriage to Erwin James Zoch. Vicki worked as a Registered Nurse and Case Manager. As a devoted Christian and active member of Trinity Lutheran Church, she had a longtime passion for singing God's praises in her church choir. She was also a member of the Baton Rouge Symphony Chorus.

She is survived by her husband, Erwin J. Zoch of Baton Rouge; their three children, Kristina & husband, Matthew Guy, Nola & husband, James Zerwas and Philip & wife, Terry Zoch; three grandchildren, Isabelle Zoch, Melanie Zoch and Thompson Guy; her parents, Randolph & Evelyn Clifton of Spur, Texas; sister, Brenda Hamn; her brother, Kevin Ray; her sister-in-law, Emily Clifton; her father-in-law, Erwin T. Zoch of Winchester; in-laws, Boykie & Sherry Murphy of Winchester, Daryl & Patricia Schulze of Serbin and Rodney & Susan Zoch of Giddings as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

"Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee the crown of life." Rev. 2:10

Jane Wilson Brown
(October 6, 1935 - April 7, 2010)

Funeral services for Jane Brown, 74 of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 11, 2010 at the First Presbyterian Church in Giddings with Rev. Rick Brooks officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Brown family will be present for visitation Saturday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Jane passed away on Wednesday, April 7, 2010 at her home in Giddings.

Jane Wilson Brown was born on October 6, 1935 in Big Lake, Texas to Mark & Flora (Vinson) Wilson. She was united in marriage to Sanford "Sandy" Brown on December 21, 1952 also in Big Lake, Texas. Jane & Sandy owned and operated Brown Engineering & Testing in Giddings from 1979 until their retirement in 2000. She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Giddings where she was an Ordained Elder.

Jane not only lived her life to its fullest but also to its greatest potential. She was a world traveler, pilot, part-time daredevil, trophy winning go-cart racer, free lance humorist, proof reader, conversationalist, storyteller, entrepreneur and founder of the "I Don't Eat Anything Green" Club. She enjoyed music, reading and games of chance.

Jane was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Ruth Goree and grandson, Adam Brooks.

She is survived by her husband, Sandy Brown of Giddings; 2 daughters, Teri & Rick Brooks of Richardson and Leslie & Earnie Wright of Giddings; son, Charlie & Angie Brown of Giddings; 6 grandchildren, Aaron & Sarah Brooks of Abilene, Cherie & Keith Oltmann of Serbin, Colbey Wright of Giddings, C.J. Brown of College Station, Ciera Brown of Giddings and Cole Brown of Giddings; granddaughter-in-law, Amber Brooks of Austin; 4 great grandchildren, Katelynn Brooks of Abilene, Chase Brooks of Abilene, Garrett Oltmann of Serbin and Mackenzie Oltmann of Serbin as well as numerous other family members and many friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Chuck Horne, Bud Botkin, James Grube, Paul Raschke, Alan Spurger and Joe Green.

Memorials may be made to Brazos Valley Hospice, 1048 North Jefferson, LaGrange, Texas 78945, the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 175, Giddings, Texas 78942, the West Texas Boys Ranch, 10223 Boys Ranch Road, San Angelo, Texas 76904-3665 or to the charity of one's choice.

Richard "Dick" Clare Whitehead
(July 2, 1926 - March 29, 2010)

Funeral services for Richard "Dick" Whitehead, 83 of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 1, 2010 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with Rev. Fred Jones officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery in Giddings. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the funeral home. The Whitehead family will be present for visitation Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Dick passed away on Monday, March 29, 2010 at the Country Care Plex in Giddings.

Richard "Dick" Clare Whitehead was born on July 2, 1926 in Mexico, Missouri to Evered L. & Leta May (Clare) Whitehead. He was united in marriage to Reba LaVern Hall on July 30, 1950 in Troy, Missouri. He and his wife owned and operated D & R Sales, a metal building company, in Corpus Christi for many years before retiring and moving to Giddings. Dick enjoyed vegetable gardening, fishing and hunting and was an active member of the Giddings Noon Lions Club. He was elected Lion of the Year for 2003-2004.

Dick was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Bill Whitehead.

He is survived by his wife of 59 years Reba LaVern Whitehead of Giddings; 2 daughters, Sue & Roland Hurst of Houston and Janet Whitehead & Joseph Pilkinton of Austin; 4 grandchildren, Keith Clayton of Houston, Adam Clayton of Mexico, Jonathan Hurst of Austin and Andrew Hurst of Washington, D.C.; 1 niece, Barbara Jorgensen of California; 2 nephews, Scott & Margaret Whitehead of Austin and Travis Whitehead of Brownsville; 1 great niece, Chrissie & Brent Piercey of Houston; 3 great nephews, Cody Jorgensen of California, Curt Jorgensen of California and Jeremy Whitehead of Austin; cousin, John Schutty of Jefferson City, Missouri as well as other relatives, many friends and his fellow Lions Club members.

Serving as pallbearers will be Bert Hunter, Gary Pietsch, Art Salinas, Tony Brooks, Bobby Garcia and Dr. Peter Martin.

To those desiring to make memorial contributions, the Whitehead family recommends the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 175, Giddings, Texas 78942.

Martin Nunes
(October 12, 1959 - March 18, 2010)

Martin Nunes, 50, of Giddings passed away suddenly on March 18,2010.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, March 22, 10:00 A.M.at St. Margaret’s Catholic Church in Giddings. Visitation will begin Sunday at 10 A.M. with a Rosary Sunday, March 21, at 7 P.M. at Phillips & Luckey Chapel.

Martin was born in Paducah, Tx to Esther and the late Dionicio Nunez, Jr. He graduated from Giddings High School in 1979 and was currently employed at Blue Bell Creameries in Brenham. He also worked at Droemer Industries. His hobbies were spending time with his family, watching his nephews and nieces play sports and he loved football. He was a devoted fan of the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Longhorns, but he really loved the Giddings Buffaloes. He enjoyed spending time with his dog Macey. He always had a kind word and a smile for everyone he met. He will be truly missed by everyone.

He leaves behind his beloved wife, Rebecca; daughter, Tiffany; mother Esther Nunes; and mother-in-law Lorine Richardson. He is preceded in death by his father Dionicio Nunez, Jr.; father-in-law Earl Richardson and niece Annette Moreno. He is also survived by his brothers: Raymond and Marcelina Nunes; Jessie Nunes; Alfred and Peggy Nunes; Edward and Mary Nunes; Vincent and Holly Nunes; Steven and Vickie Nunes and Dennis Nunes. Sisters: Maria and Celestino Sanchez; Helen and Albert Olivarez; Mary Ann and Pete Moreno; Barbara and Ricky Hernandez; Rosie and Nick Pacheco; Paula Nunes; Betty Nunes; Cindy and Mark Dube and Rachel Nunes and brother-in-law Mark Richardson. Also 12 nephews, 8 nieces, 7 great nephew and 2 great nieces. Memorial may be given to the charity of your choice.

Dorothy Zawacki Jordan
(October 28, 1936 - March 4, 2010)

Funeral services for Dorothy Jordan, 73 of Giddings, are scheduled 2:00 p.m. on Monday, March 8, 2010 at Forest Park East Funeral Home in Webster with the family receiving friends at 1:00 PM. Burial will follow in Forest Park East Cemetery in Webster. Visitation will be held Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The family will be present from 3-5pm.

Dorothy went to be with the Lord on Thursday, March 4, 2010.

Dorothy was born to Steve and Helen Zawacki in Houston, Texas. She married Oliver Jack Jordan on August 27,1955 and enjoyed 54 wonderful years together. To their union they were blessed with four children: two daughters, Laura & husband Doug Lyons of Suger Land, Julie & husband John Heussner of Katy; Son Oliver Jack Jordan Jr. of Galveston. Seven Grandchildren: Travis & wife Erin Lyons, Ashley Lyons, Katelyn Jordan, Jessica Jordan, Avery Heussner, Connor Heussner, and Faith Heussner. She is also survived by two sisters: Margaret Schooley of Houston, and Sister Stephan Anne Zawacki of Galveston.

She was proceeded in death by her parents and one son Steven Vernon Jordan. Memorials have been requested to be given to the charity of your choice.

McKenna Grace Dodd
(July 26, 2009 - March 1, 2010)

Funeral services for McKenna Dodd, 7 months, of Kyle, Texas are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 4, 2010 with Rev. Wilbern Michalk officiating. Burial will follow in the Burns Cemetery in Blue, Texas. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 1:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

McKenna Grace Dodd was born on July 26, 2009 in Austin, Texas to Jamie & Randi (Sherrill) Dodd and passed away Monday, March 1, 2010 at Dell Children's Hospital in Austin.

McKenna is survived by her parents, Jamie & Randi Dodd of Kyle; brothers and sisters, Curtis Dodd, Kyler Hardy, Kaitlyn Dodd, Abigayle Hardy and Loryn Hardy all of Kyle; grandparents, William & Debbie Dodd of Bastrop, Randy Sherrill of Lexington and Dolores Sherrill & Dennis West of New Mexico; great grandparents, Gary & Barbara Von Rosenberg of Spring; godparents, Lori & Trey Melcher of Giddings as well as numerous aunts, uncles and extended family members.

Memorials may be made to the McKenna Grace Dodd Memorial Fund c/o Round Top State Bank, P.O. Box 548, Lexington, Texas 78947.

Nolan Willie Schmidt
(September 20, 1919 - February 25, 2010)

Funeral services for Nolan Schmidt, 90 of Carmine, Texas are scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, February 28, 2010 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine, Texas with Rev. Paul Bohot officiating. Burial will follow in the Carmine Cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. Visitation will also be held on Sunday from 12:30 p.m. until 2:30 p.m. at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine. A prayer service will be held Saturday evening at 6:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Nolan passed away Thursday, February 25, 2010 at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings.

Nolan Willie Schmidt was born on September 20, 1919 in Round Top, Texas to Felix & Ella (Wolff) Schmidt. He was baptized on November 7, 1919 at Bethlehem Lutheran Church by Rev. A. Falkenberg and confirmed on September 30, 1934 at the Lutheran Church in Winedale, Texas by Rev. H. Brunotte. Nolan was united in marriage to Mabel Schoenberg on August 20, 1938 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Houston, Texas by Rev. Oliver R. Harms. He worked for several years in the shipyards in Houston before serving in the U.S. Army in the Pacific Theater with the 1759th Engineer Group during WWII. Nolan attended Blinn Junior College in Brenham and received his Associates Degree in 1953.

He worked with the U.S. Post Office for 26 years and retired as postmaster of the Carmine Post Office in 1979. Following his retirement, Nolan worked for Clayton Williams in Giddings and worked as a landman doing extensive oil leasing and right of way work for several years. Nolan was a member of the American Legion, the Giddings Sons of Hermann Lodge, the Charolais Cattle Association, a charter member of the Carmine Lions Club, a life member of the Scott & White Foundation, a former president of the Round Top-Carmine School Board, a longtime supporter of the Round Top-Carmine FFA and a member of Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine. He enjoyed ranching, traveling, playing dominoes, watching baseball and trading vehicles.

Nolan was preceded in death by his parents and a son, Jerry Schmidt.

He is survived by his wife of 71 years, Mabel Schoenberg Schmidt of Carmine; daughter, Marlene & Conway Waak Jr. of Carmine; daughter-in-law, Kay Schmidt of Giddings; 3 grandchildren, Sheryl & Steve Campbell of Tomball, Chance & Naomi Waak of Atascadero, California and Amelia (Mia) & James (Buck) Williams of Burton; 4 great grandchildren, Carson Campbell of Tomball, Katie Campbell of Tomball, Wyatt Waak of Atascadero, CA and Reagan Williams of Burton; 2 brothers, Ruben & Janette Schmidt of Brenham and Marvin & Mary Schmidt of Houston as well as a brother-in-law, several sister-in-laws and numerous nieces and nephews.

Serving as pallbearers will be Carl Schobel, Eric Schobel, Lane Jacob, Tanner Jacob, Norman Schulze and Gary Mueller. Honorary pallbearers will be Hugh Pitts, Melvin Schoenst, Alois Jaeger, Andy Smith, Gilbert Eilers and Raul Zuniga.

Memorials may be made to the Martin Luther Lutheran Church General Fund, P.O. Box 362, Carmine, Texas 78932-0362 or to Hospice Brazos Valley, 1048 N. Jefferson, La Grange, Texas 78945.

Edna Mae Duvall
(September 6, 1928 - February 9, 2010)

Funeral services for Edna Duvall, 81 of Lincoln, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, February 13, 2010 at the Bateman Center in Giddings, Texas. Burial will follow in the Leo Cemetery near Lexington, Texas. Visitation will be held Friday from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Edna passed away on Tuesday, February 9, 2010 at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings.

Edna Mae Smith Duvall was born on September 6, 1928 in Lee County, Texas to James & Lillie (McDowell) Smith. Edna was a lifelong farmer in the Lee County area.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ben Duvall; her brother, Travis Smith and her two sisters, Jimmie Carothers and Savalia Kelly.

Edna is survived by a host of nieces and nephews.

Serving as pallbearers will be Samuel Carothers, Larry Carothers, Allan Carothers, Oscar Kelly, Donald Smith and Ronald Smith.

Memorials may be made the Leo Baptist Church or Lee County Cancer Resource Center.

Frederick Maurice Fisher Jr.
(January 18, 2010 - January 23, 2010)

Funeral services for Frederick Fisher Jr., the 5 day old son of Frederick Fisher Sr. and Stacy Meyer are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, January 28, 2010 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Rehburg, Texas with Rev. Steven J. Cox officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. with Frederick's family being present from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Frederick Maurice Fisher Jr. was born on Monday, January 18, 2010 at St. David's Medical Center in Austin, Texas. He passed away also at St. David's at 3:38 p.m. on Saturday, January 23, 2010.

He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Sandy Fisher; great grandfather, Willie Meyer and his aunt, Jennifer Meyer.

Frederick is survived by his parents, Frederick Fisher of Burton and Stacy Meyer of Giddings; grandparents, Randy & Linda Meyer of Giddings and Raymond Hudgen of Burton; great grandparents, Paul & Esther Zoch of Giddings, Evelyn Meyer of Burton, Willie Bea & Hearvey Lee Fisher of Burton and Lue Mae & Clarence Hudgen of Burton; aunts & uncles, Leslie Fisher of Burton, Jawallen Fisher of Burton, Chenise Fisher of Burton, Randy Meyer Jr. of Giddings and Rose & Philip Tharp of Giddings; two cousins, Courtland Tharp and Libbi Tharp both of Giddings as well as numerous great aunts, great uncles and great cousins.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Wilhelm "Bill" Gottlieb Foehr
(June 29, 1918 - January 11, 2010)

Funeral services for W.G. "Bill" Foehr, 91 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, January 15, 2010 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Jeremy Walloch officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Foehr family will be present for visitation Thursday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Bill passed away Monday, January 11, 2010 at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Wilhem "Bill" Gottlieb Foehr was born on June 29, 1918 in Fedor, Texas to Gus & Louise (Melcher) Foehr. He was united in marriage to Bernice Evelyn Ganske on January 16, 1943 in Houston, Texas and moved to Cypress, Texas where they ran a dairy. They continued in the dairy business when they moved to Round Top, Texas in 1951 and again when they moved to Giddings in 1957.

He enjoyed dancing, traveling, playing dominoes and cards, hunting (especially coon hunting), fishing, horseback riding, rodeos and John Wayne Movies. Bill truly never met a stranger.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents; his wife of 66 years, Bernice; 2 brothers and 3 sisters.

He is survived by his children, Shirley Cantrell and husband, Burley of Spring, Texas, Carolyn Hoffman of Azle, Texas, Pamela Schoenst and husband, Wilton of Round Top, Texas, Willfred G. "Bubba" Foehr and wife, Donna of Waller, Texas and Debra "Debbie" Maass and husband, Terry of Giddings; 19 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren; 1 great-great grandchild as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Serving as pallbearers will be James Lord III, Blaine Cooper, Craig Bauer, Stan Bauer, Randie Maass and William Foehr. Honorary pallbearers will be Mitchell Cantrell, Scott Cantrell, Richard Cantrell, Jon Cantrell, Steve Toddy, Mike Maloney, Michael Schneider, Mason Miller, Evan Gonzales, Bryan Logan and Randy Zingelmann.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made the Brazos Valley Hospice, 1048 N. Jefferson, La Grange, Tx 78945, Martin Luther Lutheran Church, 573 N. Main, Giddings, Tx 78942 or to the charity of one's choice.

Shirley J. Dunn
(July 5, 1927 - January 4, 2010)

Shirley J. Dunn, 82 of Dime Box, Texas passed away Monday, January 4, 2010 at her residence in Dime Box.

She was born on July 5, 1927 in Moline, Illinois to Kai & Juanita (Zook) Larsen. Shirley was united in marriage to Joseph James (J.J.) Dunn on August 14, 1947 in Moline, Illinois. He preceded her in death on August 22, 2002.

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

She is survived by her two daughters, Jean McGhee of Wheaton, IL and Neva & Douglas Hall of Westfield, Indiana; her son, Daniel & Margo Dunn of Dime Box; 4 grandchildren and 1 great grandchild.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 9, 2010 at St. John Lutheran Church in Dime Box, Texas.

Robert Lee Cooke
(March 22, 1919 - January 1, 2010)

Funeral services for Robert Cooke, 90 of Giddings are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, January 4, 2010 at the Giddings City Cemetery with Tim Clayton officiating. Visitation will be held Sunday from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mr. Cooke passed away Friday, January 1, 2010 at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Robert Lee Cooke was born on March 22, 1919 in Waller County, Texas to William Howth & Lillian Dewey (Ward) Cooke. He served during WWII in the United States Army. Robert was united in marriage to Florence Smith on April 22, 1939 in Austin, Texas. He was a typesetter who had worked for the Houston Chronicle, Houston Press and the Houston Post and retired from Gulf Publishing in Houston. He was a Ham Radio Operator for most of his life and enjoyed gardening.

Mr. Cooke was preceded in death by his parents; a granddaughter, Kelly Williams and 2 sisters, Norma Williamson and Ellen Grace Fisher.

He is survived by his wife of 70 years, Florence Cooke of Giddings; 4 daughters, Carolyn Ross of Giddings, Marie & Allan Hawkins of Bartonville, Dorothy & Don Goetz of Giddings and Lisa & William Snyder of Sugarland; 7 grandchildren, 16 great grandchildren; 9 great, great grandchildren; 2 sisters, Janet & Clarence Adams of Timpson and Sarah Hubble of Rocheport, MO; 2 brothers, Earl & Emma Cooke of Houston and David & Margaret Cooke of Huntsville. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews as well as his beloved cat, Cleo.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Brazos Valley, 1048 North Jefferson, La Grange, Texas 78945 or to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 175, Giddings, Texas 78942.

Carl William Droemer
(February 19, 1924 - December 25, 2009)

Funeral services for Carl William Droemer, 85 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Robert Tiner officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 8 AM until 9 PM at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Droemer family will be present from 6 PM until 8 PM.

Mr. Droemer passed away Friday, December 25, 2009 at his home in Giddings.

Carl William Droemer was born on February 29, 1924 in Giddings, Texas to John Edward and Annie (Goetze) Droemer. He was baptized on March 9, 1924 and confirmed on April 2, 1939 both at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings by Rev. G.W. Fischer. He was united in marriage to Mary Beth Paulick on May 6, 1945 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin, Texas by Rev. H. Schmidt.

Mr. Droemer was a loving and devoted husband, father and grandfather. During his life, he did many things to provide for his family and had many different businesses. He was a bricklayer, solder in the U.S. Army in WWII, contractor, furniture maker, rancher, beekeeper, and vintner.

Mr. Droemer was preceded in death by his parents; wife; three sisters, Helen Droemer, Emma Martinez and Ruby Mann; two brothers, Walter Droemer and Helmuth Droemer; daughter-in-law, Darlene Droemer and a grandson, Ian Hoeinghaus.

He is survived by three sons, Everard & Jann Droemer of Giddings, Ben & Cindy Droemer of Giddings and Ted & Terri Droemer of Giddings; two daughters, Dolly & Larry Hoeinghaus of Schulenburg and Roberta & Jarvis Boriack of Lincoln; four grandsons, Nikolaus & Lori Droemer of Bryan, Aaron Droemer of Dallas, Benjamin Droemer of Giddings and Jared Boriack of Lincoln; 11 granddaughters, Michele & Chuck Chauviere of Houston, Kristin & Jeff Kilgore of Houston, Tricia Tucker of Lexington, Miranda Droemer of Giddings, Kassie & Tony Jobb of College Station, Rebekah & Edgar Ouellette of Bryan, Aubrey Droemer of Ledbetter, Bethany Droemer of Dallas, Taylor Droemer of Giddings, Caroline Boriack of Verona, WS and Meagan & Derrick Dean of Dallas; 14 great grandchildren and two sisters, Lucille and Roland Teague and Annie Marie Joyce.

Memorials may be made to the Christ Our Cornerstone Building Fund at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 300 North Grimes, Giddings, Texas 78942 and Brazos Valley Hospice, 1048 North Jefferson, La Grange, Texas 78945.

Delroy Zingelmann
(October 26, 1926 - December 20, 2009)

Funeral services for Delroy Zingelmann, 83 of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church with Rev. Edwin Schwanke officiating. Burial will follow in the Waldeck Cemetery in Waldeck, Texas. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Zingelmann family will be present for visitation Tuesday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

He passed away Sunday, December 20, 2009 at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Delroy Zingelmann was born the third child of Paul & Lillie (Albers) Zingelmann on October 26, 1926 at Waldeck, Texas. He was baptized at home on April 18, 1927 by Rev. H. Brunotte and confirmed on October 6, 1940 at the Waldeck Lutheran Church by Rev. H. Brunotte. He grew up on the farm in Waldeck and attended school in Waldeck and later two years in Walahalla. He was united in marriage to Irene Keilers on December 21, 1947 at St. John Lutheran Church in Warrenton by Rev. H.T. Flachmeir.

Delroy served in the U.S. Air Force during WWII having obtained the rank of Private First Class. Delroy was known to have worked many jobs. He drove a gas truck for Humble in La Grange, was a service station attendant for Petzold Gulf in La Grange, an equipment operator and a dairy operator. Once he and Irene moved to Giddings, he worked for Juan Gonzales at his service station and was an equipment operator and night watchman for the city of Giddings. Delroy was also a Sheriff's deputy with the Lee County Sheriff's Department for 17 years.

Everyone knew and liked Delroy for his outspoken manner. He had many friends and as they would tell you, if he could help and had the time he would. He loved to dance, play Skat, garden and tend his cattle which he did in his years following retirement.

He was preceded in death by his parents; stepfather, Herbert Little; his wife, Irene; two sisters, Viola Paradowski and Florrie Lea McKinney and a brother, Raymond Zingelmann.

Delroy is survived by his daughter, Carol Ann & Keith Burcalow of Fayetteville; his two sons, Roy & Paula Zingelmann of Salado and Randy & Melba Zingelmann of Carmine; six grandchildren, Brian & Kim Schaefer of Salado, Brandy Zingelmann of La Grange, Bridgette & J.P. Ingram of College Station, Neal & Merideth Zingelmann of Helotes, Heath & Leanne Zingelmann of Denton and Holly & Matt Thrasher of Salado; 15 great grandchildren; 2 great, great grandchildren; sister-in-law, Verlie Fay & Henry Nietenhoefer of Hondo as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Charles Zingelmann, Brian Schaefer, Neal Zingelmann, Heath Zingelmann, J.P. Ingram, Matt Thrasher, Stuart Nietenhoefer and Alan Nietenhoefer.

Honorary pallbearers will be John Tofel, Clarence Pietsch Jr., Ken Yaklin and the Lee County Sheriff's Department.

Memorials may be made to the Martin Luther Lutheran Church Capital Improvement Fund, Hospice Brazos Valley or the Lee County Cancer Resource Center.

Dianne Lucille Zoch
(April 13, 1951 - December 16, 2009)

A Celebration of Life Service for Dianne W. Zoch, 58 of Giddings, is scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 22, 2009 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Jeremy Walloch officiating. A private family graveside service will be held at the Giddings City Cemetery.

Dianne passed away Wednesday evening at her home in Giddings following a lengthy battle with cancer.

Dianne Lucille Wolff Zoch was born on April 13, 1951 in Giddings, Texas to August L. & Lucille (Fritsche) Wolff. She graduated from Giddings High School in 1969 and was united in marriage to Melvin Zoch on March 14, 1969.

Dianne was employed with Edward D. Jones in Giddings for the past 15 years as a Senior Branch Office Administrator. She enjoyed camping, music and spending time at the beach, in the mountains and with her family.

Dianne was preceded in death by her grandparents and her parents-in-law, Edwin & Louise Zoch.

She is survived by her husband, Melvin Zoch of Giddings; 2 daughters, Kathy Garza & Jeff Williams of Giddings and Kristy & Michael Gholson of Giddings; son-in-law, Luis Garza of Giddings; 5 grandchildren, Morgan Nicole Garza, Heather Paige Gholson, Zachary Chance Gholson, Colby Chase Gholson and Bailey Jordan (B.J) Garza, all of Giddings; parents, August & Lucille Wolff of Giddings; brother, August L. Wolff VI & wife, Judy of Lincoln; brother-in-laws and sister-in-laws, Kenneth & Gladys Zoch of Giddings, Mildred & Marvin Bamsch of Houston, Marvin & Ruthie Zoch of Somerville, Marilyn & Ray Dixon of Houston, Dennis & Bernice Zoch of Serbin and Nelda Zoch of Houston as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives,many friends and her beloved Mattie.

Dianne fought cancer for many years and her family has requested that instead of flowers, memorials be given to the American Cancer Society or the Lee County Cancer Resource Center so that others who continue the fight may find the cure that Dianne so bravely sought.

Alfred Bernhard Mertink
(September 18, 1936 - December 11, 2009)

Funeral services for Alfred Mertink, 73 of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, December 14, 2009 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, Texas. Burial will follow in the Holy Cross Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A prayer service will be held Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mr. Mertink passed away Friday, December 11, 2009 at the Heart Hospital of Austin.

Alfred Bernhard Mertink was born on September 18, 1936 in Serbin, Texas to Bernhardt & Alma (Urban) Mertink. He served in the U.S. Air Force. Mr. Mertink was united in marriage to Jeanette Pietsch on July 1, 1960 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda. He was a manager for a machine shop for many years.

Mr. Mertink was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Jeanette; an infant grandson; sister and brother-in-law, Gertrude & Walter Fischer and a brother-in-law, Reuben Pietsch.

He is survived by his daughter Tracy & Charles Keltner of Mansfield and their children, Sam & Ben; his son, Rusty & Rachel Mertink of Giddings and their children, Cody, Clay & Cole; brother, Monroe & Vernille Mertink of Houston; sister, Irma & Herman Lorenz of Lubbock; his beloved friend, Faye McCroskey of Spring; brother-in-law, Wallace Pietsch of Houston; sister-in-laws, Junell Rowden of Houston and Marlene Pietsch of La Grange as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Holy Cross Lutheran Church Building Fund in Warda, the St. Paul Lutheran Church Restoration Fund in Serbin or the St. Paul Lutheran School in Serbin.

Rusty & Tracy would like to personally acknowledge and thank Faye McCroskey for her love, dedication and companionship. She has been a huge part of daddy's life.

Donald Louis Gallaway
(November 17, 1940 - December 9, 2009)

Donald Louis Gallaway, age 69, of Woodville, Texas, died Wednesday, December 9, 2009, at Tyler County Hospital in Tyler, Texas.

He was the son of the late Elvin Gallaway and the late Vivian (Davidson) Gallaway. He was in the Navy during the 1960's. He worked in the plants in Texas City and was a heavy equipment operator in the construction field for many years. He belonged to the CPF and Local 450. He enjoyed playing games on Pogo and fishing.

He is also survived by his three sons, Tim Gallaway, Johnny Gallaway and Andy Gallaway; two sisters, Maxine Harvey and Sandra Morgan; two brothers, Lloyd Gallaway and James Gallaway.

Funeral service will be at Lexington Cemetery at 2:00 PM on Saturday, December 12, 2009. Interment will be at Lexington Cemetery in Lexington, Texas

Milton R. Mersiovsky
(October 28, 1926 - December 4, 2009)

Funeral services for Milton Mersiovsky, 83 of Serbin, Texas, are scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on Monday, December 7, 2009 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin with Rev. John Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow in St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Mersiovsky family will be present for visitation Sunday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Mr. Mersiovsky passed away Friday morning at his home in Serbin.

Milton Roy Mersiovsky was born on October 28, 1926 in Serbin, Texas to Carl Robert & Hulda (Symm) Mersiovsky. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII and obtained the rank of Private First Class before receiving his Honorable Discharge on May 25, 1946. He was united in marriage to Elaine Menzel on August 30, 1975 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin.

Milton was a trim carpenter and construction supervisor in Houston for many years before moving back to Serbin where he was active in ranching. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin where he had served on the school board and as a trustee. Milton enjoyed hunting and fishing.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Harry Mersiovsky and Monroe Mersiovsky.

Milton is survived by his wife, Elaine Mersiovsky of Serbin; two children, Justin & Andrea Mersiovsky of Carrollton and Kari & Russell Kappler of Serbin; father-in-law, Herman Menzel of Serbin; sister-in-law, Gertrude Mersiovsky of Giddings; two brother-in-laws, Eugene & Lorna Menzel of Kenner, Louisiana and Donald Menzel of Serbin as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the St. Paul Lutheran Church Restoration Fund or to the charity of one's choice.

Willie "Bill" John Rienhold Martin Ziehr
(June 19, 1918 - December 2, 2009)

Funeral services for Willie "Bill" Ziehr, 91 of Manheim, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 5, 2009 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin with Rev. Paul Hartfield officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Serbin. Visitation will be held Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mr. Ziehr passed away Wednesday, December 2, 2009 at 3:30 p.m. at home in Manheim.

Willie John Rienhold Martin Ziehr was born on June 19, 1918 in Serbin, Texas to John M. & Theresia (Nitsche) Ziehr. He was a farmer and rancher who loved the outdoors.

Mr. Ziehr was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Reinhold Ziehr; sisters, Elsie Ziehr, Lillian Ziehr and Esther Brade and a brother-in-law, Herbert Brade.

He is survived by his nephew and niece, Douglas & Janet Brade of Mc Dade and his special niece and nephew, Nancy & Ronald Schautschick of Manheim; great nephews and nieces, Marshall & Angela Schautschick of Serbin, Randolph Schautschick of Hastings, Minnesota, Susan & Ryan Sweeney of Yoakum, Stacy & Thomas Goodson of Giddings, Melany & Riley Whitsitt of Mc Dade, Clifford Brade of Dallas and Joseph Brade of Mc Dade; great, great nieces and nephews, Madison Rooks, Makayla Schautschick, Maison Schautschick and Malynda Schautschick all of Serbin, Rachel Schautschick of Hastings, Minnesota, Lydia Goodson of Giddings and Randon Whitsitt and Alexis Whitsitt both of Mc Dade.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ronald Schautschick, Marshall Schautschick, Ryan Sweeney, Thomas Goodson and Randolph Schautschick.

Memorials may be made to the St. Paul Lutheran Church Building Fund, 1572 County Road 211, Giddings, Texas 78942.

Amanda Ottilie "Tillie" Albrecht
(June 17, 1921 - November 26, 2009)

Amanda Ottilie “Tillie” Albrecht, loving wife, mother and grandma passed away peacefully on Thursday, November 26, 2009 at her Paige home. She was 88 years old.

Tillie was born at home in Fayette County, Texas on June 17, 1921 to Carl and Clara Mitschke Synatschk. She was baptized by Rev. A. Bohot on June 18, 1921 and confirmed her faith in the Lord on April 14, 1935 at Evangelical Lutheran Church at Trinity Hill with Rev. A. E. Moebus officiating. Her memory verse was Revelations 2 Vs. 10—“Be thou faithful unto death and I will give thee a Crown of Life.”

She was married to Werner H. Albrecht on December 13, 1945 in Smithville, Texas by Rev. J. W. Jackson. Werner and Tillie attended the same school early in their life and then met again while they were both living in Houston and working at the Fairmont Bakery . Tillie’s greatest joy in life was raising their five children and working alongside her husband farming and ranching at their property in Paige. Up until her last days she enjoyed growing both flowers and vegetables in her garden which she shared with her many friends and family.

Tillie was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, Werner, grandson, Tony Anderson, son-in-law, Larry Anderson and son-in-law, James Kurio, brother, Walter Synatschk.

She is survived by daughters, Darlene and husband, Charlie Warren, Carolyn and husband, Brad Shroyer, Josephine and husband, Calvin Lehmann; sons, Max Albrecht and Alvin Albrecht and fiancé’ Pam Bozner, ten grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. Also brother, Fred Synatschk and wife, Esther, sisters, Irene Davis, Dorothy Blasig, Annie Mae Rohde, Thelma and husband, James Oberndorfer, Ruth and husband, Marvin Mertink. Extended family Dicki and husband, Robert Lesikar and daughter, Kasey and a host of nieces, nephews and other family members and friends.

Mom was always “Just Fine” as she would tell anyone who asked how she was doing—we will greatly miss her and her upbeat attitude. Thanks to everyone for all the visits and kindness to her and the family these last few days. Memorial have been requested to be given to the Marin Luther Lutheran Women in Ministry or to the charity of your choice.

Andres Diaz Martinez
(September 8, 1939 - November 23, 2009)

He was the son of the late Rafael Diaz and the late Jacainda (Martinez) Diaz.

He is also survived by his One Daughter, Daughter-Iris (Diaz) Diaz of Giddings, Texas; One Son, Son-Julio Diaz .

Arrangements are being handled by Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home, 588 North Main, Giddings, Texas. Funeral service will be at Callaway-Jones Crematory at 10:00 AM Wednesday, November 25, 2009 .

Dorothy "Louise" Enloe
(February 17, 1931 - November 20, 2009)

Memorial services for Dorothy "Louise" Enloe, 78 of Lexington, are scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on Monday, November 23, 2009 at the First Baptist Church in Lexington with Dr. Forrest Lowery officiating. The Enloe family will receive visitors Monday afternoon from 3:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church in Lexington.

Mrs. Enloe passed away early Friday morning at the Seton Medical Center in Austin.

Dorothy Louise Clark Enloe was born on February 17, 1931 in Vernon, Texas to Obie & Lorine Clark. She was united in marriage to John Enloe on August 2, 1950 in Olney, Texas. Mrs. Enloe was a loving and devoted homemaker and member of the First Baptist Church in Lexington. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, embroidering, canning and being grandma. The Enloe's own and operate a janitorial service for U.S. Post Offices in Lexington and McDade.

Mrs. Enloe was preceded in death by her parents; granddaughter, Delaney Enloe and two sisters, Lorine Schimpsher and Edna Clark.

She is survived by her husband, John Enloe of Lexington; three children, Rick & Cleta Enloe of Giddings, Gary & Jill Enloe of Lexington and Patty & Mike Redmond of Yampa, CO; five grandchildren, Daniel & Dori Enloe of Lexington, Tonya & Tony Calvo of Monahans, Keith Enloe of Lexington, James & Jennifer Redmond of Grand Juntion, CO and David Redmond of Yampa, CO; seven great grandchildren; brother, Ernest Clark of Dennison as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other realtives and friends.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church in Lexington or to the charity of one's choice.

Wyley Marshall Peebles
(September 28, 1928 - November 12, 2009)

Funeral services for Wyley Peebles, 81 of Lexington, Texas and formerly of Cisco, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2009 at the First Baptist Church in Lexington with Dr. Forrest Lowery & Rev. Reuel Cooper officiating. Burial will follow in the Lexington Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Lexington.

Mr. Peebles passed away Thursday afternoon in Giddings.

Wyley Marshall Peebles was born on September 28, 1928 in Lexington, Texas to Sam P. & Mary Ann (Johnston) Peebles. He received his Bachelor of Sciences Degree from Baylor University and his Master of Divinity Degree from the Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He served as the Pastor and Minister of Music for several churches in Texas, Alabama and Mississippi and was a College Music Professor at Cisco Junior College from 1969-2004. Mr. Peebles enjoyed traveling and was a gourmet cook. His great love of music was evident throughout his entire life and he took great pride in the Harpsichord he built himself.

Mr. Peebles was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Sam Peebles Jr. & E.M. Peebles and two nephews, Fred Woodward and Parker Peebles.

He is survived by his two sisters, Rosa Gene Lewis of La Grange and Ascenia Underwood of Lexington; three nieces, Jimanne Kubiak of Lexington, Kay Van Dorn of Lexington and Pattie Ivey of Austin; two nephews, Ray Lewis of Austin and Tom Underwood of Athens; a special caregiver, Denise Babbitt of Paige as well as numerous other family members, friends and former students.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the ALS Association, 27001 Agoura Road, Suite 250, Calabasas, CA 91301, Ascera Care Hospice, 1015 Main Street, Bastrop, Texas 78602 or the charity of one's choice.

Gilbert E. Markert
(October 21, 1928 - November 7, 2009)

Funeral services for Gilbert Markert, 81 of Houston, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 12, 2009 at the Giddings City Cemetery in Giddings with Rev. Richard Schuller officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday from noon to 1:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in gididngs and 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the Giddings City Cemetery.

Mr. Markert passed away Saturday morning at the Spring Branch Medical Center in Houston.

Gilbert Ernest Markert was born on October 21, 1928 in Lee County, Texas to Chas Andrew & Emily (Walther) Markert. He was united in marriage to Ruby Jatzlau on October 30, 1948 at St. John Lutheran Church in Lincoln, Texas. He was a retired sheetrocker who enjoyed to hunt and fish.

Mr. Markert was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers, Willie, Collie and Ervin and two sisters, Ruth Falke and Irene Strokes.

He is survived by his wife, Ruby Markert of Houston; daughter, Shelia & Jeffrey Koopman of Houston; son, Harvey Markert of Houston; four grandchildren, Sue & Chris Samoff of Katy, Jessica & Ross Miller of Brenham and Chelsea Koopman of Houston & Cody Koopman of Houston; three great grandchildren, Ashley, Cameron & Kerissa Samoff of Katy; one great, great grandchild, Kloie Samoff of Katy; two brothers, Roland & Ruth Markert of Houston and Freddie & Lillian Markert of Dime Box; four sisters, Edna Green of California, Elyne Rackel of Lincoln, Betty Theiss of Houston and Frances Wernecke of New Ulm as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Messiah Lutheran Church, 816 Roy Street, Houston, Texas 77007 or to the charity of one's choice.

Amanda Ella Drosche
(June 25, 1916 - November 1, 2009)

Funeral services for Amanda Drosche, 93, of Lexington, Texas are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2009 at St. James Lutheran Church in Lexington with Rev. Leif Hasskarl officiating. Burial will follow in the St. James Lutheran Cemetery in Lexington. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Drosche family will be present for visitation Wednesday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Mrs. Drosche passed away Sunday evening at the Giddings Healthcare Center in Giddings.

Amanda Ella Kaiser Drosche was born on June 25, 1916 in Fedor, Texas to Carl & Bertha (Exner) Kaiser. She was baptised on July 2, 1916 and confirmed on April 13, 1930 both at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fedor. She was united in marriage to Gussie Oscar Drosche on November 28, 1935 also at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fedor.

Mrs. Drosche was a homemaker who also worked hard on the farm. She enjoyed fishing, sewing, quilting, cooking and gardening. She was a longtime member of St. James Lutheran Church in Lexington where she had been a member of the LWML.

Mrs. Drosche was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Gussie; grandson, Jason Drosche; three brothers, Edgar, Ludwig & Martin and three sisters, Hedwig Schneider, Emily Herklotz and Alma Biehle.

She is survived by three children, Ruth & Roland Markert of Houston, Frances & William Riske of Houston and Fred & Melba Drosche of Lincoln; 9 grandchildren, Greg & Lori Markert of Giddings, Paula & Carl Berry of Houston, Sandra & Sam Flores of Houston, Katherine & Ronnie Barnfield of Houston, Glenn Riske of Cypress, Janice & Mark Fletcher of Houston, Angela & Ramon Alvarez of Lincoln, Joseph Drosche of Leander and Derek Drosche of Lexington; 10 great grandchildren, Christi & Steve Pitts of Giddings, Kayla Markert of Giddings, Amy Markert of Giddings, Brandon Berry of Houston, Amber Berry of Houston, Danny Flores of Houston, Sam Flores Jr. of Houston, Candace Flores of Houston, Christopher Barnfield of Houston and Nicholas Barnfield of Houston; 2 step grandchildren, Jason & Jordyn Corthell-Riske of Cypress; 3 great, great grandchildren, Daniel Flores of Houston and Bayley & Daylin Pitts of Giddings; brother, Walter Kaiser of Lexington; 2 sisters, Irma Melcher of Fedor and Betty Peck of Missouri; sister-in-law, Clara Kaiser of Lexington as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to St. James Lutheran Church in Lexington or to the charity of one's choice.

Edward H. Putnam
(July 2, 1913 - October 26, 2009)

Funeral services for Edward H. Putnam, 96 of Northrup, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 30, 2009 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin, Texas with Rev. John Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Putnam family will be present for visitation Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mr. Putnam passed away peacefully Monday evening at St. Mark's Medical Center in LaGrange.

Edward Harold Putnam was born on July 2, 1913 in Hamilton, Texas to Walter H. & Beatrice (Turner) Putnam. He served in the U.S. Army from 1932 before receiving his Honorable Discharge with the rank of Private in 1936. While in the Army, Mr. Putnam boxed and served in the Battery C, 16th Field Artillery Division. He was united in marriage to Bernice Nevelee Stiewert on March 30, 1947 in Brownwood, Texas.

Mr. Putnam was a retired bus driver with the Rapid Transit Line of the Houston Metro Bus Company. He enjoyed fishing, gardening and taking care of his orchard. He invented many things, was a true "Jack of All Trades", an excellent entrepreneur and always placed God and family first.

Mr. Putnam was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Bernice; two brothers, Lotis Putnam and Junior Putnam and a sister, Katherine Ingram.

He is survived by his children, Robert & Brenda Putnam of Magnolia, Douglas & Barbara Putnam of Dayton, Brenda & Ross McClintock of Pearland, Cynthia & Jim Fleming of Austin, John Putnam of Northrup and Fern Putnam Reed of San Saba; 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimers Association, the American Diabetes Association or the charity of one's choice.

Mary E. Fox
(October 2, 1907 - October 21, 2009)

Graveside services for Mary Emma Schmoyer Fox, 102, of Giddings and formerly of Hearne, Texas are scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 25, 2009 at the Granger City Cemetery in Granger, Texas with Rev. Dr. Tim Edwards officiating. Visitation will be held Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Fox passed away Wednesday evening in Giddings.

She was born near Rosebud on October 2, 1907 to Mr. and Mrs. J.B. Schmoyer. She graduated from Marlin High School in Marlin, Texas and received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Baylor University in Waco, Texas.

She retired from teaching in May of 1971 after a teaching career of twenty-two years, seventeen of them in the Hearne schools.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Howard Fox; her daughters, Betty Fox and Susan Fox and her sister, Jesse B. Green.

Survivors include daughter, Helen Fox Smith and son-in-law, John Dodd Smith of Giddings, Texas; sister, Mrs. Albert Derden of Austin, Texas; grandchildren, Bryan Fox Smith and wife, Laura of Canyon, Texas, Catherine Smith Ingram of Houston, Texas and Horace Donald Smith III and wife, Felicity of San Angelo, Texas; great-grandchildren, Garrett & Rachel Smith of Canyon, Texas and Alexis, Morgan, Noah and Gage Smith of San Angelo, Texas and a great-great grandson, Landon Colvert of San Angelo, Texas.

Eldor R. Proske
(October 7, 1924 - October 21, 2009)

Eldor R. Proske

ELDOR ROY PROSKE, 85, passed away Wednesday, October 21, 2009 with his family by his side.

A long time resident of Houston, Eldor or Roy as he was also known, was born on October 7, 1924 in Lexington, Texas to Rudolph and Emma Proske. He served his country in the United States Navy from November 8, 1943 to April 15, 1946. He married Mary Frances Miller in 1948 with whom he had 2 children.

Employed by Oilfield Machine and Supply Company in Houston, Texas for over 40 years, he spent his retirement enjoying the company of his grandchildren and family and quiet time in the country around Lexington where he grew up. He enjoyed music, dancing, good food and most of all being with his family.

He is survived by his 2 children, Charles Proske and Debra Davis and her husband John Davis; 2 grandchildren, Kelly and Stephen Davis; 2 sisters, Glorine Eiland and Geneva Proske; 1 brother, Aaron Proske and his wife Estelle Proske; his close friend Betty Crawford; and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, October 24, 2009 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home, 588 N. Main. Giddings, Texas 78942. Funeral Services will be held following visitation at 1:00 p.m. in the chapel at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home with Maxine Roby officiating. Burial will follow in Germania Cemetery in Lexington TX

Rene Cruz Vega
(March 14, 1966 - October 9, 2009)

Funeral services for Rene Vega, 43 of Dime Box, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday, October 12, 2009 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dime Box, Texas with Father Ramon Frayna officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Dime Box. Visitation will be held Sunday from 1:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Rosary will be recited Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Rene passed away unexpectedly Friday morning in an automobile accident near Dime Box.

Rene Cruz Vega was born on March 14, 1966 in Lubbock, Texas to Ralph & Teresa (Cruz) Vega. He graduated from Dime Box High School in 1984 and was a supervisor for Diamond P in Dime Box. Rene was united in marriage to Barbara Villanueva on January 26, 1987 in San Antonio, Texas. He served in the United States Air Force from 1985 until 1988 and enjoyed hunting and fishing.

Rene was preceded in death by his father and step-mother, Ralph & Isabel Vega. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Vega of Dime Box; his son, Miguel Rene Vega of Las Vegas, NV; his daughters, Selena Renee Vega and Paula Ann Vega both of Dime Box; his mother, Teresa Vega of San Antonio; two brothers, Adam C. & Lupe Vega and Ralph C. & Liza Vega Jr. all of San Antonio as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Raul Perez, John Schuman, Richard Longoria, Adam Vega, Ralph Vega Jr. and Danny Villanueva.

Memorials may be made to the Lee County First Responders, P.O. Box 1337, Giddings, Texas 78942 or the charity of one's choice.

Clarence E. Woelfel
(September 12, 1926 - October 1, 2009)

Funeral services for Clarence "Harry" Woelfel, 83 of Manheim, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, October 4, 2009 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Manheim, Texas with Rev. Dale Bohm officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will held Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Woelfel family will be present for visitation Saturday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mr. Woelfel passed away Thursday morning at Country Care Plex in Giddings.

Clarence "Harry" Ernest Woelfel was born on September 12, 1926 in Lincoln, Texas to Louis & Alma (Noack) Woelfel. He was united in marriage to Doris Birnbaum on November 23, 1947 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Manheim, Texas and was a lifelong farmer in Lee County.

Mr. Woelfel was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Doris; his brothers, Milton Woelfel and Randolph Woelfel; his brother-in-law, Wilbert Birnbaum Sr. and a sister-in-law, Margaret Birnbaum.

He is survived by his sons, Larry & Brenda Woelfel and Roger & Doreen Woelfel all of Manheim; 4 grandchildren, Renee Woelfel of Waco, Mark & Sunny Woelfel of Manheim, Joshua Woelfel of Manheim and Tonya Woelfel of Manheim; 4 great grandchildren, Sydni Havel, Paige Havel, Layna Woelfel and Jay Woelfel all of Manheim; sisters, Emilie Birnbaum of Manheim, Alice & Noah Fischer of Giddings, Vernie & Erwin Arldt of Paige, Ruth & Harry Wachsmann of Lincoln, Lorine & Monroe Patschke of Lincoln and Ellen & Melvin Schulze of Giddings; brother, Louis & Novaline Woelfel Jr. of Thorndale; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Mildred Woelfel of Manheim, Marilyn Woelfel of Lexington, Isdell Birnbaum Sr. of Spring, Robert & Gertrude Baylor of Conroe, Frank & Dorothy Birnbaum of Fedor and Allen & Alice Birnbaum of Manheim as well as numerous nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to the Lutheran Hour or the charity of one's choice.

Ervin Fritz Lerche
(October 20, 1926 - September 12, 2009)

Funeral services for Ervin Lerche, 82 of Lexington, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 15, 2009 at St. James Lutheran Church in Lexington with Rev. Leif Hasskarl officiating. Burial will follow in the St. James Lutheran Cemetery in Lexington. Visitation will be held Monday from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Lexington.

Mr. Lerche passed away Saturday evening at his home in Lexington.

Ervin Fritz Lerche was born on October 20, 1926 in Lexington, Texas to Fritz & Emily (Siegmund) Lerche. He was baptized on November 14, 1926 and confirmed on October 16, 1955 both at St. James Lutheran Church in Lexington. Mr. Lerche was a U.S. Army Veteran having served during WWII as an Amphibian Tank Crewman. He was united in marriage to Lorine Exner on May 1, 1948 in Lexington. He was employed for several years at Woodson Lumber Company in Lexington and enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing, making barbeque and taking care of his dogs and cows.

Mr. Lerche was preceded in death by his parents; son-in-law, Kenneth Pelham; 2 brothers, Herbert Lerche Sr. and Walter Lerche and 2 sisters, Ella Bright and Elsie Summers.

He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Lorine Lerche of Lexington; his daughter, Shirley Diane Pelham of Lexington; his grandsons, Robert & Stephannie Pelham of Lexington and John Pelham of Austin; 4 great grandchildren, Kenneth Pelham, Emily Pelham and Ben Pelham all of Lexington and Ellie Pelham of Austin; brother, Ewald & Pat Lerche of Lexington; 2 sisters-in-law, Frances Lerche and Glenda Clopton both of Lexington as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, Brazos Valley Hospice or St. James Lutheran Church in Lexington.

Beau Green
(December 17, 1984 - August 28, 2009)

Funeral services for Beau Green, 23, of College Station and formerly of Giddings are scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on Monday, August 31, 2009 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings, Texas with Pastor Tim Clayton officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings Memorial Park. Visitation will be held Sunday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

He passed away Friday afternoon at his home in College Station.

Beau Garrett Green was born on December 17, 1985 in Brenham, Texas to Gary & Paula (Walters) Green. He graduated from high school in DeRidder, LA and moved back to Texas where he worked for a tree service company. Beau was full of spirit and could always put a smile on your face. He always had a tall tale to tell along with a heart of gold. Beau never met a stranger and if you ever met him you would not forget him.

He was preceded in death by his maternal grandfather, Kenneth "Toolie" Walters and his paternal grandfather, Paul B. Green Jr.

Beau is survived by his father, Gary Green of College Station; his mother, Paula Green of Jim Thorpe, PA; brother, Dustin Green of Belton; sister, Kayla Green of College Station; grandmothers, Betty Walters of Belton and Judy Green of DeRidder, LA as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and a host of other relatives.

Serving as pallbearers will be Keith Woodard, Kyle Dunk, Jeremy Dunk, Dustin Green, Jacob Lira, Travis Blue, Lee Burnett and Colby Handrick. Honorary pallbearers will be Roque Lira IV, Wesley Welch and Steve Sherrill.

Our hearts are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Barbara Jane Lay
(September 10, 1942 - August 22, 2009)

Barbara Jane Lay, 66, of Lexington passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her family on Saturday, August 22, 2009.

She was born in Lee County, Texas to Lee and Berta Qualls. Barbara married Ray Lay on November 16, 1960 and was blessed with three daughters. She was an extraordinary seamstress, sewing everything from regular clothes to Halloween outfits to school activity uniforms to prom dresses and bridesmaids dresses for her daughters weddings. Several years ago, Barbara decided to begin quilting and knitting. She made over 100 blankets with tender loving care for friends and family members.

Barbara is survived by her husband of 48 years and her three daughters, Theresa and Jeff Chatham of Arlington, Sherrie and Jeffrey Zgabay of Lexington and Tammie Lay of Giddings. Her beloved sister Bethel Blaha of Dime Box, and she had four grandchildren, which she loved to spoil. They are Lindsey and Kyle Chatham, Jacob Suehs and Rachel Zgabay and grandpuppy Addie Rae.

She was preceded in death by her parents, sisters Berta (Cotton) Urban, Robert (Sonny) Qualls, Clara Belle Homsley and Dorothy (Dot) Snapp.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, August 26, 2009 at Faith Temple in Lexington, Texas with Rev. Jim Moore officiating. Burial will follow in the Lexington Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with a prayer service being held at 7:00 p.m.

Memorials may be made to Brazos Valley Hospice or to the Cancer Clinic of Bryan.

Lillie Annie Kleiber
(February 5, 1920 - August 14, 2009)

Funeral services for Lillie Kleiber, 89 of Winchester, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 17, 2009 at St. Margaret's Catholic Church in Giddings with Father Jim Olnhausen officiating. Burial will follow in the La Grange City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Rosary will be recited Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mrs. Kleiber passed away Friday morning at Central Texas Hospital in Cameron.

Lillie Annie Krampota Kleiber was born on February 5, 1920 in Elgin, Texas to John & Emily (Dytrich) Krampota. She was united in marriage to Ernst August Kleiber on July 9, 1940 at St. Paul's Catholic Church in Smithville. She was a loving and devoted mother, grandmother and homemaker who enjoyed ranching. Mrs. Kleiber was also a lifetime member of St. Margaret's Catholic Church in Giddings.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Adolph John Krampota and three sisters, Elsie Krampota Phillips, Frances Kleiber Ryder and Mary Krampota Kendzoria.

Mrs. Kleiber is survived by her husband of 69 years, August "Gus" Kleiber of Winchester; 3 sons and daughters-in-law, Clayton & Pat Kleiber of Winchester, Leroy & Nilsa Kleiber of Kingwood and Eugene & Marjorie Kleiber of Milano; 6 grandchildren, Mike & Mary Kleiber of New Waverly, Greg & Jeri Kleiber of San Antonio, Randy & Deborah Kleiber of Brenham, Jennifer & Pat Smith of Houston, Wendy & Jon Bradley of Round Rock and Sandy & Earl Ewald of Liberty Hill; 8 great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Mike Kleiber, Greg Kleiber, Randy Kleiber, Pat Smith, Jon Bradley and Earl Ewald.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Sandra Kay Furry
(December 9, 1947 - August 10, 2009)

Funeral Services for Sandra Furry, 61, of Bastrop, Texas are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 13, 2009, at First Baptist Church in Smithville, Texas with Brother Michael Murphy officiating.

Burial will follow the funeral service at the Giddings City Cemetery at approximately 11:30 a.m. Visitation will be held Wednesday evening from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The family will be present for visitation Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Sandra passed away Monday, August 10, 2009 at the Christopher House in Austin, Texas, after a thirteen year battle with cancer.

Sandra Kay Sheffield Furry was born on December 9, 1947 in Kermit, Texas, to Willie (Bill) and Dorothy (Spears) Sheffield. She was united in marriage to Donald Furry on August 4, 1967 at Immanuel Baptist Church in Monahans, Texas. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Michael Don of Giddings and Julie Kay of Austin.

The Furry’s lived in Monahans, Texas until January 1985 at which time they moved to Giddings and were the owners and operators of Commercial Electric from 1975 thru 2001. At that time, they retired and continued the family business with their son Mike. They moved to ColoVista Country Club in 2002 and continued with their retirement. They enjoyed traveling around the country in their bus and on their Harley and made many friends across the U.S. and Canada.

Sandra is survived by her husband of 42 years, Don ; her son and daughter-in-law, Mike and Glenda Furry of Giddings; her daughter, Julie Furry of Austin; four grandchildren, Tanna and Bodie Furry of Giddings, Robert (Dee) and Gavin Young and their parents Robert (Bob) and Pam Young of Brenham, Texas; nephew B.J. and his wife, Lisa Byrum of Dallas; mother-in-law, Bertha Furry of Blanket, Texas; two aunts, Peggy Massey of Midland, Texas and Jean and Bob Slaughter of Kermit, Texas along with numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Dorothy Sheffield; her sister, Iola Byrum and her father-in-law, Wayne Furry.

Sandra was a huge supporter of the American Cancer Society Relay for Life; therefore, your tax deductible donation may be made payable to “The American Cancer Society” and mailed to P.O. Box 239, Giddings, Texas 78942 or you may drop off your donation at the following businesses: All Classic Bank locations, First National Bank of Giddings, Texas and Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home.

Fred O. Placke
(September 20, 1931 - July 28, 2009)

Funeral services for Fred O. Placke, Jr., of Giddings are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2009 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings, Texas with Pastor John Fibelkorn officiating. Burial will follow at the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held all day Sunday, August 2nd, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The family will be present from 2:00 to 5:00.

Mr. Placke passed away Tuesday, July 28, 2009 in Bemidji, Minnesota.

Fred was born on September 20, 1931 to Fred Oscar & Bertha Amalia (Lehmann) Placke. He married his High School sweetheart, Ruth Melcher, on October 14, 1950. Fred graduated from Giddings High School in 1948, and was one of the first Eagle Scouts in Lee County. He received his degree in Agricultural Engineering from Texas A&M University in 1953 and was a proud member of the Aggie Band and Bugle Rank.

After college, Fred served in the United State Air Force, Eglin AFB, as a test engineer at the end of the Korean War. He was a founding partner of Pump and Power Engineering, and later purchased Texas Armature works. He pursued other activities over the years, designed and operated RV parks in Galveston and Houston, designed and marketed baseball pitching apparatus, and proudly earned his private pilot's license at the age of 65.

Fred and Ruth raised their children in Houston and enjoyed the last several years living on the family farm in Giddings. He enjoyed constructing and flying remote controlled airplanes, and made many friends all over the country in flying clubs. His passions included Boston Terriers, playing dominoes with his family, Aggie football, Giddings High School football and baseball, and traveling across the country in his RV with his "Ruthie".

Fred was preceded in death by his parents and twin infant sons Greggory Kirk and Geoffery Neal.

Fred is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth Melcher Placke, his children Fred O. Placke III and wife Caren of Highland Village, TX, Linda Ruth Placke of Fayetteville, AR, George M. Placke and wife Elizabeth of San Antonio, TX. He had 8 Grandchildren, who called him "Big Fred"; Fred O. Placke IV and wife Erin, Rebekah, Michael, Gregory, Carey, Lauren, Zane and Rachel, as well as 2 Great-Grandchildren, Avery and Gabriel. He was truly blessed. Brothers: John L Placke and wife Sue of Giddings TX, Wiliam M. Placke and wife Dorothy of Katy TX. Sister In Law: Pearl Richardson of Giddings TX. Numerous Nieces, Nephews and other relatives.

Fred's grandchildren will serve as pallbearers.

Memorials can be given to Immanuel Lutheran Boy Scouts, Texas A & M Band, or Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Dorothy Viola Kurio
(January 7, 1935 - July 25, 2009)

Funeral services for Dorothy Kurio, 74 of Serbin, Texas are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, July 28, 2009 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin, Texas with Rev. John Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday evening from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. The Kurio family will be present for visitation Monday evening from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Dorothy passed away early Saturday morning at her home in Serbin surrounded by her family after a lengthy illness.

Dorothy Viola Weiser Kurio was born on January 7, 1935 in Serbin, Texas to Karl & Clara (Urban) Weiser. She was united in marriage to Marvin Kurio on October 9, 1954 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin. Their marriage was blessed with four children, Dennis, Clifford, Joyce and Kathleen. The Kurio's lived in Austin for many years where they were members of Hope Lutheran Church and Dorothy worked in the children's department at Dillard's for 17 years. After retirement, they moved back to Serbin where Dorothy worked at Pieratt's Hallamrk which later became Blossoms & Bows Hallmark in Giddings. She was an excellent seamstress and did work for Lady Bird Johnson and many others. She enjoyed gardening, working in her yard, fishing, cooking and baking. Dorothy also made flower arrangements and help decorate for weddings and anniversaries.

She was preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Edgar Weiser and two brother-in-laws, Wilbert Pietsch and Martin Fischer.

Dorothy is survived by her husband of 54 years, Marvin Kurio of Serbin; 4 children, Dennis & Betty Kurio of Austin, Cliff & Wanda Kurio of Austin, Joyce Jenke of Serbin and Kathleen & Jim Bob Bigon of Northrup; 6 grandchildren, Meghan Jenke of Serbin, Kyle Jenke of Serbin, Peyton Kurio of Austin, Shawn Bigon of Northrup, Stacy & Mike Galbreath of Georgia and Brian Westberry of Austin; 3 great grandchildren, Miranda Westberry of Austin, Carissa Galbreath of Georgia and Anthony Galbreath of Georgia; 2 sisters, Irene Fischer of Giddings and Dolores Pietsch of Gatesville; brother, Alton & Paula Weiser of Giddings; sister-in-law, Laverne Weiser of Giddings as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Brazos Valley, 1048 N. Jefferson, La Grange, Texas 78945, St. Paul Lutheran Church, 1572 CR 211, Giddings, Texas 78942 or to the charity of one's choice.

Dustin Clint Etzel
(July 1, 1993 - July 22, 2009)

Funeral services for Dustin Etzel, 16 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 25, 2009 at the First Assembly of God in Giddings with Pastor Pat Herlitz, Pastor Jason Mayo and Youth Pastor Tara Essman officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Friday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Saturday from 7:30 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The family will be present for visitation Friday evening from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m.

Dustin was born on July 1, 1993 in La Grange, Texas and was a student at Giddings High School and would have been entering his Junior year next month. He played the drums in the Giddings High School Band and also in the worship services at the First Assembly of God. Dustin enjoyed playing baseball, tennis, fishing, playing his Xbox and especially enjoyed golfing with his grandpa. He was an active member of the First Assembly of God in Giddings where he served as a youth leader for the Oxygen Youth Ministry.

Dustin passed away unexpectedly Wednesday while attending church camp near Waxahachie.

He was preceded in death by his great grandparents, Tom & Carrie Roberts and Thurman & Bessie Minyard and an aunt, Sharon Marie Roberts.

Dustin is survived by his parents, Debbie & Bubba Alexander of Giddings; his sisters & brothers, Carly & Charles Ray of Giddings, Leslie Wallace of Giddings, Zach Alexander of Austin, Haley Alexander of Houston and Jacob Alexander of Giddings; his grandparents, Clint & Mallie Roberts of Giddings; his niece, Randa Voight of Giddings; his nephews, Tristan Ray & Aidan Ray both of Giddings; his dog, Abby as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Memorials may be made to the Speed-The-Light, c/o First Assembly of God, 1050 North Orange Street, Giddings, Texas 78942.

George Elwood Berger
(June 13, 1924 - July 21, 2009)

Funeral services for George Berger, 85 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, July 24, 2009 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Manheim, Texas with Rev. Herb Keistman officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mr. Berger passed away Tuesday afternoon at this home.

George was born on June 13, 1924 in Manheim, Texas to Willie & Elenora (Behrend) Berger. He was baptized on June 28, 1924 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church by the Rev. C.W. Riske and confirmed on April 10, 1938 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church by the Rev. A.O. Kaltwasser. His confirmation verse was Psalm 143:10 "Teach me to do Your will, for you are my God; Your Spirit is good. Lead me in the land of uprightness"

During World War II, he served in the Army with Company C, 300th Combat Engineers Battalion and was in 5 major campaigns: Normandy, Northern France, Battle of the Bulge, Rhineland and Central Europe.

After the War, he became employed with Brown & Root, Inc. where he worked for 33 years.

On October 10, 1953 he was united in marriage with Golda Brehm at Christ Lutheran Church in Houston, Texas by the Rev. G.W. Obenhaus. This marriage was blessed with 3 children, Joyce, Raymond and Wayne.

George served as Northeast District Commissioner for Boy Scouts of America in Houston. He was a member of Christ Lutheran Church in Houston and served in several capacities there as well as with the Greater Houston Sunday School Superintendents.

He retired from Brown & Root, Inc. in 1979 and returned to the Manheim area where he and Golda built their home and he again became a member of Ebenezer Lutheran Church. He enjoyed ranching, gardening and woodworking.

He was preceded in death by his parents; 2 sisters, Irma Farrack & Bernice Edtmiller; 3 brothers, Clarence, Herbert & Elferd Berger and a son-in-law, Stanley Anderson.

He is survived by his wife, Golda Berger of Giddings; daughter, Joyce & Jerry Weaver of Burnet; sons, Raymond & Sherry Berger of Giddings and Wayne Berger of Giddings; step-granddaughter, Rebecca & Jack Allen of Giddings; 3 step-great grandchildren, Shannon, Shane & Sarah Allen of Giddings; brother, Marvin & Eleanor Berger of Paige; sister-in-law, Yvonne Berger of Tomball as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Serving as pallbearers will be Jim Jaeger, Calvin Berger, Mark Woelfel, Robert Jurk, Robert Biebas and Tim Exner.

Memorials may be made to the Lutheran Heritage Foundation, c/o Ebenezer Lutheran Church, 4146 W. Highway 21, Paige, Texas 78659-4222 or to the charity of one's choice.

Olivia Frieda Goerlitz
(January 1, 1917 - July 15, 2009)

Funeral services for Olivia Frieda Goerlitz, 92, of Giddings are scheduled for Friday, July 17, 2009 at 10:00 AM at Martin Luther Lutheran Church, Giddings, with Rev. Jeremy Walloch offficiating. Burial will follow in Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 3:00 PM until 9:00 PM at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Olivia Frieda Gregor Goerlitz was born on January 1, 1917 in Brenham, Texas to August A. and Frieda (Fieseler) Gregor. She was raised in the Berlin community. She graduated from Brenham High School in 1935. On March 3, 1940 she was united in marriage to Frank C. Goerlitz in Berlin, Texas. Olivia loved to work in her flower garden and enjoyed baking and reading. Most of all she enjoyed and loved her family. She was employed for several years at Bages Grocery Store in Giddings as a clerk. Olivia was a member of Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings.

Olivia Goerlitz was preceded in death by her parents August and Frieda Gregor and her loving husband Frank C. Goerlitz.

She is survived by her children, Eugene Goerlitz of Brenham, Daniel and wife, Betty Goerlitz of Brenham, Ernie and wife, Alice Goerlitz of Giddings, Elaine and husband Mike Kroll of Brenham and Lisa and husband, Jeffrey Fillmore of Bryan; grandchildren, Kim Meyer, Shelia Able, Jason Goerlitz, Tammy Burnett, Franklin Goerlitz, Olivia Borgstedte, Janet Zapalac, Patty Goerlitz, Brandon Kroll, Bryan Kroll, Jeffrey Fillmore and Jonathan Fillmore; great grandchildren, McKenzie Meyer, Madison Meyer, Ashley Able, Hyden Able, Christina Burnett, Taylor Goerlitz, Carter Burnett, Nichole Borgstedte and Benjamin Zapalac; great,great grandchild, Tanner Jayce Fillmore; brothers and sisters, Almont (A.J) Gregor of Robstown, Mildred Helm of Brenham, Rev. Milroy Gregor of New Ulm, Edith Lehmann of Brenham and Luther Gregor of Brenham; caretaker, Terry Cisneros of Giddings as well as numerous nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Serving as pallbearers will be Franklin Goerlitz, Jason Goerlitz, Brandon Kroll, Jeffrey Fillmore, Jonathan Fillmore and Bryan Kroll. Honorary pallbearers will be Almont Gregor, Rev. Milroy Gregor, Luther Gregor, Eugene Goerlitz, Daniel Goerlitz and Ernie Goerlitz.

Memorials can be given to the Alzheimers Society.

Billy Duane Medlock
(October 15, 1934 - July 10, 2009)

Funeral services for Billy "Duane" Medlock, 74 of Giddings, are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Monday, July 13, 2009 at New Harmony Cemetery near Tyler, Texas with Robbie Caldwell officiating. Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 12, 2009 at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Prayer Service will be held at the funeral home Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. with Tim Clayton officiating.

Mr. Medlock passed away Friday, July 10, 2009 at his home in Giddings, Texas.

Billy Duane Medlock was born on October 15, 1934 in Honey Grove, Texas to Eugene Dale & Iris (Capitola) Medlock. He was united in marriage to Mary Nell Parker on August 10, 1956 in Tyler, Texas. He retired from La Gloria Oil & Gas where he had been employed as a pump mechanic. Mr. Medlock enjoyed reading, fishing and spending time with his family.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, JoAnn Murphy.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Nell Medlock of Giddings; daughter, Tracie Lynn Emmons of Giddings; 2 grandchildren, Justin Dale Emmons & his fiance, Stefanie Meuth of Houma, LA and Jenny Lynn Rodea & her husband, Amado of Giddings; 2 great grandchildren, A.J. Rodea & Jaida Lauren Rodea both of Giddings; brother, Gary & Linda Medlock of Whitehouse, Texas; brother-in-law, Jimmy Murphy of Tyler as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to Brazos Valley Hospice, 1048 North Jefferson, La Grange, Texas 78945.

John Mark Stevens
(December 8, 1958 - June 29, 2009)

John Mark Stevens, 50, of Lexington TX. passed away Monday evening at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Mr. Stevens was born on December 8,1958 to E.G. and Caroline Smith Stevens in New Orleans, LA. He is survived by his parents, EG and Caroline Smith Stevens of Dickinson, TX and sisters, Karen Karenoswald and Lisa Lavenberry. He is also survived by his foster parents, James & Patricia Estes, and extended family from Bluebonnet Trails.

Funeral services are scheduled for Thursday, July 2, 2009 at 10 am at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with Rev. Jonny Green officiating.

Burial will be private.

Selma Ottilie Stork
(November 9, 1917 - June 25, 2009)

Funeral services for Selma Stork, 91, of Ledbetter, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, 2009 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Edwin Schwanke officiating. Burial will follow in the Ledbetter Cemetery in Ledbetter, Texas. Visitation will be held on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Stork family will be present for visitation Saturday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mrs. Stork passed away Thursday evening at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings.

Selma Ottilie Abel Stork was born on November 9, 1917 in Pflugerville, Texas to Julius & Lydia Evelyn (Lehmann) Abel. She was confirmed on Palm Sunday in 1934 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine, Texas by Pastor Henry Brunotte and united in marriage to Louis Herbert Stork on September 24, 1946 by Rev. Leo Simon also at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine. Mrs. Stork was a homemaker and enjoyed ranching.

Mrs. Stork was preceded in death by her parents, her husband and a brother, Delvin Abel.

She is survived by her two daughters, Lois & Billy Dallmeyer of Ledbetter and LaVerne & Arthur Urban of Giddings; 7 grandchildren, Kathy & James Kalbas of Giddings, Janet & Gus Schramm Jr. of LaGrange, Milton & Michelle Urban of Giddings, Michael & Shanna Dallmeyer of Ledbetter, Doris & Kevin Kunkel of Paige, Amber Dallmeyer & fiancee, Keith Schnell of Ledbetter and Lorie & Greg Schwanke of Ledbetter; 14 great grandchildren, Byron Kalbas, Natalie Kalbas, Emilie Kmiec, Justin Kmiec, Andy Schramm, Adrianee Schramm, Elizabeth Schramm, Adam Schramm, Joseph Urban, Matthew Urban, Amanda Urban, Luke Dallmeyer, Emme Dallmeyer and Spike Kunkel; great, great granddaughter, Makenna Kmiec as well as numerous cousins, other relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to the Building Fund or the Day School at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings.

Jack Louthan
(January 26, 1936 - June 5, 2009)

Jack Louthan 73, of Blue, Texas passed away June 5, 2009 at his residence.

Jack Louthan was born January 26,1936 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to Jack and Rachel Cavett Louthan.

Jack was an equipment technician and was employed by IBM until his retirement.

Mr. Louthan was preceded in death by his parents, Jack and Rachel Louthan.

He is survived by his sister, Junetta Ann Flynt of Garland, Texas and his brother, Phillip Louthan of Hazelton, California. He is also survived by nieces and nephews, Larry Flynt, Linda Flynt, Diane Antheunisse, and Catherine McPherson. Several great nieces and nephews also survive.

There are no services scheduled.

Orville Paul Brust
(June 28, 1925 - May 26, 2009)

Funeral services for Orville Brust, 83 of Beaumont, Texas are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 1, 2009 at the Giddings City Cemetery in Giddings, Texas with Rev. Robert J. Tiner officiating.

Mr. Brust passed away Tuesday, May 26, 2009 in Beaumont, Texas.

Orville Paul Brust was born on June 28, 1925 to the late Reverend Paul G. Brust & Amanda Engelking Brust. As the son of a Missouri Synod Lutheran Minister, Orville spent his boyhood years in many different towns in Texas, including Mercedes and Manheim.

He was preceded in death by a brother, Dr. Melvin F. Brust.

He is survived by two sisters, Mildred Brust Haddick and Ethel Brust Lipscomb. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, great nieces and great nephews.

Dorothy K. Boyce
(August 17, 1925 - May 22, 2009)

Funeral services for Dorothy K. Boyce, 83 of Winchester and formerly of Dallas, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 28, 2009 at The Abbey Chapel at Restland Cemetery in Dallas. Burial will follow in Restland Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with the family being present from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. Visitation will also be held Thursday from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at The Abbey Chapel at Restland Cemetery.

Mrs. Boyce passed away Friday morning at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Dorothy Keller Boyce was born on August 17, 1925 in Louisville, Kentucky to Lurly & Rosa (Jenkins) Keller. She was united in marriage to Edwin R. Boyce on April 4, 1953 in Dallas. Dorothy was a retired secretary having been employed at the Cotton Exchange Building in Dallas for many years. Foremost, she was a loving homemaker, wife and mother who devoted 47 years to the care of her daughter, Laura who had Downs Syndrome.

Mrs. Boyce was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her daughter, Laura; her brother, Paul Keller and her two sisters, Lee K. Murphy and Betty Solomon.

She is survived by a daughter, Leslie Carol Boyce Clayton and husband, Tim of Winchester; a son, Paul A. Boyce of Dallas; 3 grandchildren, Ensign Andrew S. Clayton, U.S.N. & wife, Jeanne of Pensacola, Florida, Kate E. Clayton of Waco and Ethan L. Clayton of Winchester; a sister, Helen Bedini of Phoenix, Arizona; a brother, George Keller of Indiana and various nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church, 600 Sunrise, Giddings, Texas 78942 or to the charity of one's choice.

Linda Ann Dement
(July 29, 1948 - May 14, 2009)

Funeral services for Linda Ann Dement, age 60, of Giddings, Texas are scheduled at 10:00 AM Monday, May 18,2009 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings, with Rev. Robert Tiner officiating. Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in Elgin, Texas. Visitation will be Sunday from 10:00 AM until 9:00 PM with the family present from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Miss. Dement passed away Thursday, May 14, 2009 at her residence in Giddings.

Mrs. Dement was a long time employee of Walmart in Giddings. She was employed as a Department Manager.

Linda Dement was born in Tyler, Texas on July 29, 1948 to William E. and Elsie Reeves Welch. She was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her daughters: Angie and Marty Stanfield of Giddings and Alicia and Jerry Ingram of Giddings. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Mason Ray Ingram, Priscilla LiAnn Stanfield, Peyton LeNae Stanfield and Steven Loyd Ingram Her brother, Larry Otis Welch of Troup, Texas. Numerous other relatives and associates from her Walmart family also survive.

The family has requested memorials be made to The Relay For Life organization in your area and The American Cancer Society.

Gloria Anne Sloan
(November 30, 1944 - April 14, 2010)

A Rosary and Funeral Mass for Gloria Sloan, 65 of Giddings, are scheduled for 5:00 p.m. on Monday, April 19, 2010 at St. Margaret's Catholic Church in Giddings with Father Jim Olnhausen officiating. Visitation will be held Monday from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Gloria passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, April 14, 2010 at the South Austin Hospital.

Gloria Anne Sloan was born on November 30, 1944 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada to Peter W. & Anne (Hrycyk) Sloan. Gloria lived in Kirkland Lake Ontario, Calgary Alberta, Victoria British Columbia, Toronto Ontario and Nashville, TN. She then moved to Giddings, Texas where she became employed with a local Giddings contractor before expanding her career independently. She formed her own company, Gloria Sloan Designs, where she created unique and exquisite designs and innovations to the homes and businesses of many clients she served. Her passion and zest from her innate talent for aesthetic vision was evident in all that she accomplished in her life. Gloria received many awards for her unique interior designs.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Jo-Anne.

Gloria is survived by her daughter, Samantha Anne Ball and her fiance, Kyle Donahue of Nashville, TN. Gloria also was Nanny to her very special granddaughter, McKinzie Anne Ball of Nashville, TN. Her brothers Robert P. Sloan and family of Franklin, TN & Douglas A. Sloan and family of Toronto, Ontario Canada also survive her.

loria will be immensely missed by her loving and constant companions, her golden retrievers, Hoot & Dusty, as well as countless friends whose lives she has touched so deeply. She will never be forgotten for her warm and loving nature, effervescent smile and the glow with which she always brought into our lives.

Memorials may be made to CASA, P.O. Box 623, Bastrop, Texas 78602 or the charity of one's choice.

Shirley Jean Smith
(November 11, 1937 - April 13, 2010)

Funeral services for Shirley Jean Smith, 72 of Paige, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, April 16, 2010 at Ridgeway Baptist Church in Paige, Texas with Rev. John Jones and Rev. Roger Osborn officiating. Burial will follow in the Ridgeway Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 12:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Smith family will be present for visitation Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Shirley passed away Tuesday, April 13, 2010 at her home in Paige.

Shirley Jean Thames Smith was born on November 11, 1937 in Paige, Texas to Clifton & Thelma (Warren) Thames. She was united in marriage to Edgar Smith on August 28, 1954 in Houston, Texas. Shirley was a loving and devoted homemaker who enjoyed working in her yard. She was also an active member of Ridgeway Baptist Church where she faithfully worshiped and served her Lord.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Edgar Smith of Paige; two sons, Larry & Kim Smith of Paige and Gary & Mary Smith of Paige; nine grandchildren, Gary Wade & Heather Smith of Giddings, Stephen & Nikki Smith of Wichita Falls, Clifton Smith of Bastrop, Amanda Smith of Paige, Andy & Renay Smith of Lexington, Brandi & Steven Weusterhausen of Elgin, Kenon Smith of Austin, Will & Gail House of Cleburne and Sarah House of Cleburne; 17 great grandchildren; brothers & sisters-in-law, J.W. Smith, Linda Justice and Nancy Hoover as well as numerous nieces, nephews, friends and her church family at Ridgeway Baptist Church.

Serving as pallbearers will be Gary Wade Smith, Stephen Smith, Will House, Andy Smith, Clifton Smith and Lloyd Ellis.

Memorials may be made to the Ridgeway Baptist Church Outreach Ministry, P.O. Box 73, Paige, Texas 78659.

Milda Anna Kasper
(May 3, 1926 - April 1, 2010)

Funeral services for Milda Kasper, 83 of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, April 6, 2010 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings,Texas. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery in Giddings. Visitation will be held Monday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Kasper family will be present for visitation Monday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Milda passed away Thursday, April 1, 2010 at Methodist Charlton Hospital in Dallas, Texas.

Milda Anna Zimmerman Kasper was born on May 3, 1926 in Pottsville, Texas to Willie & Emilie (Sommerfield) Zimmerman. She was baptized on June 13, 1926 at the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Pottsville, Texas by Pastor C. Roth and confirmed on March 17, 1940 at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Winchester, Texas by Pastor E.R. Rathgeber. Milda was united in marriage to Henry W. Kasper on January 4, 1943 in Winchester, Texas by Pastor E.R. Rathgeber. Henry preceded her in death on March 9, 1979.

She was an avid quilter with many unique touches, crocheter, and gardener. Her quilts and baby blankets have warmed many adults and babies in the area and around Texas.

Milda was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her sister, Edna Krampota and her son-in-law, Ray Teague.

She is survived by her son, Franklin Kasper and wife, LaVon of Smithville, Texas; her daughter, Emily Kasper Teague of Oak Leaf, Texas; her granddaughter, Bobbie Geffert and husband, Tim of Corpus Christi, Texas; her great granddaughter, Nicole Geffert of Corpus Christi, Texas as well numerous nieces, nephews and special friend and neighbor, Victoria Sandoval of Giddings, Texas.

Memorials may be made to the Lutheran Hour Ministries, 660 Mason Ridge Center, St. Louis, Missouri 63141.

Wilbert Christian Oltmann
(March 3, 1921 - March 23, 2010)

Funeral services for Wilbert Oltmann, 89 of Serbin, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 26, 2010 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin, Texas with Rev. John Schmidt officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Oltmann family will be present for visitation Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Mr. Oltmann passed away on Tuesday, March 23, 2010 at the Care Inn of La Grange.

Wilbert Christian Oltmann was born on March 3, 1921 in Shiner, Texas to Wilhelm Friedrich & Alma Maria (Tietjen) Oltmann. He was baptized at home on March 25, 1921 by Rev. H.C. Biermann and confirmed on April 14, 1935 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin, Texas by Rev. Hermann Schmidt. Mr. Oltmann was united in marriage to Else Helene Scherf on June 8, 1946 in Fritzlar, Germany. She preceded him in death on March 16, 2009 after 62 years of marriage.

He served his country faithfully for over 25 years, enlisting in the U.S. Army Air Corps on October 1, 1939 and having retired on February 1, 1965 from the U.S. Air Force obtaining the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. During his military career, Mr. Oltmann served during WWII and the Korean Conflict receiving numerous citations and medals for heroic actions including a Purple Heart for injuries received during WWII. He was a former president of the Giddings I.S.D. School Board, was instrumental in the creation of the Lee County Water Supply Corporation, a member of the Giddings Rotary Club and the Lutheran Laymen's League as well as a longtime, faithful member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin. He enjoyed gardening and other agricultural pursuits.

Mr. Oltmann was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Else; his son, Clyde Oltmann; his granddaughter, Jessica Oltmann and his brother, Ben Oltmann.

He is survived by his 6 children, Callan & Linda Oltmann of West Point, Tx, Beverly & Jim Wells of Frisco, Tx, Barbara & Kent Schreyer of Duncanville, Tx, Chris & Kay Oltmann of Allen, Tx, Bonnie & Richard Schmidt of Allen, Tx and Beatrice Oltmann of Austin; 7 grandchildren, Melanie & Tom Niland of Austin, Meredith Oltmann of Los Angeles, Marian & Jed Taylor of Austin, Andrew & Shannon Schreyer of Hickory Creek, Tx, Jonathan & Sarah Oltmann of Dallas, Michael Schmidt of Allen and Patrick Schmidt of Allen; 2 great grandchildren, Luke Schreyer of Hickory Creek and Kyle Oltmann of Dallas; brother, Ernst & Edna Oltmann of Giddings; 2 sisters, Gladys & Victor Symm of Giddings and Ruth & Richard Lewis of Wolfe City as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

In lieu of flowers, the Oltmann family recommends making memorial contributions to the St. Paul Lutheran Church Restoration Fund, 1572 County Road 211, Giddings, Texas 78942.

Rudie Willie Schulze
(January 31, 1920 - March 15, 2010)

Funeral services for Rudie Schulze, 90 of Giddings, are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 18, 2010 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin, Texas with Rev. John Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery in Serbin. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Schulze family will be present for visitation Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Rudie passed away on Monday, March 15, 2010 at the Smithville Regional Hospital in Smithville, Texas.

Rudie Willie Schulze was born on January 31, 1920 in Serbin, Texas to Gerhard Paul & Elizabeth Frances (Mitschke) Schulze. He was baptized on February 2, 1920 by Rev. Alfred Bohot at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin and confirmed there as well on March 25, 1934 by Rev. Hermann Schmidt. He was united in marriage to Eleonore Winkler on January 1, 1948 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fedor, Texas by Rev. L. Karcher. Rudie was a farmer and carpenter by trade and had also worked at both the Emmrich and the D & D Feed Mills in Giddings. He enjoyed woodworking projects and along with making furniture, he also refinished antique furniture. Rudie loved the outdoors and enjoyed working in his garden.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Eleonore; 2 sisters, Louise Schulze and Elizabeth Hill; 3 brothers, Harry Schulze, Marvin Schulze and Milton Schulze and a great, grandson, Aaden Friedrich.

Rudie is survived by his sister, Erna Mae Wolf of Giddings; his son, Royce Schulze of Giddings; his daughter, Joyce & Doug Carlton of Pinehurst; 2 grandsons, Chance & Candace Friedrich of Spring and Keith & Tara Friedrich of San Antonio; 5 great grandchildren, Kendall Friedrich, Ryan Friedrich and Arianna Friedrich all of San Antonio and Tyler Friedrich and Luke Friedrich both of Spring; sister-in-law, Hildegard & Arnold H. Krause of Northrup as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Ronald Schautschick, Gary Schautschick, Keith Friedrich, Chance Friedrich, James "Smokey" Zoch and Victor Yurk.

Memorials may be made to the St. Paul Lutheran Church Restoration Fund or the charity of one's choice.

Barbara Nell Perry
(February 3, 1935 - March 2, 2010)

Funeral services for Barbara Perry, 75 of Seabrook, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, March 5, 2010 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with Bobby Lewis officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery in Giddings. Visitation will be held Thursday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The family will be present for visitation Thursday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Barbara passed away Tuesday, March 2, 2010 at Christus St. John Hospital in Nassau Bay, Texas.

Barbara Nell Crain Bardin Perry was born on February 3, 1935 in Austin, Texas to Harold & Iva Jeanette (Shipman) Crain. She was a loving and devoted homemaker, mother and grandmother.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, John R. Bardin; son, John D. Bardin; 2 daughters, Nelda "Trish" Mauldin and Janey Kurtenbach; great grandson, Jacob Scott Bardin; brother, Harold Crane Jr. and 3 sisters, Ruth Lackey, June Wilke and Bonnie Robinson.

Barbara is survived by 3 daughters, Carolyn Bardin of Seabrook, Charlotte Jaehne of Houston and Barbara Moss of Ledbetter; son, Joe & Nancy Bardin of George West; grandchildren, Suzanne Jackson, Marcy Butschek, Mark & Melody Jaehne, Michelle & Bobby Lewis, Stacey & Jason Couch, John & Melissa Gross, Patrick Jaehne, Bill & Sarah Jaehne, R.W. Booher, Russell Galipp Jr., Tiffany Galipp, Tammie & Chris Albaugh, Jason & Genia Bardin, Nancy & Jeremy Tartar, Natalie Snee, Tabatha Kurtenbach, Ronnie Booher, Brianna & Austin Miller and John D. Bardin; great grandchildren, Mercedes Garza, Haeli Chapman, Madison Griffin, Jonah Jackson, Dakota Butschek, Riley Lewis, Emily Lewis, Destiny Gross, Brandon Gross, Jadan Couch, Hunter Jaehne, Avery Jaehne, Gage Jaehne, Cameron Kalbas, Clayton Kalbas, Conner Kalbas, Taylor Snee, Hannah Booher, Julia Booher, Trenton Kurtenbach, Lauren Potts, Megan Potts, Ashland Albaugh and Kayla Bardin.

Memorials may be made to the Susan B. Komen Brest Cancer Foundation, P.O. Box 650309, Dallas, Texas 75265-0309; National Kidney Foundation or the charity of one's choice.

Barbara J. Zschech
(October 19, 1952 - February 28, 2010)

Funeral services for Barbara Zschech, 57 of Lexington, Texas are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 3, 2010 at Peace Lutheran Church in Rockdale, Texas with Pastor Jan Campbell officiating. A graveside service will be held Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. at the Lexington Cemetery in Lexington. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Zschech family will be present for visitation Tuesday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Barbara passed away suddenly Sunday morning at her home in Lexington.

Barbara Jane Hahn Zscheck was born on October 19, 1952 in Giddings, Texas to Fritz & Ernestine (Prazak) Hahn. She was united in marriage to Alan Zschech on April 22, 1972 at St. John Lutheran Church in Dime Box, Texas. Barbara was a loving and devoted homemaker, wife and mother who was also the secretary and bookkeeper for her husband's veterinarian business in Lexington.

She had also worked as a ticket writer at many sale barns in the area including Lexington, Caldwell, Milano, West and Schulenberg. She was an active member of Peace Lutheran Church in Rockdale where she served as the vice-president of the congregation and taught Sunday School. Barbara was also a member of the Lexington Log Cabin Association and had been a volunteer at St. John Lutheran School in Lincoln, Texas. She enjoyed working with children, cooking, sewing and taking care of her family.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents and her father-in-law, Monroe Zschech.

She is survived by her husband, Dr. Alan Zschech, DVM of Lexington; 2 sons, Gus Zschech and John Zschech both of Lexington; 2 brothers, Melvin & Frances Zgabay of Caldwell and Arthur & Angela Hahn of Brenham; mother-in-law, Laura Zschech of Brenham; sister-in-law, Mary Ann & Gary Blair of Houston as well as several nieces, nephews and a host of friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be John Maruska, Morgan Wendland, Keith Bexley, Mike Iselt, Gary Blair, Alan Burns, Rodney Exner and Kenny Mingus.

Memorials may be made to Peace Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 308, Rockdale, Texas 76567 or the charity of one's choice.

Leona Dickerson Jones
(November 18, 1926 - February 17, 2010)

Leona D. Jones, 83 of Spring, Texas passed away on Wednesday, February 17, 2010 at her home in Spring.

Leona Dickerson Jones was born on November 18, 1926 to Van B. & Mary (Ball) Dickerson. She was united in marriage to Thomas William Jones on January 26, 1947 in Austin, Texas. They shared 60 years of marriage until his death on March 20, 2007.

A graveside service for family and close friends will be held at 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 20, 2010 at the Giddings City Cemetery in Giddings, Texas.

W.L. "Big Boy" Davis
(January 19, 1916 - February 5, 2010)

Funeral services for W.L. "Big Boy" Davis, 94 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Friday, February 12, 2010 at Bethel-St. Paul United Baptist Church in Giddings with Rev. Frank Garrett and Rev. Leslie Chandler Jr. officiating. Burial will be in the Pilgrim's Rest Primitive Baptist Cemetery in Giddings. Visitation will be held Thursday from 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Davis family will be present for visitation from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

W.L. passed away Friday, February 5, 2010 at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings.

Willis Lee Davis was born on January 19, 1916 in Lee County, Texas to Tender & Julia (Lee) Davis. He was a retired farmer and had been employed with the Giddings State School for many years.

W.L. was preceded in death by his parents; four brothers, Dori Davis, Tender Davis Jr., Lenoise Davis and Govener Davis and two sisters, Julia Frances and Flossie Davis.

He is survived by his adopted son, Victor & Alonia Moore of Giddings; granddaughter, Jasmine Fuselier of Giddings; sister, Ruthie Davis of Giddings; three nieces, Rosie Lee Sims of Giddings, Gracie Lang of Giddings and Sharon Ray of Lockhart; two nephews, Vernon & Darolyn Dawan of Indiana and Timothy L. Frances of Austin; 11 great nieces and nephews; sister-in-law, Thelma Davis of Giddings; very special love, Dorothy Moore of Giddings as well as a host of great, great nieces and nephews and other extended relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to the Pilgrims Rest Primitive Baptist Cemetery Association or to the charity of one's choice.

Lillijo (Christen) Kitten
(January 22, 1939 - December 20, 2009)

Lillijo Kitten, 70, of Wied, passed away Dec. 20, 2009. She was born on January 22, 1939 in her grandparent’s farmhouse, to her parents Lillian Biehunko and Joseph Christen. Her name Lillijo came from her parents first names Lillian and Joseph. As a child, Lillijo was always found at her grandparent’s farmhouse playing around and having a fun time. As the firstborn grandchild, she was very spoiled by her Biehunko grandparents.

At the age of 5 Lillijo developed polio in her legs and had to be hospitalized in Jeff Davis hospital in Houston, Texas during the polio epidemic. After Lillijo recovered from her battle with polio, she and her family moved back to Hallettsville, Texas living in a little pink house next to Wied Hall. She attended Wied School and ultimately graduated as Salutatorian of Hallettsville High School Class of 1957. She attended business school in Victoria, got married and had three children, Teresa, Shari, and Jeff, whom she raised singlehandedly through difficult times.

Lillijo was an amazing woman of faith, woman of God, and lover of His True Word. Brokenhearted after the tragic death of her son Jeff in 1982, she ran away to Israel. While walking in Jesus’ footsteps through the Holy Land her whole life changed as she gave her life to Christ and was baptized in the Jordan River. After returning from Israel, a new woman full of hope, love, freedom and joy she married the love of her life and best friend Bruce Kitten.

She absolutely glowed with the joy of her salvation as she boldly shared the love of Christ with anyone who would listen. Quick to listen, pray and love, always pointing back to the Lord, she warned those who sought her wise counsel to “go to the throne before you get to the phone.” Titus 2:3-4 teaches the older women in the church to live reverently and to teach the younger women to “love their husbands and children, be self controlled and pure… to be busy at home...” Lillijo was our Titus woman, and her voice will long echo in our hearts and spirits as we aim to follow in her footsteps, keeping our eyes on Jesus.

Her love and care for children, for their coming to Christ, for their understanding His Word filled her life in these last several years. Lillijo could be found every June co-teaching Vacation Bible School with Cheryl Pavliska. She sat in her special rocking chair, Bible open on her lap, hungry inquisitive children eagerly listening as she poured the living Word of God all over them. Through TeamKID she continued her beautiful legacy of faith, loving the children of Hallettsville, tenderly leading them to Him. Lillijo was full of joyful song, sharing the light of Jesus even through her terrible diagnosis of ovarian cancer in November 2007. She knew the plans He had for her were “good and not for calamity”, as Jeremiah 29:11 says. She boldly checked on everyone’s salvation from her oncologist to the checkers at the grocery store saying “I’d rather risk offending someone by telling them about Jesus than risk their eternal condemnation.”

During her journey through cancer, she has inspired many with her joyful, hopeful outlook, often reminding us all that the Bible says “do not fear” 365 times. Teresa Kinsfather, more than a doctor—a daughter first—walked this path boldly with her mom, always available to lend her medical expertise as well as her love and care. No mom could have been prouder. Bruce tenderly held her hand and cared for her with the love Christ commanded of husbands, all the way Home.

The loss of Lillijo will leave a huge hole in our lives in the family of faith at First Baptist Church, but especially her beloved Bruce, Teresa, Shari, grandchildren, and dear family and friends who loved her so much. Her beautiful singing voice was stolen in June, but no doubt resounds in Heaven now as she sings for her King for all eternity.

Lillijo is survived by: husband Bruce; two daughters, Dr. Teresa Kinsfather & husband Scott of Giddings, and Shari Ludwig of Houston; six grandchildren, J. Spenser Duncan, Dalton and Cody Kinsfather, and Steven, Sara, and Shane Ludwig; and great grandchild Michael Ludwig.

Lillijo was preceded in death by; her parents, son Jeffery Leroy Hill, and brother Joe “Tommy” Christen.

Funeral Service: 2 pm, Wednesday, Dec. 23, 2009 at First Baptist Church. Visitation: 2 pm, Tuesday, at Kubena Funeral Home. Prayer Service: 7 pm, Tuesday, at Kubena Funeral Home. Officiate: Rev. Terry Horton. Pallbearers: James Spenser Duncan, David Scott Kinsfather, Dalton Lee Kinsfather, Cody Scott Kinsfather, Vernon James Surman, Steven Ludwig, Shane Ludwig, and Coach Derek L. Fitzhenry. Burial: Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Memorials: World Vision, American Cancer Society – Ovarian Cancer Awareness, Scholarship for First Baptist Church TeamKid, Pregnant Unwed Mothers Support - Gabriel Project (512-238-1246), or Focus On The Family.

Norma Jean "Lester" Koenig
(May 20, 1930 - January 25, 2010)

Funeral services for Norma J. Koenig are scheduled for Thursday, January 28, 2010 in the chapel at Schmidt Funeral Home in Katy, Texas. Burial will follow at Memorial Oaks Cemetery in Houston, Texas. Visitation will be Wednesday Jan.27, 2010 at Schmidt Funeral Home in Katy, Texas from 6:00pm-8:00pm.

Mrs. Koenig past away on Monday, January 25, 2010

Surviving family members are: Carl and Amy James of Giddings, Texas;
Walter Koenig of Poolville, Texas; 4 Grandchildren and numerous Great- Grandchildren.

Gustav "Gus" Adolph Schwausch Jr.
(March 16, 1916 - January 18, 2010)

Funeral services for Gus Schwausch, 93 of Manheim, Texas are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Thurday, January 21, 2010 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Manheim, Texas with Rev. Herbert Keistman officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Schwausch family will be present for visitation Wednesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mr. Schwausch went to be with the Lord on Monday, January 18, 2010 at St. Luke's Baptist Hospital in San Antonio,Texas.

Gustav "Gus" Adolph Schwausch Jr. was born on March 16, 1916 in Jarrell, Texas to Gustav A. Schwausch Sr. & Lydia (Neitsch) Schwausch. He was baptized on March 26, 1916 at Zion Lutheran Church in Walburg, Tx by Rev. J.H. Sieck and confirmed on March 29, 1931 also at Zion Lutheran Church in Walburg.

Gus served in the U.S. Army during WWII having obtained the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was united in marriage to Ella Bertha Marie Koslan on June 20, 1948 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Manheim, Texas by Rev. Paul Brust. Gus was an active member of Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Manheim where he served as Sunday School Superintendent and was a longtime Sunday School teacher. He also sang bass in the church choir and worked for many years with the Lutheran Braille Workers. Gus was a lifelong farmer who enjoyed gardening, beekeeping, woodworking and tree grafting.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Ella; one sister, Laura Stierhoff and four brothers, Arthur Schwausch, Albert Schwausch, Herman Schwausch and Otto Schwausch.

Gus is survived by his three children and their spouses, Linda & David Byrne of Boerne, John & Linda Schwausch of Lago Vista and Marylin & Mike Hoblet of Helotes; three grandchildren, Catherine & husband, Jim Viola of Houston, Matthew Byrne of Austin and Lisa Schwausch of Houston; one great grandson, Anthony Viola of Houston; two brothers, Bill Schwausch of Kerrville and George Schwausch of Jarrell; three sisters-in-law, Alvina Koslan of Giddings, Frances Nolte of Abilene and Verna Mae Koslan of Fresno, CA as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Ebenezer Lutheran Church, the Lutheran Braille Workers or the Lutheran Heritage Foundation.

Millie Milady Blaha
(February 17, 1915 - January 10, 2010)

Funeral services for Millie Blaha, 94 of Dime Box, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 13, 2010 at the San Antonio Prairie Cemetery in Caldwell, Texas with Rev. Henry Beseda officiating.

Millie began her earthly journey on February 17, 1915 on the family farm near Caldwell, Texas on land acquired by her grandparents when they immigrated to this country from Europe. Her parents were Joe Jerry and Trezie Kristoff Dusek.

She was a survivor of the Great Influenza Epidemic of 1918, when at the tender age of three, survived double pneumonia. Millie attended public school at the San Antonio Prairie school through the ninth grade, which was as far as you went in those days. At that time she remained on the family farm working with her parents and siblings until 1934, when on September 29, 1934, she married Joe Blaha. After her marriage to Joe, they moved to and resided in Lee County with the exception of a very few years when they resided in Burleson County.

Millie was a very humble and loving person. She loved the Lord and spoke often very openly and freely of her love for and trust in Him. She truly practiced the greatest commandment to love thy neighbor as thyself and often said "I love everyone". She was a member of the Brethren Church.

She loved to garden and have a beautiful yard which she maintained until the last few months of her life. Red roses were her favorite flower. Canning fruits and vegetables was something she truly enjoyed and in which she took pride. Wonderful divinity candy which she made at Christmas time was something people anticipated.

She was especially proud of her grandchildren and their accomplishments. Her little great-granddaughter, Carley, was "her little angel".

Millie was predeceased by her parents; her husband, Joe; and infant daughter, Bonnie Faye; her brother Joe and his wife, Lula Mae Dusek; her sister, Ella Dusek and her brother-in-law, John Cottrell.

Survivors are daughters, Bettye and husband, Charles Miller of Georgetown, TX and Patsy and husband, Bill Wieland of Pflugerville, TX; grandchildren, Rhonda and husband, James Justitz of Dallas, Tx and Randall Wieland of Round Rock, TX; one great-granddaughter, Carley Elizabeth Justitz of Dallas, TX and one sister, Margaret Cottrell of Dime Box, TX.

Serving as pallbearers will be Randall Wieland, James Justitz, Cecil Sanchez, Keith Brinkman, Glen Jatzlau and Larry Lehmann.

Memorials may be made to the Dime Box Brethren Church or the charity of one's choice.

Hardy Eugene Massey
(January 1, 1935 - January 4, 2010)

Hardy Eugene Massey, age 75, passed away of natural causes Monday, January 4th at his family home in Dime Box, Texas. Hardy is preceded in death by his parents, Hardy Nathan Massey and Ruby Schiller Massey, and one grandson, Charles Kennedy.

His early career was with Southern Pacific Railroad as a rate agent and was soon followed by a 40+ year career with the Houston Police Department, working from the North Shepherd Substation and Downtown in the Transportation and Accident divisions.

Hardy worked at the Second Baptist Church School directing traffic, for many years. The Second Baptist Church was his “home” church, until he retired from the police department and made a more definitive move to Dime Box. At that time, Hardy became involved with the First Baptist Church of Dime Box and the Dime Box Brethren Church.

Laughter was frequent with Hardy, and those around him. He had a zest for living unparalleled in most circles, enjoying wherever he was, whatever he was doing, and whomever he might chance to be with. He never met a stranger, and was literally one of those gifted people that could (and did) talk to a wrong number for 30 minutes.

Hardy was blessed with 7 children: 3 boys and 4 girls, who in turn have given him 15 surviving grandchildren and several great-grandchildren. He is survived by former wife Nina Urech, sons Darrell Massey of Dallas area, Keith Massey of Las Vegas, Nevada, and Kevin and Melissa Massey of Houston. Daughters surviving him are Llewellyn Hale of Springfield, Illinois, Meredith and Doyle Crump of San Antonio, Texas , Georgeann and Paul Giles of Incline Village, Nevada, , Jessa and Dan Reid of Lago Vista, Texas. Grandchildren include Raymond Glasscock, Katie Glasscock, Erin and Keltie Reid, Robbie and Cody Crump, Sarah, Bethany, Matthew and Joel Massey, Amber, Chad and Shaye Massey and John Paul Giles.

Hardy enjoyed close friendships with many people, none more treasured than Pete and Glenda Maluschka, and his friend in the OFFC (Old Farts Fishing Club) consisting of his 7 high school male class members and long time cherished friends, April Coon and Sue Ellen David.

His cohorts on the police department are too numerous to list, but noted are Jim Price, Don Swonke, Russell Hinson, G.G. Lively, Robert Contreras, and Roy Skorupinski.

He lived a Christian life, helping anyone he came across in need, and always just quietly being there for his family and friends. His list of good deeds is surely a long one, and his treasures must be piled high in Heaven.

Among his many gifts were patience, sincerity, the rare ability to keep a confidence, the ability to laugh at himself, and a gift for touching the lives of others he was near with his infectious love of life and fun. Hardy was an avid fisherman, loved to travel, enjoyed meals with friends, and always, the consummate teller of tales; some of his own, and some about others in his life.

He leaves the world a poorer place with his absence, but his family and friends rejoice in his going home to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Services will be held at the Dime Box Brethren Church, Saturday, January 9th, 2010 at 2pm with burial to follow at the St. John Cemetery in Dime Box. The family extends an invitation to join them at the Trinity Lutheran Church in Dime Box for an informal visitation, food and drink following the family graveside service.

In the event of cold and inclimate weather, the family will wish to keep graveside service and attendance to a minimum, and will gratefully visit with those friends and guests at the reception. Visitors may go directly from the church to the reception and avoid the cold.

The family request in lieu of flowers memorials to be made to: First Baptist Church of Dime Box Texas and the Dime Box Brethren Church.

Kennie Alice Abshier Merendino
(May 20, 1916 - December 27, 2009)

Funeral services for Mrs. Kennie Alice Abshier Merendino are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, January 2, 2009 at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home Chapel in Giddings. Burial will follow in the Abshier Family Plot at the City of Liberty Cemetery in Liberty, Texas.

Mrs Merendino, age 93 of Paige, passed away peacefully on Sunday December 27, 2009.

She was preceded in death by her husband Steve Merendino and sister, Sophia Louise Abshier Mills.

Kennie Alice Abshier was born on May 20, 1916, in Hardin, Liberty County, Texas. She was the eldest of two daughters born to Ernest Abshier and Viola (Stone) Abshier. Her grandfather, Frank Abshier, Sr. came from England and her grandmother from France, met and married in Liberty. Her grandfather developed the giant Abshier ranch, a cattle kingdom in southeast Texas near Hardin and Liberty.

She is survived by two daughters, Sherry Hood and Rhonda Seifert of Paige, grandson, Larry G. Hood of Beaumont, grand-daughter, Stefanie Seifert Macafee of Paige, and great-grandson Danny Hood of Nederland. A niece, Peggy Loughlin and great-nieces, Jessica and Rose Loughlin of Austin and nephew James A. Mills of Las Vegas.

She celebrated her 93rd birthday this year and nobody would believe that was her age. She was a remarkable, elegant and classy lady who was always aware of her appearance and displayed amazing strength. She loved life and she lived it well. Her daughters, grandchildren and family celebrate her life with unforgettable memories.

As a grandmother, she loved teaching her grandchildren how to be ladies and gentlemen and responsible citizens. She had strong family values and loved her family very much, along with the family pets. Her faith was very important to her and she prayed daily for her family. If she could leave a message for her family, it would be ~ love and family is all that really matters. She retired from a large corporation in Houston at the age of 70. She spent her retirement years enjoying her family, her home and planting flowers.

Several of her hobbies were cooking, sewing and hummingbirds were special to her. She was proud to be a Texan and she loved the Texas Bluebonnets and Indian Paint Brush wildflowers each spring. She was a wonderful person and she gave so much to her family. She will always be in their hearts and we will never forget her. Along with her family, she had many friends and caregivers that will miss her very much. We would like to give our heartfelt thank you to everyone who knew and loved her and those who made her days so very special.

Catherine Irwin
(February 3, 1935 - December 22, 2009)

Catherine Irwin, 74, of Giddings Texas passed away on Tuesday, December 22, 2009. Mrs. Irwin is the widow of Lawrence Lee Irwin and was a sales clerk.

She is survived by her sons and daughter-in-laws, Larry and Brenda Irwin of Giddings TX, Billy and Deanna Irwin of Huntsville TX, and Paul and Elaine Irwin of Woodville TX; grandchildren, Rachel Grover, Donna and Kendal Wiley, Emma Irwin, Thomas Irwin, Jordan Irwin and Peyton Irwin; great grandson, Dawson Wiley; brothers and sister-in-law, Rodger and Jeanie of Fresno CA and Jack and Dorothy Cherry of Pearland TX as well as numerous nieces and nephews and many very close friends.

Services for Mrs. Irwin are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 30, 2009 at the First Baptist Church in Giddings with Tim Clayton officiating.

Elsie Domel Nitsche
(February 8, 1914 - December 18, 2009)

Funeral services for Elsie Nitsche of Giddings are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 23, 2009 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Keith Aschenbeck officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery in Giddings. Visitation will be held Wednesday morning from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church.

The Lord called Elsie home on Friday evening, December 18, 2009 having reached the age of 95 years.

Elsie Ruth Domel Nitsche was born on February 8, 1914 in Walburg, Texas to August Domel Sr. and Hulda (Zoch) Domel. She was baptized on February 22, 1914 and confirmed on April 1, 1928 both at Zion Lutheran Church in Walburg by Rev. J.H. Sieck. Elsie was united in marriage to Louis Herman Nitsche on July 10, 1932 also at Zion Lutheran Church in Walburg by Rev. J.H. Sieck. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Shirley and Mary Ann. Soon after their marriage, they moved to Lee County. Elsie was a loving and devoted wife, mother and grandmother who enjoyed her bible study group and had been a member of the Ladies Aid at Immanuel Lutheran Church. She was an excellent cook who enjoyed spending time with her family.

Elsie was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 71 years, Louis; granddaughter, Brenda Harris; granddaughter-in-law, Cathy Harris; sisters, Clara Domel, Norma Domel Neitsch and Selma Domel and her brothers, Edwin Domel, Alvin T. Domel, Walter Domel, Herman Domel, August F. Domel Jr., Ernest Domel Sr. and Ludwig A. Domel.

She is survived by her daughters, Shirley & Doug Harris of Austin and Mary Ann Seidler of Giddings; grandson, Steven Harris of Bastrop; granddaughter, Cindy & Sonny Meurin of Austin; 2 great grandchildren, Britney Meurin of Austin & Kaitlin Meurin of Austin; sister-in-laws, Ruth Sledge of Houston, Emma Budewig of San Angelo, Laverne Nitsche Falke of Giddings and Evelyn Nitsche of Giddings as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Betty Jane Wright
(March 18, 1938 - December 13, 2009)

Funeral services for Betty Wright, 71 of Giddings and formerly of Selfs, Texas, are scheduled 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 17, 2009 at Shiloh Cemetery in Selfs, Texas with Pastor Terry Paul Cunningham officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday afternoon from 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. at the cemetery.

Betty passed away Sunday, December 13, 2009 in Giddings.

Betty Jane Denson Wright was born on March 18, 1938 in Vernon, Texas to James Jefferson & Nannie Christeen (Campbell) Denson. She was united in marriage to H. Gaylon Wright on October 12, 1954 in Honey Grove, Texas. Following his death she married Joe Clark Ware on November 21, 2004. Betty was a waitress and worked in the home healthcare field.

She was preceded in death by her parents and both her husbands.

Betty is survived by her daughter, Narissa "Charlie" Barrett of Giddings; her son, Kelvin Wright of Lindale; 4 grandchildren, David & Michelle Payton of Henderson, Lisa Payton of Giddings, Rachel Wright of Lindale and Rose Wright of Lindale; 9 great grandchildren, Christian Payton, Victoria Payton, Destiny Payton, Isaac Haley, Ty Hughs, Anissa Primm, Lexie Haley, Trent Barrett and Chloe Payton; sister, Sharon Thornton of Paris; 2 nephews, Darren Denson of Paris and Chris & Theresa Thornton of Paris and a niece, Lynn & Brandon Fry of Lone Star.

Memorials may be made to Hospice or the charity of one's choice.

Edward Louis Schulze
(September 15, 1944 - December 11, 2009)

Funeral services for Edward Schulze, 65 of Winchester, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Winchester, Texas with Rev. James Herzog officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 10:30 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mr. Schulze passed away Friday, December 11, 2009 at his home in Winchester.

Edward Louis Schulze was born on September 15, 1944 in Lee County, Texas to Ewald & Ottillie (Zoch) Schulze. He was a cow hand.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Oswald Urban Schulze and an infant sister.

Mr. Schulze is survived by his son, Shannon Harrell & wife, Jannette; daughter, Shelia Eckhart & husband, Daniel; 5 grandchildren; 2 brothers, Paul Schulze & wife, Laura and C.A. Schulze and wife, Bobbie; 2 sisters, Bernice Reuther & husband, Leonard and Anna Mae Saunders as well as a host of nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Altar Restoration Fund at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Winchester.

Betty Jean McClain
(March 21, 1920 - December 5, 2009)

Funeral services for Betty McClain, 89 of La Grange, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 9, 2009 at St. Michael's Lutheran Church in Winchester, Texas. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The McClain family will be present for visitation Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mrs. McClain passed away Saturday morning at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Betty Jean Pendery McClain was born on March 21, 1920 in Brookfield, Missouri to Walter & Esther (West) Pendery. She was united in marriage to William McClain on December 30, 1939 in Cameron, Missouri. Mrs. McClain was a homemaker who enjoyed crafts, crocheting and sewing. She was an excellent seamstress who also served as a church organist for many years.

Mrs. McClain was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Richard McClain; her brother, William Pendery and an infant grandson.

She is survived by her husband of nearly 70 years, William J. McClain of La Grange; 2 sons, Francis & Evie McClain of Venice, Florida and Mark & Leann McClain of La Grange; 2 daughters, Karen McDougall of Venice, Florida and Mary & Bill Castle of Sarasota, Florida; 5 grandchildren, Kenneth McDougall of Venice, FL, Kandi West of Sarasota, FL, Kelli & Ron Peyton of Venice, FL, Christina & Steve Reitz of Ft. George Meade, Maryland and Rebecca McClain of Austin, TX; 9 great grandchildren; brother, Walter & Rosalie Pendery of Belle Vista, Arkansas as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the St. Michael's Lutheran Church Altar Restoration Fund.

Dorothy M. Skolaut
(June 3, 1935 - December 4, 2009)

Funeral services for Dorothy Skolaut, 74 of Ledbetter, Texas, are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Monday, December 7, 2009 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with Father Jim Olnhausen officiating. Burial will follow in the Ledbetter Cemetery in Ledbetter. Visitation will be held Sunday from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

Dorothy passed away early Friday morning after a short illness at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Dorothy was born on June 3, 1935 to Henry & Verna (Ripkowski) Dobraski in New Waverly, Texas. She attended and graduated from St. Agnes Academy in Houston, Texas. Dorothy married Richard Skolaut, her husband of 55 years, on January 15, 1955 at the Assumption Catholic Church in Houston. She had a lot of friends and family that loved her dearly and will miss her much.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents; brother, Henry J. Dobraski and sister and brother-in-law, Irene & Bobby Morgan.

She is survived by her husband, Richard Skolaut of Ledbetter; 3 children, Wanda & husband, Allen Anderson of Splendora, Texas, Douglas & wife, Judy Skolaut of Lexington, Texas and Gary Skolaut of Willis, Texas; 8 grandchildren, Rocky Anderson, Lacy Cranston, Randy Anderson, Tabitha Skolaut, Clay Anderson, Holly Newton, Ashley Skolaut and Abby Skolaut and 8 great grandchildren.

Serving as pallbearers will be Rocky Anderson, Randy Anderson, Clay Anderson, David Morgan, Jeremy Cranston and Chase Newton. Honorary pallbearers will be her great grandsons, Jordan Cranston, Rocky Anderson, Tyler Anderson, Coy Dube and Aiden Newton.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Larry Dean Requardt
(November 9, 1941 - December 1, 2009)

Funeral services for Larry Requardt, 68 of Ledbetter, Texas, are pending at his time.

Larry passed away Tuesday evening at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings following a battle with cancer.

Larry Dean Requardt was born on November 9, 1941 in Beasley, Texas to Henry & Caroline (Roehe) Requardt. He was united in marriage to Jean Guttormson on March 19, 1960 in Lake Oswego, Oregon. Larry was a Machinist Mate in the U.S. Navy for 8 years and served during Vietnam. He owned and operated the Aluminum Polishing Company Etc. in Giddings for 10 years.

Larry was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Jean Requardt of Ledbetter; son, Lee Requardt of Austin; daughter, Diana Ingram of Pflugerville; son-in-law, Jeff Ingram of Pflugerville; two granddaughters, Amanda Lynn Ingram and Casey Lea Ingram both of Pflugerville; two sisters, Lavan Feldhoff of Beasley and Lorene Engeling and brother-in-law, Bill of Needville; brother, Edward Lee Requardt and sister-in-law, Rose of Beasley.

Marvin Lee Hohle
(April 19, 1928 - November 23, 2009)

Funeral services for Marvin Hohle, 81 of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 25, 2009 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with Rev. Robert Tiner officiating. Burial with full military honors will follow at the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 3:00 p.m until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home.

Marvin passed away early Monday morning at his home in Giddings.

Marvin Lee Hohle was born on April 19, 1928 in Houston, Texas to John Emil & Mathilda (Fritsche) Hohle. He was baptized on May 6, 1928 by Rev. J.W. Behnken and confirmed in the Lutheran faith on March 29, 1942 by Rev. Oliver R. Harms. He served in the U.S. Navy during WWII and received an Honorable Discharge in 1949. Marvin was united in marriage to Rosalie Kasper on August 12, 1950 at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in Houston, Texas by Rev. Edwin Keiper. He was a retired supervisor with the Houston Independent School District as well as a Reserve Officer with the Harris County Sheriff's Department. Marvin was a 50 year member of the American Legion, a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and a member of the Sheriff's Association of Texas. He enjoyed playing the guitar, singing and making barbeque.

Marvin was preceded in death by his parents and a son-in-law, David Hayes.

He is survived by his wife, Rosalie Hohle of Giddings; three children, Maurina "Mia" Hayes of Giddings, Alan & Shirley Hohle of Houston and Brian & Lisa Hohle of Paige; seven grandchildren, Brock & Andrea Cooper of Colorado, Landon Hayes of Giddings, Rebecca Hayes of Giddings, Samuel Hohle of Houston, Matthew Hohle of Houston, Morgan Hunter Hohle of Paige and Mikayla Hohle of Paige; 2 great grandchildren, Andreus Cooper of Colorado and Janis Cooper of Colorado; brother, Leroy & Carol Hohle of Giddings as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Landon Hayes, Morgan Hohle, Sam Hohle, Matt Hohle, Rebecca Hayes and Craig Kasper.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Brazos Valley, 1048 North Jefferson, La Grange, Texas 78945 or to the Giddings Area Food Pantry, 600 Sunrise, Giddings, Texas 78942 or to the charity of one's choice.

Louise Zoch Woytek
(July 1, 1932 - November 22, 2009)

Funeral services for Louise Woytek, 77 of Round Rock and formerly of Ledbetter are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 25, 2009 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine, Texas with Rev. Bill Mosley officiating. Burial will follow in the Ledbetter Cemetery in Ledbetter. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 12:00 noon until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Woytek family will be present for visitation Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Louise passed away early Sunday morning at the Christopher House in Austin.

Louise Ella Zoch Woytek was born on July 1, 1932 in Northrup, Texas, one of six children to Willie & Amanda (Mitschke) Zoch. She was united in marriage to Lester Oscar Woytek on November 2, 1952 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin, Texas. Together they had three children, Elaine, Betty & Larry. Louise was a longtime resident of Ledbetter, Texas who was active in her church and community. She and Lester owned and operated Woytek Specialties for many years. She was a lover of nature and the outdoors.

Louise was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Mildred and her husband, Lester.

She is survived by her three children, Elaine Haynes & husband, John of Round Rock, Betty Whitehead of Round Rock and Larry Woytek & wife, Becky of College Station; four grandchildren, Michele Cisneros, Lindsay Grimm, John Haynes Jr. and Scott Woytek; 4 great grandchildren, Dylan, Skylar, Blake, and Payton; brother, Eddie Zoch of Northrup; three sisters, Madeline Faske and husband, Leroy of Giddings, Eleanor Berger and husband, Marvin of Paige and Evelyn Kaiser and husband, Elton of Northrup; step-mother, Hermine Zoch of Northrup as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Serving as pallbearers will be Glenn Zoch, David Faske, Marcus Faske, Stephen Faske, Allen Kaiser and John W. Haynes.

Memorials may be made to Martin Luther Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 362, Carmine, Texas 78932, Hospice Austin, 4107 Spicewood Springs Road, Suite 100, Austin, Texas 78759 or Christopher House, 2820 East MLK Blvd., Austin, Texas 78702.

Donnie Ernest Batterton
(October 26, 1934 - November 15, 2009)

Funeral services for Donnie Batterton, 75 of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, November 18, 2009 at the First Assembly of God in Giddings with Pastor Henry McCulloch and Pastor Pat Herlitz officiating. Burial will follow with military honors at the Giddings Memorial Park in Giddings. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 12:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Batterton family will be present for visitation Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mr. Batterton passed away Sunday afternoon at the Country Care Plex in Giddings.

Donnie Ernest Batterton was born on October 26, 1934 in Houston, Texas to Ernest & Frances (Allen) Batterton. He was united in marriage to Billie Jo Volkmer on April 13, 1956 in Houston. Mr. Batterton served in the United States Navy during the Korean War having obtained the rank of Machinist's Mate Third Class. He was a machinist in Austin owning and operating DEB Enterprises before moving to Giddings in 2006. Mr. Batterton enjoyed fishing, camping and singing and was an active member of the First Assembly of God in Giddings where he served as a Deacon.

Mr. Batterton was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, James Batterton.

He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Billie Batterton of Giddings; 3 daughters, Jo Beth & Bill Schlatterer of Maumelle, AR, Barbara Ashcroft of Hutto and Donell & Troy Eichler of Giddings; 5 grandchildren, Rene Calhoun of Maumelle, AR, Rebecca Ashcroft of Houston, Jason & Brooke Ashcroft of Bandera, Brittany Eichler of Giddings and Lauren Eichler of Giddings; 1 great grandson, Wyatt Calhoun of Maumelle, Ar; sister, Wanda Dorsey of Temple as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be James Thomas Batterton, Wesley Batterton, Joe Douglas Marak, Donee Johnson, Carl Pittman and Hector Hernandez.

Memorials may be made to the First Assembly of God in Giddings or to the charity of one's choice.

Carrie G. Church
(June 28, 1932 - November 8, 2009)

Funeral services for Carrie Church, 77 of Lexington, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at the Lexington United Methodist Church in Lexington with Rev. Linda O'Neal officiating. Burial will follow in the Lexington Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 7:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Lexington.

Mrs. Church passed away early Sunday morning at her home in Lexington.

Carrie Germania Schultz Church was born on June 28, 1932 in Houston, Texas to Clarence Kenneth & Clara (Dowdy) Schultz. She was united in marriage to John Anderson Church in Lexington. Mrs. Church was a homemaker who enjoyed traveling. She was a member of the Lexington Garden Club, the Lexington Red Hat Society, an active member of the Lexington United Methodist Church and a former member of the Lee County Sheriff's Posse.

Mrs. Church was preceded in death by her parents and her husband.

She is survived by four sons, Todd & Jana Church of Lexington, Jeff & Toni Kay Church of Lexington, John Wayne Church of Giddings and Doug & Susan Church of Rockdale; five grandchildren, Cody Church of Lexington, Brandon & Amanda Church of Lincoln, Payden Church of Lexington and Amanda & Hailey Bexley of Lexington; 1 great grandchild, Kayden Church of Lincoln; two brothers, Paulson & Chris Schultz of Lexington and Kenneth & Elaine Schultz of Farmington, New Mexico as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Lexington Garden Club or the charity of one's choice.

Benjamin Franklin Gunter
(November 11, 1922 - November 4, 2009)

Funeral services with full military honors for Benjamin Gunter Sr., 86 of Ledbetter, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 7, 2009 at St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Dime Box, Texas with Rev. Reuel Cooper officiating. Visitation will be held Friday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mr. Gunter passed away Wednesday evening at his home in Ledbetter.

Benjamin Franklin Gunter was born on November 11, 1922 in Lexington, Texas to Benjamin H. & Elizabeth (Mathis) Gunter. He was united in marriage to Betty Beaman on October 18, 1946 in Bryan, Texas.

Mr. Gunter was a retired Technical Sergeant in the United States Air Force serving from January 22, 1942 until May 1, 1964. He participated in 68 bombing missions during his career. After his retirement, he and his family owned and operated the B-Z-B which later became Gunter's Restaurant in Giddings for several years. Mr. Gunter enjoyed growing his pecan trees, putting together puzzles and was a great joke teller.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Ella Phears.

Mr. Gunter is survived by his wife, Betty Beaman Gunter of Ledbetter; 5 daughters, Patsy & Cecil Buscha of Lincoln, Johnnie & Dewayne Reynolds of Caldwell, Barbara & Gene Coker of Livingston, Terry & Melvin Iselt of Ledbetter and Susie & Gary Wrinkle of Giddings; 4 sons, Benjamin & Gloria Gunter Jr. of Ledbetter, Bill Gunter of Ledbetter, Joe Gunter of Ledbetter and Travis & Lynn Gunter of Giddings; 21 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; 1 great, great granddaughter; sister, Elizabeth Franz of Bartlett; 2 sisters-in-law, Velma Leverett of Cypress and Shirley & James Yantis of Hearne as well as several nieces and nephews.

Serving as Honorary Pallbearers will be Mark Mitschke, Chris Medack, Paul Iselt, Jon Gunter, Travis Lee Gunter, Joey Gunter, Dylan Malinak and Jon Franz.

Memorials may be made to Hospice Brazos Valley, 1048 North Jefferson, La Grange, Texas 78945 or to the charity of one's choice.

Florence F. (Niemtschk) Wolf
(March 19, 1921 - October 28, 2009)

Funeral services for Florence F. (Niemtschk) Wolf, 88 of Giddings, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 2, 2009 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Jeremy Walloch and Rev. Edwin Schwanke officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings Memorial Park in Giddings. Visitation will be held Sunday from 10:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Prayer Service will be held Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mrs. Wolf passed away early Wednesday morning at the Park Manor of Conroe in Conroe, Texas from a longtime battle and complications with Dementia/Alzheimer's.

Florence was born March 19, 1921 in Claredon, Texas. She was one of five children to Willie & Erna (Reuther) Niemtschk. She married Alfred H. Wolf on February 17, 1936 at Lincoln, Texas. The Wolf's owned and operated Wolf's Grocery in Giddings for over 30 years until their retirement in 1979. Florence was an active member of Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings. She spent countless hours working in her yard and was an excellent cook.

Mrs. Wolf was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Alfred H. Wolf; her brother, Floyd (Sonny) O. Niemtschk and her half-sister, Cornelia Wolf Rodgers.

Survivors include sons, Fred "Jim" Wolf and wife, Barbara of Giddings, Texas and Douglas Gene Wolf and wife, Betty of Conroe, Texas; grandchildren, Shannon Wolf of Austin, Texas, Shaun Wolf and wife, Rebecca of Austin, Texas and Jason Haugh and wife, Christina of Conroe, Texas; great grandchildren, Kirsten Wolf of Austin, Texas and Madeline Haugh and Jackson Haugh of Conroe, Texas; sisters, Ruby Coutorie of Houston, Texas, Gladys Harris of Magnolia, Texas and Pearl Kieffer of Montgomery, Louisiana; sister-in-laws, Bobbie Wolf of Smithville, Texas, Louise Niemtschk of Channelview, Texas, Claudia Moerbe of Giddings, Texas and Erna Wolf of Austin, Texas as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Serving as pallbearers will be Shannon Wolf, Shaun Wolf, Jason Haugh, Wendell Niemtschk, Michael Coutorie and Edmund Jatzlau.

Eula Dean Elmore
(March 10, 1927 - October 23, 2009)

Eula Elmore peacefully slipped into the presence of her Savior on October 23, 2009.

Born March 10, 1927 in Lovely, Kentucky, she met and married the love of her life, Lenard Doyle Elmore, on February 7, 1945 in Jacksonville, Florida. To this union were born three sons – Gary of Kodiak, Alaska, Archie of Lexington, Texas, and Scott of Temple, Texas.

Following World War II, she and her new husband moved to Haskell, Texas and began a lifelong love affair with each other and their new home. Her ambition was to provide a home and stability for her family that she had not known herself. She succeeded!

Known by various names – Honey, Mom, Aunt Eula, sister, and friend she was a special woman who will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her beloved sons Gary and wife Candy, Archie and wife Geralyn, and Scott, along with ten adored grandchildren, twelve great-grandchildren that were a special delight for her, and sister Lydia Muncy of Jacksonville, Florida.

She was preceded in death by her dearest Doyle, father, mother, and eight of nine siblings.

Also holding a special place in her heart were lifetime friends in Ozona, Dublin, and Ira Texas, Grove Hill, Alabama, and Martin County, Kentucky.

Graveside services will be held at the Willow Cemetery in Haskell, Texas on Tuesday, October 27 at 2:00 P.M. and a memorial service will be held at the First Baptist Church in Ozona, Texas on Wednesday, October 28 also at 2:00 P.M.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to Scott & White Hospice - 2401 S. 31st St. Temple, TX 76508 Phone: 254-724-4090 Toll free: 800-299-2033, or the charity of your choice.

“Those who live in the Lord never see each other for the last time.” - German Proverb

Dr. H.R. "Doc" Willard DVM
(March 16, 1914 - October 21, 2009)

Funeral services for Dr. H.R. "Doc" Willard, 95 of Giddings, are scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 24, 2009 at the First United Methodist Church in Giddings with Rev. Dr. Tim Edwards officiating. Burial will follow in Giddings Memorial Park in Giddings. Visitation will be held Friday from 1:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Dr. Willard passed away Wednesday evening at his home in Giddings.

Horace Randolph Willard was born March 16, 1914 in Giddings, Texas, the youngest son of Blanche Crawford Willard and Shelley Stephen Willard. He lived in Giddings all his childhood and until 1933 when he entered Texas A & M College. He graduated from A & M with a degree in Veterinary Medicine in 1937.

He married Mildred Hallmark in Fort Worth on April 9, 1938. They lived in Fort Worth, San Antonio, El Paso and New Orleans before moving back to Giddings in August of 1947 where he practiced veterinary medicine until 1959. He was the first licensed Veterinarian in Lee County.

Dr. Willard served with the U.S. Army from 1937 to 1947 with an honorable discharge. He served with the C.C.C. from September 1937 until June 1940, was Regimental Veterinarian of the 7th Cavalry with the Army during World War II and overseas in the South Pacific-Phillippines and Japan. He was discharged in 1947 with the rank of Major. He was with the Federal Government in poultry and beef inspection work for more than 16 years. He retired from service with the U.S.D.A. in August 1974. Since that time, he has been busy with his cattle at his ranch in Lee County.

He was a member of the Methodist Church in Giddings, a life member of the J.D. Giddings Lodge AF & AM #280, District Deputy in 1964, Worshipful Master, Scottish Rite Bodies and Ben Hur Shrine of Austin, a member and Past President of Tri-Counties Shrine, American Veterinary Medical Association, served as President of Bexar County Veterinary Medical Association in 1939. He was also a member of the Texas A & M Association of Former Students and the 12th Man Foundation. He was a life member of Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion and the U.S. Cavalry Association.

Dr. Willard served for 16 years on the school board of the Giddings ISD and as President of that board for 10 years. He was an Honorary Member of FFA and a former Director of the Lee County Wildlife Association. He had been a member of the Board of Lee Memorial Hospital and the Education Service Center Region XIII of Austin for 18 years and a chairman of the Education Service Center for 8 years.

Survivors include his wife, Mildred H. Willard of Giddings; two daughters, Rebekah Willard Barrett and her husband, Robert Barrett of Huntsville, AL and Stephanie Willard Lyon and her husband, Jerry Lyon of Temple, TX; four grandsons, Stephen Barrett and his wife, Tabitha of Phoenix City, AL, Shannon Barrett and his wife, Jennifer of Marietta, GA, Justin Lyon and his wife, Melissa of El Campo and Mason Lyon of Denton; great-grandchildren, Kirsten Ellis-Lyon of College Station, Katie Barrett, Maggie Barrett and Abby Barrett of Marietta, GA, Sam Barrett and Anna Grace Barrett of Phoenix City, AL, and Bailey and Emma Lyon of El Campo as well as numerous nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Memorials may be made to the First United Methodist Church in Giddings, the Lee County Historical Society, the Giddings Public Library & Cultural Center or the charity of one's choice.

Mary "Sue" McIntosh
(June 24, 1915 - October 19, 2009)

Funeral services for Mary "Sue" McIntosh, 94 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, October 22, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church in Giddings with Rev. Chris Harrison officiating. Burial will follow in the Lexington Cemetery. Visitation will be held on Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mrs. McIntosh passed away Monday morning at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Mary Sue Mathis McIntosh was born on June 24, 1915 in Lexington, Texas to William & Ollie (Dorsett) Mathis. She was employed as a secretary with Lexington State Bank, the REA (which is now Bluebonnet Electric Cooperative), the Department of Defense Rations Board for Lee County and then became the City Secretary for Lexington, Texas before retiring in 1986. Mrs. McIntosh was a longtime member of the First Presbyterian Church in Giddings where she taught Sunday School and Bible Class and served as an Elder for many years. She volunteered at Rejuventation in Giddings and enjoyed cooking, canning and fishing,

Mrs. McIntosh was preceded in death by her parents; four husbands, Maurice Pierce, Ruel Brown, J.A. Hosea and Quintus "Puggy" McIntosh and two sisters, Florence Ross & Callie Forbis.

She is survived by family members, Jane & Clarence Zoch of San Antonio, Sharon & Roy Kerr of Carrollton, Beverly & Al Foster of Houston, Virginia Blair of College Station, Jeffie & Jamie Doss of Rockdale, Virginia Thorson of Lincoln, DeAnn Keilberg of Giddings and Fannie Mae Warren of Lee County as well as many great nieces, great nephews, grandchildren and friends.

Memorials may be made to the First Presbyterian Church in Giddings or to the charity of one's choice.

Juanita Mae Maxfield
(April 1, 1959 - October 7, 2009)

Funeral services for Juanita Maxfield, 50 of Giddings, are scheduled for 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 10, 2009 at New Corinth Missionary Baptist Church in Giddings, Texas with Rev. Richard Washington officiating. Burial will follow in the Antioch Cemetery in Dime Box, Texas. Visitation will be held Friday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Ms. Maxfield passed away Wednesday morning in Austin following a battle with cancer.

Juanita Mae Maxfield was born on April 1, 1959 in Giddings, Texas to Elmo & Tonsetta (Maxfield) Irvin. She graduated from Dime Box High School where she excelled in basketball. Juanita was a Certified Nurses Aid at nursing homes in Giddings and Caldwell being most recently employed at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings. She was an active member of Goodwill Baptist Church in Dime Box where she served as an usher and on the Food Committee. Juanita also enjoyed trail riding and loved to be around people. She knew no strangers.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Tonsetta Irvin; two brothers, Michael Irvin and her twin brother, Juan Maxfield and two sisters, Barbara Sanders and Helen Brown.

Juanita is survived by her father, Elmo Irvin Sr. of Dime Box; two sisters, Annie & Herbert Coleman of Austin and Linda & Ira Reed of Austin; four brothers, Holman & Frankie Thompson of Giddings, Kevin & Shelia Irvin of Giddings, Donal & Opal Irvin of Dime Box and Elmo & Sallie Irvin Jr. of Dime Box as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to The Lee County Relay for Life, P.O. Box 175, Giddings, Texas 78942 or the charity of one's choice.

Leonard A. Kriegel
(July 8, 1920 - October 1, 2009)

Funeral services for Leonard A. Kriegel, 89 of Giddings are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2009 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Dr. Robert H. Studtmann and Rev. Jeremy Walloch officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Friday from 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Prayer Service will be held Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Leonard Alfred Kriegel was born July 8, 1920 in Giddings, Texas to K. Gus Kriegel and Alwina (Berger) Kriegel. The Rev. G.W. Fischer baptized Leonard into the Christian faith on July 25, 1920 and confirmed him on March 25, 1934 both at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Giddings, Texas.

Leonard began his education at Immanuel Lutheran School. He graduated from Giddings High School in 1938 and continued his education at The University of Texas at Austin.

From 1942 to 1945, Leonard served his country in the United States Air Force as a mechanic and flight engineer. His tour of duty was in the South Pacific on the Island of Tinian with the B-29 Air Force Group.

Following his service in the military, he moved to Port Arthur, Texas and worked for Gulf Oil Corporation, from 1946 to 1955 in the Laboratory Development Department. On June 8, 1947 he married Margaret Ruth Studtmann. This marriage was blessed with three daughters, Patricia Carol, Deborah Anne and Gretchen Beth.

Leonard and Margaret opened a Men's and Children's clothing store known as Leonard's Fashions for Men in downtown Giddings on May 6, 1955. In 1957 Margaret's Ladies Apparel was acquired, creating businesses known as Leonard's and Margaret's.

Throughout the years Leonard gave unselfishly of his time and talents to a variety of organizations including his church, community and profession. For many years he served Immanuel Lutheran Church as Sunday School Superintendent, Church Elder and Chairman of Board of Elders. His artistic abilities were utilized in building sets and staging of the Christmas Pageants at Immanuel Lutheran Church. As a member of Martin Luther Lutheran Church, he was elected as Vice-President and Secretary of the Church Council. He also was the Chairman of the Worship/Evangelism Committee, President of the Men in Mission and Acolyte trainer. He served on the Board of Directors of the Southwest Synod of the Association of Evangelical Lutheran Churches for a period of seven years.

In his community, Leonard was active as President and Board member of the Giddings Chamber of Commerce, the Giddings Rotary Club and the Lee County Heritage Society. In 1985 he was elected to the Rotary Hall of Fame and was honored as the "Outstanding Citizen of Giddings." Leonard was a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow, He served on the Giddings City Council from 1970 to 1980 during which time he was instrumental in the interior design and furnishing of the new City Hall. His second term of office on the Giddings City Council began in 1993 until 2009. For many years as the President of the Giddings Recreation Association he guided the efforts to provide a swimming pool for the Giddings community. His interest in preserving the history of Giddings was brought to life through the sets he designed and built for the Giddings 100th Geburtstag. Leonard also enjoyed offering his talents to the community through many fundraising efforts.

Professionally, he was an active member and served on the Board of Directors in the Texas Retailers Association.

Leonard's greatest pleasure was being a part in the lives of his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was always a devoted and supportive husband and father. His love for his family was boundless and he enjoyed giving and sharing his abilities to each one.

A back surgery on September 1, 1999, left him a paraplegic, a disability he heroically rose above. The rapid onset of acute leukemia took his life on October 1, 2009.

Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, K. Gus and Alwine Kriegel; his brother Erwin Kriegel & wife, Jackie Kriegel and his nephews, James Robert Kriegel and Leon Wallace, husband of his niece Kay Wallace.

He is survived by his wife, Margaret (Studtmann) Kriegel of Giddings; his three children and their spouses, Dr. Pat Koch & husband, Dr. Robert Koch of Austin, Deborah & Robert Gaeke of San Antonio and Gretchen & Barry Rodstrom of Giddings; his grandchildren, Ysidra (Koch) Williams & husband, Grant of Austin, Zephyr (Koch) Van Dyke & husband, Ryan of Austin, Micah Koch & fiancee, Jennifer Matlock of Austin, Brandon Gaeke & wife, Misty of Houston, Brent Gaeke of San Antonio and Erica (Rodstrom) Withers & husband, John of Denton; his four great-grandchildren, Erin & Emma Williams of Austin, Austin Van Dyke of Austin and Anna Lyn Gaeke of Houston; brother-in-law, Robert & Barbara Studtmann of Tulsa, Oklahoma; his nephews, Charlie Bill Kriegel, Michael Studtmann, Peter Studtmann, John Studtmann, Stephen Studtmann and Nathan Studtmann; his nieces, Kay Wallace and Elizabeth Steele as well as numerous great nieces, great nephews, relatives and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Brandon Gaeke, Brent Gaeke, Micah Koch, Ryan Van Dyke, Grant Williams and John Withers. Honorary pallbearers will be members of the Giddings Rotary Club and the employees and council members of the City of Giddings.

Memorials may be made to Martin Luther Lutheran Church, 570 North Main, Giddings, Texas 78942, the Lee County Heritage Society, P.O. Box 93, Giddings, Texas 78942, Hospice Austin's Christopher House, 2820 E. MLK Jr. Blvd, Austin, Texas 78702 or the charity of one's choice.

Eugene Thomas McLaughlin Sr.
(August 5, 1927 - September 11, 2009)

Funeral services for Eugene T. McLaughlin Sr., 82 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday, September 14, 2009 at St. Margaret's Catholic Church in Giddings with Father Jim Olnhausen officiating. Burial will follow in the Ledbetter Cemetery in Ledbetter, Tx. Visitation will be held Sunday from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 9:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Rosary will be recited Sunday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mr. McLaughlin passed away early Friday morning at Seton Medical Center in Austin following a battle with cancer.

Eugene Thomas McLaughlin Sr. was born on August 5, 1927 in Williamson County, Texas to Thomas Joseph & Mamie (Starnes) McLaughlin and served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during WWII receiving his Honorable Discharge in 1946. He was a devout Catholic attending Catholic primary school in Taylor. He then graduated from the University of Texas in Austin with a Law Degree and was united in marriage to Jan McCray in Fort Bend County, Texas. Mr. McLaughlin was an attorney in Houston for 30 years before moving to Ledbetter where he practiced in the Lee County area. His professionalism was only overshadowed by his caring nature which was demonstrated through the numerous hours of pro-bono work that he provided to the poor and needy. He was an avid reader who loved fishing, camping, traveling and his grandchildren. Mr. McLaughlin had a great sense of humor, enjoyed country music and was an original cowboy at heart.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Brian McLaughlin; 2 sisters, Joan Lane and Frances McLaughlin and a nephew, Brian Lane.

Mr. McLaughlin is survived by his wife, Jan McLaughlin of Giddings; 5 children, Robert & Pam McLaughlin of Deer Park, James & Tina McLaughlin of Houston, Paul McLaughlin & Amie McLaughlin of Austin, Eugene McLaughlin Jr. of Brenham and Frances Doggett of Giddings;12 grandchildren, Robert McLaughlin Jr. and Sabrina McLaughlin both of Deer Park, Travis & Holly Robertson of Houston, Heather McLaughlin and Alyssa McLaughlin both of Sweetwater, Jennifer Croy of Austin, Savannah McLaughlin and Preston McLaughlin both of Austin, Jace McLaughlin & Joseph McLaughlin both of Brenham and Jacob Doggett & Jamie Doggett both of Giddings; brother, Donald McLaughlin Sr. of Uvalde; 2 sisters, Betty Mauer of Concan, Tx and Beverly & Roland Boedecker of Concan, Tx; niece, Connie Tidwell of Uvalde; 2 nephews, Don McLaughlin Jr. of Uvalde and Bart McLaughlin Sr. of Kerrville as well as numerous other nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 175, Giddings, Texas 78942, the Giddings Area Food Bank, 600 Sunrise, Giddings, Texas 78942 or the charity of one's choice.

Mabel Schatte Unger
(June 16, 1931 - September 8, 2009)

Mabel Elnora (Warner-Schatte) Unger, age 78, of Smithville, Texas passed away on Tuesday, September 8, 2009 following complications from congestive heart failure.

Mabel was born June 16, 1931 in Merced, California to Prentice and Grace (Craig) Warner. She was baptized in the United Methodist Church of Merced and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church of Giddings, Texas.

She met and married her first husband, Andrew Erhardt Schatte, on July 29, 1949. Mabel and Andy moved from Merced, California to Serbin, Texas; and later moved to Giddings, Texas where they raised their family of 8 children.

While raising her children, Mabel completed college and continued a career as a Licensed Nurse practicing at several of the medical facilities within Giddings during her 45 years of marriage. Mabel became a widow in 1991 when Andy died.

Three years later, Mabel met Edwin Unger, also a widower, and they were married on June 16, 1994. They enjoyed their retirement along with their combined family of 10 children.

Mabel was known by many names including, Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma, Aunt, and “friend” to everyone.

Mabel was also a leader in her church community making contributions in Bible Study, Alter Guild, and Mission work in New Mexico. Wherever Mabel went, she shared her love of service to God and to her community of friends.

She went to be with her Lord surrounded by her family and will be dearly missed by family and friends alike.

Mabel is preceded in death by her parents, her only sister, Esta Warner, her first husband, Andrew Schatte, two daughters, Connie Grace Schatte and Marjorie Schatte Alvarado, two son-in-laws John Chambless and Larry Koenning, and one grandson, Willie McKinley.

Surviving Mabel are her two brothers, William (Bill) Warner and Lowell Warner and wife Laura of Merced, California, brother-in-law Monroe Schatte and wife Lucille of Giddings, Texas, sister-in-law Wanda Shannon of Dallas, Texas, sister-in-law Louise Hohle of Austin, Texas, brother-in-law Paul & Charlene Unger of Amarillo, Texas, sister-in-law Ruth & Edward Reinhardt of Austin, Texas.

Mabel is also survived by her daughters Patti Schatte (Koenning) of Houston Texas, Kathi Chambless of Arlington, Texas, Nancy Koslan of Houston Texas, son Tony Schatte and wife Sheila of Tomball, Texas, daughter Susie Harvey and husband Phillip of Castor, La., son Bruce Schatte of Giddings, Texas and son-in-law Gilbert Alvarado and wife Karen of Houston, Texas. Step-son Michael Unger and wife Susan of Houston Texas, step-daughter Sandra McGuire and husband Ralph of Spring, Texas and step-son Stephen Unger and wife Laura of Houston, Texas. She is also survived by 16 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren and 17 nephews and nieces.

The visitation will be held Friday, September 11, 2009 Starting at 2:00 PM. With the family present from ^ to 8 PM at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home, 588 N. Main Street, Giddings, Texas. The service will be held Saturday, September 12, 2009 at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 299 N. Leon Street, Giddings Texas beginning at 1:00 PM, with a burial following at Giddings City Cemetery. After the burial we invite family and friends to a reception at Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Serving as pallbearers’ are Larry Schatte, Monroe Schatte Jr., Martin Werchan, Jonathan Heafner, Matthew Vassera and Nicholas Arri; honorary pallbearers’ are David Schatte, Jamie Schatte, Mark Schatte, Russell

Hofferek and Steve Hofferek, Troy Hofferek and Gregory Hofferek.

In lieu of flowers you may make a contribution to a memorial of your choice, Immanuel Lutheran School scholarship fund or Vineyard of Christ Lutheran Church in Rosanky, Texas in memory of Mabel Warner-Schatte Unger.

Florence Dodd Wright
(May 8, 1918 - August 28, 2009)

Funeral services for Florence Wright, 91, of Austin are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Monday, August 31, 2009 at the Dodd Family Cemetery near Dime Box, Texas with Tim Clayton officiating.

Florence passed away Friday in Houston, Texas following a brief illness.

Mary Florence Dodd Wright was born on May 8, 1918 in Dime Box, Texas to James R. & Jessie Pearl (Tisdale) Dodd. She was united in marriage to James Wright on January 20, 1940. Florence was a lifelong homemaker who provided childcare in her home for many years. She enjoyed gardening and watching sports, especially football, and was an avid UT fan.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; 3 brothers, Homer Dodd, Marshall Dodd and James Dodd and 3 sisters, Norene Goodson, Vira Moseley and Jimmie Raynosa.

Florence is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Mary & Fred Pippert of Houston; 2 granddaughters, Jamey & Jason Tucker of Missouri City and Lee Ann & Michael Davis of Houston; 2 brothers, Donnie & Jean Dodd of Cypress and Dean & Kay Dodd of Cypress as well as many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.

Directions to the Dodd Family Cemetery:From Giddings take FM 141 approximately 12 miles and cemetery will be on the lefthand side.

Kimberly Jane Bock
(February 2, 1980 - August 14, 2009)

Funeral services for Kimberly Bock, 29 of Santa Fe, Texas and formerly of Giddings are scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, August 20, 2009 at the Giddings Church of Christ, 424 South Chambers Street, Giddings, Texas with Roy Hardesty officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The family will be present for visitation Wednesday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Kimberly passed away unexpectedly Friday at Hermann Memorial Hospital in Houston.

Kimberly Jane Bowen Bock was born on February 2, 1980 in Brenham, Texas to Jack Hunter & Mary Sue (Starns) Bowen. She graduated from Giddings High School in 1997, attended Blinn College and received her Bachelors Degree in Biology from the University of Texas in Austin in 2004. Kimberly married Michael Bock on October 28, 2000 in Giddings. She was a substitute school teacher with the Santa Fe Independent School District and also worked as a part-time waitress at IHOP in La Marque. Kimberly was an avid UT fan who loved the beach and enjoyed working in her yard.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents and a special uncle, Leroy Starns.

Kimberly is survived by her husband, Michael Bock of Santa Fe; her children, Rayanne Bowen and Jeremy Bock both of Santa Fe; her parents, Jack & Mary Bowen of Giddings; her sister, Belinda & Calvin Davenport of Uvalde; her 2 brothers, Jack Bowen Jr. and John Bowen both of Dripping Springs; her parents-in-law, Bonnie Bock & Mike Booth of Giddings as well as numerous other relatives and many friends.

Memorials may be made to The Kimberly Bock Memorial Fund at First National Bank, P.O. Box 269, Giddings, Texas 78942 or at Round Top State Bank, P.O. Box 180, Giddings, Texas 78942.

Elfehra Kora Urban
(December 10, 1924 - August 12, 2009)

Funeral services for Elfehra Urban, 84 of Fedor, Texas are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on Monday, August 17, 2009 at St. James Lutheran Church in Lexington with Rev. Leif Hasskarl officiating. Burial will follow in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Fedor. Visitation will be held Sunday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mrs. Urban passed away Wednesday morning at St. Joseph Regional Healthcare Center in Bryan.

Elfehra Kora Proske Urban was born on December 10, 1924 in Fedor, Texas to Emil & Adelheid (Iselt) Proske. She was united in marriage to Lawrence Urban on June 4, 1942 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fedor. Mrs. Urban was retired from the Giddings State School where she had been a cook.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her husband; her son and daughter-in-law, Kerry Urban Sr. & Minnie (Posas) Urban; her granddaughter, Tracy Engle and several brothers and sisters.

Mrs. Urban is survived by her daughters, Phyllis Urban of Caldwell and Dorene & Mike Haney of Tomball; 4 grandchildren, Kerry Urban & Jessica Raschke of Fedor, Christopher Urban of College Station, Phillip Callas of Lexington and Sharon Broughton of Katy; 7 great grandchildren; 2 great, great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Gilbert Proske of Washington and Lawrence & Lorene Proske of Fedor; sister, Rosie & Jake Laborde of Austin as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church in Fedor, Texas.

Rojelio "Roy" Olivares Correa
(January 29, 1948 - August 7, 2009)

Funeral services for Rojelio "Roy" Correa, 61 of Dime Box, Texas are scheduled for 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 11, 2009 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Dime Box with Father Ramon D. Frayna officiating. Burial will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Dime Box. A Rosary will be recited Monday at 7:00 PM at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. Visitation will be Monday from 10:00 AM until 9:00 p.m. with the family being present from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM.

Mr. Correa passed away early Friday morning at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings after a lengthy battle with cancer.

Rojelio "Roy" Olivares Correa was born January 29, 1948 in Dilley, Texas to Andreas and Francisca Olivares Correa. On June 14, 1972 he was united in marriage to Maria Elena Garza and was a lifelong farmer and rancher.

Mr. Correa was preceded in death by his mother and father and a brother, Manuel Correa.

He is survived by his wife, Maria Elena Correa of Dime Box; daughters, Evelyn and Manuel Rodriguez and family of Giddings, Triny Correa and Paul Sifuentes and family of Giddings and Jovita Correa and daughter of Dime Box; sons, Roy Andrew and Cossette Paige and family of Mauspa, La., Charles Adam and Diane Correa and family of Giddings, Rojelio Jr. and Diana Correa and family of Batesville, Texas and Dagoberto and Maribel Correa and family of Batesville, Texas; 19 grandchildren; 2 great grandchildren; brothers and sisters, Jimmy Correa, Daria Rodriguez, Eva and Feliberto Sepeda, Maria Fira and George and Irma Correa as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Serving as pallbearers will be Michael Correa, David Correa, Juan DeLaSantos, Ramiro Sandoval, Rojelio Correa Jr., Dagoberto Correa, Manuel Rodriguez and Paul Sifuentes. Honorary pallbearers will be Levi Correa, Dago Correa, Edward Caserez, Ean Nava, Cesar Rodriguez, Chris Sifuentes, Joseph Sifuentes and Donovan Correa.

Memorials can be made to St. Jude's Hospital or the Ronald McDonald House.

Alvina Annie Miertschin
(November 16, 1919 - July 29, 2009)

Alvina Annie Toll Miertschin, 89 of Giddings died on July 29, 2009 at Oakland Manor Nursing Home.

Alvina was the widow of Walter Miertschin and was a homemaker.

Funeral Services for Alvina Miertschin are scheduled for 10:00 AM Saturday, August 1, 2009 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin with Pastor John Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow at St. Paul Lutheran Cemetery. Visitation will be on Friday, July 31, 2009 from 11 am until 9 pm at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Alvina is survived by a daughter, Mildred Voigt of Giddings; granddaughter, Brandi Taylor and husband James of College Station; sisters, Hulda Zoch, Evelyn Buscha and husband Bobby, and Lorene Stork and husband Charles; sister-in-law, Dottie Toll and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Herman & Frieda (Sohr) Toll; husband, Walter Miertschin; son, Edward Pampell; 3 sisters, Erna Liebscher, Leona Molin and Esther Toll and a brother, Herbert Toll.

Bertha Lee Hutson
(February 7, 1908 - July 27, 2009)

Funeral services for Bertha Hutson, 101 years 5 month 20 days of Lexington, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at the Blue United Methodist Church in Blue, Texas with Rev. Linda O'Neill and Rev. Doug Springer officiating. Burial will follow in the Burns Cemetery in Blue. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Lexington, Texas.

Mrs. Hutson passed away early Monday morning at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Bertha Lee Oppelt Hutson was born on February 7, 1908 in Beaukiss, Texas to Earl & Margaret (Schneider) Oppelt. She was united in marriage to Forrest Munson Hutson on July 5, 1925. She was a loving and devoted homemaker, wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother and mother-in-law who was an excellent seamstress and she loved to quilt and made many quilts for family and friends. She lived on the farm all of her life until she moved to Austin after her husband's death and was employed at the Austin State Hospital as a cook . After her retirement, she moved back to Lexington to be closer to her family. She was a lifetime member of the Blue United Methodist Church where she played the piano and served as a Sunday School Teacher. Mrs. Hutson was able to celebrated her 100th birthday last year in Blue with many of her family and friends in attendance.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband; 4 sisters, Emma Oppelt, Annie Reynolds, Rosa Kilpatrick and Ida Goggans; 2 brothers, Hugo Oppelt and Walter Sullivan and a grandson-in-law, Dixon Nuckols.

Mrs. Hutson is survived by her 3 sons, Rip & Evon Hutson, Harold & Ruth Hutson and Guy & Carolyn Hutson all of Lexington; 9 grandchildren, Denyce & Hollins Spence of Rockdale, Debbie Nuckols of Austin, Judy & Larry Spitzenberger of Giddings, Judy Griffith of Austin, Deana & Dale Read of Leander, Rusty & Janice Hutson of Lexingotn, Nolan Hutson of Lexington, Darvin & Kim Hutson of Lexington and Lisa Chappell of Leander; 14 great grandchildren; 7 great, great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to the Blue United Methodist Church or to the charity of one's choice.

Ramona Joyce McPhail
(August 16, 1938 - July 23, 2009)

Funeral services for Ramona Joyce McPhail, 70 of Giddings, are scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on Monday, July 27, 2009 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Jeremy Walloch officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Sunday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with the McPhail family being present from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m.

Mrs. McPhail passed away early Thursday morning at the Cornerstone Hospital in Austin.

Ramona Joyce (Sampson) McPhail was born on August 16, 1938 in Prescott, Arkansas to James Raymond and Effie Ruby (Whitten) Sampson. She was united in marriage to Harrison P. McPhail on August 30, 1958 in Arlington, Texas. Their marriage was blessed with two children, Gloria Faye and Paul Harrison.

Mrs. McPhail received her Bachelor of Science Degree in Home Economics from the University of Texas and retired from the Giddings Independent School District after 30 years as the Home Economics teacher. She enjoyed sewing, reading and needlecrafts. Mrs. McPhail was also a member of the Giddings Study Club, the Giddings New Horizons Lions Club, the American Home Economics Association, the Vocational Home Economics Teachers Association of Texas, an honorary member of the Future Homemakers of America and served as an advisor for 30 years for the Future Homemakers of America.

Marylyn Simpson

(September 1, 1931 - July 21, 2009)

Marylyn Simpson, 77 of Lincoln, Texas, passed away early Tuesday morning at the Country Careplex in Giddings.

Marylyn Ann Reinius Simpson was born on September 1, 1931 in Sioux Falls, South Dakota to Leslie & Ann Marie (Henton) Reinius. She was a retired salesperson having been employed by J C Penneys.

Mrs. Simpson was preceded in death by her parents and her ex-husband, L.R. Simpson.

She is survived by her daughter, Robin Simpson of Lincoln.

No services are planned.

Helen L Hicks
(January 3, 1920 - July 19, 2009)

Helen Louise Hicks, 89 of Pearland, Texas died July 19, 2009 at 8:15 am. at Windsong Nursing Home in Pearland.

Mrs. Hicks is the widow of Raymond V. Hicks.

Services for Mrs. Hicks will be Tuesday at 11:45 am at South Park Funeral Chapel in Pearland. Visitation will be on Tuesday July 21, 2009 at South Park Funeral Chapel from 10 am until 11:45 am.

David Lee Thorson
(December 20, 1940 - July 1, 2009)

Memorial services for David Lee Thorson, 68, of Lincoln, Texas are scheduled for 11:00 AM on Thursday, July 9, 2009 at the First Presbyterian Church in Giddings with Rev. Chris Harrison officiating.

Mr. Thorson passed away Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at Warm Springs Rehabilitation Center in Luling, Texas following an extended illness.

David Lee Thorson was born December 20, 1940 in Beloit, Wisconsin to Louis and Hazel (Hanson) Thorson. On December 20, 1958 he married Virginia Fields. He was retired from LCRA where he had been employed as a machinist and was also a rancher.

Mr. Thorson was preceded in death by his parents, Louis and Helen Thorson; his brothers, Donald Thorson and Richard Thorson and his sisters, Dorothy Thorson and Barbara Neilsen.

He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Virginia Thorson of Lincoln, Tx; his children, Charles Thomas Thorson of Austin, Tx and Kristin Smith and husband Glenn of Lincoln, Tx; brother, Bill Thorson and wife Elona of Beloit, Wisconsin; sisters, Delores Williams and husbnd Tom of Keller, Texas, Betty Lampher and husband Sonny of South Beloit, Illinois, and Nancy Mellen of Beloit, Wisconsin; grandchildren: Myles Smith, Colby Smith, Bailee Smith and Charlisse Thorson; foster brother, Bill Nelson and wife Wilma of Lakewood, Ohio as well as numerous nieces and nephews also survive.

The family is requesting that memorial donations be made to First Presbyterian Church, Giddings, Texas.

Riley Key
(April 15, 1991 - June 27, 2009)

Funeral services for Riley Key, 18 of Ledbetter, Texas are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday, June 29, 2009 at the Dube Family Cemetery in Giddings, Texas with Rev. Paul Bohot officiating. A prayer service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 28, 2009 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Carmine, Texas.

Riley passed away unexpectedly as a result of an automobile accident in Washington County early Saturday morning.

Riley Cole Key was born on April 15, 1991 in Brenham, Texas to Kenneth David & Tammy (Dube) Key. He graduated in May from Round Top-Carmine High School and planned to attend Blinn College in College Station. Riley loved hunting and was an accomplished team roper.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jack Dube.

Riley is survived by his parents, Tammy & Brian Fischer of Ledbetter and David & Josey Key of Caldwell; 2 brothers, Kooper Key of Caldwell and Jack Fischer of Ledbetter; grandparents, Peggy Dube of Giddings, Kenneth & Linda Key of Caldwell and Paul & Jolene Fischer of Giddings; great grandmothers, Irene Fischer and Gertrude Lorenz both of Giddings; aunts & uncles, Jackie & Lane Jatzlau of Giddings, David & Gina Fischer of Giddings, Jason & Chrissy Fischer of New Braunfels and Chris & Mark Walker of Caldwell as well as numerous other relatives and many friends.

Memorials may be made to the Riley Key Scholarship Fund at Classic Bank, P.O. Box 820, Giddings, Texas 78942.

Erwin Willie Malke
(March 3, 1929 - June 25, 2009)

Erwin Willie Malke, 80 of Giddings passed away at 2:55 am on Thursday, June 25, 2009 at his residence.

He was born on March 3, 1929 to Wilhelm August and Rosine Hermine (Mertink) Malke in Serbin TX. Erwin was a laborer for many years in agriculture.

Erwin is preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his brother, Freddie Malke of Giddings.

Funeral services for Mr. Malke will be 10:00 am on Saturday, June 27, 2009 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Warda, Texas with Pastor Dennis Tegtmeier officating. Burial will follow in the Holy Cross Lutheran Cemetery.

Jordin Demarcus Wells
(October 17, 1987 - June 7, 2009)

Funeral services for Jordin Wells, 21, of Dime Box, Texas are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Friday, June 12, 2009 at the Bateman Center in Giddings, Texas with Pastor Annie Jones officiating.

Jordin passed away unexpectedly early Sunday morning in Austin.

Burial will follow in the Copperas Cemetery. Visitation will be held Thursday from 8:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Memorials may be made to the charity of one's choice.

He married Frances Vernell Brade on November 12, 1960 and was blessed with four children. He retired after 42 years of dedicated service to Southwestern Bell Telephone Company in January 2000; the last 12 years serving as the President of CWA Local 6222 in Houston, TX. He loved gardening, barbecuing and spending time with family and friends.

He is survived by his wife and children: Burgess James Etzel Jr and wife Genie, Douglas Etzel, R A “Red” Etzel and wife Elizabeth, and Carol Jean Etzel and husband Usamah Zagaar; three grandchildren: Makenzie Hope Etzel, Dottie Faith Etzel and Adam U. Zagaar. He is also survived by sisters Dottie Jean Etzel and Deloise McGill; and many nieces and nephews, and dear friends.

Funeral services will be at 10 AM on Saturday, May 30 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings, TX. Visitation will be on Friday, May 29 from 10:30 AM to 8:00 PM at the Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings, TX.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church and Hospice Brazos Valley.