A celebration of the life of Marilyn Symmank, 77 of Giddings, Texas, is scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 28, 2010 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Robert Tiner and Rev. Wilbern Michalk officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday from 11:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Prayer Service will be held Monday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Marilyn was born February 9, 1933 in Vernon, Texas to Rev. J.A. Birnbaum and Rosa (nee Krebs) Birnbaum. She was baptized in faith February 26, 1933 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Vernon by her father Rev. J.A. Birnbaum and confirmed June 2, 1946 at St. Paul Lutheran Church by her father. Marilyn’s confirmation verse is Psalm 145 v. 18 & 19, "The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon him, to all that call upon him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of them that fear him: he also will hear their cry, and will save them." and her confirmation hymn was hymn #707, "O That The Lord Would Guide My Ways". She married Leonard Symmank on August 23, 1959 at St. Paul Lutheran Church by her father. They were blessed with two children: Dr. Samuel Glenn Symmank and wife Erin of McKinney, Texas and Rachel Lynn Symmank Langham and husband Tim of Giddings, Texas; four grandchildren: Taylor Symmank, Jared Symmank and Gabrielle Symmank of McKinney, Texas and Riley Rose Langham of Giddings, Texas.

Marilyn was predeceased by her parents, Rev. J.A. and Rosa Birnbaum; her brother, Edward Birnbaum and wife, Evelyn; brother, Rev. Leon Birnbaum; brother-in-law, Clarence Graf; great nieces, Nicole Graf and Rose Elaine Birnbaum.

In addition to her husband, children and grandchildren, she is also survived by her sister, Eugenia Graf of Vernon, Texas; sister-in-law, Jeannette (Netzi) Birnbaum of Stockton, California and brother-in-law and sister-in-law Douglas and Pearl Symmank of Giddings; nieces and nephews: Terry and Melinda Graf of Georgetown, Texas, their children Amy Graf, Kelly Homeyer and husband Matt, and Aaron Graf; Randal and Donna Graf of Vernon, Texas, their son Chase Graf; Leah and Randal Smith of Graham, Texas, their children Austin Smith, Sydney Russell and husband Paul; Becky and Thom Tollerson of Winder, Georgia, their daughters Jenna and Sara; Mark Birnbaum of California; Mike and Mary Birnbaum of California, their children Joshua and Alli; Miriam and Robert Loeber of California, their children Jennifer and Jeffrey; Tina and Kirk Miller of Colorado, their daughter Bethany; Peggy Grant and husband Carl of Houston, Texas; Tobin Symmank of California.

After graduating from Vernon High School, Marilyn attended St. Johns Lutheran College in Winfield, Kansas. After college she taught school at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Wichita Falls, Texas for seven years, then in a Lutheran school in California. After marrying Leonard and moving to Giddings, she taught kindergarten, was a substitute teacher and taught Sunday school and VBS for many years at Immanuel Lutheran School, Giddings. In addition, she taught a bible study at the Giddings Healthcare Center and bible studies in her home. Her ministry also led her to teach at the London Bridge Nursery pre-school with Mrs. Jerry Varnado, Giddings. She was an active member of the Ladies Aid, Dorcas Circle, LWML, Caring Ministry and Braille workshop at Immanuel; the Giddings Study Club and served as the neighborhood chairman for various charities such as Red Cross, March of Dimes and the Heart Association, to name a few.

Marilyn touched everyone’s lives in so many ways. Children were her love and serving people was her passion. She is truly one of God’s faithful servants.

Pallbearers will be Terry Graf, Randal Graf, Taylor Symmank, Jared Symmank, Calvin Vahrenkamp and Doug Alexander. Honorary pallbearers Aaron Graf and Chase Graf.

Memorials may be made to the Jesus Is Lord Missions, the Lutheran Hour Ministries, the Immanuel Lutheran Church Caring Ministry and the Braille Center.

Funeral services for Leona Hannes, 93 of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 16, 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 on Wednesday from 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Prayer Service will be held Wednesday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Mrs. Hannes passed away on Monday, December 13, 2010 at the Med Star Care Center in Giddings.

Leona Mathilda Hannes was born on April 5, 1917 in Giddings, Texas to Bruno & Erna (Seelke) Jaehne. She was baptized on May 21, 1917 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings. Leona attended Immanuel Lutheran School in Giddings and was confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church on April 30, 1931. She was united in marriage to Louis Hannes on January 10, 1937 also at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings. She was an excellent seamstress who also worked in the Giddings High School Cafeteria for 10 years. She was a longtime member of Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings where she had been a member of the Ladies Aid. She enjoyed fishing, cooking, working in her garden and of course, sewing.

Leona was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; son-in-law, Foy Howard; grandson, Stan Chapman; three sisters, Annie Farr, Clara Kruemcke and Nora Hohle; two half brothers, Richard "Sonny" Milburn and Malcolm "Mack" Milburn; two step brothers, Joe Milburn and Grady Milburn and a step sister, Inez Hill.

She is survived by her two daughters, Janelle Howard of Giddings and Shirlene & Jim Clampit of Giddings; three grandchildren, Julie Sailors of Giddings, Dawn & Eric Boos of Austin and Steve Chapman of College Station; nine great grandchildren, Erin Boes of Austin, Alix Boes of College Station, Rylan Sailors of Bastrop, Jacob Boos of Austin, Michael Boos of San Marcos, Haeli & Matt Wey of College Station, Sarah Chapman of Katy, Caleb Chapman of Dime Box and Laney Chapman of Dime Box; three sisters, Lois Marburger of Sinton, Irene Grimm of Giddings and Mildred Wiederhold of Dime Box as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Martin Luther Lutheran Church General Fund or the charity of one's choice.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the Med Star Care Center nursing staff and Vista Care Hospice for their loving support and attention which brought Leona great comfort and peace.

Funeral services for Martha Urban, 90 of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 2, 2010 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings with Pastor Keith Aschenbeck presiding. Burial will follow in the St. John Lutheran Cemetery in Dime Box. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 8:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. and Thursday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Martha Ann Marie (Hannes) Urban was called to her heavenly home on November 29, 2010 at Monument Hill Nursing Facility in La Grange after a long batter with a very rare form of skin cancer-merkel cell carcinoma.

Martha was born in Dime Box, Texas on March 16, 1920, the daughter of Oswald and Martha (Gloyna) Hannes. She married Clarence Urban on November 27, 1941. She was an active member of the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Cypress, Texas. To this day, the league uses Martha’s cornbread dressing recipe for their annual turkey dinner. She was known for her homemade bread, baking cookies for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, her love of cooking, canning, quilting and sewing and her serving heart.

Martha was an avid football fan of the Giddings Buffaloes and the La Grange Leopards while her grandsons played for their high school teams. In the fall of 2001, she had the privilege of seeing the Houston Astrodome the very first time when the La Grange Leopards and Giddings Buffaloes played to secure a spot for the State Championship Game. And, the Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Aggie football teams were always number one to Martha.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, three brothers, Herman and wife Lorine, Albert and wife Ora Lee and Louis; four sisters; Amelia Schroeder and husband Otto, Minnie and husband Edgar, Edna and husband Dudgeon and Alene and husband Charlie. She is survived by her daughter, Linda Lehmann and husband, David of Warda; son Clarence “Buddy” Urban and life long companion Lovie Jones of Missouri City; three grandchildren; Russell Urban and wife Leslee of Giddings, Rebecca Urban-Dieter of Houston, Justin Lehmann and wife Brenda of College Station; three great-grandchildren; Alexis Crow, Jarrett Urban and Jaice Dieter and two sister-in-laws, Florine Loewe and Leona Hannes of Giddings, numerous nephews and nieces and the loving and dedicated staff of Monument Hill Nursing facility.

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Serving as pallbearers will be Russell Urban, Jarrett Urban, Justin Lehmann, Dee Lynn Michalk, Nolan Lerche, Calvin Hannes and Paul Fischer.

The family requests donations to University of Washington MCC Research, Dr. Paul Nghiem, University of Washington Dermatology, 815 Mercer St., Seattle, WA 98109 or to Camp Lone Star, 2016 Camp Lone Star Rd, La Grange, TX 78945.

Funeral services for John W. Wright, 93 of Ledbetter, Texas are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, November 29, 2010 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 from 9:30 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. The family will be present for visitation Sunday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.

Mr. Wright passed away on Friday, November 26, 2010 at St. Mark's Medical Center in LaGrange.

John Wilson Wright was born on December 30, 1916 in Hubble, Kentucky to William H. & Hattie N. (Smith) Wright. His childhood was spent in Corbin, Kentucky where he also attended school. He served his country in the United States Army Air Corps from 1940-1946. John was united in marriage to Irene Walther on August 11, 1942 in Galveston, Texas. He was baptized and confirmed on February 20, 1966 at Mt. Olive Lutheran Church in Houston by Rev. C.E. Kasper.

Following his retirement from the City of Houston's Water Division, he and Irene moved to Ledbetter and transferred their church membership to St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin on July 22, 1972. John loved his Lord and attended church services regularly following his baptism and confirmation. He also enjoyed being around people, especially children, which he was always able to bring a smile on their face. John enjoyed carpenter work and working in his garden and sharing with others the fruit and vegetables which he produced.

He was preceded in death by his parents, three brothers and one sister.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Irene Wright of Ledbetter; special friends, which John and Irene called daughters, the Hover sisters-Veronica, Mary, Teresa and Thelma of Houston and a host of relatives and friends. John, throughout his life, never met a stranger and loved all. He will indeed be dearly missed.

Memorials may be made to the St. Paul Lutheran Church Restoration Fund, 1572 County Road 211, Giddings, TX 78942 or to the charity of one's choice.

Funeral services for Alberta Freeman, 85 of Giddings, Texas and formerly of Springtown, Texas, are scheduled for 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 26, 2010 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mrs. Freeman passed away on Wednesday, November 24, 2010 at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Alberta Romain Huffman Freeman was born on February 13, 1925 in New Bloonfield, Pennsylvania to Charles and Tessie (Paden) Huffman. She was united in marriage to Russell Clark Freeman on July 4, 1941 in New Bloomfield, Pennsylvania and was a retired cook.

Alberta was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Russell and a sister.

She is survived by her four children, Larry & Sue Freeman of Newport, Pennsylvania, Dianne & Wayne McNaughton of Shermansdale, Pennsylvania, Connie Hoffman of Giddings, Texas and Dean & Janice Freeman of Springtown, Texas; 9 grandchildren; 17 great grandchildren; sister, Joyce Bucher of Enola, Pennsylvania and numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services for Chester "Shorty" Phillips, 87 of Lexington, Texas, include visitation which will be held Tuesday from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Lexington with funeral services scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 24, 2010 at the Blue United Methodist Church in Blue, Texas with Rev. Lance Richards officiating. Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 27, 2010 at the Princeton Cemetery in Princeton, Kansas.

Mr. Phillips passed away on Sunday, November 21, 2010 at St. Mark's Medical Center in LaGrange, Texas.

Chester Leroy "Shorty" Phillips was born on October 28, 1923 in Princeton, Kansas to Joel Pierce and Minnie (Bennett) Phillips. He married Flossie Fern Demoret on June 1, 1946 in Ottawa, Kansas and was a retired turkey farmer with Plantation Foods.

Chester was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Marylin Phillips; two brothers, Earl Phillips and Tharan Phillips; one sister, Grace Brown; three half sisters, Hazel Phillips, Fern Weatherly and Pauline Withers and nine half brothers, Harry Phillips, Ray Phillips, Floyd Phillips, Milford Phillips, Stanley Phillips, Howard Phillips, Milo Phillips, Leo Phillips and Ellsworth Bennett.

He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Flossie Phillips of Lexington, Texas; seven children, Fernie & Earl Tyler of  Wilmington, North Carolina, Judy & Mark Johnston of Green, Kansas, Bonnie & Dan Spellman of Clay Center, Kansas, Homer & Kathy Phillips of Lexington, Texas, Kitty & Herbert Pampell of Giddings, Texas, Lester & Debra Phillips of Giddings, Texas and Rita & Harvey Schnell of Giddings, Texas; 22 grandchildren, Anita & Darren Miller, Derk & Laura Holmes, Heath Holmes, Tracy & Chris Holborn, Troy & Bridget Johnston, Christi & Sterling Shepherd, Sandi & Chad Liby, Dustin & Melissa Spellman, Bethany & Tanner Wealand, Cory & Nicole Phillips, Mindy & Jess Miller, Marsha & Jimmie Pohorelsky, Gina & Kevin LaGrone, Nick Pampell, Scott & Rehanon Pampell, Heather Pampell, Stephanie & Chris Kieschnick, Jacob Phillips, Ronnie & Natalie Schnell, Randy Schnell, Keith & Amber Schnell and Kevin Schnell; 28 great grandchildren; 3 great, great grandchildren and numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Memorials may be made to the Blue United Methodist Church.

Funeral services for Edna Oltmann, 89 of Northrup, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 24, 2010 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin, Texas with Rev. John Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. The family will be present for visitation Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mrs. Oltmann passed away on Friday, November 19, 2010 at Northrup, Texas.

Edna Irma Patschke Oltmann was born on September 30, 1921 in Fedor, Texas to Emil & Emma (Iselt) Patschke. She was baptized on September 30, 1921 at her home by her uncle, Emil Proske and confirmed on April 14, 1935 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fedor by Rev. A.F. Michalk. Edna was united in marriage to Ernest W. Oltmann on June 10, 1942 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fedor also by Rev. A.F. Michalk. Their marriage was blessed with four sons and a daughter. They were married for 68 years when he preceded her in death on July 20, 2010. She was a loving and devoted homemaker, wife, mother and grandmother who enjoyed gardening and cooking. She had also been employed by Melcher's Meat Market and in the cafeteria at Giddings High School for several years. Edna was an active member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin where she had been a member of the Ladies Aid. She also was a member of the American Legion Ladies Auxillary in Giddings.

Edna was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; five sisters, Hildegard Patschke, Ethyl Patschke, her twin sister, Irma Patschke, Gertrude Sharp and Ruby Oltmann; three brothers, Herbert Patschke and two brothers in infancy.

She is survived by her five children, Bobby & Carolyn Oltmann of Northrup, Dennis & Shirley Oltmann of Giddings, Dianna & Arthur Noack of Northrup, Ronald & Linda Oltmann of Serbin and Ralph & Darlene Oltmann of Waco; fourteen grandchildren, Keith & Cherie Oltmann of Northrup, Craig & Melodi Oltmann of Serbin, Gary & Tracy Oltmann of Northrup, Amber & Don Beadles of Austin, Calene & Patrick Horton of Austin, Jesse Oltmann of Giddings, Britt & Kevin Kushner of Austin, James Noack of Giddings, Sandi & Dwain Coufal of Temple, Johnathan & Amy Noack of Giddings, Brandon Oltmann of Webster, Heather Sowders of Serbin, Derrick & Amber Oltmann of Waco and Alyson Oltmann of Waco; twelve great grandchildren; two aunts, Erna Patschke and Helen Patschke; two sisters-in-law, Gladys & Victor Symm of Serbin and Ruth & Richard Lewis of Wolf City as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Keith Oltmann, Craig Oltmann, Gary Oltmann, Jesse Oltmann, James Noack, Johnathan Noack, Brandon Oltmann and Derrick Oltmann.

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

Don Ray Schulz, 49, of McDade, surrounded by family and friends and in the loving arms of his devoted wife and son, passed away peacefully and went to his heavenly home on Tuesday, November 16, 2010. Don fought a brave and courageous battle with cancer.

Don was born in Bastrop, Texas on April 28, 1961, to Irma (Ihlo) and Rudolf Schulz. He was a long-time faithful member of Saint Andrew Lutheran Church in Paint Creek, Texas, where he was baptized on June 11, 1961 by Reverend Luis Karcher, and confirmed on May 25, 1975 by Reverend Alvin Bohls. He recently became a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Elgin.

Don married his high school sweetheart, Holly (Rother) Schulz on August 11, 1984. They were blessed with one son, Zane.

Don, a loving husband and dedicated father, enjoyed fishing and hunting with his son, Zane, and treasured spending time with his family. At family gatherings, Don could always be found in the kitchen organizing the meal, cracking jokes and pulling pranks. He also never missed an opportunity to indulge in a game of dominoes, as he was a fierce domino player.

Don was a man of many talents; a Mr. Fix It. He took particular pride in raising cattle and tending to his horses, and enjoyed raising other animals as well. He kept Holly and Zane guessing on what he might bring home next: chickens, quail, goats, ducks, rabbits, just to name a few.

Don was light-hearted, fun-loving, had a heart of gold and was always available to help a friend in need. As a natural born salesman, he always had a deal on the table, trading favors and lending a helping hand. He was the first to volunteer when a job needed to be done.

He was an active member of the Giddings Volunteer Fire Department, as well as many community organizations and events, where most often he could be found at the barbeque pits.

As a young man, he was known throughout the Giddings area for laying floor covering, and for the past seven years was employed with Goodson-Voight Lumber Company, until early 2010, when his illness made it too difficult for him to continue working.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Irma (Ihlo) Schulz and Rudolf Schulz, and one brother, Alton J. Schulz.

Don is survived by his wife and son, Holly and Zane; four brothers, Earl and wife Donna; Melvin and wife Jeanette; Roy and wife Elizabeth; Lenard and wife Taronda; sister-in-law, Rosie Schulz; two sisters, Marilyn Baca and husband William; and Barbara Hallmark and husband Johnny; father-in-law and mother-in-law, Willard and Sandra Rother; sister-in-law, Candace Kieschnick and husband Ronnie; brother-in-law Aaron Rother and wife Cindy, a host of nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and countless friends. He will be deeply missed.

Memorials may be made to the Giddings Volunteer Fire Department, Saint Andrew Lutheran Church, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, or Wonders and Worries of Austin.

Visitation will begin at 6:00 PM on Friday with the Rosary begining at 7 p.m. at Elgin Providence Funeral Home on Friday, November 19, 2010, with visitation before and after the devotion. Celebration of Life Service was Saturday, November 20, 2010, at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, with Father George Joseph officiating. Interment followed at Paint Creek Cemetery in Paint Creek, Texas. Arrangements entrusted to Elgin Providence Funeral Home.

A visitation for the family and friends of Mary Newton will be held on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. in the Cherry Hall at the First Presbyterian Church in Giddings.

Mary passed away on Saturday, November 13, 2010 at her home in Giddings.

Mary Eleise Weigelt Newton was born on October 10, 1943 in San Antonio, Texas to Rudy & Elvera "Vera" (Sump) Weigelt. She was united in marriage to Andy Newton on April 10, 1965. Mary was a longtime beautician and owned and operated The Hair Loom in Giddings.

She was preceded in death by her parents and a brother, Howard Weigelt.

Mary is survived by her husband, Andy Newton of Giddings; two sons, Stacy Newton and his wife, Cathy of Round Rock and Lance Newton and his wife, Gina of Austin; one daughter, Andre Goebel and her husband, Benson of Austin; six grandchildren, Andrew Newton of Round Rock, Ellie Newton of Round Rock, Ryan Newton of Austin, Brandon Newton of Austin, Karis Goebel of Austin and Kinley Goebel of Austin; one sister, Renee Borders and her husband, James of Austin; one brother, Charles Weigelt and his wife, Faye of Austin as well as several nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends.

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

Funeral services for Betty Dussetschleger, 78 of Lexington, Texas, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with Pastor David Lillard officiating. Burial will follow in the Lexington Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mrs. Dussetschleger passed away on Saturday, October 23, 2010 at her home in Lexington.

Betty Alexander Dussetschleger was born on December 19, 1931 in Groesbeck, Texas to John & Lela (Lankford) Alexander. She was united in marriage to Louis Dussetschleger on July 14, 1948 in Houston, Texas. She a loving and devoted homemaker who loved her family dearly. She was also an active member of the Lexington Church of Christ.

Betty was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, John Alexander & Bill Alexander.

She is survived by her husband, Louis Dussetschleger of Lexington; two sons, Buster & Linda Dussetschleger of Lexington and Darrel & Melody Dussetschleger of Lexington; nine grandchildren; seven great grandchildren; two sisters, Mozel Parker of Lorena and Shirley Post of Houston; one brother, Charles Alexander of Hemphill as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Serving as pallbearers will be Billy Alexander, Steve Post, Bunky Dussetschleger, Mike Dussetschleger, Layne Dussetschleger and Dennis Dussetschleger.

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

Funeral services for Walter "Tappy" Sander, 77 of Serbin, Texas, will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 15, 2010 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held on Thursday from 2:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The family will be present Thursday from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Walter passed away on Wednesday, October 13, 2010 at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Walter Herman Sander was born on November 8, 1932 in Lincoln, Texas to Arthur & Mathilde (Weiser) Sander. He was baptized on November 20, 1932 at St. John Lutheran Church in Lincoln by Rev. R. Osthoff and confirmed there as well on March 30, 1947 by Rev. Henry Stroebel. Walter was united in marriage to Adele Becker on May 19, 1957 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin by Rev. Arthur Arndt. Walter worked at Droemer's for many years and was a life long farmer and rancher.

Walter is survived by his son, Dennis and Carol Sander of Serbin; four grandsons, Dwayne and Liz Sander of San Marcos, Marcus Sander of Serbin, Shane Sander of Serbin and Shawn Sander of Serbin; two granddaughters, Teresa Sander of Bastrop and Shianne Sander of Serbin; two sisters, Gertrude and Edwin Schmidt Sr. of Serbin and Lorine Kurio of Giddings as well as many nieces, nephews and beloved family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife, Adele Sander; parents, Arthur and Mathilde Sander; one brother, Ludwig Sander and one sister, Ella Sander Allen.

The family has recommended memorials be given to the St. Paul Lutheran Church Restoration Fund, Suzan G. Komen Cancer Research Fund or the charity of one's choice.

Funeral services for Freda Rubio, 39 of McDade, Texas are scheduled for 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 16, 2010 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Freda passed away on Saturday, October 9, 2010 in Lexington, Texas.

Freda Lorraine Rubio was born on March 20, 1971 in Galveston, Texas to Joe & Freda (Prater) Rubio. She had been employed as a Home Healthcare Aide and enjoyed fishing, crabbing, arts and crafts and shopping for antiques. She was a hard worker who loved her children and enjoyed being with her grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents; her brother, Larry Eugene Rubio and her step-father, Floyd Palmer.

Freda is survived by her four children, Ashley Butts and Vince Martinez of Bastrop, Amy Butts and Bobby Davis Jr. of Bastrop, Ricky Butts and Ashley Diesel of Bastrop and Brandon Butts and Destiney Queen of McDade; three grandchildren, Myles Rubio-Mejicano of Bastrop and Layla & Mylee Davis of Austin and two more grandchildren on the way; father, Joe Rubio of Hitchcock, mother, Freda L. Kretzschmar of Rockdale; brother, Joel Rubio of Rockdale; sister, Judith & David Hernandez of Leander; close friends, Roy Pilent of Bastrop and Bobby Davis Sr. of Bastrop as well as numerous nieces, nephews, aunts and uncles.

Memorials may be made to the Freda Rubio Memorial Fund.

Funeral services for Christopher Jon Thacker Liebl II, 34 of Bryan and formerly of Giddings, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 23, 2010 at Martin Luther Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Jeremy Walloch officiating. Visitation will be held Thursday from 8:00 a.m. until 12:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Jon passed away unexpectedly on Friday, September 17, 2010 at his home in Bryan.

Christopher Jon Thacker Liebl II was born on November 4, 1975 in Houston, Texas to Chris Liebl & Darlene (Beavers) Liebl. He was baptized on December 21, 1988 during a school chapel service at Immanuel Lutheran School in Giddings and graduated the 8th grade from Immanuel Lutheran School in 1990. Jon was confirmed on April 8, 1990 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings. He graduated from Giddings High School on May 27, 1994 where he played on the varsity teams in tennis and golf and participated in the drama club and the one-act play. He had been employed as a computer technician and loved his nieces and nephews and felt that they were his reason for getting out of bed in the morning.

Jon was preceded in death by his grandparents, Thomas C. Beavers and Bob & Jo Liebl; his aunts and uncles, Diane Brawley, Richard Brawley, Janice Belknap, Rudolph Thacker and Al Belknap.

He is survived by his parents, Darlene & Frank Thacker of Giddings and Chris Liebl of California; two brothers, Clayton Thacker & Nicole of Giddings and Jim Thacker of Houston; nieces and nephews, Skyler Thacker, Clay Thacker, Cole Thacker and Chloe Thacker all of Giddings; grandmother, Theresa Beavers of Houston; aunts and uncles, Marilyn Beavers of Houston, Danny & Terry Beavers of Houston, Donald & Gwenda Beavers of Bryan and James Thacker of Houston as well as numerous aunts, uncles and cousins in California.

Memorials may be made to the Martin Luther Lutheran Church Day School or to the charity of one's choice.

Funeral services for Arlene Gardner, 51 of Paige, Texas, are scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings, Texas with Rev. Keith Aschenbeck and Rev. Robert Tiner officiating. Burial will follow at the Friendship Cemetery in Hills, Texas. Visitation will be held Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. until 11:00 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church.

Arlene passed away on Sunday, September 12, 2010 at her home in Paige.

Arlene Jane Albrecht Gardner was born on June 24, 1959 in Giddings, Texas to Leon & Marie (Schneider) Albrecht. She was united in marriage to Charles Gardner on March 28, 1983 in McAllen, Texas and worked in the accounting department of Farmers Insurance.

Arlene was preceded in death by her grandparents and a cousin, Marcus Durrenberger.

She is survived by her parents, Leon & Marie Albrecht of Paige; her husband, Charles Gardner of Paige; her daughter, Valerie Gardner of Austin; two brothers, Royce & Gail Albrecht of Paige and Curtis & Brenda Albrecht of Paige; two sisters, Kathy & Robert Neal of Hills and Gladys & Raymond Padgett of Round Rock; sister-in-law, Maureen & John Swint of Leander as well as numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Javier Martinez, Matt Neal, Brandon Padgett, Brian Albrecht, Steven Albrecht and Brad Albrecht.

The family would like to especially thank Gladys Padgett for all her help and support in our time of need.

Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 175, Giddings, Texas 78942, the Lee County Cancer Resource Center, 165 West Austin, Giddings, Texas 78942 or the charity of one's choice.

Funeral services for Ida Clark, 69 of Brenham, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 14, 2010 at the Mt. Zion Cemetery in Burton, Texas.

Ida passed away on Thursday, September 9, 2010 at the Parkview Nursing & Rehab Center in Lockhart, Texas.

Ida Lucille Lail Clark was born on June 8, 1941 in Marion, North Carolina to Paul Alvin & Mary Lois (Revis) Lail. She was a retired bus driver.

Ida was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Sam Hauck; two brothers, Paul Lail Jr. & Dillard Lail Jr. and a daughter, Rhonda Martinez.

She is survived her son and daughter-in-law, Randy & Susan Martin of Lockhart; two daughters and sons-in-law, Robyn & Brian Swisher of West Palm Beach, FL and Renee & Steve Popp of Bativia, OH; sister, Joyce Barnhouse of West Palm Beach, FL; grandchildren, Ann & Wes Belcher, David Martinez, Sarah & Brad Bolick, Tiffany Swisher, Halley Swisher, Heather Popp and Jeremy Popp; great grandchildren, Devin Swisher, Johnathan Belcher, Zachary Belcher, Michael Belcher and Carmen Bolick; companion, Ed Clark of Brenham as well as numerous step children, step grandchildren and nieces and nephews.

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

Maria Del Carmen Rocha Fernandez, 42 of Giddings, passed away Friday, September 3, 2010 in Yoakum, Texas.

Maria “Carmen” was born in Monterrey, Mexico on April 27, 1968 to Jose Cruz Sanchez and Beatriz Fernandes Ibarra. She was a dedicated worker in the food service industry and loved to garden, cook, dance and spend time with her family and friends.

She is survived by her parents; brothers and sisters, Manuel Rocha, Jose Cruz Rocha, Juaquin Rocha, Ramiro Rocha, Maria Elena Rocha, and Aurora Patria Rocha; cousins Victoria Castro and Maria Del Soccoro; brother and sister in laws, Thomas Cruz Garrido, Fransico Alamilla Moreida, Carlos Morales Sausedo, Irma Goitia Ruiz, Maria Ernestina Gonzalez Munoz and Sandra America Mata. She is also survived by niece and nephews, Jose Cruz Rocha Gonzalez, Marta Beathis Rocha Landeros, Juan Antonio Rocha Gonzalez as well as other relatives and friends.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, September 7, 2010 from 11:00 am until 9:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Rosary will be held at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday Evening at the funeral home.

Funeral services for Carmen will be held in San Lois Potosi, Mexico later in the week.

On Sunday, August 22, 2010, Amber Lee Leatherman Ray was unexpectedly taken from us to be with her Heavenly Father while vacationing in California, celebrating her First Wedding Anniversary.

Amber was born on November 19, 1971, in LaGrange, Texas to Brenda and Steve Leatherman of Giddings. Amber married Tom Ray on August 15, 2009, in Giddings, Texas. They were members of Sugar Creek Baptist Church, Sugarland, Texas.

Services were held at 3 p.m. Saturday, August 28, 2010 in Settegast-Kopf Chapel, Sugarland, Texas with Pastor Garet Robinson officiating. A graveside memorial service will be held at the Ledbetter Cemetery in Ledbetter, Texas on Thursday, September 9, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. Amber was such a devoted Christian and spread God’s word to everyone she met and everywhere she went. She was not afraid to share the message of Jesus Christ. She was a very selfless person and only wanted goodness for everyone and to make everyone happy. This selflessness continued to shine even after her death by donating tissue that improved the lives of at least twenty other people by making the decision to be an organ/tissue donor. As Grandmother Schumann said upon learning of her death “God picked a beautiful flower today.”

Amber left many wonderful memories by being a devoted Aunt to her nieces and nephews whom she loved dearly. She was the best sister anyone could ask for and the most wonderful, compassionate daughter in the world. Amber devoted her life to working with the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation in an effort to find a cure for this terrible disease, which afflicts her niece Lauran. Amber loved to sing and was formerly a member of the Houston Second Baptist Church Choir, where she performed at many public worship events in the Houston area. She also believed in older traditions and was President of the Rebekah Lodge in Houston.

After completing high school, Amber attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville with her major in environmental science.

Amber was preceded in death by her Paternal Grandparents Lee Leatherman, whom was her namesake, and Ruth Harvey.

Survivors include her husband, Tom Ray; Mama and Daddy, Brenda and Steve Leatherman; Sisters and Brother- in-law: DeAnna and Robert Gillespie, Missy and Jon Jervis, and Brandy and Brian Montgomery, Nieces: Lauran Dobos, Lynzee Gillespie, Maddyson Jervis; Nephews: Hunter and Caedon Jervis and Austyn Gillespie.

Amber was also looking forward to the upcoming birth of her twin niece and/or nephews in March - which she was so excited about. Maternal Grandparents Marvin and Jewell Schumann; Uncle and Aunt Danny and Carol Schumann and a cousin Michele Juarez. Amber also had a new family through marriage including Motherin- Law Marie; Step-daughter Tres-ana; Step-sons and Step daughter-in-laws Tyler and Melissa and also Timothy and Chance. Step grandchildren include, Trent, Kylee, Kaylee, Zoe, Bishop and Macy.

Anyone wishing to make a memorial in Amber’s honor may do so by making a donation to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation at 6931 Arlington Road, 2nd floor, Bethesda, Maryland, 20814

Funeral services for Delores McRee, 92 of Brenham, Texas and formerly of San Angelo, Texas, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 31, 2010 at the Lexington United Methodist Church in Lexington, Texas with Rev. Lance Richards officiating. Burial will follow in the Lexington Cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday morning from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at the church.

Delores passed away on Saturday, August 28, 2010 at the Kruse Village in Brenham, Texas.

Delores Shivers McRee was born on April 7, 1918 at Boyle, Mississippi to Ernest E. Shiver Sr. and Beulah F. (Boyer) Shivers. She attended the University of Oklahoma and received her Teaching Certificate from the University of Texas in Austin. She taught briefly at the Biehle School in Lee County, Texas. Delores was united in marriage to Dan Browder McRee on April 15, 1939 in Lee County, Texas. She was an active member of the First United Methodist Church in San Angelo and the Lexington United Methodist Church, a charter member of the Senesa Garden Club in San Angelo and a member of the Eastern Star and the Daughters of the Nile. Delores enjoyed traveling and had visited many places all over the world. She was also a master bridge player.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband; two brothers, Gerald Shivers and Ernest Shivers Jr. and a sister, Elsie Ernastine Shivers.

Delores is survived by her son, Leo E. McRee & wife, Gwen of San Antonio; two daughters, Nancy Lodes & husband, Bob of San Antonio and Pat Rao & husband, Bob of Lexington; grandchildren, Leo E. McRee Jr. of San Antonio, Pam McKenna & husband, Louis of Dallas, Peggy Carper & husband, Bill of Humble, Polly Pascual & husband, Paul of Dallas, Stefanie Mann & husband, Jimmy of Baytown, Christi Campbell & husband, Omer of Baytown and Pennie Johnson & husband, Todd of League City; great grandchildren, Ashley & Merrideth McKenna of Dallas, Taylor & Grant Carper of Humble, Christopher Mann of Baytown, Shelbie Campbell of Baytown and Jaclyn & Olivia Johnson of League City; two sisters, Ingomar McNeil of St. Petersburg, FL and Imogene Martin of Davis, OK and numerous nieces and nephews.

Memorials may be made to the Lexington United Methodist Church or the charity of choice.

Hattie Ann Medack Mitschke, 89 of Serbin, passed away Saturday, August 21, 2010 at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings, Texas. Hattie Mitschke was born in Serbin, Texas on May 5, 1921 to Paul and Louise Zoch Medack.

She was a homemaker and a devout mother and wife. She was united in marriage to Albert Mitschke on Feb. 12, 1937 in Serbin, TX at St. Paul Lutheran Church. In 1942 they moved to Houston from Round Top Texas were she was a member of Christ Lutheran and Bethany Lutheran Church and she was an active member of their ladies aids. In 1982 they made their journey back home to Serbin Texas and enjoyed the retired life.

Hattie Mitschke was preceded in death by her parents, her Husband, and two brothers Ludwig Medack and Paul Medack

She is survived by her three daughters Jarrene Mitschke of Serbin, Doris Mitschke of Serbin, and Gloria and Randal Hoppens of Brenham; two grandchildren, Nathan Hoppens of Austin, and Sarah and Nathan Engman of Katy; six sisters, Ester Lampp of Houston, Elsie Powell of California, Louis and Fred Moeller of Houston, Alice Aalund of Giddings, Helen and Bill Wenthe of Walburg, and Viola Sherk of Giddings; one sister-in-law; Lorine Bamsch of Giddings. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Funeral services for Mrs. Mitschke will be at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 24, 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 hours will be 8:30 AM until 9:00 PM on Monday, August 23, 2010 at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home. The family will be present from 6:00-8:00 pm.

Memorial contributions can be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church Restoration Fund and or the Lutheran Hour in Serbin, Texas.

Funeral services for Florine Rackel, 81 of Giddings, are scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Friday, August 20, 2010 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Keith Aschenbeck & Rev. Robert Tiner officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery.

Florine passed away on Sunday, August 15, 2010 at Seton Medical Center in Austin.

Florine Helen Beisert Rackel was born on October 24, 1928 in Lincoln, Texas to Oscar & Amanda (Kasper) Beisert. She was united in marriage to William H. Rackel on August 4, 1946 at Christ Lutheran Church in Loebau, Texas.

Funeral services for Jessie Munez, 85 of Riverside, California, are scheduled for 2:00 p.m. on Monday, August 16, 2010 at St. Margaret's Catholic Church in Giddings with Father Jim Olnhausen officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday from 10:00 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Jessie passed away on Monday, August 9, 2010 at St. David's Round Rock Medical Center in Round Rock.

Jessie Munez was born on September 2, 1924 in Giddings, Texas to Pedro & Maria Del Refugio (Martinez) Muniz. He served in the U.S. Army Air Force during WWII. Jessie was united in marriage to Anita Nunez on October 23, 1949 at Guadalupe Catholic Church in Austin, Texas. He was a retired electrician who was also a member of the Local 11 IBEW Electricians Union in California and a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Riverside, California.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Pedro Muniz and Maria

Muniz Nanez and a brother, Robert Nanez.

Jessie is survived by his wife, Anita Munez of Riverside, CA; three children, Pete & Emily Munez of Rialto, CA, Annette Munez of Riverside, CA and Paul Munez of Riverside, CA; three grandchildren, Aron & Tina Munez of Las Cruces, NM, Michelle & Joe Gonzales of Las Cruces, NM and Jeffrie Munez of Riverside, CA; six great grandchildren; four sisters, Virginia Git of San Antonio, Esther Ladesma of Houston, Janie Martinez of Dallas and Esparanza Barrera of Bastrop; two brothers, Henry Nanez of Dallas and Frank Nanez of Austin as well as numerous nieces and nephews and a host of cousins.

Ruby Jewel Cockrum Gooding, 83 of Giddings passed away Saturday, August 7, 2010 at Oakland Manor Nursing Center, Giddings, Texas.

Mrs Gooding was born in Lamar Co., Texas on Dec. 20, 1926 to Pastor Estle and Esetlle Cockrum. She was a Homemaker and loved working with her church. She was united in marriage to Hermin Gooding on April 8, 1947. She was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin.

Ruby Gooding was preceded in death by her parents, her son Jerry Gooding, husband, and 1 brothers James Cockrum.

She is survived by her son, Herman Gooding Jr. of Giddings, her daughter and son-in-law, Ina and Calvin Mitschke of Giddings, grandchildren Sharon and Shane Hoffman of Giddings and Michael Mitschke of Giddings, Sister; Betty & Maxie McFadden of Holiday, sister-in-law; Marilyn Cockrum of Iowa Park and Ann Gooding of Channel View. She is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

Funeral services for Mrs. Gooding will be at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, August 10, 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 hours will be 10:00 AM until 9:00 PM Monday, August 9, 2010 at Phillips and Luckey Funeral Home. The family will be present fro 6-8pm.

Memorial contributions can be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church restoration fund, Serbin, Texas, The Alzheimer’s Association or the Charity of your choice. .

Funeral services for Murel Rogers, 86 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 5, 2010 at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings with Pastor Brent Eaton officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City 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 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home.

Murel passed away on Sunday, August 1, 2010 at the Wellington Place in Temple, Texas.

Murel H. Rogers was born on March 6, 1924 in Grand Saline, Texas to Jeremiah & Lonie (Dennis) Rogers. He was a United States Navy Veteran and a retired truck driver.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, two sisters and one brother.

Murel is survived by four sons, Dennis Rogers of Bakersfield, CA, Jimmy & Jo Ann Rogers of Arlington, Jay & Willa Rogers of Waco and Michael & Elva Rogers of Lexington; one daughter, Patsy Metcalf of Richardson; 11 grandchildren; 14 great grandchildren; three stepchildren, Dr. Carl Altenburger of Ocala, FL, Cory Altenburger of Ocala, FL and Christie Bamberry of Coco Beach, FL and a brother, Jimmy Rogers of Fairfield.

Memorials may be made to the First Baptist Church in Lexington or the First Baptist Church of Temple.

Flora B. Morrison 93, of Paige TX. and the widow of Johnny Alexander Morrison. Died on Monday July 26,2010 at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange TX.

Mrs. Morrison's funeral will be held on Saturday July 31,2010 at 10:00AM at the Barnes Family and Friends Cemetery in Paige TX. With Rev. Derrick Barnes officiating.

Mrs. Morrison is survived by. Daughters: Beverly Dobrowsky of Bellville TX, Faye and Husband Billy Barnes of Paige TX, Helen and Husband Wayne Moore of Liberty Hill, TX, 17 Grand Children, 27 Great Grand Children, 16 Great Great Grandchildren. Multiple nieces, nephews and cousins and beloved extended Family.

Mrs. Morrison is preceded in death by: Husband, Parents, 1 child Danny Morrison, 1 Grandchild Lisa Barnes, 1 Great grandchild, Kyle Barnes, 1 brother James Medlock, 2 Sisters Winnie Preece, and Mildred Shannon

Funeral services for Ernest Oltmann, 92 of Northrup, Texas are scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 21, 2010 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin, Texas with Rev. John Schmidt officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Tuesday from 1:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The Oltmann family will be present for visitation Tuesday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mr. Oltmann passed on Tuesday, July 20, 2010 at Country Care Plex in Giddings.

Ernest (Ernst) William Oltmann was born on September 23, 1917 in Shiner, Texas to Wilhelm & Alma (Tietjen) Oltmann. He was baptized at home in Shiner by Pastor Stelzer and confirmed on March 29, 1931 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin by Rev. Herman Schmidt. His confirmation verse was 1John 5:4. He was united in marriage to Edna Patschke on June 10, 1942 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fedor, Texas by Rev. A.F. Michalk. Their marriage was blessed with four sons and a daughter.

Mr. Oltmann served in the U.S. Army from March 14, 1941 until receiving his Honorable Discharge January 6, 1946. He had been employed as a foreman with RB Butler Company in Bryan and later with Droemer Construction in Giddings. He was an active and lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church where he served on numerous committees and boards and was instrumental in the planning and construction of the current school facility. He was also a member of the American Legion Post in Giddings.

Mr. Oltmann was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers and their wives, Wilbert C. & Else Oltmann and Ben & Ruby Oltmann.

He is survived by his wife of 68 years, Edna Oltmann of Northrup; five children, Bobby & Carolyn Oltmann of Northrup, Dennis & Shirley Oltmann of Giddings, Dianna & Arthur Noack of Northrup, Ronald & Linda Oltmann of Serbin and Ralph & Darlene Oltmann of Waco; fourteen grandchildren, Keith & Cherie Oltmann of Northrup, Craig & Melodi Oltmann of Serbin, Gary & Tracy Oltmann of Northrup, Amber & Don Beadles of Austin, Calene & Patrick Horton of Austin, Jessie & Shawnna Oltmann of Giddings, Britt & Kevin Kushner of Austin, James Noack of Giddings, Sandi & Dwain Coufal of Temple, Johnathan & Amy Noack of Giddings, Brandon Oltmann of Serbin, Heather Sowders of Serbin, Derrick & Amber Oltmann of Waco and Alyson Oltmann of Waco; twelve great grandchildren; two sisters, Gladys & Victor Symm of Serbin and Ruth & Richard Lewis of Wolf City as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers will be Keith Oltmann, Craig Oltmann, Gary Oltmann, Jessie Oltmann, James Noack, Johnathan Noack, Brandon Oltmann and Derrick Oltmann.

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

Funeral services for Robert Spitzenberger, 83 of Lexington, are scheduled for 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, July 18, 2010 at St. John Lutheran Church in Dime Box, Texas with Rev. Ed Truelson officiating. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. Visitation will be held Saturday from 1:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Mr. Spitzenberger passed away on Friday, July 16, 2010 at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings.

Robert Lewis Spitzenberger was born on November 7, 1926 in Dime Box, Texas to George & Elizabeth (Hahn) Spitzenberger. He was united in marriage to Julia Matejcek on July 9, 1955 in Thrall, Texas. Their marriage was blessed with three children Leslie, Peggy & Robert. Mr. Spitzenberger served in the U.S. Army during WWII and was a retired sheet-rocker.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Survivors include his wife, Julia Spitzenberger of Lexington; three children, Leslie & Mary Spitzenberger of Lexington, Peggy & Ronnie Ott of Lexington and Robert & Janet Spitzenberger of Lexington; eight grandchildren, Robert K. Spitzenberger, Robert L. Spitzenberger, Tyler Spitzenberger, Brandi Spitzenberger, Stephanie Pelham, Heather Schulz, Jennifer Nail and Michelle Ott as well as eleven great grandchildren.

Pallbearers will be Robert L. Spitzenberger, Robert K. Spitzenberger, Tyler Spitzenberger, Darrell Nail Jr., Darrell Nail III, Bryan Schulz and Robert Pelham.

Honorary pallbearers will be Ronald Suehs, Robert Suehs, William Matejcek, Robert Matejcek, Joe Matejcek, David Pillack, Emil Pampell, Bill Lynch, Frederick Benson, Kenneth Pelham, Benjamin Pelham, Trevor Spitzenberger and Stevie Henderson.

Memorials may be made to St. John Lutheran Church in Dime Box, Texas.

Funeral services for J.B. Gersch Jr., 80 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Monday, July 19, 2010 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Keith Aschenbeck officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Sunday from 9:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Monday from 7:00 a.m. until 8:30 a.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. The family will be present for visitation Sunday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

J.B. passed away at his home in Giddings on Thursday, July 15, 2010.

John Bernhard Gersch Jr. was born on September 16, 1929 in Giddings, Texas to John B. & Esther (Tschatschula) Gersch. He was baptized on September 22, 1929 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings by Rev. G.W. Fischer and confirmed also at Immanuel on March 29, 1942 by Rev. Max Studtmann. J.B. attended Immanuel Lutheran School and graduated from Giddings High School. He attended Blinn College and received his Bachelor's Degree from the University of Texas at Austin. He obtained the rank of Corporal in the U.S. Army serving his country during the Korean War. J.B. was a retired computer analyst with Texaco in Houston for nearly 30 years.

He was a Certified Master Gardener and a member of the Giddings Garden Club. He served as Secretary of the Texas Wendish Heritage Society in Serbin and was a member of the Lee County Historical Society, the Roadrunners Travel Club, a volunteer at the Lee County Senior Citizens Center, a representative for the Texas Department of Aging and an active supporter of Festival Hill in Round Top.

J.B. was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by family members Ruth Tschatschula of Brenham, Beverly & Kenneth Peters of Brenham, Kenneth Peters II & fiance Kimberly High of Brenham and Elizabeth & Ryan Jones & their daughter Lauren of Austin. He is also survived by a special friend, Betty Jo Knippa of Giddings as well as numerous other family members and friends.

Memorials may be made to Festival Hill, P.O. Box 89, Round Top, Texas 78954, the Texas Wendish Heritage Society, 1011 CR 212, Giddings, Texas 78942 or Immanuel Lutheran Church. 300 North Grimes, Giddings, Texas 78942.

Funeral services for Daniel Ramos, 72 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 17, 2010 at St. Margaret's Catholic Church in Giddings with Father Jim Olnhausen officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings. A Rosary will be held Friday evening at 7:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

Daniel passed away on Monday, July 12, 2010 at St. Mark's Medical Center in La Grange.

Daniel Ramos was born on April 20, 1938 in Rockdale, Texas to Manuel & Delores (Valdez) Ramos. He married Mary Basquez on July 13, 1963 in Rockdale, Texas. Their marriage was blessed with five children, Daniel, Nick, Rosie, Arthur and Phillip. Daniel was retired from Union Pacific Railroad.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Manuel & Delores Ramos; his son, Arthur Ramos and several brothers and sisters.

Daniel is survived by his wife, Mary Ramos of Giddings; four children, Daniel & Kathy Ramos of Manor, Nick & Beverly Ramos of Giddings, Rosie & Ernest Becerra of Giddings and Phillip Ramos of Giddings; eight grandchildren, Benjamin Ramos of Giddings, Jared Becker of Giddings, Jessica Ramos of Giddings, Christina Becerra of Giddings, Fabian Becerra of Giddings, Phillip Ramos Jr. of Giddings, Tobias Ramos of Giddings and Gabriel "Gordo" Ramos of Giddings; one great granddaughter, Maya Ramos of Giddings; one brother, Manuel Ramos of Rockdale and numerous nieces and nephews.

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

Funeral services for Franklin Birnbaum, 75 of Fedor, Texas, are scheduled for 3:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 14, 2010 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Robert Tiner officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Monday evening from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., Tuesday from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Phillips & Luckey Funeral Home in Giddings.

Franklin passed away on Friday, July 9, 2010 at the Christus Dubuis Hospital of Bryan.

Franklin Edgar Birnbaum was born on March 18, 1935 in Manheim, Texas, the son of Karl & Rosie (Wachsmann) Birnbaum. He was baptized at Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Manheim on March 31st of that same year by Rev. C.W. Rische. He was later confirmed at that same church on April 10, 1949 by Rev. Paul G. Brust. His confirmation verse was John 8:31b-32, "If ye continue in my word, then ye are my disciples indeed, and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free."

On June 9, 1962, Franklin was joined in marriage to Dorothy Ann Schwartz at Trinity Lutheran Church in Fedor, Texas by Rev. August Horne and Rev. Andrew Szegedin. Their marriage text was Matthew 28:20b, "And surely I will be with you always, to the very end of the age." Their marriage was blessed with four children.

He served as a medic in the U.S. Army following the Korean Conflict. He later worked as a farmer and businessman working with his family to start B & B Auto and Farm Supply and Leesure Lanes Bowling Alley.

Franklin was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Ryan; two brothers, Wilbert Sr. and LeRoy; two sisters, Doris Woelfel and Frances Baylor; two brothers-in-law, Gilbert Schwartz and Clarence Woelfel and one sister-in-law, Margaret Birnbaum.

Survivors include his wife of 48 years, Dorothy Birnbaum of Fedor; daughter, Fay & Gary Iselt of Giddings; son, David & Julie Birnbaum of Fedor and daughter, Kristy & Jason Kauffman of Fedor; grandchildren include, Heather Birnbaum of Lexington, Hope Birnbaum of Fedor, Justin Rodriguez of Giddings, Jacob, Madison & Noah Birnbaum of Fedor and DaCota, Cade & Chesney Kauffman of Fedor; one great grandchild, Keelyn Tatum of Lexington; four step grandchildren, Amy Martinez of Giddings, Chris Martinez of Tennessee, Justin Iselt of Giddings and Amanda Iselt of Bellville; six step great granddaughters, Adriana, Samantha, Amahni, Leilani, Abby & Skylar; two brothers, Isdell Birnbaum Sr. of Spring and Allen & Alice Birnbaum of Manheim; sister-in-law, Emily Birnbaum of Manheim; brother-in-law, Robert Baylor of Huntsville and numerous other family, friends and loved ones.

Serving as pallbearers will be Dennis Baylor, Justin Iselt, Isdell Birnbaum Jr., Justin Rodriguez, Randy Birnbaum and Roger Woelfel. Honorary pallbearers will be Virgil Birnbaum, Wilbert Birnbaum Jr., and Larry Woelfel.

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

Funeral services for Floyd Markert, 79 of Giddings, are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 26, 2010 at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings with Rev. Robert Tiner officiating. Burial will follow in the Giddings City Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday from 8:00 a.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 Markert family will be present for visitation Friday evening from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Mr. Markert passed away on Monday, June 21, 2010 at Oakland Manor Nursing Center in Giddings.

Floyd Elmer Markert was born on August 1, 1930 in Lee County, Texas to Walter Otto & Augusta Emelia (Fritsche) Markert. He was baptized on August 3, 1930 at St. John Lutheran Church in Lincoln by Rev. R. Osthoff and confirmed at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Giddings on April 2, 1944 by Rev. Max Studtmann.

Floyd was drafted into the US Army in 1953 and received his Honorable Discharge 1954 when he was required to return home due to his father's death. He married LaVerne Faske on August 8, 1954 at Ebenezer Lutheran Church in Manheim, Texas with Rev. Herbert Hartfield officiating. Their marriage was blessed with six children, Darrell, Alice, Melvin, Roy, Larry and Lester with Melvin passing away at the age of six months.

Floyd was a farmer and later became a sheetrocker. He loved to build, especially with helping his children with different tasks. He also loved to hunt and fish. His greatest joy was to barbeque for his family. Even when his health began to decline, he still wanted to have them over to enjoy his barbeque.

Floyd was preceded in death by his parents, Walter Markert and Augusta Markert Schoenberg; step-father, Rudolph Schoenberg; infant son, Melvin Markert; brothers, Walter and Leonard Markert; sister-in-law, Ruby Markert and a nephew, James Markert.

He is survived by his wife, LaVerne Markert of Giddings; children, Darrell Markert of Giddings, Alice & Mark Wilson of Winchester, Roy & Patricia Markert of Giddings, Larry & Kay Markert of Kyle and Lester & Donya of Leander; grandchildren, Rebecca & Brian Mitschke of Giddings, Brian & Markus Wilson of Winchester, Jason & Laura Markert of Amarillo, Janie & Brian Whiteaker of Austin, Ashley & Lexi Markert of Virginia, Kerry Markert and Carmen Orocio of Giddings, Ashley Ruiz of Giddings, Autumn LaFuente of Giddings, Brandon Saucedo of Giddings and Amanda, Caitlin and Brandi Markert of Kyle; great grandchildren, Allan, Destanie & Nia Mitschke of Giddings, Lillian & Noah Markert of Amarillo, Jacob Whiteaker of Austin, Keagan Campbell and Brianna Turner of Virginia and Michael Markert to be born on June 29th; brothers, Leon & Viola Markert and Rufus & Dee Markert all of Houston and Edward Markert of Giddings; sister, Beverly Ullrich of La Grange and sisters-in-law, Carolyn Markert of Giddings and Karen Markert of Seattle as well as numerous nieces and nephews.

Serving as pallbearers will be Markus Wilson, Brian Wilson, Kerry Markert, Rebecca Mitschke, Steven Medack and Kenneth Faske. Honorary pallbearer will be Ashley Markert.

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

Michael passed away at his home on Thursday, April 29, 2010.

Michael Erwin Fritsche was born on February 6, 1961 in Houston, Texas to Erwin Edmund & Doris Emma (Vogel) Fritsche. He was baptized on February 19, 1961 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Houston and confirmed on March 23, 1975 at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Serbin.

He attended Giddings High School and was a member of the graduating class of 1979. Michael had been employed as a pumper with Clayton Williams and enjoyed hunting, fishing and sports, especially baseball and golf.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Gustav & Mary Fritsche, John A. Vogel and Willie Zoch.

Michael is survived by his two sons, Aaron & Blake Fritsche of Giddings; his parents, Erwin & Doris Fritsche of Northrup; sister, Carol & Glen "Skip" Wobus of Smithville; two brothers, Rodney Fritsche of Giddings and David & Michele Fritsche of Northrup; grandmother, Hermine Zoch of Northrup as well as several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Andrew Fritsche, Christian Fritsche, Matthew Wobus, Luke Wobus, Aaron Prince and Philip Fritsche. Honorary pallbearers will be Mike Simpson and Greg Roeber.

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