Obituaries
- R -

JOSEPHA HENSINGER/HOSSINGER RAAB

Moulton News, 11 Jul 1895

DIED.

Mrs Franz Roab [Raab] died Sunday eve after a lingering illness. The deceased was a victim of that dread disease consumption, and had been sick nearly a year. She leaves a husband and six children. The funeral took place Monday. Mr. Roab is a Hermann Soehne.

Josepha Raab, 25 Nov 1856 – 7 Jul 1895, was buried at St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery in Moulton. Her maiden name is either Hensinger or Hossinger per children’s death certificates. Contributed by Matt Cross

KARTER MICHAEL RAAB

Victoria Advocate, August 31, 2011

KARTER MICHAEL RAAB

VICTORIA - Karter Michael Raab, infant son of Michael J. and Jayme Lynn Mitchell Raab of Victoria, passes away Aug. 29, 2011. He was born Oct. 18, 2010 in Houston. Karter was an angel budded on earth to bloom in Heaven.

Karter is survived by his parents; one brother, Morgan Neyland of Victoria; two sisters, Kylie Raab and Madison Raab, both of Victoria; grandparents, James Raab of Moulton, JoAnn Meyer and Robert Berger of Moulton, and Edward and Debra Urban of Schroeder; great-grandparents, Evelyn Raab of Moulton, Marie and Harvey Schumacher of Yoakum and Fran Mensching of Missouri Valley, Iowa.

Karter was preceded in death by his great-grandfathers, Clarence Raab, Whitey Mensching, Cecil Maresch; and grandfather, Harry Meyer.

Visitation will be 9 a.m. Wednesday, Aug. 31, 2011 at Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Moulton. A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Moulton. Funeral services will be at 10 a.m. Thursday, Sept. 1, 2011 at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Moulton with Father Gabriel Maison officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Bobby Cowan, Barton Breauer, Matt Mikes and Caleb Patterson. Honorary Pallbearers will be Karter's cousins. Smith Funeral Home, 404 West Bobkat Drive, Moulton, TX 77975, 361-596-4631.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

OSCAR F. RAAB

See obituary and samples of his work on Unidentified Photographs page.

ERNEST STEVE RAABE SR.

Victoria Advocate, April 17, 2006

ERNEST S. RAABE SR. - HALLETTSVILLE

HALLETTSVILLE - Ernest Steve Raabe Sr., 87, of Hallettsville, died Saturday, April 15, 2006.

He was born July 20, 1918, in Hallettsville, to the late Robert Frank and Emily Horak Raabe. He was a veteran of World War II.

Survivors: sons, Alan Raabe of Moulton and Steve Raabe of Rosenberg; and six grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: sister, Lillie Fredrick; brothers, Robert Raabe, Walter Raabe, and Otto Raabe; and one grandchild.

Graveside services will be 2 p.m. today at Hallettsville City Cemetery, the Rev. Lunday Hooten officiating. Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361-798-3271.

Memorials: American Cancer Society.

Contributed by Sandra Long Anders

LYDIA BOEHM RAAB

Shiner Gazette, 9 Apr 1970, page 1

Last Rites For Mrs. Joe Raab

Mrs. Joe Raab of 631 Nottingham, San Antonio, passed away at her home Thursday, March 26, 1970, following an extended illness. She attained the age of 59 years and 8 days.

Funeral services were held Saturday, March 28 at 10:00 a.m. at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Moulton with Father Robert Schmidt officiating. Interment was in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery.

Rosary was recited at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel, Moulton, Friday night at 7:00 p.m.

Serving as pallbearers were Edgar and Herbert Raab, Alvin and Raymond Boehm, Alvin Dudik and Franklin Billimek.

Mrs. Raab, nee Lydia Boehm, was born in Moulton, March 18, 1911, the daughter of the late Martin and Katerine (Novak) Boehm. October 18, 1927 she was united in marriage to Joe Raab in Moulton. They settled in the Moulton area where they farmed for a livelihood until 5½ years ago when they moved to San Antonio.

Surviving are her husband, Joe Raab of San Antonio; one son, Quinton J. Raab of San Antonio; one daughter, Mrs. Curtis (Iris) Havel of San Antonio; two brothers, Joe A. Boehm of Shiner and Willie E. Boehm of Ganado; one sister, Mrs. Anton (Vlasta) Dudik of Aquilla; and five grandchildren.

Contributed by Matt Cross

THERESIE RAAB

Shiner Gazette, 10 Dec 1908, page 1

—Mrs. Raab, wife of Joe Raab, died suddenly last Thursday and was buried in the Catholic cemetery. Mrs. Raab was 43 years old and leaves a husband and a large family of children to mourn her death.

Shiner Gazette, 10 Dec 1908, Sunset School News column

MRS. TERESIA RAAB.

Wednesday morning, at 10 o’clock, the sad news was heard over our community that Mrs. Teresia Raab, wife of Joe Raab, had died. Mrs. Raab reached the age of 39 years. She was ill but about fourteen days; and leaves her bereaved husband and eleven children, three grown and married, of her first marriage, the Messrs. Ferdinand and Frank Guettner and Mrs. John Huber. Eight children of her second marriage, six boys and two girls, the oldest a boy of 13 years and the youngest a boy of 14 days. Many kinfolks and friends express sympathy for the bereaved relatives and friends. May she rest in peace.

Mr. and Mrs. Herman Pfeil of Yoakum were here and attended the funeral of Mrs. Pfeil’s sister, Mrs. Raab.

Theresie Rabb, 11 Oct 1865 – 2 Dec 1908, was buried in SS. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Cemetery, Shiner. Contributed by Matt Cross

RABB Infant

Hallettsville Herald, 4 Apr 1889

The infant child of Dr. and Mrs. E. M. Rabb died at 9 o'clock Sunday night, of congestion of the bowels. The remains were interred in the city cemetery Monday morning. The Herald extends sincere condolence to the bereaved parents.

Dr. E. M. RABB

Brownsville Daily Herald, 13 Apr 1908

Dr. Rabb of San Antonio, who has been here for the past two weeks, is quite ill at the Rio Grande hotel.
Brownsville Daily Herald, 15 Apr 1908

Dr. Rabb, of San Antonio, who has been here a short time, was very ill yesterday, but is reported as better today. He and his wife are staying at Mrs. Best.

Brownsville Daily Herald, 16 Apr 1908

DEATH OF DR. E. M. RABB

Visitor from San Antonio Passes Away at Brownsville.

Dr. E. M. Rabb, aged 52 years, a well known physician of San Antonio, died at 7:45 o’clock last evening in this city, at the residence of Mrs. Best on Adams street after being critically ill for several days. He had been in bad health for some time, and his final illness and death were the culmination of physical troubles of long standing. The immediate cause of death was dropsy.

Dr. Rabb came to Brownsville about two weeks ago from San Antonio, having come to see about some landed interests in Hidalgo county. He was accompanied here by his wife, who was with him when he died. The body will be shipped tomorrow to Hallettsville, where he formerly resided, and interment will be made in the cemetery there.
Dr. Rabb was born in Fayette county, Texas, near La Grange and was the son of William Rabb, who was among the early settlers of this state. He lived in Halletsville for twenty years, before removing to San Antonio, where he practiced medicine and conducted a sanitarium.

He was a member of the Baptist church and also of the Masonic fraternity and had a host of friends in all parts of Southwest Texas.

He is survived by his widow and three sisters, Mrs. John Woods and Mrs. T. P. Compton of San Antonio and Mrs. D. Parker of Victoria. He also leaves a brother, Rev. A. W. Rabb, a prominent Baptist minister of Sweet Home, Texas. Frank Rabb of Brownsville was a first cousin of the decedent.

Embry W. Parker, a nephew of Victoria, who was notified of his uncle’s serious illness, arrived here last night, but not in time to see his uncle alive. He and Mrs. Rabb will accompany the body to Hallettsville tomorrow.

Dr. Rabb was fully conscious until the last.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOSEPHINE CRISP RABB

Weimar Mercury, 9 Aug 1940

MRS. A. W. RABB PASSES AWAY

(Hallettsville Herald)

Friends of Mrs. A. W. Rabb were shocked and grieved Monday morning to hear of her unexpected death at 6 a.m. She had been ill with a cold for a few days, but it was not considered serious until Sunday, when she took a turn for the worse and passed into unconsciousness that night. She had been in failing health for several years and was tenderly cared for by her only child, Miss Elizabeth, but her Master chose to call her away and she willingly answered His call. She was 86 years old on Dec. 1, 1939.

Mrs. Rabb was born Josephine Crisp, in Collins county. Her mother died when she was 17 months old and she was reared by her grandparents, Rev. and Mrs. M. W. Matthews. In 1872 she was united in marriage to Rev. A. W. Rabb and they made their home in Cedar Bayou for eight or nine years. After that they lived in Del Rio, where he pastored the Baptist Church in Hallettsville, Sweet Church and Edna. For the last 23 years, Mrs. Rabb and Miss Elizabeth have made their home in Hallettsville. A son, Wm. E. Rabb, died seven years ago and two other children died in infancy.

Besides Miss Elizabeth, there are two grandchildren, Edward Layne and Miss Willynne Rabb of the Teachers’ College at San Marcos.

Mrs. Rabb was a member of the Baptist church and as long as her health permitted, was active in her church work. Even after she became feeble nothing pleased her more than to be taken to the meetings of the Missionary Society where she could be with her friends, for she was of a genial disposition and loved company.

Funeral services were conducted at the Baptist church in Hallettsville, Rev. E. A. Hood officiating, assisted by Rev. A. Guyon. Interment was made in the City Cemetery.

[immediately below obituary]

Mrs. Rabb had many friends in Weimar who were saddened at the news of her death. She was the mother of the late W. E. Rabb, former principal of the Wildwood school. The Mercury offers condolences to the bereaved ones.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANK RADA

Galveston Daily News, 19 Mar 1894

FRANK RADA.

Sweet Home, Tex., March 18.—Frank Rada, the Bohemian boy who accidentally received a load of shot in his neck about six weeks ago from a shotgun in his own hands, died Wednesday afternoon.

LENA RAECHEL

Weimar Mercury, February 14, 1889, page 2

That dreaded malady, consumption, has has added another victim, to its list, in the person of Miss Lena Raechel, who died at the home of her mother, at Hackberry, last Thursday in the 21st year of her age. Miss Raechel has been suffering for several years, and just as she arrived at the age when life is most enticing, “God’s finger touched her, and she slept.” The Herald extends sincere condolence to bereaved relatives.—Herald.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

ROBERT DEXTER RAGSDALE

unidentified San Antonio newspaper clipping

Cattleman Dies in S. A.

Robert D. Ragsdale, 65, rancher and cattleman of Lavaca county and owner of the old Taft ranch, died Monday in a San Antonio hospital. He had lived in this city 22 years, and his home is at 307 Kennedy Avenue, Alamo Heights.

Services will take place at 3 p.m. Wednesday in the Charles Hanavan chapel and burial will be in the Sunset Memorial park. Rosary will be recited at 3 p.m. Tuesday in the Hanavan chapel.

Survivors are his widow, Mrs. Gussie Appelt Ragsdale; sons, James Robert Ragsdale of San Antonio and Charles Ragsdale of Lake Charles, La; daughter, Mrs. Guy B. Gray, and grandson, Guy B. Gray, Jr. of Fort Worth; brother, J. W. Ragsdale of Victoria; sisters, Mrs. Annie Boothe of Gonzales; Mrs. Susie Ragsland of Dallas and Mrs. Bessie Kerr of San Antonio.

DENNIS JOSEPH RAINOSEK

Shiner Gazette, 7 Jul 1983, page 4B

Rainosek Drowning Victim

HALLETTSVILLE – Dennis Joseph Rainosek, 30, of Route 4, Box 128-E, Hallettsville, drowned Friday afternoon, July 1, 1983 while swimming with relatives in Rocky Creek, a stream located near his home.

Funeral services were held at 3 p.m. Sunday, July 3 in Sacred Heart Church.

The Rev. Celestino Say officiated. The body lay in state at Kubena Funeral Home until 2 p.m. Burial followed in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

A society rosary was recited at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at the church.

A farmer, Rainosek was born Aug. 2, 1952 in Lavaca County and lived with his parents Roman F. and Josephine (Grahmann) Rainosek at their home in the Mont Community eight miles southwest of Hallettsville. He was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

Rainosek reportedly had gone swimming with two young relatives in the creek, which was located less than a mile from his home.

Rainosek, who reportedly could not swim, apparently stepped into a hole and disappeared beneath the water.

His body was recovered in eight feet of water at 2:20 p.m. Friday.

Justice of the Peace Alfred Pohl ruled Rainosek died of accidental drowning. No autopsy was ordered.

Surviving are his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Roman F. Rainosek of Hallettsville; two brothers, Paul A. Rainosek, of Savannah, Ga., Joseph H. Rainosek of Victoria; a half brother, Roman R. Rainosek of Houston; six sisters, Mrs. Herbert (Louise) Keil, Jr., Mrs. Mary Lee Sitka, both of Hallettsville, Mrs. Kenneth (Jo Ann) Orsak of Goliad, Mrs. Irene Farrington of Friendswood, Mrs. Tom (Frances) Kanak, Mrs. Nancy Pavlicek, both of Victoria; two half sisters, Mrs. Ervin (Ella Mae) Bludau of Hallettsville, Mrs. Ann Price of Yoakum.

He was preceded in death by a sister, Mrs. Joe W. (Georgie Mae) Smith, Sept. 6, 1972; and a brother, William J. “Bill” Rainosek, Aug. 16, 1976.

Contributed by Matt Cross

C. W. RANKIN

Shiner Gazette, 7 Mar 1900

A Yoakum Tragedy.

Another killing took place at Yoakum last Friday evening about 6 o’clock. Mr. C. W. Rankin, a restaurant keeper and Mr. J. L. Pickens, a traveling auditor of the Aransas Pass road, and on the depot platform and after passing some words, drew their knives and began a duel, which resulted in the death of C. W. Rankin. Mr. Rankin’s throat was cut in a fearful manner; all the blood vessels and the jugular veins were severed. Rankin died in ten minutes after being cut. Pickens was cut four times; once on the muscles of each arm, on the right breast and about the collar bone. The wound on the breast is nearly two inches deep and from two to three inches in length. Pickens’ wounds are quite serious, but not necessarily fatal. The fight took place but a few feet from a large number of people waiting on the depot platform. Pickens was arrested by City Marshal Criswell and taken to Halletsville by Deputy Sheriff R. E. Burkett. He was allowed bail in the sum of $2,500 and was then taken to San Antonio and placed in the railroad hospital. His examining trial was set for yesterday, Tuesday. [Burial place unknown.]

Contributed by Matt Cross

AUGUSTA APPELT RAGSDALE RATLIFF

Lavaca County Tribune-Herald, 4 Jun 1974

Gussie Ratliff

Mrs. Gussie Ragsdale Ratliff, 85, died in a Weimar hospital, Sunday, Sept. 20. She had been ill for some time.

The deceased is a native of Lavaca County, born near Hallettsville, and she spent most of her life in this community. She had lived in San Antonio for a number of years, where she was a member of the Santa Monica's Guild, a member of the Battle of Flowers Association and has been active in numerous other civic and charitable organizations.

Surviving are a daughter, Mrs. Guy B. Gray of El Campo, a son, J. R. Ragsdale of Hallettsville; 9 grandchildren; and one great grandchild.

A funeral Mass was offered at 10 a.m. Monday, September 21, at St. Peter's Catholic Church with interment in Sunset Memorial park in San Antonio.

Those who wish may make memorial contributios to their preferred charity.

Funeral arrangements were by Zizik-Kearns-Downing and McClaughterty Funeral Directors of San Antonio.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson

ANNA BERKENHOFF RASKA

Lavaca County Tribune, 26 May 1944

Mrs. Peter Raska Taken in Death

As the result of a heart attack, Mrs. Peter Raska of Yoakum was taken in death Saturday, May 20 at 9:00 p.m. in the Huth Memorial Hospital.

The funeral services were conducted from Beck funeral home at 9:30 a.m. and St. Joseph's Catholic Church at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday May 23.  Rev Father Victor A. Raska of El Campo, son of the deceased, offered the funeral mass assisted by his first cousins, Rev Alois J. and Very Rev. John L. Morkovsky.  Rev Jos. A. Pustka acted as master of ceremonies and Monsignor F.O. Beck of Victoria preaching a very touching ceremony.  The funeral then proceeded to Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery where internment was made Rev Alois J. Morkovsky officiating.

Mrs. Raska, nee Anna Berkenhoff is survived by her bereaved husband and six children, Rev. Victor A. Raska, of El Campo, Elo Raska, Erwin (Pete) Raska, Henry Raska and Mrs. Dr. (Lorraine) Pulkrabek, all of Yoakum and Mrs. Rufus (Juanita) Kiolbassa of San Antonio.  Their first child died in infancy, also surviving are several grandchildren.

Mrs. Raska had attained the age of 67 years, eight months and 19 days when death took her.  She was truly a devoted mother and devoted Christian who will be sorely missed.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ELO C. RASKA

Victoria Advocate, 5 Feb 1971

Elo C. Raska

Advocate News Service

YOAKUM - Elo C. Raska, 74, long-time resident of Yoakum, died about 5:30 a.m. Thursday at his home here.

Mr. Raska was associated with two brothers in operation of Raska Boot Shop, and had previously been in the clothing business for many years.

He was born Nov. 22, 1896 in Hallettsville.

Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Friday at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church, with burial in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Charlie Morian, George Wysatta, Joe Okrunlik, Refugio Garcia, Otto Siems and Felix Marek.

Contributed by Matt Cross

The Shiner Gazette, Thursday, February 18, 1971, page 6

Elo C. Raska

Yoakum—Elo C. Raska, long-time resident of Yoakum, died about 5:30 a.m. Thursday, February 4, 1971 at his home. He attained the age of 74 years, 2 months and 12 days.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, February 6 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Yoakum. Burial was in St. Joseph Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Charlie Merian, George Wysatta, Joe Okruhlik, Refugio Garcia, Otto Siems and Felix Marek.

Rosary was recited at 8 p.m. Friday at the Buffington Funeral Home Chapel.

Mr. Raska was born November 22, 1896, in Hallettsville, the son of Peter and Annie (Berkenhoff) Raska.

He was associated with two brothers in the operation of Raska Boot Shop, Yoakum, and had previously been in the clothing business for many years.

He was a member of the Knights of Columbus for over 50 years.

Surviving are two brothers, Erwin "Pete" G. and Henry Raska, both of Yoakum; two sisters, Mrs. Emil (Lorraine) Pulkrabek of Yoakum and Mrs. Ludwig G. (Juanita) Dott of San Antonio.

His father preceded him in death in 1952; his mother in 1944; an infant brother Joseph in 1900; and another brother, Rev. Victor A. Raska, December 1, 1961.

Contributed by Nancy Schmidt

E. G. (PETE) RASKA

Victoria Advocate, 17 Dec 1977, page 14A

E. G. Raska

Advocate News Service

YOAKUM - E. G. "Pete" Raska, 79 and a prominent local resident, died Friday in a local hospital.

Funeral services will be Monday at 10 a.m. in the St. Joseph Catholic Church, the Rev. Michael O'Shaughnessy officiating.

Burial will be in the Restland Memorial Park Cemetery.

Rosary will be recited Sunday at7:30 [sic] p.m. in the Buffington Funeral Home Chapel.

Born May 26, 1898 in Hallettsville, Mr. Raska owned Raska's Boot Shop for 50 years and was a charter member of the Yoakum Lions Club, a third degree member of the Knights of Columbus, an honorary member of the Yoakum Texas A&M University Club and a member of several other civic organizations. He was also parade marshall of the Yoakum Leather Tom-Tom parade earlier this year.

Survivors are his wife, Hazel, of Yoakum; and a sister, Mrs. Ludwig G. Dott of San Antonio.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HENRY L. RASKA

Victoria Advocate, 9 Jul 1975, page 12A

Henry L. Raska

Advocate News Service

YOAKUM - Henry L. Raska, 68, of 308 Walnut St. in Yoakum, died at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday at a local hospital after a sudden illness.

He was born in Hallettsville on April 10, 1907, and was a resident of Yoakum for many years. Mr. Raska was in business with his brother, E. G. Raska, at Raska's Boot Shop in Yoakum.

Funeral services are pending at Buffington Funeral Home in Yoakum.

Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Sabina Raska of Yoakum; two daughters, Mrs. Pat Bagley of Germany and Mrs. Catherine Raska of Yoakum; two sons, Peter Raska of College Station and Christopher Raska of Bryan; one brother, E. Raska; one sister, Mrs. Ludwig G. Dot of San Antonio; and two grandchildren.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOSEPH JOHN RASKA

Hallettsville Herald, 28 Jun 1900

Joseph John, the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Raska, died last Friday evening at 5 o'clock, aged nine days.  Funeral services were held at the Catholic Church and burial at the city cemetery Saturday morning.

Contributed by Matt Cross

LOUIS RASKA
MARY RASKA

Harlingen Valley Morning Star, Wed., June 23, 1943

RIO HONDO—Mr. and Mrs. Louis Raska, who live two miles northeast of here, were shot to death and their 18 month-old daughter, Willie Jean critically injured in a shooting at the Raska home about 7 p.m. Tuesday.

Deputy Sheriff Jim Porter and Justice of peace Jack Carpenter, who investigated the shooting, said their report was not completed, but Carpenter indicated the verdict would be "murder and suicide." Cause of the incident was not known.

Raska, 39, was reported to have returned to his home from his job with the Central Power and Light Company between 6 and 7 p.m. Tuesday. Neighbors of the Raskas reported the shooting to Porter about 7:30 p.m., but no details were available late Tuesday night.

Mrs. Raska, 35, was shot twice, once through the chest. Carpenter said he thought Mrs. Raska was holding the baby when she was shot. Valley Baptist Hospital attaches where the baby was being treated, said one arm was almost shot off, but that the doctor had hopes of saving the arm and the baby's life.

The shooting took place in an orchard adjoining the house. Mrs. Raska was found lying in a road through the orchard and Raska was lying under a tree. He had been shot through the head.

A single-shot, .12 guage shotgun was the weapon used, Porter said. Three shots were fired.

Both bodies were taken to Stetler-Burdette Mortuary where funeral arrangements are pending arrival of a brother, Jim, from Yoakum, Texas.

Other survivors include five children, Louis Jerald, 15; Joseph Glenn, 14; Doris Maris, 12; Minnie Scharlien, 10, and Barbara Ann, 5.

Valley Morning Star, Harlingen, Thursday, June 24, 1943

HARLINGEN—Willie Jean Raska, 18-months-old baby who was seriously wounded in the shooting which took the lives of both her parents Tuesday night, was reported late Wednesday to be in fairly good condition at the Valley Baptist hospital. An inquest verdict established the two deaths as murder and suicide, according to Justice of the Peace jack Carpenter at Rio Hondo.

Bodies of Mr. and Mrs. Raska were shipped Wednesday night to Yoakum, Texas, for burial. The two were found dead near their home at Rio Hondo shortly after 7 p.m. Tuesday night.

In addition to the baby who was wounded, the couple was survived by five other children, ranging in age from five to fifteen.

Louis Raska, 1903 - 1943, and his wife Mary, 1908 - 1943, are buried in the Koerth Cemetery. Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

PETER RASKA

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 19 Dec 1952

Peter Raska Funeral Held Here at Cemetery Wednesday

Funeral Services for Peter Raska were held at St. Joseph's Catholic Church in Yoakum Wednesday a.m., December 17th beginning at 9:30 with interment in the family plot at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Halletsville.  Mr. Raska died Monday, December 15 in Huth Memorial Hospital following a prolonged illness.

His son, Rev. Victor Raska of Flatonia, was the celebrant of the Requiem Mass and was assisted by three nephews of the deceased, Very Reverend A.J. Morkovsky of Halletsville as deacon, Very Reverend John L. Morkovsky of San Antonio sub-deacon and Rev Charles K. Schoppe of St. Mary's Cathedral Galveston Master of Ceremonies.  Present were some eight Monsignori and some 30 other priests as well as a host of friends and relatives from Houston, San Antonio, Galveston, Oklahoma, Washington State and other towns.  Archbishop the Most Reverend R. E. Lucey of San Antonio was in charge of Absolution service and Rt. Rev. F.L. Bachele of New Orleans, Louisiana delivered the sermon, paying a beautiful tribute to the life of the deceased.

Pallbearers were Victor Jurach of Corpus Christi, Henry Morkovsky of San Antonio, Charles Mertam, A.O. Frobese, Henry Olson, and Milton McMurrey all of Yoakum.

Mr. Raska was born in Moravia, then a part of Austria, on June 29, 1868 and came to this county with his parents the late Mr. and Mrs. John and Theresa Raska at the age of five years.  Landing at Galveston, the family first setttled in Austin County, later the family settled in Colorado County and then Lavaca County.

After coming to this county, Mr. Raska entered into the mercantile business at Halletsville, later moving to Yoakum in 1908, he had been a salesman since 1918.

It was while living in Lavaca County that he met and married Miss Annie Berckenhoff in Sacred Heart Church here with Father Forest, who later became bishop of San Antonio diocese, officiating.  His wife preceded him to the grave.

To this union were born seven children, two girls and five sons, one dying in infancy, are left to mourn the passing of a good Christian father.

They are Mrs. E. J. Pulkrabek, of Yoakum, and Mrs. R. A. Kiolbassa of San Antonio, Rev Victor Raska, of Flatonia, Elo, Erwin and Henry Raska of Yoakum.

Also surviving are three sisters, Mrs. Theresa Jurach, Tacoma Washington, Mrs. Clara Sykora, Prague Oklahoma, and Mrs. Annie Smolik of Williamsburg and one brother Louis Raska of Tulsa Oklahoma, six grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in death by two brothers, the late John Raska Sr. of the Gephart School Section and Victor Raska who died in boyhood and a sister Mrs. A.J. (Mary) Morkovsky of Halletsville.

Contributed by Matt Cross

SABINA VAHALIK RASKA

Shiner Gazette, 25 Jan 2001

Sabina Raska, age 87 years, 9 months and 23 days of Yoakum died Wednesday, January 17, 2001.

A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 19 at the Buffington Funeral Home chapel in Yoakum.

Funeral services were at 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 20 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Matthew H. Huehlefeld officiating.

Burial was at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum.

She was born March 24, 1913 in Shiner to the late Edmund V and Emily Svec Vahalik. She was a retired registered nurse and a Catholic.

She received a bachelor's degree in science education at Incarnate Word College in San Antonio.

Mrs. Raska is survived by two daughters, Mary Raska Bagley of Slidell, LA and Katy Raska Westmoreland of Cushing, OK; two sons, Peter A. Raska of Austin and Christopher Raska of Duncan, OK; four sisters, Irene Meyer, Isabel Hanzelka and Leona Hoermann, all of Yoakum and Rebecca Schwencke of San Antonio; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Rev. VICTOR A. RASKA

Hallettsville New Era Herald, 5 Dec 1961

Rev. V. A. Raska to be Buried Here Tuesday

The Rev Victor A. Raska died at Santa Rosa Hospital, San Antonio, on Friday, December 1 after a brief illness. He will be buried Tuesday, December 5, in the Raska family lot in Sacred Heart Cemetery, Halletsville after funeral ceremonies in Sacred Heart Church, Hallettsville. The office of the dead will be recited by the clergy starting at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, followed at 9:45 by a solemn pontifical funeral mass offered by his cousin The Most Rev John L. Morkovsky, S. T. D. of Amarillo who will be assisted by another cousin, Rt. Rev Msgr. Alois J. Morkovsky V. F. of Halletsville as arch priest and two second cousins, the Rev Fathers Charles C. Schoppe of Beaumont and C. Laumer Schoppe of Port Arthur as deacon and sub-deacon. The Rev Father Edward J. Jansky of Yoakum will act as master of ceremonies and the Rt Rev Msgr. Anthony Drozd V.F. of Weimar will deliver the sermon. Rev Raska was born at Halletsville September 18, 1895, eldest son of the late Peter Raska and Annie Berkenhoff who preceded him in death in 1952 and 1944 respectively, as did his infant brother Joseph in 1900. He is survived by three brothers and two sisters Elo, Erwin (Pete) and Henry Raska of Yoakum and Mrs. Lorraine Pulkrabek also of Yoakum and Mrs. Juanita Kiolbassa of San Antonio.

Rev Raska was the last to be baptized by the Rev Father J. A. Forest as pastor at Halletsville before he became bishop in San Antonio. He was confirmed by the late Bishop John W. Shaw and ordained on October 31, 1920 at St Joseph's Church in Yoakum by the late Archbishop Arthur J. Drossaerts, then bishop of San Antonio. He made his priestly studies at St. Joseph's Seminary, St. Benedict, Louisiana, St. Procopius Seminary, Lisle, Illinois, St. Mary Seminary, Baltimore, Maryland and Sulpician Seminary, Catholic University of America, Washington D.C.

Rev. Raska served briefly as the assistant pastor at Yoakum. In 1921 he was sent in the same capacity to El Campo but soon was appointed administrator and then pastor there upon the death of the pastor the Rev G. J. Hendricks in 1922, which position he held through March 1946, serving a wide territory which included not only Taiton but Hilje, Blessing, Palacios, and Pierce-Markey. In that period he was assisted by a series of assistants, Rev Fathers Albert Moreau, Alois J. Morkovsky, Wm. Jansen, Arnold Boeding, Cayetano Romero, M. G. Hernandez, Louis A. Blinka, Edward Murski, John J. Hanacek, Anthony Matula, Bernard Pruski, and George J. Baxter C. S. C. His crowning achievement here was the new St Phillips Church, El Campo, dedicated June 14, 1931.

Failing health made it necessary to accept transfer to the small parish of Flatonia on April 1, 1946 where he did a great deal of hidden pastoral work especially with converts and rectifying marriages until June 12, 1958. Since then the Rev Raska has been on the sick list, helping out chiefly at Weimar and St Peter Prince of the Apostles, San Antonio. He was unable to accept the offer of St John's and Moravia but did serve as administrator and pastor of Sweet Home from March 1960 until February of 1961, his last post of duty. His last days were spent in retirement at Padua Place, a home for retired priests in San Antonio, under care of the Missionary Servants of St. Anthony. His passing will be mourned by relatives, many outstanding priests and former parishioners and friends far and wide.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JEREMY RAZ

Shiner Gazette, 12 Apr 1979, page 1

Jeremy Raz Rites Slated

Jeremy Raz, one year, 3 months and 27 days, son of Richard and Denise (Simper) Raz, died about 4 p.m., Monday, April 9, 1979.

The body lay in state at the Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner, until 1:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 11, when it was conveyed to the Shiner Catholic Church where Mass of the Angels followed at 2:00 p.m.

Burial was in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Contributed by Matt Cross

OMAR REAVES

Weimar Mercury, April 11, 1941, page 1

FINAL RITES HELD FOR OMAR ARCHIE REAVES

Funeral services for Omar Archie Reaves, 69, a lifetime resident of the Weimar-Oakland area whose death occurred Monday in Houston, were held here Tuesday afternoon from the Hubbard Funeral Home, with burial in the Shiloah[sic] cemetery, the Rev. J. H. Thompson, local Methodist pastor, officiating.

Mr. Reaves was a native of San Patricio County where he was born in 1871, coming to Lavaca county at the age of 18 months along with his parents. He married May Denson on January 6, 1896. He died in Houston April 7, 1941, having attained the age of 69 years, 5 months, 21 days.

He is surived[sic] by his wife; three daughters, Mrs. Wesley Eason of Houston, Mrs. P. M. Sanders of Laredo, Mrs. Harry Taylor of Weimar; a step-son, Dr. Roy Denson of Los Angeles, Calif.; a brother H. C. Reaves of Hallettsville; and three grandchildren.

The Mercury extends sincere sympathy to survivors.

Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

ANNIE GAST REBECEK

Shiner Gazette, 11 Feb 1960, page 1

Mrs. John Rebecek Dies In Houston

Mrs. John (Annie) Rebecek of Rowena and formerly of Moulton passed away at the M. D. Anderson Hospital in Houston Sunday, January 31 at 10:15 a.m. at the age of 43 years, 5 months and 3 days.

Mrs. Rebecek, daughter of Mrs. Joe Gast and the late Mr. Gast, was born in this community and in 1935 was married to John Rebecek in the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Moulton. The couple farmed for livelihood in the Moulton community until 1941 when they moved to Rowena where they continued to farm. In September of 1959, Mrs. Rebecek became ill. Upon the advice of the family doctor, she entered the M. D. Anderson Hospital where she underwent major surgery. Mrs. Rebecek returned home for four weeks, and then in December she returned to the hospital where she was confined until her death.

Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 2 at 8:45 a.m. at the Smith Funeral Home in Moulton and continued at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church at 9:00 a.m. with the Rev. Father Bernard Goebel officiating. Interment was in the Moulton Catholic Cemetery.

Rosary was recited Monday night, February 1 at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel.

Surviving are her husband, John Rebecek of Rowena; one son, Julius Rebecek of Rowena; three daughters, Mrs. Olga Ann Gorbach of Greenville, Mississippi; Margaret and Agnes Rebecek of Rowena; her aged mother, Mrs. Joe Gast of Flatonia; two granddaughters; three sisters, Mrs. Ivan (Tillie) Kocian of Houston, Mrs. Charlie (Helen) Rebecek of Shiner and Mrs. Ray (Frances) Wendel of San Antonio; and four brothers, Joe, Daniel and Raymond Gast of Houston and Adolf Gast of Flatonia.

Mrs. Rebecek was preceded in death by one son, one-year-old, Robert, who died in 1939; and one brother, Johnnie Gast, 18 years of age.

Serving as pallbearers were Edgar and Clarence Raab, Anton Pulkrabek Jr., Emil, Frankie and Julius Gast.

Contributed by Matt Cross

RUDIE JACOB REBECEK

See news article about double funeral

WILLIAM ROBERT RECKAWAY

undated newspaper clipping

William R. Reckaway

Funeral services were held for William R. Reckaway at the Kubena Funeral Home Friday morning at ten O'clock by Rev. E.A. Hood, Baptist minister, assisted by a select choir. Interment was made in the City Cemetery, to which his remains were accompanied by a large number of sorrowing friends and relatives, who covered his grave with beautiful flowers of the season.

Mr. Reckaway was born at Hackberry 81 years ago on Oct. 27, 1859. In 1884 he married Miss Ida Pohl and to this union were born eight children, six of whom survive; namely, Alma Klimitschek of here, Minnie Schultz of Louise, Martha Oden of Welsh, La., Emil of Port Arthur, Willie and Paul Reckaway of here. Albert died when an infant and Mrs. J.M. McCormick in 1926. The wife and mother passed to her reward in the year 1895.

After three years Mr. Reckaway married Miss Rosa Gold of the Wied community and to them were born five sons and a daughter. Of these, Adolph died when a baby and Louis was killed in a refinery explosion at Port Arthur on Jan. 13, 1937. The others are Anton of Port Arthur, Herman of Edna, Earnest and Miss Otilia of here. There are also 26 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

Miss Otilia has been the mainstay and comfort of her aged father during his long years of ill health and invalidism. She and her mother did all within their power to make his last days comfortable. He was a good man, one to be admired and trusted by all of his many excellent qualities of character, a kind husband and a loving father.

Pall bearers were Paul Fertsch, S.M. Kuykendall, John Leoplld, Joe Grafe, Walter Albert and E.W. Hoppe.

Honorary pall bearers were: Frank Rother, Otto Zappe, Louis Mertz Sr., Louis Mertz Jr., Anton Appelt, Ben Appelt, Ernest Roeber, of the Appelt's Hill Gun Club; Dr. C.T. Dufner, H.H. Ahrens, A. Ward of Yoakum, H.A. Mertz and Fritz Mertz.

Mr. Reckaway farmed in Lavaca County all of his adult life, with the exception of a period between the years 1919 and 1932, when the family lived near Louise. He retired in the fall of the latter year and moved to Hallettsville, where he made his home until the time of his death.

He was a member of the Appelt Hill Gun Club for 59 years.

We extend condolence to the bereaved family.

William Robert Reckaway was born on October 27, 1859 and died on January 30, 1941. He was the son of John Christian Reckaway [or Rickaway] and Henrietta Klienbronk Reckaway. Contributed by Ed Neubauer

Mr. REDDEN

Shiner Gazette, 9 Nov 1893

An Old Settler Gone.

Grandfather Redden, living near Sweet Home, died October 31st aged 80 years. He had been ill only an hour or so when the grim summons came. His sister, Mrs. Boyce and he lived together about a mile from Sweet Home and there were but two years difference in their ages. Grandfather Redden was one of the early settlers in this county and in his death the generation that formed the van guard of settlement in this county loses another member.

This grave appears to be unmarked. Contributed by Matt Cross

ASA FLEMING REES

Undated news clipping from Lillian Rees' scrapbook in the Nesbitt Memorial Library, Columbus.

A. F. Rees Dead

A. F. Rees, formerly of Lavaca County, passed away at his home in Beeville Tuesday at 3:40 p.m., after an illness of some duration.

The funeral was held in Beeville Wednesday afternoon at 4:30 o'clock from the St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery there.

Mr. Rees, who had reached the age of 63 years, 8 months and 19 days, moved from the Sublime section of our county to Beeville many years ago. He was a brother of J. T. Rees of Sublime. He had many friends in this community who will regret to hear of his passing.

The New Era-Herald offers condolences to the bereaved.

Asa Fleming Rees died on July 28, 1931. He was the son of John Wesley Rees and his wife Rophila Smith Rees and attended the Diamond Grove Academy. He married Sophie Henriette Moser in July of 1892, and was the father of at least six children. Info and obituary contributed by Deborah Smith.

CATHERINE ORA McKEITHEN REES

Weimar Mercury, July 25, 1903

Yoakum Herald: Mrs. Walter Rees died at her home in this city Saturday night at 10 o'clock, after suffering for several days. She left behind a husband and several children to mourn her loss. Mrs. Rees has resided in this city with her family for the past several years and has made many friends who will join the Herald in extending sympathy to her family and relatives. Her remains were laid in their last resting place the City cemetery at 5 o'clock Sunday afternoon.

Catherine McKeithen married Walter Gray Rees on 8 Mar 1882. Info and obituary contributed by Deborah Smith.

ESSIE ISABEL REES

Weimar Mercury, 6 Feb 1892, page 2

Oakland Remarks.

Mr. Flem Rees and wife of Yoakum were in last Saturday on a very sad mission—to bury their youngest child at the old family burying ground. They have our condolence.

Essie Isabel Rees, December 11, 1890-1892, was the child of Fleming Sanders Rees, 1855-1940, and Clara B. Smith, 1860-1878. She was buried in the Rees Family Cemetery in Colorado County. Information from Deborah Smith

JOHN THOMAS REES

Weimar Mercury, November 15, 1940

Hallettsville, Texas. Nov. 9.—John Thomas Rees, 70, of Sublime, died Thursday after a long illness and will be buried in the Geiger Cemetery Thursday. He leaves five sons and one daughter, besides his wife.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

JOHN WESLEY REES

Weimar Mercury, June 8, 1907, page 1

Post Special: Yoakum, May 30. Judge J. W. Rees died in his home in this city at 3:30 this afternoon after an illness which has covered a period of several years.

Besides his wife he is survived by four sons and one daughter: Messrs. Florid Rees of Houston, Flem and Stafford Rees of Beeville, Less Rees, Tom Rees of Sublime, and Mrs. W. H. Martin of Yoakum.

Judge Rees was captain of company A from Austin County during the civil war. He had served for years as Justice of the Peace of Lavaca County and served one term as county clerk. 

The funeral will take place tomorrow afternoon under the auspices of the Masonic Lodge.

John Wesley Rees is buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery at Yoakum. His marker has the dates 20 Sep 1839-30 May 1906; however, the year of death is definitely incorrect. Photo from Deborah Smith. Obituary transcribed by Sharon Sutton.

LESLIE W. (LES) REES

Weimar Mercury, November 30, 1907, page 1

Houston Chronicle Special: Bay City, Nov. 25 ^{. —} Less Reese, the fireman of the Gulf Line running between this point and Algoa, died at 8 o’clock this morning from a pistol shot wound accidentally administered by his own hand at 1 o’clock last night. The deceased was a nephew of Sam Reese, who was killed at Columbus several years ago and was for years identified with the Reese family in the Reese-Townsend feud. He participated in the Battle at Bastrop in 1897 and was with others indicted with the killing of Arthur Burford at that time. The indictments were subsequently dismissed by a San Antonio criminal court. Deceased was 35 years old and leaves a wife and four children. He had been a resident of this city for about two years and lived a quiet life here. The body is held awaiting orders from relatives for its disposition and will probably be sent to Yoakum where his father, Jim Reese, is buried.

Leslie W. Rees, 3 May 1873-25 Nov 1907, is buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery. Transcribed by Sharon Sutton.

ROPHILA SMITH REES

Hallettsville Herald, 9 Aug 1894

News of the death of Mrs. Raphila [sic.] Reese, wife of John Reese, was telegraphed here from Yoakum Sunday.

Weimar Mercury, 11 Aug 1894, page 3

Mrs. Rees, wife of Capt. J. W. Rees, formerly of this section, but lately of Yoakum, died in the latter-named city Sunday night, after a three weeks' illness of malarial fever. They removed to Yoakum several years ago.

Note: Rophila Rees was the daughter of Asa Smith and Mahala Hope. She was the first wife of John Wesley Rees. She is buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery in Yoakum. Her marker gives birth and death dates, 1 Oct 1843 - 5 Aug 1894. Contributed by Deborah Smith

SOPHIA MOSER REES

Corpus Christi Caller-Times, June 13, 1948

Mrs. A. F. Rees, Beeville Resident Since 1900, Dies

Caller-Times News Service
BEEVILLE — Mrs. A. F. Rees, 75, resident of Beeville since 1900, died at 4:05 p.m. Saturday in a local hospital. Born Nov. 22, 1872 in Hallettssville, Texas, she was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John William Moser. She was married to A. F. Rees, June 28, 1890, who preceded her in death. Her grandfather was a pioneer settler before Texas was a republic.

Rosary will be recited at 8 p.m. Sunday at the family home in Beeville. Funeral mass will be held at 9 a.m. Monday at St. Joseph's Catholic Church with the Rev. Fr. Raymond Stocker officiating. Burial will be in St. Joseph's Cemetery under direction of Galloway Mortuary.

Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. A. R. Taylor of Beeville and Mrs. Alvin Brauer of San Antonio; one son, Errol, of Beeville; one sister, Mrs. L. W. Rees of Beeville; one granddaughter and one great-granddaughter.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

WALTER GRAY REES

Weimar Mercury, March 3, 1911

Express Special:—Yoakum, Tex.. February 28—The body of W. G. Rees of Houston was brought here for burial Friday. Mr. Reese was 50 years of age, and at one time lived in this city where he has brothers and sisters. The funeral was under the auspices of the Woodmen of the World lodge.

Sublime News Items
Walter Reese of Houston died Wednesday and his remains were taken to Yoakum last Thursday and laid to rest. He leaves two sons, Herbert and Everett, and two daughters, Vina and Myrtle. Peace to his ashes.

W. G. Rees, 2 Feb 1861-26 Feb 1911, was buried in the Oak Grove Cemetery at Yoakum. Contributed by Deborah Smith

IDA "MAY" KERSH REESE

Colorado County Citizen, April 18, 1974

May Reese

Mrs. J. H. (May) Reese of Sublime died in the Eagle Lake Community Hospital April 17. Mrs. Reese was born Sept. 11, 1897 and would have been 77 on her next birthday.

Mrs. Reese lay in state at the Kubena Funeral Home of Hallettsville prior to services held at the First Baptist Church of Sublime April 19. the Rev. Charlie Williams was in charge of the services and assisted by The Rev. Claudie Dunlap of Houston. Both were former pastors of the church.

Survivors are 2 daughters, Mrs. Ethel Potter of Sheridan and Mrs. Halton Buchanak of Sublime; one son, George Reese of El Campo; 10 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Arthur Potter of Schulenburg, Wesley Buchanek of Sublime, Ted David of Miami, Fla., all grandsons of the deceased; Edward McClendon of Angleton, Ray Lee Jackson of Sheridan and Jerry Brocker of Lake Jackson.

Interment was in the Geiger Cemetery near Sublime.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

JOHN H. (DUTT) REESE

unknown newspaper and date

John (Dutt) Rees Buried Sunday

John H. (Dutt) Rees, 71, well known Hallettsville area resident, died in the Renger Memorial Hospital, Inc., in Hallettsville, March 8, [1963] at 4:30 p.m. following a lingering illness.

The deceased was a resident of the Sublime Community all his life, nine miles east of here. He was a former baseball player and was a staunch baseball fan, who appreciated seeing big league baseball come to Houston.

The remains were removed from the Kubena Funeral Home here at 1:00 p.m. and were taken to the Sublime Baptist Church where the body lay in state until 2:00 p.m. when services were held there, Sunday, March 10th. Rev. C. L. Weigel officiated.

Interment was in the Geiger Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Ervin Brown, Halton Buchanek, Bill Parks, Hilmer Woytek, Orin Pustejovsky and Jess Howell.

Mr. Rees was born in Lavaca County, at Sublime, December 9, 1891. He was a carpenter by trade, retiring several years ago. On April 25, 1916, he married Miss Ida Mae Kersh at Houston and the couple settled at Sublime.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. J. H. (Ida Mae Kersh) Rees; one son, George Rees of El Campo; two daughters, Mrs. Halton Buchanek of Sublime, and Mrs. Fred Potter of Sublime; three brothers, L. J. (Ike) Rees of Sublime, Tom (Perce) Rees, Jr. of Hallettsville, and William Rees of Nacogdoches; one sister, Mrs. Otto Linhart of Kenedy; 10 grandchildren and 3 great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

LEONARD J. (IKE) REESE

unknown newspaper from 1968

L. J. (Ike) Reese

Funeral services for Mr. L. J. (Ike) Reese, 68 years, of Sublime, will be held Tuesday, January 23rd at 2:00 p.m. at the Kubena Funeral Home. He passed away in the Renger Memorial Hospital Sunday after suffering a heart attack at his home earlier. The Rev. P. H. Mathison of Victoria will officiate.

Interment will be in the Geiger Cemetery.

Mr. Reese was born in Lavaca County on April 15th, 1899. On April 4th, 1945, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Hallie Brooks Mirick at Kenedy. Following their marriage they settled at Sublime where he farmed and did carpenter work. At the time of his death he was retired. He was a member of the Sublime Baptist Church and the Veterans of World War I and II.

He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Hallie Reese of Sublime; one stepson, Edward Mirick of Pasadena; two brothers, Perce Reese of Hallettsville and Will Reese of Nacogdoches, and a sister, Mrs. Otto Linhart of Kenedy.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

LOUISE M. SCHOTT REESE

clipping from Lavaca County newspaper
June 1957

Mrs. L. Reese Dies at Nacogdoches

Mrs. Louise M. Reese, 86, of Sublime, died in Nacogdoches at the home of her son, W. M. Reese on Sunday, June 9th. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, June 11th from the Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville at 2 o'clock. Interment will be in the Geiger Cemetery. The Rev. George Kruger will officiate at the services.

The deceased was born in Sublime on May 13, 1871, and was married to J T. Reese on May 29, 1891, at Sublime.

Survivors include six sons; Robert of Houston, Flem of Alief, Wm of Nacogdoches, J. H. Reese and I. T. Reese of Sublime, and Perce of Hallettsville; one daughter, Mrs. Selma Linhart of Kenedy; two step grandchildren, twenty-five grandchildren, twenty-three great-grandchildren. One son and her husband preceded her in death.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

ROBERT FLOYD REESE

unknown newspaper and date

Robert F. Reese Dies Dec. 30th [1968]

Robert Floyd Reese, 48, of Houston, formerly of Hallettsville, died Tuesday, Dec. 30th, following a heart attack.

Reese is well known in the Hallettsville area, a member of the Reese family that originated at Sublime.

Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Florence Reese; daughters, Miss Martha Louise Reese, Miss Robbie Nell Reese, all of Houston; sister, Mrs. Otto Linhart of Kenedy; brothers, Henry Reese, Leonard Reese, both of Sublime, J. T. (Perce) Reese of Hallettsville, Flem Reese of Alief, and William Reese of Nacogdoches; seven nieces and nephews.

Chapel services were held at 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 1st, at 7820 Park Place Blvd., in Houston, with Rev. Nolan A. Sagebiel officiating. Interment was in Forest Park Cemetery in Houston, with Masonic graveside services.

Fogle-West Mortuaries was in charge of funeral arrangements.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

WILLIAM (BILL) REESE

unknown newspaper and date

William Reese

Funeral services for William (Bill) Reese, age 74, of Route 2, Box 94, Nacogdoches, were held Tuesday, March 26, 1968, at 3:30 p.m. in the Oakley-Metcalf Chapel in Nacogdoches with interment in the Fairview Cemetery.

Officiating were Rev. M. A. Ervin, pastor of Calvary Baptist Church, and the Rev. David Coker, pastor of the New Hope Congregation Methodist Church.

Mr. Reese died Sunday, Mar. 24, at 10:15 P.M. in the City Memorial Hospital in Nacogdoches.

Born in Yoakum, Aug. 13, 1893, Mr. Reese was the son of J. T. and Louise Schott Reese. He was a retired railroad man and operated a grocery store in Nacogdoches. He was a member of the Baptist Church and a resident of the county since 1948.

Mr. Reese and Beryl H. Halton were married Aug. 31, 1912, and she survives him.

Other survivors are one daughter, Mrs. Allura Rhodes of Dallas; four sons, Morris R. Reese of Alvin; William Preston Reese of Waco, Victor Ray Reese of Nacogdoches and Douglas Reese of Houston; one sister, Mrs. Selma (Sis) Linhart of Kenedy; one brother, Tom (Percy) Reese of Hallettsvile, 12 grandchildren and two great grandchildren. Services were directed by Oakley-Metcalf Funeral Home. A brother, Leonard (Ike) Reese of Sublime died only 2 months ago on Jan. 21 of this year.

Among those who attended the funeral of William (Bill) Reese in Nacogdoches Tuesday were Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Sonntag of Sheridan, Mrs. Charles Skaggs of Alief, Mrs. Otto Linhart of Kenedy, Percy Reese, Mrs. Hallie Reese, and Mrs. Lloyd Fuller of here.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

ANDREW GREBE REEVES

March 1964 newspaper clipping

Funeral Service for A.G. Reeves Held in Yoakum

Last rites for A. G. Reeves were held in Yoakum at 2 p.m. Sunday with Rev. Lee Nelson of Lane City, pastor of Glidden Baptist Church, and Rev. Jon M. Ryan, former Glidden pastor, officiating. Interment was in Oak Grove cemetery at Yoakum.

Mr. Reeves died Thursday night in Columbus hospital. He had been a semi-invalid since Nov. 8, 1962, when he injured his back. He also suffered with a rheumatoid arthritis.

He was born May 28, 1906, in West Point and was married to Miss Juanita Warburton in Yoakum May 9, 1936. He was retired because of disability last Dec. 8 from his duties as engineer with the Southern Pacific Lines. Beginning as a fireman, he had served the Southern Pacific 37 years.

He and Mrs. Reeves and their family had lived in Glidden 16 years. He was ordained a deaco in the Glidden Baptist church July 5, 1959, and had served as Sunday school superintendent and teacher of several classes.

Survivors include his wife and a son, Andrew G. Reeves Jr. of Glidden; a daughter, Mrs. E.J. Stancik, and 2 grandchildren of Columbus; twin nieces of La Marque; a nephew stationed with the Air Force in London; a sister, Mrs. P.P. Grifno of Victoria, and a half-brother, Henry W. Hale of Port O’Connor.

Pallbearers were M.P. Kveton of Galveston, L.H. Barrett and W. L. Mackey of Columbus, D.D. Stair, Glidden; A.R. Dunn, Weimar, and Johnnie Reed, Pasadena.

Honorary pallbearers were deacons from Glidden Baptist church, J.K. Wallace, I.M. Foley, O.A. Miller and Frank Haynes.

Sunday Rites for Andrew Reeves Sr.

Funeral services were held here Sunday 2 p.m. March 1^st for Andrew G. Reeves Sr., 57, of Glidden, Rev. Lee Nelson officiating at Buffington Chapel and at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Mr. Reeves, a former railroad man at Yoakum, passed away at a Columbus hospital Friday, February 28^th, after a lingering illness. He was born at West Point, Texas, May 26, 1906.

Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Juanita Reeves of Glidden, one daughter, Mrs. Edward Stancik of Glidden; one son, Andrew Reeves Jr. of Glidden; 2 grandchildren; one brother, Henry W. Hale of Port O’Connor; one sister, Mrs. Philip Grifnu (sic) of Victoria; two nieces and a nephew.

A. G. Reeves died 28 Feb 1964 in Colorado County, TX. Contributed by Cara Canik

ARCHIE T. REEVES

Shiner Gazette, 8 Sep 2009

A Schulenburg Killing.

Archie Reeves was killed at Werth & Kerbel’s store at Schulenburg by Jos. Copeland, a young farmer. Both were from the Hackberry neighborhood. There was an old feud between the men. It is claimed that Reeves started the trouble by cursing and abusing Copeland, and when the latter started to resent it, after telling his persecutor that he wanted no trouble, Reeves is said to have drawn a knife. Copeland then drew his revolver and fired on Reeves, but his brother, Calvin Copeland, knocked up the revolver; a second time he knocked up the pistol, and then seeing Reeves was determined to cut his brother he jumped aside and Joe fired the third time, Reeves falling dead.

Wm. Zoelner, a farmer living about four miles from Schulenburg, was in the store and was struck by one of the bullets in the jaw and terribly injured. Mr. Zoelner is a half brother of Adolph Hahnke of this place.

Weimar Mercury, 11 Sep 1897, page 3

DIFFICULTY BETWEEN FARMERS.

One Was instantly Killed and a Bystander Seriously Shot —Defendant's Bond $3000.

Schulenburg, Tex., Sept. 4.—Three pistol shots were fired in Werth & Keeper's store at 11:30 o'clock this morning, which resulted in the immediate death of Arch T. Reeves and serious injury of William Zollner. Reeves and Joseph A. Copeland were neighboring farmers, and lived near Hackberry, in Lavaca county. They fell out some time ago about fences and cattle. They met today, and after the exchange of a few words, eye-witnesses testified that Reeves shoved or struck Copeland with his left hand and put his right hand into his pocket. Copeland drew his pistol and fired three shots, when Reeves fell dead. One ball struck Reeves in the throat and another near the mouth. Zellner, who was standing about forty feet from the parties and had nothing to do with the difficulty, was struck by a ball near his mouth and the bones of his left jaw were badly fractured.

Copeland was arrested at once, and after examination was admitted to bail in the sum of $3000 to await the action of the grand jury, which he promptly gave.

Deceased was about 60 years old, was born and raised near Corpus Christi, and lived in Lavaca county twnety-five or thirty years. He served in the confederate army in Buschell's regiment and leaves a family.

Joseph A. Copeland is 36 years old and married. He was born in Tennessee, but has lived in Lavaca county twenty-two years.

Arch Reeves was buried in the Old Shiloh Cemetery.

DEIDA GOODE REEVES

1941 newspaper clipping

Mrs. A.W. Reeves Taken By Death

Funeral Services Were Held Here Wed., at 2 p.m.

Mrs. A.W. Reeves, 68, passed away at the DeTar Hospital at Victoria, Monday afternoon at 5 o’clock, following injuries received in a car crash at Nursery at about 1 p.m. Monday.

Mrs. Reeves was accompanying her son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Reeves, to Victoria, when a tire on their car blew out, causing the car to overturn off the high road embankment. Mrs. Reeves was thrown from the car and received fatal injuries. Mr. and Mrs. Andrew Reeves were badly bruised but were not seriously injured.

Mrs. Reeves was rushed to the Victoria Hospital but was found to be beyond medical aid. Her body was brought back to Yoakum Monday night and will lie in state at the Beck Chapel until time for the services.

Mrs. Reeves was born in Lamar County, Texas, to Mr. and Mrs. W.O. Goode. She spent much of her life in Fayette county, coming to Yoakum about 16 years ago to make her future home.

Mrs. Reeves was a member of the Methodist church since childhood, living a true Christian life in that faith. She was well known here and her former home for her devotion to her church, her love of her family and her many sacrifices for her fellowman. Through her quiet and unassuming disposition she made and retained numerous friends in all walks of life.

Funeral services were conducted Wednesday afternoon at 2 o’clock, at the Beck Chapel by Rev. R. K. Heacock. Interment will be in the Oak Grove Cemetery.

Mrs. Reeves is survived by her mother, Mrs. W.O. Goode, five children, Mrs. Fannie Mae Beck of Yoakum, Henry W. Hale of Alice, Andrew Reeves of Victoria, Bill Reeves who is stationed at Honolulu with the U.S. Marines, and Mrs. Philip Grifno of Yoakum. Also two sisters, Mrs. A.J. Ross of Edinburgh, Mrs. Nathan McClure of Port O’Connor; one brother, Claude Goode of Port O’Connor, and numerous other relatives.

Deida Reeves died 27 Oct 1941. Contributed by Cara Canik

JUANITA WARBURTON REEVES

The Colorado County Citizen, September 17, 1997

Mrs. Juanita Warburton Reeves, 83, of Yoakum died Monday, Sept. 8, 1997.

Born Nov. 2, 1913 in Yoakum, Mrs. Reeves was the daughter of Till and Terrel (Roberts) Warburton. She was a member of First Baptist Church in Columbus. She was married to Andrew Reeves, Sr.

Services were held Sept. 12 at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel with the Rev. Sammy Carr officiating. Burial followed at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Mrs. Warburton is survived by her son, Andrew Reeves, Jr. of Dale, Texas.

She was preceded in death by her husband on Feb. 28, 1964 and her daughter, Carol Ann Stancik.

Submitted by Joyce Stancik

CORA MARESCH REGNER

Cora Regner

Funeral services for Cora Maresch Regner, 74, of Yoakum, were held Monday, Jan. 11, 1993 at Holy Cross Lutheran Church.  Rev. Leland Diekhoff officiated with interment in Hermann Sons Cemetery.  Mrs. Regner died Jan. 9 in a nursing home.

A lifelong native of Yoakum, she was born March 24, 1918 to the late Frank and Mary Brosch Maresch.  She was a checker at Stanley's Super Market and a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

Survivors include 1 sister, Elenora Richter, Yoakum; and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Edwin Regner, in 1986.

Pallbearers were Edwin Petering, Herbert and James Leist, Robert Hermes, Marvin Schumacher, Raymond Richter, Lawrence Havlik and Sterling Maresch.

Memorial contributions may be made to Holy Cross Lutheran Church or donor's choice.

Buffington Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EDWIN B. REGNER

Victoria Advocate, 2 Feb 1986

Edwin B. Regner

Yoakum - Edwin B. Regner, 82, of Yoakum, died at 10:23 p.m. Friday in a Victoria hospital following a short illness.

He was born April 11, 1903, in DeWitt County, and was a long time resident of Yoakum.

A farmer for many years, he was active in the Farm Bureau for 20 years and a 50-year member of Hermann Sons Lodge No. 90.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. Monday at the Holy Cross Lutheran Church. The Rev. Leland Diekhoff will officiate. Burial will be in the Hermann Sons Cemetery near Yoakum. Buffington Funeral Home will be in charge of arrangements.

He is survived by his wife, Cora Maresh Regner of Yoakum.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EMMA FILLA REHAK

Shiner Gazette, 29 Sep 1983

Rites For Mrs. Emma Rehak

HALLETTSVILLE – Mrs. Emma Rehak, 77, of Hallettsville, died at 7 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 24, 1983 at Stevens Convalescent Center in Hallettsville.

Funeral services were held Monday, Sept. 26 at 10 a.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, of which she was a member. The Rev. Celestino Say officiated.

Burial followed in Sacred Heart Cemetery under the direction of Kubena Funeral Home where the body lay in state until 9 a.m. Monday, at which time it was taken to the church for services.

Pallbearers were James Rehak, David Rehak, Leroy Rehak Jr., Robert Cook, Tommy Krupala and Billy Ethridge.

She was born April 15, 1906, in Lavaca County, daughter of William and Rosie (Volcik) Filla. She married Anton Rehak Oct. 20, 1924, in Hallettsville.

Surviving are her husband, Anton Rehak Sr. of Hallettsville; four sons, George of Rosenberg, Gene of Victoria, Leroy of Schulenburg and Anton Rehak Jr. of Hallettsville; two sisters, Mrs. Oscar (Annie) Henneke of Hallettsville and Mrs. Travis (Bessie) Webb of Gonzales; four brothers, Joe Filla and August Filla, both of Hallettsville, Frank Filla of Schulenburg and Adolph Bob Filla of Gonzales; 11 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Feb. 21, 1940; her father, Jan. 21, 1965; a sister, Mrs. Leslie W. (Gussie) Judd, Aug. 2, 1972; and a granddaughter.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ANTON J. REHAK, Jr.

Victoria Advocate, 15 Dec 1996

ANTON J. REHAK JR.

Anton J. Rehak Jr., 57, of Victoria and formerly of Hallettsville, died Friday, Dec. 13, 1996.

He was born Feb. 2, 1939, in Moulton to the late Anton Joe and Emma Filla Rehak Sr. He was a Catholic and a street operator for the city of Hallettsville.

Survivors: wife, Shirley Ann Mudd Rehak; daughter, Bernice Rehak Futschik of Flatonia; brothers, Eugene Rehak of Victoria and George Rehak of Rosenberg; and three grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: brother, Leroy Rehak.

A rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. tonight at Smith Funeral Home chapel in Flatonia.

Services will be at 11 a.m. Monday at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Flatonia, the Rev. Charles B. Carolan officiating.

Burial will be at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery in Moulton. Smith Funeral Home, Flatonia, 865-3311.

Memorials: American Diabetes; Kidney Organization or donor’s choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

SHIRLEY A. MUDD REHAK

Victoria Advocate, 2 May 1999

SHIRLEY A. REHAK

FLATONIA -- Shirley A.Rehak, 60, of Flatonia, died Saturday, May 1, 1999.  She was born Aug. 19, 1938, in DeWitt County, to the late Ernest and Annie Pechacek Petering Mudd. She was a homemaker.

Survivors: daughter, Bernice Futschik of Flatonia; sister, Earlene Boedeker of Shiner; and three grandchildren.  Preceded in death by: husband, Anton Joe Rehak Jr.; and brother, Robert Mudd.

 Visitation will be 11 a.m. today at Smith Funeral Home chapel.  Services will be 2 p.m. Monday at the funeral home, the Rev. Dean Evans officiating.  Burial will be at St. Joseph's Catholic Cemetery in Moulton. Smith Funeral Home, Flatonia, 865-3311.  Memorials: American Heart Association and American Kidney Foundation.

Contributed by Matt Cross

SOPHIE QUITTA REHAK

The Lavaca County Tribune–Herald, March 4, 1986

Sophie Rehak

Sophie Rehak, 83, of Hallettsville, died Thursday, February 27, 1986, in the Lavaca Medical Center.

Born February 17, 1903, in Lavaca County to the late Rudolph and Annie Sicko Quitta, she was a member of the Czech Moravian Brethren Church in Vsetin.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m., Saturday, March 1, at the Czech Moravian Brethren Church.

Burial followed in Vsetin Cemetery under the direction of Kubena Funeral Home.

The body lay in state at the funeral home until Saturday morning.

Surviving are her husband, Joe Rehak of Hallettsville; a daughter, Irene Staha of Schulenburg; six sisters, Mrs. Ervin Klesel of Schulenburg and Mrs. Elvie Hlavac, Mrs. Selma Woytek, Mrs. William Rother, Mrs. William Jahn and Mrs. Albert Muhlstein, all of Hallettsville; a brother, Joe Quitta of Hallettsville; and three grandchildren.

Pallbearers were Lado Hlavac, Ricky Bonewald, Harvey Hlavac, Howard Staha, Daryl Staha, Gary Duty.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

K. REHMET

Shiner Gazette, 29 Apr 1909, Halletsville Notes column

K. Rehmet, an old citizen of Moulton, died at the home of his son, Vince Rehmet, last Sunday night after a short illness of pneumonia. The Herald extends sympathy to the bereaved.

This grave appears to be unmarked. Contributed by Matt Cross

SAM REICHMAN & CELIE SILBER REICHMAN

Weimar Mercury, 26 Jun 1959, page 1

Sam Reichman, Wife Succumb On Same Day

Funeral services for Mr. and Mrs. Sam Reichman, well known Hallettsville couple who died Sunday, June 21, just 14 hours apart, were held Monday at Kubena Funeral Home in that city, with burial in the Hallettsville Jewis Cemetery. Rabbi Louis Friestein officiated.

Mrs. Reichman, 79, died at 1 a. m. and her husband, who was 81, followed her in death at 3 p.m. Both ill for some time, they died at home.

The Reichman's had operated Meyerhoff's Dry Goods Co., in Hallettsville many years until his retirement in 1955. The store had been established nearly 60 years earlier by Mr. Reichmann's brother-in-law, Abe Meyerhoff.

Both Mr. and Mrs. Reichman were born at Hallettsville. She was the former Miss Celie Silber. They were married June 8, 1903, and spent their entire lives in Hallettsville. Mr. Reichman is survived by two sisters, Mrs. Bella Reinstein and Mrs. Minnie Seftenberg, both of Houston, and several nieces and nephews. Mrs. Reichman's only survivor is a niece, Mrs. Ben Krandel of Houston.

HENRY REID

Weimar Mercury, March 18, 1893, page 2

Post Special: Halletsville, Tex., March 12.—Yesterday morning at 9 o’clock Otto Wolters shot and killed Henry Reid. The tragedy occurred on the farm of Wm. Lawrence, who resides about ten miles north of this place. The parties had quarreled the day previous to the killing over a trivial matter.  When Reid was pruning trees in a peach orchard.  Wolters came in at once and surrendered to the officers. Reid was a young man about 21 years old, Wolters being about 55 years old. Wolters claimed he acted in self-defense.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

Mrs. HENRY REIGS

Moulton News, 16 Jul 1896

Mrs. Henry Reigs died Wednesday about noon and was buried Thursday. Her baby was buried about two weeks ago. It was hard blow to Mr. Reigs, and the GAZETTE extends its deepest sympathies in his sorrow.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ALICE RUBY REINDL

Shiner Gazette

Alice Ruby Reindl

Alice Ruby Reindl, 85 years, 7 months and 25 days of Shiner, died Sunday, September 7, 1997.

A rosary was recited at 7 p.m. Monday, September 8 at Buffington Funeral Home chapel.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Tuesday, September 9, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Moulton, with the Rev. Gabriel Maison officiating.

Burial followed at the Shiner Catholic Cemetery, under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home, Shiner.

She was born January 12, 1912, in Clarkwood to the late Albert A. and Elizabeth M. Maikoetter Smith. She married Johnny Reindl, October 10, 1932 in Corpus Christi. The homemaker was a Catholic and was a member of the Altar Society at St. Joseph Catholic Church and Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church.

She is survived by two sons, David Reindl of Shiner and James Reindl of Houston; seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Besides her parents she was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, Johnny Reindl, April 10, 1988; two sons, Denis John Reindl October 9, 1988 and John Reindl Jr. May 11, 1997; one sister, Leda Lorenz; one brother, Walter Smith; and one grandson, Wade Reindl.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ADALINE REINS [sp?]

Weimar Mercury
20 Apr 1895, page 2

A good honest old colored woman by the name of Adaline Reins [sp?], died at her home on the farm of Allen B. . . last week and was buried the next day at Greenville cemetery in Lavaca county. We have known "Aunt" Adaline since our childhood days and have ever honored her as being honest and faithful to every trust to her imposed.

The cemetery mentioned may be what is now known as the Willow Creek Black Cemetery, but she is not listed in Sammy Tise's survey of that cemetery.

LILLIE KOENNING REKTORIK

Victoria Advocate, December 1, 2002

Hallettsville - Lillie K. Rektorik, 92, of Hallettsville, died Saturday, Nov. 30, 2002.

She was born March 25, 1910, in Moravia, to the late Emil and Anna Vivial Koenning. She was a member of Hermann Sons Lodge and St. Peter Lutheran Church.

Survivors: daughters, Dorothy Halata and Darlyn Smith, both of Houston; brother, Leslie Koenning of Lake Jackson; 14 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: husband, George Jerome Rektorik; parents; and sister, Arminta Meyer.

Visitation will be 1:30 p.m. today at Kubena Funeral Home chapel.

Services will be 2 p.m. Monday at St. Peter Lutheran Church of Hallettsville, the Rev. Herb Beyer officiating. Burial will be at Moravia S.P.J.S.T. Cemetery. Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361- 798-3271.

Memorials: donor's choice.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HENRY RENGER

Shiner Gazette, 13 Jan 1904

The GAZETTE is sorry to have to report the death of Mr. Henry Renger, a citizen of Kinkler settlement, and father of Mrs. N. C. Boethel of Shiner. Mr. Renger died of typhoid fever. He had been a resident of Texas for 35 years, and was but 56 years old when he died. The friends of Dr. and Mrs. N. C. Boethel extend their sympathy.

Heinrich Renger, 22 Jul 1847 - 1 Jan 1904, husband of Louise, is buried in the Kinkler Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

BERTHA RENKENS

Moulton Eagle
17 Apr 1959

Miss Bertha Renkens Dies Here Tuesday

Miss Bertha Renkens, 76, passed away at the Effenberger Rest Home here Tuesday evening, April 14th at 5:50 o'clock following a day's illness. She had been a patient in the Effenberger Rest Home for 1 1/2 years.

Miss Renkens, a retired University of Texas teacher, is from Shiner.

Funeral services which will be held at the Shiner Methodist church, are pending.

MARY A. FAIT RESSLER

Shiner Gazette

Mrs. F. Ressler Expires Jan. 30

Mrs. F. M. Ressler, 67, of the Sweet Home vicinity, died at a Yoakum hospital Wednesday, January 30, at 1:10 p.m., nine days after she had suffered a stroke resulting in paralysis of her left side.

The funeral was held Friday, February 1, starting at 8:30 a.m., from the Buffington Funeral Home and including 9:30 a.m. Requiem Mass in the Sweet Home Catholic Church. Interment was in the Sweet Home Catholic Cemetery.

A member of the Sweet Home Altar Society, Mrs. Ressler had been a resident of the Sweet Home section for 42 years. Formerly Miss Mary A. Fait, she was born at Flatonia and married to F. M. Ressler in 1904 at Shiner. They resided afterwards at Wied, then at Shiner and eventually settled at their farm near Sweet Home.

Survivors include her husband, F. M. Ressler of Sweet Home; three sons, Frankie Ressler of Sweet Home, Jimmy Ressler, East Bernard and Johnny Ressler at home; one daughter, Mrs. Alex Janak of Wied; two sisters, Mrs. Agnes Pekar and Mrs. Frances Pekar, both of Sweet Home; one brother, Jim Fait of Shiner and eight grandchildren.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ALBERT J. RHEINER

San Antonio Express, 18 Feb 1961, page 6-C

Albert J. Rheiner, age 73 years, of 1955 W. Texas Ave., died in a local hospital Thursday. Formerly employed in Collection Dept. of Retail Merchants Association. Survivors: Wife, Mrs. Olga Hoffman Rheiner; sisters, Mrs. Elsie Hoelscher, Mrs. Matilde Engelhardt, Mrs. Emma Fritze; numerous nieces and nephews. Services will be Saturday morning at 10:30 o'clock at the Riebe Chapel with Rev. Arthur Holm officiating. Graveside services will be at 2:00 p.m. Saturday at the City Cemetery in Hallettsville, Texas.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JEFF RHODE

Weimar Mercury, September 13, 1890, page 2

Oakland Remarks

Our community was very much saddened last week to hear of the death of Mr. Jeff Rhode, and the loss of his gin by fire at Shiner. Mr. Rhode had lived here nearly all his life. He was an industrious and successful farmer, and a hard worker at his last vocation, but misfortune appeared to overtaken him when he took hold of machinery.

Weimar Mercury
September 13, 1890, page 3

The Rhodes gin at his place burned down last week, and the proprietor, Mr. Rhodes, was so horribly burned that he died within twenty-four hours. The grief stricken famly have the sympathy of the entire community.—Shiner cor. Houston Post.

Weimar Mercury
September 20, 1890, page 3

The friends in this community of Mr. Jeff Rhode, formerly of Oakland, will regret to hear of his sad death, which occurred at Shiner last week. His gin caught fire by the friction of the machinery, and burnt up, and he was so badly burnt that he died in two or three days. It seems that his clothing caught fire from an armful of cotton that he was moving at the time. He leaves a wife and several children.

T. J. Rhode, 17 jan 1843-4 Sep 1890, is buried in the Bunjs Cemetery near Shiner. Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

HERMAN RHODE

Weimar Mercury, 13 Mar 1908, page 7

Schulenburg, March 5.—The strong wind on yesterday caused the sacrifice of the life of Herman Rhode, a lad of about 17 years. He was driving home with a load of lumber the wind blew off his hat, and on getting off the wagon to pick it up the mules, scared by the hat, started to run, causing the young man to fall, the heavily laden wagon passing over him. The deceased was the son of Mr. Fritz Rhode, a well-to-do farmer residing near Hackberry, Lavaca county.

CHARLES RICE

Weimar Mercury, 25 Aug 1922, page 2

Negro Shot From Ambush.

Shiner, Tex. Aug. 20.—Charles Rice, well known negro resident of this place, was shot from ambush last night, five bullets penetrating his body. He died this morning. The police report no clue to the perpetrator.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

HENRY RICHARDS

Weimar Mercury
31 Dec 1898, page 8

Yoakum, Texas, December 24. Henry Richards died last night from the effects of a wound received from a toy pistol. He and William Eichenbroch were playfully engaged in a dispute when William told him to put "down those wire cutters" which Richards had, or he (William) would shoot him. They then began raasling [sic.], and the pistol, which was loaded with a 22 cartidge, went off, producing a wound which last night proved fatal.

DELORES STEFFEK RICHARDSON

Victoria Advocate, 20 Apr 2006, page 7A

DELORES RICHARDSON

YOAKUM—Delores "Dee" Steffek Richardson, 60, of Yoakum, died Tuesday, April 18, 2006.

She was born Feb. 10, 1946, in Hallettsville, to the late Norbert James and Mary Nestra Steffek. She worked for Home Health Care for the Elderly and was a member of The Pentecostals of Victoria.

Survivors: daughters, Christina Sevier of Overland, Kan., LaLonnie Guice of West Monroe, La., and Rochan Kuecker of Yoakum; sisters, Linda Quinn, Barbara Steffek, and Peggy Roslund, all of Victoria; brother, Kenneth R. Steffek of Corpus Christi; and four grandchildren.

Visitation and a wake will be held 6-7 p.m. tonight at The Pentecostals of Victoria Church.

Services will be 4 p.m. Friday at the church, Pastor Bryant Clark officiating.

Burial will follow at Queen of Peace Catholic Cemetery in Sweet Home. Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum, 361-293-2333.

Contributed by Matt Cross

AUGUSTA HERDER RICHTER

Weimar Herald, May 23, 1896, pg 2

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

ELENORA HELEN (ELLA) MARESCH RICHTER

Shiner Gazette, 23 May 1996

Elenora H. Richter

Elenora "Ella" Helen Richter, age 82 years, 10 months and 12 days, of Yoakum died Saturday, May 18, 1996.

A rosary was recited Sunday, May 19 at 7 p.m. at Buffington Funeral Home chapel, Yoakum.

Services were held Monday, May 20 at 9:30 a.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church with the Rev. Gary Janak officiating.

Burial was in St. Ann's Catholic Cemetery in Yoakum under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home, Yoakum.

The pallbearers were: Johnny Williams, Brandon Immenhauser, Bob Richter, Bill Richter, Duane Williams, Dennis Williams and Steven Immenhauser.

Honorary pallbearers were: Lori McMullen and David McMullen.

She was born July 6, 1913 in DeWitt County to the late Frank and Mary Brosch Maresch.  She owned Richter's garage.  She was a member of the Herman Sons Lodge No. 90 and a member of the KJZT Society.

She is survived by two daughters, Mary Ann Immenhauser of Victoria and Joyce Lux of New Braunfels; one son, Raymond "Bubba" Richter of Yoakum; nine grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Richter was preceded in death by her husband, Edwin Joe Richter, five sisters, Albina Leist, June 6, 1966; Annie Leist, March 18, 1982; Elsie Schumacher, Jan. 27, 1986; Mary Petering and Cora Regner; and one brother, Adolph Maresch, June 14, 1978.

JOHN RICHTER

Unidentified February 1951 news clipping

John Richter Laid to Rest

Funeral rites were held for John Henry Richter at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Moulton Tuesday, February 6, at 2:00 P. M., with burial in the Old Moulton Cemetery, Rev. K. Windecker officiating.

Mr. Richter passed away Sunday, February 4, at 11:45 A. M.

He was born in Frelsburg, Texas, May 27, 1866, and was 84 years, 8 months and 8 days of age at his death.

He was married to Miss Ida Dudenring in 1893, who preceded him in death, leaving him with two small children. In 1900 he again entered the state of holy matrimony with Mrs. Mary Theresa Schmidt Haase. He came to Moulton some fifty years ago and has been engaged in farming all of his life.

The pallbearers were John Richter, Alfred Richter Jr., Marvin Haase, Reuben Janssen, Victor Haase and William Haase Jr.

Surviving are his widow; three children, Alfred Richter of Thorndale, Mrs. Almeda Kuyus of Austin, and Edwin Richter of San Antonio; four step-children, Adolph Haase of Houston, William Haase of Hallettsville, Mrs. Ben Janssen of Corpus Christi, and Herbert Haase of Moultoin; seven grand-children and three great grandchildren; two brothers, Henry Richter of Columbus and Fred Richter of Frelsburg; two sisters, Mrs. Mary Sommerlatte of Columbus and Mrs. Augusta Schmidt of Wharton, and many other relatives.

Contributed by Angelina Genzer Kretzschmar

MARY SCHMIDT HAASE RICHTER

unidentified April 1951 news clipping

Funeral Rites Held for Mrs. J. H. Richter

Funeral rites were held for Mrs. John Henry Richter, (nee Mary Theresa Schmidt) at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel in Moulton, Thursday, April 5, a 2:00 P. M., with burial in the Old Moulton Cemetery. Rev. K. Windecker officiated.

Mrs. Richter passed away Tuesday afternoon, April 3, at 3L35 P.M. at the Strieder Hospital. She was active until three months ago when illness set in and was unable to do her work. Since that time she has made her home with her son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. H. W. Haase.

She was born in Frelsburg, Texas, June 9, 1866, and was 84 years, 9 months and 25 days of age at the time of her death.

On September 1, 1885, she was married to Rudolph Haase. To this union four children were born, namely, Rudolph Haase of Houston, William Haase of Hallettsville, Mrs. Ben (Mary) Janssen of Corpus Christi, and Herbert Haase of Moulton. On June 28, 1897, Mr. Haase preceded her in death. In the fall of 1901 she again entered the state of Holy matrimony with John Henry Richter. Two children were born unto them, a son, Edwin John Richter of San Antonio and a daughter, Winnifred, who died at the age of two years. Mr. Richter also preceded her in death, on February 4 of this year.

The pall bearers were her five grandsons, Marvin Haase, Herbert Roy Haase, Rueben Janssen, August Haase, an one great grandson, Marvin Herbert Haase.

To mourn her passing besides her children are two step-children, Mrs. Fred Kuyus of Austin and Alfred Richter of Thorndale; also 13 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren and other numerous relatives and friends.

Contributed by Angelina Genzer Kretzschmar

MORITZ RICHTER

Shiner Gazette, 20 Feb 1901

Death of M. Richter.

Just as we go to press we hear the sad intelligence of the death of Mr. M. Richter, who died at 11 o’clock A. M., Tuesday, February 19th, of paralysis. The funeral will take place today at 3 p. m., from the family residence.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Shiner Gazette, 6 Mar 1901, page 1

Moritz Richter.

Tuesday morning at 11 o’clock on Feb. 19, after a lingering illness Moritz Richter died at his residence in Shiner and was buried Wednesday evening in the K. of P. cemetery. The funeral was the largest ever witnessed in Shiner. There were 125 buggies and 30 afoot in the funeral procession. Rev. Wm. Dziewas conducted the services.

BIOGRAPHY.

Moritz Richter was born on Sep. 9th, 1846, at Lang Else, Saxony, Germany, was 54 years, 5 months and 10 days old when he died.

He came with his parents to New Ulm, Austin Co., Texas, in 1853. Several years later they moved to High Hill, Fayette Co., where he embarked in the saloon business, which he had there for years.

He then moved to Sedan, Fayette Co., where he opened a general merchandise store. When the Southern Pacific railroad was built to Weimar he sold his store and moved to Weimar, where he opened one of the finest saloons in the state. He became one of Weimar’s most respected citizens. In 1887 he moved to Halletsville, where he opened a saloon, but only remained a short time. When the Aransas Pass was built to Shiner he moved here and opened a saloon, and became agent for the Lone Star Brewing Co. Through his kindness and good qualifications as a business man he has made many warm friends in Shiner. His wife, a most estimable lady, died of an operation performed at San Antonio in 1896.

Nine children mourn his death: Mrs. C. B. Welhausen of Shiner, Julius at Floresville, Louis at Houston, Otto, who is in the U. S. army, Charles at San Antonio, Ella, and three young sons, who live with him. He has one brother, Adolph Richter, of Weimar, and three sisters, Mrs. Kuigler of High Hill, Mrs. Ernst Goeth of Cypress Mills, and Mrs. Amalie Seydler of Weimar yet living. About 4 1-2 months ago as he was writing in his office he was stricken with paralysis in his left side. His children gave him the best medical aid and comfort that could be had until death relieved his suffering.

His nephew,
R. G. SEYDLER.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Shiner Gazette, 13 Mar 1901

By the terms of the will of the late M. Richter, the property will not be divided until the youngest child becomes of age. This will be about nine years. Mr. C. B. Welhausen and wife and Mr. Adolph Hahnke are the executors.

Moritz Richter, 9 Sep 1845 – 19 Feb 1901, was buried in the Shiner City Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross.

CHRISTIAN RICKAWAY

Hallettsville Herald, 23 Nov 1893, page 8

Christian Rickaway Dead.

Christian Rickaway died at his home in this county on Tuesday morning, the 21st inst., and was buried the following day in the graveyard in the Pagel Settlement. For some time prior to his death he had been suffering with paralysis. Christian Rickaway was 72 years of age. He was born at Bremerhave, Germany, and immigrated with his father to this country long before the war between the states. His relatives say that he left a considerable sum of money, but its whereabouts is a mystery. As he was demented for a long time it is not believed he left any indication of the locality of the treasure. The money is supposed to be buried in the earth, as sometimes in his lifetime he has been discovered in the act of secreting money in that way.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson

HENRIETTA RICKAWAY

Hallettsville Herald, 16 May 1907, page 2

DEATHS.

Henrietta Rickaway, aged 88 years; died April 290 at Ezzell; cause malarial fever.

AUTRIE RICKMAN

Weimar Mercury, June 23, 1911

It is with profound sadness that we come this week to chronicle the death of Miss Autry Rickman, which occurred at her father's home last Tuesday night at eleven o'clock. Miss Autry had been ill for a long time with that dreadful disease consumption. She was very patient through all her illness. She leaves an aged father and mother, three brothers and one sister to mourn her loss. She was a member of the Sublime Baptist church for many years. Her remains were taken to Willow Creek for interment. She was followed to her resting place with a large crowd of sorrowing relatives and friends. May she rest in peace.

Contributed by Deborah Smith

June 30, 1911, Unknown newspaper clipping

Miss Autrie Rickman died at the home of her parents at Hopewell on June 13, 1911. She was aged 27 years, 5 months and 7 days, and was sick in bed over three months and left us without a murmur of complaint. She was loved by all who knew her, and leaves a father, mother, one sister and four brothers besides a host of friends to mourn her death. The remains were laid to rest in the Willow Creek cemetery.

When the evening riseth gently
In the heaven so bright and clear,
To fill the world with beauty,
Then we miss you Autrie dear.
Sitting by the open window,
Looking toward the sunset gold,
We are thinking of you Autrie
And the happy days of old.
But thy gentle voice is hushed,
Thy warm, true heart is still
And on they young and beautiful brow
Is resting death's cold chill.
Thy hands are clasped upon thy breast
We have kissed thy loving brow,
And in our aching hearts we know
We have no Autrie now.
Rest, dear Autrie, Jesus keep thee
With a kind and loving hand
Close besides the sparkling waters
In the bright and better land.

An Affectionate Friend.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

JEWEL BANKHEAD RIGGS

The Victoria Advocate, June 2001

Jewel Riggs

Yoakum – Mrs. Jewel Riggs, 80, of Yoakum, died Sunday, June 10, 2001.

She was born Feb. 22, 1921, in Lavaca County, to the late Zach and Susie Hander Bankhead.  She worked at Torel Incorporated and was a homemaker: She was a Methodist.

Survivors: sons, Clifford Riggs and W. Paul Riggs, both of Houston, and D. Ronald Riggs of Yoakum; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: husband, John Raymond Riggs; daughter, Linda Hart; sons, Raymond Riggs, Leonard D. Riggs and James W. Riggs; and several brothers and sisters.

Services will be 2 p.m. Wednesday at Buffington Funeral Home chapel, the Rev. Buck Ritchea officiating.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

RIHA Infant

Shiner Gazette, 26 Nov 1902, Local News column

DIED – The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Riha, Jr. The funeral took place Sunday, Nov. 23, interment in Catholic cemetery.

This grave appears to be unmarked. Contributed by Matt Cross

LUDMILA RIHA

Shiner Gazette, 22 Nov 1905, page 1, Bunjes School Notes column

The infant of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Riha Jr. died last Wednesday and was buried Thursday at the Shiner Catholic cemetery, Rev. R. Serrano, C. M. F., officiating.

Ludmila Riha, 9 Nov 1905 – 15 Nov 1905, is buried in SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

FRITZ A. RIPPEN

Shiner Gazette, 9 Sep 1909

Fred Rippen Dead.

A fatal and terrible accident happened to Mr. Fred Rippen Tuesday evening about 3:30 o’clock. When about to enter the meat market of Mr. L. B. Richter, he stumbled in some way and fell head first into a large glass window. A piece of the sharp pointed glass entered the left side of his neck and penetrated the jugular vein. Mr. Rippen recovered himself sufficiently to stagger into the meat market, where he fell to the floor and expired in a few minutes. Dr. Gus Schulze, who was just across the street, witnessed the accident and was at his side in a moment and endeavored to stop the flow of blood, but the unfortunate man was virtually dead when he reached him.

Mr. Rippen was about forty years old and leaves a wife and several small children. His remains were taken at once to his home, a few miles from Shiner.

Fritz A. Rippen, 25 Jul 1870 – 7 Sep 1909, husband of Meta, was buried in the Shiner Sons of Hermann Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

AGNES PRASEK RIPPLE

Brazosport Facts, Tuesday, October 31, 2000

Agnes Prasek Ripple, 87, of Clute, passed away Sunday, October 29, 2000 after a lengthy illness.

Her golden heart stopped beating and the Lord sent his Angels to take Agnes home.

She had such a kind and gentle heart and never spoke ill of anyone. She always had a smile and was one of a kind. Agnes loved her family and friends and will be sorely missed, but Heaven will be a lot sweeter.

She's rejoicing and skipping on the streets of gold in her new glorious body, never again to know suffering and pain. She's having a great reunion with her Lord and Savior and her beloved husband, Joe; daughter, Rose Marie; her mother and father; sister, Mary; brothers, Joe, Frank and Robert; and a host of relatives and friends.

She was born in Lavaca County, near Hallettsville, Texas on January 1, 1913 to John and Mary Prasek. She married Joe Ripple, Sr., November 26, 1935. They moved to Clute in 1945.

Agnes is survived by four sons, Joe Ripple, Jr. and wife, Liz of Lake Jackson, Raymond Ripple and wife, Maria of Clute, Charlie Ripple and wife Marinette of Seattle, Washington and Daniel Ripple and wife, Susan of Midland, Michigan; three daughters, Magdalene McClendon and husband Gene of Oyster Creek, Martha Johnson and husband, Don of Richwood and Irene Underwood and husband, E.J. "Bubba" of Jackson, Mississippi; one brother, Jaro Prasek and wife Mary of Kingsville; sister-in-law, Betty Prasek of Cuero; 20 grandchildren; and 25 great-grandchildren.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., with Rosary Services at 6:00 p.m. Tuesday, October 31, 2000, with Father Jim Lynes officiating.

Funeral services will be held at 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, November 1, 2000 at the Lakewood Funeral Chapel with Father Jim Lynes officiating.

Graveside services will be held at 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 1, 2000 at St. Mary's Cemetery, near Hallettsville, Texas.

Arrangements by Lakewood Funeral Chapel in Clute, Texas.

Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

HULDA LILLIE KOENNING RISKE

Shiner Gazette, December 17, 1987

Rites For Hulda Koenning Riske

Hulda Lillie Riske of Shiner died Sunday, Dec. 6, 1987 at 8:55 p.m. in the Shiner Hospital after a long illness. She had been a resident at Trinity Lutheran Home since Jan. 23, 1985. She attained the age of 81 years, 3 months and 20 days.

She was born August 16, 1906 at Sweet Home, Lavaca County, Texas, daughter of Fredrich and Anna (Neubauer) Koenning.

She was baptized in her infancy in Zion Lutheran Church at Charlottenburg, and confirmed some years later in the Lutheran Church at Witting.

In November 1932, she was married to Elo Riske in the Witting Lutheran Church. They lived on a farm at Witting and worked the land for many years. After they retired and their health failed, they both came to the Trinity Lutheran Home in Shiner for nursing care. She was a member of the Witting Lutheran Church and the Ladies Aid.

A prayer service was held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8 at the Buffington Funeral Home in Shiner, where the body lay in state.

Funeral services were held Wednesday, Dec. 9 at 10 a.m. at the Witting Lutheran Church. The Clarence Ehler of Moulton officiated at all the services.

Burial followed in the Witting Lutheran Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Victor Himmelreich of Poth, Arnold Riske Jr. of Victoria, Denis Burger Jr., Gus Kubecka Jr., Leonard Darilek and Gene Horecka, all of Shiner.

Surviving is her husband, Elo Riske of Shiner, nephews and nieces.

Mrs. Riske was the last surviving member of her immediate family, and was preceded in death by her father, June 6, 1919; her mother, Jan. 8, 1945; three brothers, Edmund Koenning, June 31, 1974; Walter Koenning, Dec. 19, 1938; and an infant; three sisters, Mrs. Henry (Dora) Mueller, July 13, 1952; Mrs. Fritz (Minnie) Neubauer, Feb. 10, 1974; Frieda Koenning, Feb. 14, 1987.

Contributed by Ed Neubauer

JOYCE ALDEAN MEYER BEDNAR RISKE

Victoria Advocate, September 14, 2005

Joyce Aldean Meyer Bednar Riske

She grew up in Moulton graduating from Sam and Will Moore Institute (now Moulton High School) in 1932. Colleges attended were Texas Lutheran in Seguin; Southwest Texas State Teachers in San Marcos; and Prairie View A & M receiving A.A., B.S., and M Ed. Degrees.

After teaching 51 years she retired in 1985 but continued to substitute until 1994.

Schools where she taught were Bachelor Hill in the Bernardo ISD, Colorado County; Nickel High School, Gonzales County; and Michna, Green, and Shiner ISD in Lavaca County; and St. Ludmila Academy in Shiner.

Some accomplishments included serving as organist/pianist, teaching Sunday School for 25 years, serving as secretaries of the Ladies Aid and Worship Committee, being on the prayer chain at UDML in Shiner and also serving as organist at Zion Lutheran in Moulton and Evangelical Lutheran in Witting, Texas. She held membership in the Alpha Phi Chapter of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society, Waelder Eastern Star, American Legion and VFW Auxiliaries. In 1974 she was nominated Outstanding Teacher of the Year by her principal, and also nominated to Who's Who Among American Teachers by former students.

Joyce was baptized, confirmed and married to Alvin Bee Bednar August 3, 1935 in the Zion Lutheran Church in Moulton with Rev. A. H. Falkenberg presiding. To this union one son, Jonnie Bee Bednar was born. After the death of Mr. Bednar, she married Arnold W. Riske, Sr. at UDML, Shiner on December 26, 1977 with Rev. Cliff Grosenbacher presiding.

The joy of her life was the birth of a great-grandson, Ian Oliver Bednar.
Survivors include her son, Dr. J. Bee Bednar and wife, Jeanette; grandsons, Dr. Chris Bednar and wife Laura, Kevin Bee Bednar; stepsons, Curtis Riske and wife, Loretta, Arnold W. Riske, Jr. and wife, Rosemary; step-granddaughters, Jennifer and Barbara Riske; great- grandson, Ian Oliver Bednar; several nieces and nephews through marriages including Henry (Gus) Schierschwitz and wife, Delores.

Preceding her in death, her parents; two husbands, Alvin Bee Bednar June 1966 and Arnold W. Riske, Sr. March 1997 and Ida Louise Chumchal (a niece through marriage) in May 1985.

Services will be Friday, September 16, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. at United Dr. Martin Luther Lutheran Church, Rev. Lynnae Sorensen officiating. Interment will be in the Shiner Cemetery.

A prayer service will be Thursday, September 15th at 7:00 p.m. at Buffington Funeral Home Chapel.

Pallbearers include Chris Bednar, Kevin Bednar, Jennifer Riske, Barbara Riske, Henry (Gus) Schierschwitz, and James Miculka. Honorary Pallbearers include Gary Teltschik, Berald and Becky Freytag, Calvin and Dixie Tucker, and David and Betty Little.

Submitted by Ed Neubauer

OTTO CARL RISKE

Shiner Gazette

Otto Riske Dies Suddenly

Otto Carl Riske, a resident of Henkhaus community for nearly fifty years, died suddenly at his home Monday morning, Jan. 28. Mr. Riske arose at the usual time and fell dead while doing outdoor chores. He suffered a heart attack.

Funeral services were held at Zion Lutheran Church in Moulton Tuesday afternoon, January 29, with interment in the Moulton City Cemetery. Rev. K. Windecker officiated.

The pallbearers were Owen Brown, Erwin Riske, Herman Schreiber, Alvin Riske, Herman Riske and Paul Hinze.

Mr. Riske was born at Cat Spring, Texas, July 13, 1876, and reached the age of 75 years, 6 months and 15 days.

He was united in marriage with Miss Emilie Bengsch October 24, 1901, who preceded him in death July 30, 1951.

Surviving are a son, Milton Riske, and a granddaughter, Iris Riske.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JAN RITZ

Shiner Gazette, 24 Aug 1893

Died.

John Ritz, a farmer living about six miles from town, died Saturday about ten o’clock of consumption. Dr. Smith was called out to see him on Friday but found him beyond medical aid. Deceased was about fifty years of age and leaves a wife and nine children, most of whom are quite small. The burial took place, Sunday, at the Catholic cemetery.

Jan Ritz, 1846 – 19 Aug 1893, was buried in the Czech Moravian Brethren Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

BOB ROACH

Colorado Citizen, 25 Feb 1886

A friend of the Journal, living in the Mulberry neighborhood, informs it that a man named Bob Roach was killed at Moravia, nine miles southwest of Schulenburg, on the 10th inst. by one John Krauskopff. They had a fight, the former using a knife, the latter a club. Krauskopff was badly cut, and would have bled to death but for the timely arrival of Dr. J. E. Clark, who dressed his wounds.—La Grange Journal.

JOHN ROBBEL

Weimar Mercury, 29 Oct 1892, page 2

[Hallettsville] New Era.

While driving in a wagon and a double team near his home at Moravia Wednesday, Mr. John Robbel was fatally injured. The team became frightened and thre him out of the wagon, injuring him so he died about twelve hours after.

WILLIAM L. ROBERDS

Victoria Advocate, 27 Jan 1992, page 12A

WILLIAM L. ROBERDS

HALLETTSVILLE - William L. Roberds, 78, of Hallettsville, died Saturday, Jan. 25, 1992, in a Houston hospital.

The U.S. Army veteran was the son of the late William R. and Alma Burke Roberds. He had been a vocational agricultural teacher until his retirement. Mr. Roberds was a member of the Masonic Lodge and the Mossy Grove Methodist Church in Hallettsville.

Survivors: wife, Mrs. Nealy Chapman Roberds; sister, Mrs. Alma Stout of Mayer Ariz. 

He was preceded in death by one brother and four sisters.

Visitation: 11 a.m. Monday until 9 a.m. Tuesday, Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 796-3271.

Services, 10 a.m. Tuesday, First United Methodist Church, Hallettsville, the Rev. G.B. "Tad" Tadlock officiating.

Burial with Masonic graveside services in City Cemetery, Hallettsville.

Contributed by Matt Cross

DAUGHTER OF JERRY ROBERTS

Schulenburg Sticker, 16 Nov 1899, Hackberry Items Column

Since our last writing the angel of death has visited the home of our friend Jerry Roberts and laid his icy hand upon the 10-year-old daughter of Mr. Roberts and transplanted the beautiful flower to the evergreen share of the paradise of God there to bloom in its fragrance throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity. To the bereaved we extend our heartfelt sympathy.

Contributed by Matt Cross

BOSS ROBISON

Weimar Mercury, 2 Jan 1897, page 8

Yoakum, Texas, December 28. Boss Robison, colored, was accidentally shot and killed near this city late yesterday evening by Gus Smith, colored. They were lying on a bed when Smith reached under a pillow and pulled there from a 45-caliber revolver, which was cocked, and by some means it went off, the ball passsing entirely through Robison. He lived about twelved hours after the shot.

JOHN ROCHEL

Weimar Herald, January 25, 1896, pg 2

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

RICHARD C. RODE

unidentified newspaper clipping, 1 Apr 1971

RICHARD C. RODE

Hallettsville.—Richard C. Rode of hallettsville, native and life-long resident of Lavaca County, died at 3 a.m. Tuesday, March 23, 1971 in a Schulenburg rest home at the age of 86 years, 1 month and 3 days.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Thursday, March 25 at Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, with the Rev. Robert N. Crawford officiaiting. Burial was in Andres [Andrews] Chapel Cemetery.

He was born February 20, 1885, son of Fritz and Caroline (Ratchen) Rode. A retired farmer, he was a member of United Church of Christ.

Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Richard C. (Meta Heinsohn) Rode; three daughters, Mrs. George Teltschick of Hallettsville, Mrs. Lester Krizak of Angelton, Mrs. Emil Teltschick of Weimar; two sons, Edmund G. Rode of Hallettsville, Arthur Rode of Silver Springs [Spring], Md.; two brothers, Fred Rode of Schulenburg, Walter Rode of Victoria; 12 grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters, Miss Ida Rode, Jannuary 9, 1962; Mrs. Gus (Dora) Fritsch, May 19, 1967; and Mrs. Henry J. (Martha) Lorfing, January 4, 1968.

Contributed by Rox Ann Johnson

HULDA E. RODEN

Victoria Advocate, June 10,2012

HULDA E. RODEN

She was born on November 20, 1914, in Shiner to Frank and Hulda Quast Targac. She was a homemaker, and a member of Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

Funeral service at 10:30 on Tuesday at Holy Cross Lutheran Church with Pastor Jonathan Mielke officiating. Interment at Oak Grove Cemetery.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home in Yoakum,

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

DORA BLEIER ROEDER

Shiner Gazette, 24 Sep 1987, page 9

Rites Sunday for Dora Bleier Roeder

Mrs. Dorothea “Dora” Roeder of Shiner passed away at 10:00 a.m. Friday, Sept. 18 in Citizens Medical Center in Victoria at the age of 78 years, 5 months and 19 days.

One of four children, she was born March 29, 1909 on the family farm in the Midway community south of Shiner, daughter of Anton and Anna (Berckenhoff) Bleier, natives respectively of Austria-Hungary and Praha, Texas. She was a homemaker, and a member of the Catholic Church in Shiner and the Altar Society.

She was reared on the family farm and attended Michna School and St. Ludmila Academy.

On Nov. 20, 1928, she was married to Edmund B. Roeder in Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church in Shiner with the Rev. Father L.P. Netardus officiating.

The couple first made their home on a farm near Sweet Home for a year, then moved near Shiner. They moved to their present farm home in the Bunjes School community in 1941. Two children were born to this marriage union. Her husband died Sept. 4, 1981 after almost 55 years of married lift [sic] together.

Funeral services were held at 2 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 20 at the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church with the Rev. Patrick Fidgeon officiating.

Burial followed the services in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home in Shiner where the body lay in state.

A parish rosary was recited at 8 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home, led by Father Fidgeon.

Serving as pallbearers were her nephews, Travis Rollins of Portland, Michael Roeder of Port Lavaca, Raymond Kloesel, Nathan Kloesel, both of Shiner; and two family friends, Victor Strakos Jr. and Jeffery Zissa, both of Shiner.

Surviving are a daughter, Miss Edwarda Roeder of Houston; a son and daughter-in-law, Melvin and Janet (Janicek) Roeder of Shiner; a sister, Mrs. Arthur (Ida) Kloesel of Shiner; three grandchildren, Mrs. Angelo (Sherry) Schena of Bastrop, Mrs. Terry (Gwen) Seiley of Cypress, Mark Roeder of Houston; one great-grandson, Tommy Watson of Bastrop; nieces and nephews.

In addition to her husband, she was preceded in death by her father, Sept. 2, 1947; her mother, Feb. 2, 1958; two brothers, Albert Bleier, Mar. 24, 1954; Otto Anton Bleier Sr., Jan. 1, 1987.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EDMUND BEN ROEDER

Shiner Gazette

Rites For Edmund B. Roeder

Edmund Ben Roeder of Shiner died suddenly at 12:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 4, 1981 of an apparent heart attack. He reached the age of 81 years and 23 days.

Funeral services were held Sunday, Sept. 6 at 1 p.m. at the Shiner Catholic Church with Holy Mass offered by the Rev. Patrick Fidgeon.

Burial followed in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers were Travis Rollins of Portland, Milton Roeder of Palacios, Steve Roznovsky, Victor Strakos, Raymond and Glen Kloesel, all of Shiner.

A rosary was recited at 8 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 5 led by Father Fidgeon at the Buffington Funeral Home chapel where the body lay in state until an hour before time for services when it was taken to the church.

Mr. Roeder, a semi-retired farmer, was a lifelong member of the Shiner Catholic Church, and a member of the Shiner Game and Fish League.

One of a family of seven children, he was born August 11, 1900 at Shiner, Lavaca County, Texas, son of Frank J. and Theresa (Neuizzer) Roeder, natives of Neutischein, Moravia, Austria, and Austria, Hungary, who came to America in 1873. He was reared on the family farm and attended the nearby Bunjes School and St. Ludmila Academy in Shiner.

On Nov. 20, 1928, he was married to Dora Bleier in the Sts. Cyril and Methodius’s Catholic Church with the Rev. L.P. Netardus officiating.

The couple farmed for their livelihood, first at Sweet Home for one year, then near Shiner. They moved to their present farm home in 1941 where they resided continuously.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Dora Roeder of Shiner; a daughter, Miss Edwarda Roeder of Houston; a son, Melvin Roeder of Shiner; a sister, Mrs. Joe (Emma) Proschko of Shiner; three grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by his father, July 5, 1914; his mother, Nov. 8, 1928; four brothers, Emil Roeder who died at the age of six weeks; Willie V. Roeder, Jan. 17, 1962; Frank J. Roeder, Feb. 2, 1977; Erwin H. Roeder, Nov. 25, 1978; and one sister, Mrs. Edmund (Hilda) Hirsch, June 23, 1980.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRANK J. ROEDER

Hallettsville Herald, July 10, 1914

Shiner, Texas, July 5.—Frank J. Roeder died this morning at his home, after a lingering illness. He leaves a wife and six children. Mr. Roeder was in his fifty-third year. He was a member of the Woodmen of the World, Half Moon Camp No. 117. He will be buried Tuesday morning at 9 o’clock. Father Machan will conduct the services at the church and cemetery.

Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

JULIUS F. ROHAN

Shiner Gazette, 4 Feb 1978

Julius Rohan

Funeral services for Julius F. Rohan of Sweet Home were held at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 3 at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Yoakum, with the Rev. Al Padalecki officiating. Burial was in St. Joseph Cemetery, Yoakum.

A rosary was recited at 8 p.m. Thursday at Buffington Chapel, Yoakum.

Julius F. Rohan, 65 years, 9 months and 21 days, died unexpectedly Wednesday, Feb. 1, 1978 in Huth Memorial Hospital.

A farmer and rancher, Mr. Rohan was born April 10, 1912, in Lavaca County, son of Frank and Sophie (Chalupa) Rohan. He was a life-long resident of the Yoakum area.

He was a veteran of World War II.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Roberta Lauer-Shimek Rohan of Sweet Home; two stepsons, Robert and George Shimek Jr., both of Sweet Home; two stepdaughters, Mrs. Donnie Hart of Sweet Home and Mrs. Dennis Wick of El Paso and eight stepgrandchildren.

His parents preceded him in death.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ROBERTA ROHAN

17 Jun 1993 newspaper clipping

Roberta Rohan

Funeral services for Mrs. Roberta Rohan, 74, of Sweet Home were scheduled for today (Thursday), June 17, 1993 at Queen of Peace Catholic Church. Rev. Charles Sonnier officiated with interment in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery. Mrs. Rohan died June 14.

A native of Lavaca County, she was born April 25, 1919 to the late Joseph Lauer and Virginia Albrecht. She was a homemaker and a member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church.

Survivors include 2 daughters, Janet Wick, San Antonio, Cheri Hart, Sweet Home; 2 sons, George and Robert Shimek, both of Sweet Home; 5 sisters, Gladys Hoffer, Hallettsville, Magdalene Nickle, Yoakum, Virginia Fitch, Kilgore, Genieve Knox, Cuero, Jean Marie Trammell, Victoria; 1 brother, Joe Lauer, Yoakum; 17 grandchildren, and 12 great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by 2 previous husbands, George Shimek and Julius Rohan; 2 brothers, and 1 sister.

Arrangements were made by Buffington Funeral Home.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HELEN ROOS

Weimar Herald, June 27, 1896, pg 3

Helen, the little six months' old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. R. C. Roos, died Thursday morning after a short illness. The interment took place yesterday morning in the city cemetery. The sympathy of the entire community goes out to the heart broken parents in their great bereavement.—Yoakum Times.

Transcribed by Sharon Sutton

ROSENFELDER Child

Shiner Gazette, 18 Jul 1900

Chas. Rosenfelder’s little child died last Saturday and was buried Sunday in the Shiner cemetery. The Gazette extends the fullest sympathy.

This child's grave may be unmarked. Contributed by Matt Cross

JOHN ROSNOVECK

Weimar Mercury, December 30, 1910

We are sorry to note that a few weeks ago, John Rosnoveck while on his way home, his horse which he was riding became unmanageable and ran against a tree at cottonwood creek. John's skull was crushed and he was unconscious up to the time of his death last Sunday a week ago. his remains were laid to rest at Bila Hora cemetery.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

JEWELL ROSS

Colorado County Citizen, 13 Sep 1995, page 16

Ross

Jewell Ross, 74, of sheridan, died Thursday, Sept. 7, 1995.

Born June 23, 1921 in Houston, she was the daughter of Lawrence and (Ona) Kile Carroll, Mrs. Ross was a member of Sublime Zion LutheranChurch.

Funeral services were held at sublime Zion Lutheran Church with Rev. Albert Flathmann officiating. Interment followed in Geiger Cemetery, Hallettsville. Services were under the direction of Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville.

Serving as pallbearers were Bill C. Ross. James A. Ross, Mark Ross, Doug Leopold, Larry Ross, B. J. Ross, Jeremy Swearengin and Paul Swearengin.

Mrs. Ross is survived by her husband, James B. Ross; daughter Diane Swearengin of Magnolia; sons Bill C. Ross and James A. Ross, both of Sheridan; sister, Ann Johnson of Houston; 11 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

She was preceeded in death by a son, Larry Ross.

MARY ELIZONDO ROSS

Houston Chronicle, 3 Apr 2009

MARY ROSS (Maria Elodia Elizondo) of Houston, Texas passed away March 28, 2009. She was born August 16, 1941.
Preceded in death by parents, Jose and Isabel Elizondo; and sisters Janie Niewoehner, and Josie Cantu.

Survived by her husband Gary Ross and children Lisa Lerner, Janie Bedner, Todd Ross, Sheryl Ross, and Theresa Gramlich, all of Houston. Grandchildren Bill G. Bender, Caera Lerner, Brittany Bedner, Blair Bedner, Ross Lerner, Taylor Gramlich and Torie Gramlich, all of Houston. Also her sisters and brothers; Beatrice Twiss of San Antonio, Sara Arispe and husband Tito of Valencia, CA, Emily Esgro and husband Robert of Tampa, Fl., Margaret Sanchez of Houston, Alicia Padilla and husband Paul of Victoria, Rosa Pizzi and husband Rick of Corpus Christi, Clara Elizondo of Houston, Jesse Elizondo and wife Brenda of Friendswood, and Joe Elizondo and wife Dianne of The Woodlands.

Mary was born in Hallettsville, Texas reared in Yoakum, Texas and moved to Houston in 1970 where she and Gary later opened and operated Plumbing Supply Company.

She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and sister who was supportive of her church and local charities.

A memorial service will be held at Corpus Christi Catholic Church, 9900 Stella Link Rd., Houston, Texas on Saturday April 18, 2009 beginning at 10AM.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests you donate to the charity of your choice.

Contributed by Rebecca Herder

MATTIE MAE ROSS

Mattie Mae Ross Laid To Rest In Oak Grove

Funeral services were held Saturday at 2 P.M.  at Oak Grove Cemetery for Mrs. A.J. Ross, Sr., who passed away at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Ray Wisdom, in Austin. Rev. E.E. Reeves, pastor of the Yoakum Methodist Church was in charge of the grave service, a previous service having been held in Austin Saturday morning.

Mrs. Ross, the former Mattie Mae Goode was born in Flatonia on July 30, 1875 and was married to Mr. A.J. (Jack) Ross in 1900. From that time they were prominent and greatly loved citizens of Yoakum. In 1916 the Valley was a growing section and Mr. Ross frlt the call to become a part of that growth. In 1920 the family moved permanently to Edinburgh where they made their home until the death of Mr. Ross in 1935.

Mr. and Mrs. Ross were the parents of four children, all born in Yoakum. One daughter, Frances, passed away in 1960 and another daughter, Mrs. Mary Ruth Berney in 1964. Two children survive, Mrs. Mattie Belle Widsom (sic) (Mrs. Ray C. Wisdom) and Jack Ross, Jr., both of Austin.

She is also survived by a sister, nieces and grandchildren. Mrs. Ross, until the time of her becoming an invalid some years ago, was active in church and social life. Friends will remember her always for her kindly, jovial manner and her firm stand in matters of what she considered just and right. She was an active church member in what ever locality she lived, her last membership being in the University Methodist Church of Austin. She was a member of the Women’s Society of Christian Service for 76 years, a member of the Order of the Easter Star for 50 years and a member of the Texas Society of the Colonial Dames.

Those attending the services from out-of-town were: Mr. and Mrs. R.C. Wisdom, Miss Judy Wisdom, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Ross, Mr. and Mrs. J.T. Ross, Mr. and Mrs. Mike Ross, Mr. and Mrs. Wesley Hammen, Mrs. Nell Mostellar, Mrs. A.C. Turner all of Austin, Mr. and Mrs.Ray Wisdom, Jr. of Pleasanton; Mrs. Ruth Fitch Sanders of San Angelo; mr. and Mrs. Philip Grifno, Mr. and Mrs. I.M. Stout, Mr. and Mrs. Nathan McClure, and Mrs. Roy Clem of Victoria; Mrs. Grace Goode, Mrs. L.C. Hawes, Mr. Claude W. Goode, Mr. Henry W. Hale all of Port Lavaca.

Contributed by Cara Canik

LAWRENCE JOSEPH ROTHBAUER

Mr. Lawrence Joseph Rothbauer, 90, of Hallettsville, died October 14, 2006. He was born on January 19, 1916 to Louis & Josephine Christen Rothbauer in Moravia, Texas. He married Eleanor Malec on January 6, 1942 at the Sacred Heart Church in Hallettsville. Lawrence is survived by: wife Eleanor of 64 years of marriage; 2-Sons Larry Rothbauer and Richard Rothbauer both of Hallettsville; 2-Daughters Barbara Koehne and Margaret Pozzi both of Hallettsville. 6-Grandchildren and 1-Great Grandchild.

Lawrence is preceded in death by: Parents, 1-Brother Louis Rothbauer, 2-Sisters Irene Drabek and Laura Grahmann, 1-Grandson Clayton Koehne.

Lawrence was a member of the VFW, American Legion, Knights of Columbus, Hallettsville Volunteer Fire Department, and was also a Constable

Service: 10am Monday October 16, 2006 at the Sacred Heart Church in Hallettsville. Visitation: 4pm Sunday October 15, 2006 at the Kubena Funeral Home. Officiate: Rev. John Peters Burial: Sacred Heart Cemetery in Hallettsville.

Pallbearers: Kenneth Rothbauer, Mark Rothbauer, Jonathan Pozzi, Tommy Grahmann, Johnny Grahmann Sr., and Kenneth Henneke.

Honorary Pallbearers: Robert Pesek, Laura Rothbauer, Trisca Rothbauer, Dr. Joelyn Smith, Richard Grahmann, and Bill Byrd.

Kubena Funeral Home - Hallettsville

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

CHARLIE C. ROTHER

Victoria Advocate, Sunday, April 2, 1967

Charlie C. Rother

HALLETTSVILLE – Charlie C. Rother, 77, of Route 3, Hallettsville died at 3:20 a.m. Saturday in a local hospital.

A retired farmer, Mr. Rother was born Aug. 15, 1889, in Lavaca County.

Funeral services will be held Monday at 9:15 a.m. at Kubena Funeral Home Chapel and at 9:30 a.m. at Sacred heart Catholic Church with burial in Sacred Heart Cemetery.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Linda Wessels Rother of Hallettsville; a daughter, Mrs. Henry Hemmi of Hallettsville; three sisters, Mrs. Oscar Pohl and Mrs. George Prilop of Hallettsville and Mrs. Philip Schlaegeter of Schulenburg and three brothers Louis Rother of Hallettsville, Emil Rother of Yoakum and Alfred Rother of Lockhart.

Contributed by Maureen Briscoe

EMIL AARON ROTHER

The Lavaca County Tribune-Herald, Tuesday, December 1, 1987

Emil Rother

Graveside services for Emil Aaron Rother, 93-year-old Victoria Resident, who died Tuesday, November 24, 1987, at a Victoria nursing home, were conducted at 10:30 a.m., Friday, November 27, at the Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery in Hallettsville.

The body lay in state from 8 a.m. to the time of services, Friday, at Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville. The family received visitors at Colonial Funeral Home in Victoria, from 7 to 9 p.m., Thursday, November 25.

Deacon Bill Long conducted the graveside services at the cemetery in Hallettsville.

Mr. Rother was born April 16, 1894, in Lavaca County to Charles and Emelia Meyer Rother. Before moving to Victoria five years ago, he had resided in Yoakum and Schulenburg.

He was a retired farmer and a veteran of World War I. He was a Catholic.

Surviving are his wife, Albina Smajstrla Rother of Victoria; four sons:  James Rother, Wilbert Rother, and Erwin Rother, all of Victoria, and Royce Rother of Schulenburg; nine grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Pallbearers were: Rodney Rother, Allen Rother, Donald Rother, David Rother, Jerry Clark and Henry Hlosek III.

Transcribed by Sandra Long Anders

ERNEST P. ROTHER

The Victoria Advocate, Wednesday, September 17, 1975, Page 12A

Ernest P. Rother

HALLETTSVILLE—Funeral services will be Wednesday at 2 p.m. at St. Peter's Lutheran Church for Ernest P. Rother, 60, of Hallettsville, who died Monday at 11:05 p.m. in a Temple hospital.

The body will lie in state at Kubena Funeral Home until 1 p.m.

The Rev. Harvey Bongers will officiate.

Mr. Rother was born in Lavaca County on April 8, 1915. He married Miladie Skotnik, on March 9, 1937 in Hallettsville. He was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church and the S.P.H.S.T. Lodge.

He is survived by his wife, five sons, Howard and Melvin of Houston, Dennis and Larry of College Station, and Ronald of Hallettsville; three daughters, Mrs. Mildred Scherbel of Bryan, Mrs. Doris Grainger of Temple, and Miss Janice Rother of Hallettsville; two brothers, Ben of Hallettsville and Philip of California; two sisters, Mrs. Herman Maschek and Mrs. Alfred Tesch Sr. of Hallettsville; and six grandchildren.

Contributed by Maureen Brisco

KENNETH JAMES ROTHER

KENNETH JAMES ROTHER
LA GRANGE - Kenneth James Rother, 66, passed away Monday, August 12, 2013, in Alamogordo, NM, following a short battle with cancer. He and his wife were staying in Cloudcroft, NM, for the summer enjoying the cooler weather.

Kenneth was born on September 4, 1946, to Herman and Angelina Rother in Rabb Switch, on the family farm near Hallettsville. As a child, Kenneth worked many odd jobs and was in business for himself by the age of 18.

Kenneth married Connie Sue Cooper in 1965. They were blessed with 3 children, Sharon, Clyde, and Darrell. They were married for 23 years.

Kenneth operated service stations and 24 hour roadside service in Hallettsville and in Gonzales for years. He branched out into auto repair and sales. Kenneth was a well-respected used auto dealer, selling both retail and wholesale. He started many family members in the car business. Kenneth son Clyde learned the business from his dad and was in business for himself by the age 18.

Kenneth met Janet Duncan in 1988. They were married in Las Vegas on May 12, 1994, after being together for 6 years. They had many adventures doing automotive wholesale auctions all over the United States. They settled down in La Grange, TX in 1997, to build their dream house and open a retail automotive lot called "Heights Sales". Kenneth retired in 2002, after being in the automotive business for 45 years. After retiring, he and Janet hit the road in a lovely motor home to see the United States.

Kenneth loved to play Black Jack, and they visited many casinos all over the United States. He enjoyed going on cruises and they went on many. Kenneth never met a stranger. Kenneth loved visiting with everyone he met across the United States, his family, his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Kenneth was blessed with a large loving family and many loyal friends. He kept in touch with everyone on his journeys, and was always only a phone call away. He was the "problem solver", for many in the family and gave good advice. His sudden death has been a total shock to so many.

Kenneth is survived by: his wife Janet; sons, Clyde Rother & partner Nancy Luna of New Berlin, TX, and Darrell Rother & wife Girley of East Moline, Illinois; daughter Sharon Swanson & husband Harold of Decatur, Nebraska; step son Brennon Duncan of La Vernia, TX; his mother Angelina Rother of Hallettsville, TX; brother Marvin Rother & wife Sharon of Hallettsville; sisters, Dorothy Wilson & partner Jimmie Berkenhoff of Hallettsville, Charlene Koncaba & husband Charles of Hallettsville, and Pasty Pavliska & husband Gary of Cuero, TX; 8 grandchildren; one step granddaughter; 2 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Kenneth was preceded in death; his father Herman Rother, brother Arnold Rother, and grandson Lane Rother.

Memorial Funeral Service: 7 pm, Friday, August 23, 2013 at KubenaFuneral Home of Hallettsville.

Visitation: 4 pm, Friday, at Kubena Funeral Home.

Officiate: Rev. Andy Taylor

Memorials (in lieu of flowers): Donor's Choice.

Contributed by Ed Neubauer

MATILDA “TILLIE” QUITTA ROTHER

Lavaca County Tribune-Herald, Tuesday, January 16, 1990

Matilda Rother

Funeral services for Matilda Rother, 88, of Hallettsville, were held at 10 a.m., Saturday, January 13, at St. Peter’s Lutheran Church in Hallettsville, with the Rev. Herb Beyer officiating.

Burial followed in the Hallettsville City Cemetery, under the direction of Kubena Funeral Home.

Mrs. Rother died at 10:20 p.m., Thursday, January 11, 1990, in the Lavaca Medical Center.

Born May 21, 1901, in Lavaca County, to the late Rudolph and Annie Sicko Quitta, she married William M. Rother November 20, 1920 in the Vsetin Community. He preceded her in death on January 31, 1974.

Besides her parents and husband, Mrs. Rother was preceded in death by a sister, a brother, two grandchildren and a great-grandchild.

Surviving are two daughters, Evelyn Tobola of Hallettsville and Adela Filla of Gonzales; three sons: Herman Rother and Edwin Rother, both of Hallettsville and Leonard Rother of Victoria; five sisters: Elvie Hlavac, Agnes Jahn, Selma Woytek and Lydia Muhlstein, all of Hallettsville, and Olga Kloesel of Schulenburg; a brother, Joe Quitta of Hallettsville; 24 grandchildren; 52 great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grand-children.

Pallbearers were Lee, Arnold and Kenneth Rother, Harvey and Eddie Filla, and Edward Tobola.

Honorary pallbearers were Donnie, Jimmy and Ronnie Tobola, Steve and Marvin Rother, and Marvin Filla.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

WILLIAM M. ROTHER

The Victoria Advocate, Sunday, February 2, 1974, Page 12A

William Rother

HALLETTSVILLE—William M. Rother, 75, of Hallettsville, died at 3:40 p.m. Thursday in a local hospital.

A farmer and rancher, Mr. Rother was born Oct. 15, 1878, in Lavaca County. He was a member of St. Peter's Lutheran Church.

Funeral services will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday at St. Peter's Lutheran Church with the Rev. Raymond Wolf officiating. Burial will be in City Cemetery.

The body will lie in state until 1 p.m. at Kubena Funeral Home Chapel where a prayer service was held Friday night.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Matilda Quitta Rother of Hallettsville; two daughters, Mrs. Victor Tobola of Hallettsville and Mrs. Adolph Filla of Gonzales; three sons, Herman and Edwin Rother of Hallettsville and Leonard Rother of Victoria; two sisters, Mrs. Herman Mascheck and Mrs. Alfred Tesch of Hallettsville; three brothers, Ben and Ernest Rother of Hallettsville and Philip Rother of California; 26 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Maureen Briscoe

ANNIE DUSEK ROZNOVJAK

Weimar Mercury, July 12, 1935

Mrs. Joe Roznovjak

Mrs. Roznovjak, respected lady of the Bila Hora community, wife of Mr. Joe Roznovjak, farmer, was attacked with locked bowels the past week end. her condition became so critical she was hurried to a San Antonio hospital Sunday morning and operated on immediately, but it was too late. She lived about twenty-four hours after the operation. She was 63 years old.

Pall bearers were as follows: Messrs. August Holubec, Raymond Holubec, Aug. Dusek, Emil Melnar, Frank Foyt, and Vinc Melnar. Funeral services were conducted by Rev. Horak, Lutheran minister from Caldwell.

Mrs. Roznovjak was born Feb. 2, 1872, at Cermovice, Moravia; came to Texas with her parents, Vincent and Anna Dusek, in 1881, at the age of 9 years. First settled at Nelsonville, in Austin county, then moved to Bila Hora in Lavaca county. In 1899 she was married to Mr. Jos. Rozmovjak and with her husband setteld at Vsetin in Lavaca County. In 1922 they moved to the County Line section (Allen's Quarters), where she lived up to the time of her death. She leaves to mourn her death her husband, Mr. Jos. Rozmovjak, three sons, August Emil and Adolf, and on daughter, Mrs. Emil Foyt of Bila Hora.

The remains were brought home by the Hubbard Undertaking Company and laid to rest Tuesday. A large crowd of sympathizing relatives and friends witnessed the last sad rites.

Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to her bereaved ones.

Contributed by Regena Williamson

EMILIE LAHODNY ROZNOVSKY

Victoria Advocate, Monday, May 24, 1976

Mrs. Roznovsky

SHINER—Funeral services for Mrs. Daniel Roznovsky, 72, of Shiner, will be held at 10 a.m. Tuesday at Shiner Catholic Church, with Father Patrick Fidgeon officiating. Burial will follow in Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Mrs. Roznovsky died Saturday in a Victoria hospital.

Survivors include the husband; a son, Wilbert D. Roznovsky of Hallettsville, a county judge in Lavaca County; two daughters, Mrs. Emmett Boedeker of Bloomington and Mrs. Tony Dradek of Victoria; a brother, Emil Lahodny of Shiner; three sisters, Marie Lahodny and Mrs. John Veit of Shiner, and Mrs. Anton Pavlu of Victoria; 10 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

JOSEPH ROZNOVSKY

Shiner Gazette, 29 Aug 1906

Obituary.

Mr. Joseph Roznofsky [sic.] died last Saturday at his home near Shiner, and was buried Sunday. Mr. Roznofsky had been suffering for some time with cancer, and his death was not unexpected.

A very large crowd of friends and relatives attended the funeral, which took place from the Catholic church. The family of the deceased has our sympathy.

Jos. Roznovsky, 8 Mar 1846 – 25 Aug 1906, was buried at SS. Cyril and Methodius Catholic Cemetery, Shiner. Contributed by Matt Cross

ELI RUBIN

Lavaca County Tribune-Herald, 18 August 1992

ELI RUBIN

Eli Rubin, 89, died Aug. 12, 1992. Born in Kiev, Russia on Jan. 16, 1903, he spent most of his life in Hallettsville, with his late beloved wife, Ruth.

Eli was the last surviving charter member of the Rotary Club, formed in 1928, and the Chamber of Commerce. He served as president of the Chamber and was named outstanding citizen by the Chamber in 1951. He was district governor of the Rotary and held many International positions. He was extremely proud of his 55-year perfect attendance record, and being a Paul Harris Fellow.

An avid left-handed golfer, he was Rotary's World Champion of golf and a winner on the Texas Life Begins at 40 Tourney. He was very active in Boy Scouts of America and was honored with the Silver Beaver award. Through Rotary and the Boy Scouts, he helped many young people get their start in life.

He served as the first president of Temple Israel in Schulenburg and was a lifetime member of B'Nai Brith. His singing talents were well known and his rendition of "God Bless America" will always be remembered.

He is survived by his children: Esther and Dr. Edward Wall, Annette and Bill Gedaly, Samylu and Dr. Norman Rubin, Reba. and Sylvan Rubin and Albert Stein; 25 grandchildren and 17 great grandchildren; also by his brother, Jack Rubin. He was preceded in death by a daughter, Martha Lea Stein.

Funeral services were conducted at 12:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14, at Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville. Rabbi Jack Segal officiated.

RUTH KLEIN RUBIN

Lavaca County Tribune-Herald, 15 December 1989

RUTH RUBIN

Ruth Rubin, 83, of Houston, formerly of Hallettsville, died Monday evening, December 11, 1989, in Seven Acres Geriatric Center in Houston.

Funeral services were held at 12:30 p.m., Wednesday, December 13th at Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville with Rabbi Jack Seigal officiating. Burial took place in the Hallettsville Jewish Cemetery.

Mrs. Rubin was born April 29, 1906, in Austin to the late Louis and Rayne Daum Klein. She married Eli Rubin on February 2, 1924, in Brooklyn, New York. She is a member of Temple Israel in Schuienburg.

She was past president of both the Hallettsville PTA and the Tri-County Council of Jewish Women, and a member and past officer of the Hallettsville Ladies Golf Association. She was also active in her husband's Rotary Club work and was honored with a Paul Harris fellowship.

She is survived by her husband, Eli Rubin of Houston; three daughters: Annette Gedaly of Beaumont, and Esther Wall and Martha Lee Stein, both of Houston; two sons: Dr. Norman Rubin of HallettsviIle and Sylvan Rubin of Houston; two brothers: Charles Klein of Columbus and Herman "Red" Klein of Texas City; 25 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren.

Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by four brothers.

Grandsons served as pallbearers. They are Dr. Jay Rubin, Dr. Howard Rubin, Paul Rubin, Richard. Stein, Ronald Stein, Larry Wall, Ray Gedaly, Randy Rubin, Lionel Schooler, Gary Wiley and Greg Swan.

ARNO A. RUDOLPH

Victoria Advocate, 7 Jan 1984, page 10A

Death Ruled Self-Inflicted Shooting

Advocate News Service

YOAKUM – Death due to a self-inflicted gunshot wound was ruled in the death of Arno A. Rudolph, 70, of Yoakum Friday.

The ruling was made by Justice of the Peace Guy McElroy who said Rudolph shot himself in the right temple with a pistol.

Rudolph, a Texaco consignee, was found in the garage of his residence at 905 Edgar St. by his wife and a son, Glen Rudolph, at 12:15 p.m. He was ruled dead at the scene by McElroy at 1:10 p.m.

McElroy said it is believed Rudolph shot himself about 11 a.m. McElroy said a pistol was found by the body.

Relatives told McElroy that Rudolph had been in ill health and had been in a depressed mood several days.

Rudolph was born in Karnes County Nov. 11, 1913, son of Ewald and Augusta Sanders Rudolph.

Funeral services will be conducted by the Rev. D.I. Dolton and the Rev. Thomas McCrone at Holy Cross Lutheran Church at 4 p.m. Saturday.

Burial will be in Restland Memorial Park Cemetery under the direction of Buffington Funeral Home.

Pallbearers will be Lester Nollkamper, Leonard Steinmann, Victor Spies, Joe Laufer, Elwood Gaus and Ernest Leister.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Laura Wehman Rudolph of Yoakum; two sons, Wayne Rudolph and Glen Rudolph of Yoakum; two sisters, Mrs. Clara Salge of Karnes City and Mrs. Erna Rudolph of Houston; and three grandchildren.

Memorials may be given to Lutheran Social Services or Holy Cross Lutheran Church.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EVA E. RUHMANN

Shiner Gazette, 20 Nov 1901

The Gazette regrets to have to report the death of little Eva, the five-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. F. Ruhmann. She died about 4 p. m. on Monday, the 18th inst. The little one had been sick for some time with slow fever and was thought to be better, but took a relapse and died.

Eva E. Ruhmann, 7 Jun 1896 – 18 Nov 1901, was buried in the Shiner City Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

JOHN RULE

See obituary for John Rule, AKA P. D. Smith.

ANNA A. FRIEDEL RUPPERT

Victoria Advocate, July 31, 2009

ANNIE A. RUPPERT

YOAKUM - Annie A. Ruppert, age 91, died on Wednesday, July 29, 2009. She was born in DeWitt County on Dec. 27, 1917 to Emil and Emilie Erdelt Friedel.

She was a homemaker, member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, and a member of the Altar Society.

Survivors: son, Rev. Don Ruppert of East Bernard; daughter-in-law, Tina Otto of Edna; granddaughters, Kim Whittley of Edna, Monica Lee of Crosby, Deanna Webernick of Edna, and Valerie Novian of Edna; grandson, Jeff Ruppert of Yoakum; 13 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: parents; husband, Herbert Ruppert; son, Wilfred Ruppert; and brother, Bill Friedel.

Visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. today, with a rosary at 7 p.m., at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with Deacon Linard Harper officiating.

The funeral service will be at 10 a.m. on Saturday at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum with Bishop David E. Fellhauer officiating. Entombment will be at St. Joseph Mausoleum.

Pallbearers will be Shane Whittley, Clint Whittley, Grant Webernick, Kenny Friedel, Terry Friedel, and Larry Basham.

Memorials may be given to St. Joseph Catholic Church in Yoakum or Holy Cross Catholic Church in East Bernard.

The guest book may be signed at www.thielecooper.com.

Arrangements with Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home in Yoakum, 361-293-5656.

Contributed by Roland Beausoleil

ALICE LEONA RUSSELL

San Antonio Express, 2 May 1943, page 4C

RUSSELL – Miss Alice Leona Russell died in local hospital, April 30, in her 50th year. Survivors, sisters, Mrs. H. G. French, Kountze, Tex.; Miss Grace E. Russell, Hallettsville, Tex.; brothers, Jewell Russell, Corpus Christi, Tex.; W. L. Russell, Houston, Tex. The body was sent via the Southern Pacific R.R. to Hallettsville, Tex., May 1 at 10 p. m. for private funeral services there Sunday, May 2, at 9 a. m. Arrangements by Roy Akers.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HERMINA RYBAK

Victoria Advocate, 1 Jul 2007

Hermina Rybak

MORAVIA - Mrs. Hermina Rybak, 85, died June 29, 2007. She was born on Nov. 26, 1921, in Velehrad community, above Moravia, to Louis and Sophie Krhovjak Firasek. She married Victor W. Rybak on Aug. 7, 1941, in Praha. She was a member of the Altar Society and also Ascension of our Lord Catholic Church in Moravia.

Hermina is survived by her son, Leroy L. Rybak and wife Joyce of Hallettsville; daughters, Eunice Sparks and husband F.C. of Moravia, Betty Jean Kloesel and husband Dennis of Houston, and Cyndi Rybak and fiancé Keith Martin of Houston; five grandchildren, Ronald Sparks, Donna Smith, Joy Spohn, B.J. Bowman, and Chris Rybak; and three great-grandsons, Ryan Spohn, Mark Spohn, and Zachary Bowman.

Hermina was preceded in death by her husband Victor on June 1, 2001; parents; and brothers, Innoc and Oldrich Firasek.

Visitation will begin at noon today, with a rosary recited at 6 p.m., at Kubena Funeral Home in Hallettsville.

Services will be at 10 a.m. on Monday at Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church in Moravia, with the Rev. John Peters officiating.

Burial will follow at Moravia Catholic Cemetery.

Memorials: donor's choice.

Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.kubenafuneralhome.com.

Contributed by Matt Cross

VICTOR W. RYBAK

Victoria Advocate, 2 Jun 2001

Hallettsville—Victor W. Rybak, 86, of Hallettsville, died Friday, June 1, 2001. He was born July 19, 1914, in Lavaca County, to the late Joe F. and Emma Brosch Rybak. He was a member of Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church in Moravia. Survivors: wife, Hermina Firasek Rybak; daughters, Eunice Sparks of Moravia, Betty Jean Kloesel and Cyndi Rybak, both of Houston; son, Leroy L. Rybak of Hallettsville; sisters, Helen Woods and Irene Ruffin, both of Houston; brothers, Johnny Rybak and George Rybak, both of Houston; five grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. Preceded in death by: parents; sisters, Stacy Kocich, Mary Koudelka and Emmie Bowerman; and brother, Joe Frank Rybak. Visitation will be 11:30 a.m. today at Kubena Funeral Home chapel. A rosary will be recited 7:30 p.m. tonight at the chapel. Services will be 2 p.m. Sunday at Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church, the Rev. John Peters officiating. Burial will be at Moravia Cemetery. Kubena Funeral Home, Hallettsville, 361-798-3271.

Contributed by Matt Cross