Fayette County Obituaries

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The people memorialized in obituaries and death notices below either lived at least part of their lives in the county or are buried here. Please contact volunteer coordinator Rox Ann Johnson to contribute obituaries and/or photographs from your research. If you capture these obituaries for use on other websites, please credit the people who spent hours reading old newspapers to transcribe them. Photo credits should also be given.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

ROY R. RAABE

Schulenburg Sticker, 2 Dec 2010, page 3

Roy R. Raabe

Roy R. Raabe passed away at Schulenburg Regency Nursing Center on Monday, Nov. 15 at age 80 years, 2 months, 16 days. He had been battling cancer for the past eight months, and formerly resided on Lyons Avenue, Schulenburg.

The funeral was held on Thursday, Nov. 18 at 10 a.m. at St. Rose Catholic Church, with the Rev. Tim Kosler officiating and interment in the church cemetery. Pallbearers were Harold Fietsam Jr., Bruce Raabe, Robert Raabe and David Raabe, nephews; and Bryce Sander and Chase Fietsam, great-nephews.

Rosary was recited on Wednesday, Nov. 17 at Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home, led by the Rev. Kosler.

Born on Aug. 30, 1930 at New Bielau, he was the son of Robert J. and Albina (Christen) Raabe. He attended Abbotts Grove School and Schulenburg High School. In fall 1951, he was inducted into the U.S. military at Fort Bliss. He served in the Korean Conflict, working with combat engineers to build roads and remove mines. He was discharged on Dec. 3, 1953.

On Nov. 21, 1964, he married Esther Elma Fietsam at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Ammannsville. He spent most of his life in Fayette County.

His first job was delivering telegraphs via bicycle in Houston. After that, worked at Ruhmann Manufacturing in Schulenburg and then the Alcoa Aluminum Plant in Port Lavaca. He also worked at Utex in Weimar, where he retired after 24 years. He enjoyed listening and dancing to polka music, taking care of his garden at his house in Schulenburg and the family farm in Swiss Alp, and watching the Astros.

He was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church, American Legion, Polka Club, and lifetime member of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5623.

Survivors include his wife; a sister and brother-in-law, Earline and Harold Fietsam of Schulenburg; two brothers and sister-in-law, Bob and Gladys Raabe of Cypress, and Earl and Betty Jo Raabe of Houston; and a number of nieces and nephews – Robert Raabe and wife Kellye of Spring, Sandra Neshyba and husband Val of Katy, Bruce Raabe and wife Stacy of Spring, David Raabe and wife Katrece of Spring, Karen Miley of Schulenburg, Carol Fietsam of La Grange, Harold Fietsam and wife Brenda of La Grange, Randell Raabe of Houston, and Lynda Bannert and husband Ryan of Houston.

Preceding him in death were a daughter, Brenda; his parents; and his parents-in-law, Arnold and Irma Fietsam.

Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MARIE MACHART RAB

Flatonia Argus, 23 January 1947, Page 1

Mrs. Marie Rab Passes Following Lengthy Illness

Mrs. Marie Rab, 91 years, 1 month, and 14 days, died at the La Grange Hospital on Friday, Jan 17 at 1 a.m. following serious illness of some time.

She was born at Netolice, Czechoslovakia on Dec. 3, 1855, and came to Texas 70 years ago and made her home in Flatonia during all of these years.

Services were conducted at the Smith Funeral Home, Flatonia, last Saturday morning at 10 a.m. followed by Requiem Mass said by Rev. Victor A. Raska. Rev. Raska also gave an English and Czech sermon at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church.

The body was tenderly laid to rest in the Praha Catholic Cemetery beside her husband.

Active pallbearers were Leo Sandera, Frank Brosch, Ed Sandera, Frank Rosenauer, Edwin Cook, and John Rab.
Among relatives from out-of-town present for the funeral were: Mrs. Leo Richardson of Groves, Texas, Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Cook of Ganado, Mrs. Emma Rab of Weimar, Mr. and Mrs. Albert Sternadel of Ganado, Mr. and Mrs. George Rab of West Columbia, Mr. and Mrs. Jim Rab of West Columbia, and Mr. and Mrs. John Rab of Lolita, Texas.

Contributed by Joyce Moore

RABA INFANT

La Grange Journal, Thursday, August 10, 1933

Infant Died

Rev. R. Heise committed to earth at the Cedar cemetery, Wednesday morning, the infant son of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Raba of near West Point.  The babe was born Tuesday, and lived only eight hours.  The Journal’s sincere sympathy is offered to the young parents who had looked forward to the happy event, their first born.

Contributed by Rob Brown

EDWARD H. RABB

Weimar Mercury, 5 Apr 1890, page 2

Died, at LaGrange, March 25th, 1890, Edward H. Rabb, son of Mrs. Catherine Rabb, relict of the late J. W. Rabb.—Journal.

HOMER T. RABB

La Grange Journal, Thursday, November 27, 1947

Homer T. Rabb Dies After Short Illness

Homer T. Rabb, 44, passed away Thursday at the local hospital.

Born in La Grange on Jan. 10, 1903, Mr. Rabb had resided here the greater part of his life.  On Sept. 26, 1942 he was married to Miss Nolie Struve.  A road machine operator by trade, he had been ill two weeks prior to his demise.

Funeral was held Friday at 3 p.m. at the Koenig Funeral Home Chapel.  Rev. J. H. E. Willmann officiated, and interment was in the New City Cemetery.

Surviving are his widow; his mother, Mrs. Mary Emma Rabb of La Grange; and a sister, Mrs. Gladys Rabb Knolle of La Grange.

Contributed by Rob Brown

J. W. RABB

La Grange Journal, 16 Apr 1885

A SAD OCCURRENCE

On Friday, April 10th, at Nashville, Tennessee, Mr. J. W. Rabb, an esteemed and honored citizen of this place departed this life, by committing suicide. Deceased was born and raised in this county, the fourth son of the late John Rabb, an old and worthy citizen, who was noted for his many noble acts of charity and benevolence, and a life that left indelible "foot-prints in the sands of time." Mr. J. W. Rabb was in his 53d year, and was a brave, honorable, just and upright man. At the commencement of the late war, he was among the flrst that answered the country's call and became a member of that noble band, Terry's Rangers, that shed a halo of glory upon the name of the Lone Star State. Upon the many hard fought battle fields in which that veteran band participated, the deceased ever bore a brave and honored part. During the latter part of the war he was desperately wounded, receiving two wounds, from which he never fully recovered, and to these in some measure is attributable his late mental condition. Mr. R. had been for several months sorely afflicted both mentally and physically, suffering principally from a deep melancholy depression of spirits, and while in one of these moods doubtless committed the rash act that deprived his family of an affectionate. husband, an indulgent father, his friends of a true and tried companion, and this community of a citizen that in uprightness of character, nobleness of heart, and an unswerving fidelity to the right, makes his loss the more irreparable. His friends aud family desire to return their thanks to the citizens of Nashville, who rendered such valuable and kind assistance to Mr. John T. Harwell, who accompanied Mr. Rabb to that place, for the purpose of placing him under the treatment of a medical expert.

The Knights pf Honor, of whom deceased was a member, performed the last sad rites over his grave on last Monday evening and the words: "Dust to dust, ashes to ashes," found many a responsive echo in the hearts of his many sad friends, who had assembled to pay the last tribute of respect, to his unimpeachable character. We are requested by the family and relatives of the deceased, to return to Mr. John T. Harwell, their heartfelt gratitude, for his self-sacrificing acts, in aiding them in caring for and watching over the cleceased, and to the citizens of La Grange, for their many acts of kindness and condolence in this hour of their bereavement. Mr. Rabb is dead —but his memory will ever live, by the acts performed, and what little he left undone, will only cause us to miss him the more. In his last long rest may he find that peace, that in his mental depression, he imagined was denied him here.

ANNA SCHWENKE RABE

Houston Post, 22 Aug 1953, section 2, page 11

MRS ANNA RABE, 77, of 709 Walton St. died 4:10 AM Friday in Marlin. Native of Germany. Resided in Houston for 50 years. Charter member of Zion Lutheran Church. Survivors: Daughter, Mrs. John W. (Ziggy) Sears; sons, Oscar H. Rabe, Bennie D. Rabe and Walter O. Rabe, all of Houston; brothers, Reinholdt Schwenke and Moritz Schwenke both of Schulenburg. Services 10 AM Monday in the chapel of Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, the Rev David Herman. Remains to be taken overland to Schulenburg for services there 4 PM Monday at the Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home. Burial, Schulenburg. Geo. H. Lewis & Sons, 400 block McGowen, LInden-3141.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HILDA RABE

Schulenburg Sticker, 22 Jan 1903

LITTLE HILDA RABE DEAD.

Hilda, the little three year old girl of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Rabe, after an illness of several days died at her parents home in Schulenburg at 4 a. m., Wednesday January the 21st and all that is mortal of the little sufferer will be tenderly consigned to the grave in the city cemetery this, Thursday afternoon at 2 o’clock. The entire community sincerely sympathizes with the bereaved parents in the loss of their treasured child.

Contributed by Matt Cross

OSCAR H. "COTTON" RABE

Houston Post, 1 Jan 1968, section 4, page 18

OSCAR H. (COTTON) RABE, 71, 8011 Washington, died Saturday. Houston resident since 1947. Member of F. O. E. aerie No. 63. Survived by: Wife, Mrs. Gertrude B. Rabe; sister, Mrs. Dolores Sears; brother, Walter Rabe, all of Houston. Services 10 AM Tuesday, Jack Carswell Funeral Home, with the Rev. Jerry Allen officiating. Graveside services and burial 2 PM Tuesday at Wolters Cemetery, Schulenburg, Texas. JACK CARSWELL & CO. 915 Lovett Blvd. at Montrose, JAckson 3-4423.

Oscar Rabe was buried in the Schulenburg City Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

OTTO A. RABE

Houston Post, 16 Jan 1938, section 1, page 22

RABE – Otto A. Rabe, 66, of 706 Walton, died at 7:30 p. m. Saturday in a hospital. Mr. Rabe had lived in Houston 33 years. At the time of his death he was employed by the Schuhmacher company. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Anna Rabe; one daughter, Mrs. Hattie Mountjoy; three sons, O. H., Benny and Walter Rabe, all of Houston. The body will be sent to Schulenburg at 9:05 a. m. Monday over the Southern Pacific lines by the Fogle-West company for burial there. Fogle-West company directing.

Contributed by Matt Cross

WALTER OTTO RABE

Houston Post, 27 May 1979, page 22C

WALTER OTTO RABE, 74, died Friday. Native Houstonian. Member Lutheran Church, F.O.E. Aerie 63. Survived by: Sister, Mrs. Dolores Hattie Sears, Houston. Visitation 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. Monday. Cremation. Memorial service 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Faith American Lutheran Church, Pastor Elliott Pancoast officiating. JACK CARSWELL AND CO., 1401 Crawford at Clay, 523-4423.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ED RABEL

Weimar Mercury, 4 Feb 1927

ED RABEL, SR., DIES.

Just before going to press we learned that Ed Rabel, Sr., of the Ammannsville section died late Wednesday night. He was formerly blacksmith at Ammannsville. He was the father of Ed Rabel, Jr., who worked here in Hajek's Confectionery. Relatives have been unable to locate this boy. We extend sympathy to the bereaved relatives. —Schulenburg Sticker.

FRANZ RABEL

Schulenburg Sticker, 5 Nov 1903

Mr. Franz Rabel died Saturday from the effects of a wound on his head inflicted by his step-son, Mr. Joe Lobpries, Tuesday the 29th. It seems that Mr. Rabel was under the influence of intoxicating liquor and proceeded to raise a “rough house,” which did not meet the approval of young Lobpries, who with a single-tree, stopped the proceedings, inflicting a severe wound on his (Rabel’s) head. It is of the opinion that this wound would not have proven fatal but Mr. Rabel, while in fits of insanity would butt his head against the side of the wall and pull the bandages off the wound, giving no chance for the medicine applied to take proper effect. His remains were interred in the Catholic cemetery Sunday, Father Mathis officiating.

Schulenburg Sticker, 19 Nov 1903

Death Record.

Rabel: Died near Schulenburg Oct. 31st 0g [sic] of concussion of brain Franz Rabel aged thirty-five years.

Contributed by Matt Cross

RABEL INFANT

Schulenburg Sticker, 23 July 1903, From Engle column

The six weeks old boy of Mr. and Mrs. Jos Rabel died Saturday, and was buried at Praha Sunday, in the catholic [sic] cemetery.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOSEPH RABEL

Schulenburg Sticker, 21 Jan 1921, page 1

Funeral Of Over-Seas Boy To Be Conducted Sunday

The remains of Joseph Rabel, who died while in service of his country in December 1918, arrived here Wednesday afternoon, and the casket draped with the national colors will now lie in state until Sunday afternoon, when the funeral services, in fitting tribute to this young man, whose life was surrendered in sacrifice for his country, the body having completed its long voyage from France, will be held.

He was a son of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Rabel, who live about three miles northeast of here. He died in a hospital “somewhere in France” from the ravages of influenza and pneumonia.

The funeral services will be impressive, and will be held from the Catholic Church here Sunday afternoon at 2:30. Preceding this service, a special service will be conducted by the American Legion in front of the local Armory at 2:00 o’clock.

It is fitting that we should all wish to pay tribute to this young man, who gave his life in the cause of his country.

Schulenburg Sticker, 28 Jan 1921, page 1

Entire Community Pays Tribute To Memory Of Soldier

With fitting ceremonies, first at the Armory by the American Legion, and then at St. Rosa’s Catholic Church, and at the grave, the funeral services for Joseph Rabel, who gave his life while in the service of his country overseas, were conducted in this city last Sunday afternoon.

And in glowing tribute to his memory, from far and near, came friends by the score to show their appreciation of the Great Sacrifice, which he had made in the cause of country.

Many a tear dimmed many an eye, as the flag draped casket came into view, and the thoughts of those assembled were turned back for a moment, to that time but a few brief years ago, when he answered the call of country, for which he afterwards gave his life.

Brief services were conducted in front of the Armory by the local American Legion Post.

From there the procession moved to St. Rosa’s Church, headed by a band, playing the sad funeral dirge, and the casket accompanied by members of the American Legion, by members of the National Guard, a cortierre of young ladies in white carrying flowers, with a long line of cars and carriages following.

Rev. Father Ledwig of Flatonia State Chaplain of the American Legion, returned hurriedly from Washington and lightened the grief of bereaved relatives, in the glowing tribute which a most wonderful sermon could pay to his memory and his Great Sacrifice.

And following as the flag draped casket was lowered to its final resting place, the solemn military salute reverberated from the booming guns.

May this departed soldier, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Anton Rabel, rest forever in peace, and may the Great Reward come in full to him. He is no longer with us, but his Memory will linger in our hearts and may our thoughts be of his sacrifice for us and for ours, forever.

Contributed by Matt Cross

THERESIA ANDERS RABEL

The Schulenburg Sticker, January 14, 1938

Mrs. Anton Rabel Answers Last Call

Mrs. Anton Rabel passed away at the hospital in Hallettsville on Monday, January 10, at 10 o’clock.

Three days before her death she fell while working in the kitchen at her home, and as a result of the fall sustained a broken hip.  She was carried to the hospital where everything possible was done to restore her health, but being up in years, 86, she was not very strong, and the Heavenly Father called her home and relieved her from further suffering.

Mrs. Rabel was born in Austria and came to the United States 54 years ago.  Here she, as Therese Anders, met Anton Rabel and was united in marriage to him after she had lived in this country only one year.  The wedding took place at the High Hill Church and she has since that time made her home in this section.  She was a devout member of the St. Rose Catholic Church, and also a member of the Mother’s Society of that Church.  All her life she has been a good, hardworking Christian woman.  She was a good mother who taught her children to live clean, upright lives and to be good citizens.  Even up until just before her death she worked about the house and kept beautiful flowers in her clean yard.  She was a good neighbor and never shirked her duty when she could be of assistance to any one in need.  Her passing is sincerely regretted and she will be missed by the many friends and neighbors whom she always met with a smile. 

The funeral was a very large one and there were many beautiful floral offerings which attested to the love and esteem in which she was held.

Funeral services were held from the family residence on Wednesday morning at 9:30.  Father Lee Goertz performing the last and rites.  Interment was in the St. Rose Catholic Cemetery.

Surviving are two sons, Rudolph and Edmund; one daughter, Miss Christina; one grandson, Joe Rabel; and one brother, Joe Anders, aged 96, who resides in Europe.

Her husband preceded her in death seven years ago.  One son, Joe, died in France during the World War, while fighting for his country.

The Mothers’ Society of St. Rose Church, and the Schulenburg American Legion attended the funeral in a body.

Emil Schulz, Carl Huser, R. J. Roeder, Frank Koller, W. A. Farek and Ray Kusey, members of the American Legion, were the pallbearers.

The Sticker tenders sincere sympathy to the bereaved relatives.

Transcribed by Sandra Long Anders

AUGUSTE RACHUI

Schulenburg Sticker, 4 Feb 1909

DEATHS REPORTED.

Died at Carmine, Jan. 12, Auguste Elilie Rachui, age 51 years, 2 months and 9 days, of appoplexy [sic].

Contributed by Matt Cross

E. M. RAGSDALE

Schulenburg Sticker, 26 Jan 1917, page 1

E. M. Ragsdale

E. M. Ragsdale died at his home in this city Friday night, after an illness of a few days. He was taken down with la grippe and pneumonia about a week ago, and all that could be done proved of no avail. Funeral services were held at the family residence at 1 o’clock p. m. Sunday and the remains laid to rest in the City Cemetery, Rev. W. H. Petty conducting the services. Mr. Ragsdale was born in this vicinity on April 28th, 1860. He married Miss Anna Elizabeth Morgan in 1888. He was for a number of years employed by the firm of Tuttle and Cockrill, and for a time worked as telegraph operator for the Sap railroad at Muldoon. Later he work [sic] for the Muldoon Mercantile Company and once during the past five years entered business for himself. For several years his health has been poor and business matters worried him a great deal. He is survived by a wife and three children, Milton Ragsdale of Tulsa, Oklahoma and Misses Edna and Eliza, of this place. – Flatonia Argus.

Contributed by Matt Cross

LILLIAN TERRY RAGSDALE

Redding Record Searchlight, Redding, California, November 22, 1998

Lillian Ragsdale

Services for former Shasta County resident Lilian Terry Ragsdale, 85, of Eureka will be at 2 p.m. Wednesday at McDonald's Redding Chapel.

The Rev. Heather Hennessey of First Christian Church in Redding will officiate.

Visitation will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday at the chapel.

Burial will be at Redding Cemetery.

Mrs. Ragsdale died Thursday, Nov. 19, 1998, at Sunset Care Center in Eureka.

Born Feb. 9, 1913, in Fayette County, Texas, she moved to Shasta County in 1980 from Eureka and lived there for 13 years, returning to Eureka in 1993.

She was the owner of Farthest West Motel in Eureka.

Survivors include daughters Carolyn Podratz of Eureka and Evelyn Combs of Bella Vista; brothers Bill and Sidney Rutta, both of Columbus, Texas; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Connie Sneed

SUSAN P. ROBINSON RAGSDALE

The Gonzales Inquirer, 31 January 1927

LAID TO REST AT FLATONIA

MANY FROM HERE ATTEND FUNERAL OF MRS. SUSAN P. RAGSDALE

A number of friends of the family from here motored over to Flatonia Sunday afternoon to attend the funeral of Mrs. Susan P. Ragsdale, mother of Mrs. W. H. Boothe of this city, whose remains were laid to rest there beside those of her husband, following funeral services conducted at 3:30 o'clock at the residence of Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Arnim.

Aside from the relatives here were a number from San Antonio, Dallas and Victoria, accompanied by friends who were joined at Flatonia by many old time friends of Mrs. Boothe's here in her former home at Flatonia to pay her memory a last tribute.

The services were conducted by Rev. G. B. McLean, pastor of the Baptist Church of Flatonia assisted by the Methodist minister of Flatonia and Dr. O. L. Smith, pastor of the First Baptist Church of this city who paid her life an eloquent tribute.

Dr. Smith spoke briefly of Mrs. Ragsdale's life and covered the year of her birth 1844, being the year before the admission of Texas into the union, the founding of Baylor University, the organization of the Southern Methodist Church and of the Southern Baptist Convention. He portrayed her life as a young woman braving the years of the Civil War and the Reconstruction period which followed; of her marriage in 1865, and of her settlement with her young husband in Lavaca county where she and her sturdy husband cut and sawed lumber, all cedar, with which they built their home and which house stands to the present day, and of their hauling this lumber 35 miles on wagons drawn by several yoke of oxen.

He spoke tenderly of her conversion to Christ when yet a young woman. This was during the dark days of the Civil War. Miss Susie Robinson, and her friend Miss Appline Robins, had gone to spend a Saturday night with a third young lady friend, Miss Bettie Sullivan. Their fathers and brothers were all away in the army. Mrs. Sullivan that night called the old negro "mammy" to the house and together they conducted a prayer meeting, at which both Miss Robins and Miss Robinson professed conversion. This incident is related by one of the sons of Mrs. Sullivan who was then but a little lad.

Mrs. Ragsdale was born Sept. 1st 1845, at Black Jack Springs, Fayette county, and was a daughter of William and Sarah Robinson. Her husband, W. R. Ragsdale, passed away years ago. Of late years Mrs. Ragsdale had been making her home with her various children, and spent much time here with her daughter, Mrs. W. H. Boothe.

Surviving her, besides Mrs. Boothe and two other daughters, Mrs. A. R. Ragsdale [should be Ragland] of Dallas and Mrs. Jim Kerr of San Antonio, and two sons, J. W. Ragsdale of Victoria and R. D. Ragsdale of San Antonio, 12 grandchildren and 6 great grandchildren. Her seven grandsons were the acting pall bearers and included William and Robert Boothe of this city, Alfonso Ragland, Callas; Geor. Norwood Witting, San Antonio; Claude McCann, Victoria; Benet Barnes, San Antonio; and Raymond McKiver, Dallas. Otis Moore of this city was also a pall bearer.

A wealth of exquisite floral tributes, among them numerous handsome emblems, made beautiful her last resting place, a gorgeous mantle of flowers, testimonies of love, faith and unfailing friendships.

Among the special offerings were lovely tributes from the Baptist Woman's Missionary Union of this city and the members of Mrs. Boothe's music class, and many Gonzales friends also sent beautiful tributes.

A noble mother, a faithful member of the Baptist Church for many years, has passed on to enter into the glories prepared for them that love the Lord.

"Fast as the seasons bring
The hour of fate to those we love
Each pearl that leaves the broken string
Is set in friendship's crowd above
As narrower grows the earthly chain
The circle widens in the sky.
These are our treasures that remain
But those are stars that beam on high."

Contributed by Jeanne Boothe

Weimar Mercury, 4 Feb 1927

FLATONIA PIONEER BURIED.

Flatonia, Texas, Jan. 30. —The remains of Mrs. Susan P. Ragsdale who died in Dallas Friday, were brought here for burial. Funeral services were held from the residence of Mr. and Mrs. E. A. Arnim Sunday afternoon at 3:30. Mrs. Ragsdale and family lived here in the early '80s. She was 83 years of age and had resided with her daughter, Mrs. Sue Ragland in Dallas for a number of years.

Contributed by Jeanne Boothe

WILLIAM ROBERT RAGSDALE

The Colorado Citizen, Thursday, 1 July 1880

There have been so many rumors, conflicting accounts, and unfounded reports in regard to the killing of W. R. Ragsdale that a report of what is actually known will appear possibly as a suppression of the truth. We shall, however, give currency to that alone which is substantiated by testimony.

It would seem that on Monday last he was informed that some of his stock had been carried off and that he started in pursuit, but night coming on, returned to his home. On Tuesday he again started from home alone against the advice and expostulation of his wife. On the same morning, Mr. and Mrs. James Robinson rode in their buggy over to Schulenburg, and when near the Secrest place, about five miles from Schulenburg, they saw a pistol fight in which one man at least, was shot and killed. Hurrying on to town, some persons were got to go out and search for the body, and the corpse of W. R. Ragsdale was found in a ravine about a half mile away from the scene of the difficulty to which place it had been dragged. Several pistol wounds were found upon it, one in the back of the head, two or three in the back, and one in the breast. No other dead bodies were found either then or since. The evidence of Mr. and Mrs. Robinson showed there were 4 or 5 white men and 2 negroes present at the killing,—who these were, they were unable to say, as they were not able to recognize them. One negro, supposed to be one of those present, is under arrest. The case is still undergoing investigation, and as soon as we have the particulars given us in an authoritative form, we will publish them. We presume it is not the wish of officials to disclose their discoveries until they can arrest the suspected persons.—Hallettsville Herald

The Colorado Citizen, Thursday, 8 July 1880

On last Thursday, June 24th—St. John the Baptist's day—all that was mortal of the lamented W. R. Ragsdale was consigned to the tomb in the cemetery of this place. He was buried with masonic honors by Flatonia Lodge, No. 436, A. F. & A. M., a large delegation from Lyons Lodge No. 195, assisting. Notwithstanding the oppressive heat of the day the beautiful burial ceremonies of the order were gone through with J. M. McGinty, W. M. and P. M., officiating. No member of society has been called hence to that bourne whence no traveler returns, who carried with him a more profound respect, or whose death was more deeply lamented than is that of W. R. Ragsdale.—Flatonia Argus.

The Colorado Citizen, Thursday, 8 July 1880

The Coroner's jury, in the investigation of the murder of W. R. Ragsdale, on the 23d ult., in Fayette county, in their verdict say that deceased came to his death by gunshot wounds inflicted by Bud Secrest, Searcy Secrest, Vic Dixon and Short Day, as principals, and Bill Miller and Dan. Gamman as accessories. Bill Miller made the confession upon which the verdict was founded.

Contributed by Jeanne Boothe

AGNES KONVICKA RAINOSEK

La Grange Journal, Thursday, December 15, 1955

Last Rites Held For Mrs. Agnes Rainosek

Mrs. Agnes Rainosek, 92, was interred in the Hostyn Cemetery following services at the Koenig Funeral Home Chapel and the Hostyn Catholic Church Monday, December 12 at 8:30 A.M.  Rev. Adolph Janda officiated.

Mrs. Rainosek, who resided near La Grange, was a resident of Fayette County for the past 69 years.  She died at her home Saturday.

Born on October 5, 1863, she was the daughter of the late John and Rosalie Sramek Konvicka.  She married Herman Rainosek who preceded her in death on March 30, 1946.

Surviving are three daughters, Mrs. Frank Janacek and Mrs. Adolph Cervenka of La Grange and Mrs. Joe Janacek of Weimar; 17 grandchildren; 40 great-grandchildren and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
Contributed by Rob Brown

ANTON C. RAINOSEK

La Grange Journal, Thursday, November 17, 1938

Anton C. Rainosek

“Man proposes, God disposes.”

While throngs were celebrating the 20th anniversary of Armistice Day, Anton C. Rainosek, looking forward to an early recovery following a surgical operation, died at the La Grange Hospital, Friday, November 11; aged 38 years, 9 months and 22 days.  Illness that had gained a firm hold began three months since.  Seeking relief he submitted to a surgical operation, but his affliction was such that medical science could not grant the plea for recovery.

Anton, born January 19, 1900, was the son of Mr. and Mrs Anton Rainosek, Sr. of the Hostyn sector.  He grew to manhood at the Rainosek home, was contented to lead the life of a farmer and in 1925 was united in marriage with Elizabeth Svrcek.  He is survived by his wife and one son, Daniel and one daughter, Evelyn; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Anton Rainosek, Sr., six brothers: Ignac M. Rainosek and Alvin Rainosek of Rosenberg; Edward A., of Marfa; Iva A. and Jerome C., of Hostyn and Emil P. Rainosek.  Six sisters: Mrs. Anton C. Sevcik of Nechanitz; Mrs. Paul H. Brunner of Weimar; Mrs. Aug. Svrcek, Rabb’s Prairie; Mrs. Victor Cernoch, Ammannsville; Misses Mary and Leona Rainosek of Hostyn.

Sunday morning at 9:30 o’clock, Rev. S. A. Zientek, priest in charge of the Sacred Heart Catholic church at La Grange, conducted the funeral service at the church with Requiem Mass; Koenig Funeral Home and Rud. Svrcek, had charge of the funeral.

Anton had many friends in La Grange, and frequently, as time permitted, assisted at clerkship in the A. & P. store in La Grange.  He was energetic and thrifty and was soon to add to his land holdings, but illness came and then – death.

Contributed by Rob Brown

E.P. (JACK) RAINOSEK

Fayette County Record, Tuesday, April 3, 1984

Rainosek

Funeral services for E. P. (Jack) Rainosek, 77, of Odessa were held Friday, Mar. 28, at 2 p.m. at the Hubbard-Kelly Funeral Chapel in Odessa with the Rev. Bailey Stone officiating.  Burial was in Sunset Memorial Gardens.

Mr. Rainosek died March 21 in the Medical Center Hospital in Odessa.

He was born at Hostyn on July 7, 1906.  He was the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Anton Rainosek.  He was married to Mary Claude Norwood on June 28, 1936 in Midland.  Mrs. Rainosek preceded him in death on Nov. 16, 1969.

Mr. Rainosek was on the Odessa City Council from 1962-1968.  He was former owner of Crawford Door Company and former co-owner of Stelchrome Manufacturing company.

Survivors include one daughter, Jackalyn Rainosek of Houston; two brothers, J. C. Rainosek and Edward Rainosek, both of Houston; and three sisters, Rosie Svrcek of Schulenburg, Edith Cernoch of El Campo and Leona Schulte of Stratton, Colo.
Contributed by Rob Brown

FILOMENA STEFFEK RAINOSEK

La Grange Journal, Thursday, June 6, 1957

Services Held For Mrs. Rainosek

Funeral services were held for Mrs. Filomena Rainosek, widow of Anton Rainosek, Wednesday, May 29, at 9 AM in the Koenig Funeral Home with continued service at the Hostyn Catholic Church.  Burial was in the Hostyn cemetery. Father Adolph Janda officiated and Koenig Funeral Home was in charge of the arrangements.

Mrs. Rainosek was born in 1877 on November 24 in Europe.  She died on May 26 at the Nightengale Hospital in El Campo.  Her husband preceded her in death in January of 1951.  Mrs. Rainosek was the former Miss Filomena Steffek.  She was married to John Rainosek on Oct. 29, 1895 in Hostyn.  She immigrated to America when she was three years old and settled in Hostyn.  She lived there all her life.

Survivors are her five daughters: Mrs. Paul (Mollie) Bruner of Weimar, Mrs. August (Rosie) Svrcek of La Grange, Mrs. Victor (Edith) Cernoch of El Campo, Mrs. John (Leona) Schulte of Stratton, Colorado; five sons; Ignac Rainosek of Rosenburg, Emil Rainosek of Odessa, Alvin Rainosek of El Campo, Edward of Houston, and Jerome of Schulenburg.
Contributed by Rob Brown

FRANK RAINOSEK

Schulenburg Sticker, 2 June 1904

Death Record.

Rainosek – Died near Ceder, of Suicide, Frank Rainosek, aged 36 years.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HERMAN RAINOSEK

Weimar Mercury, Friday, April 19, 1946

Herman Rainosek, Buried At Hostyn

Funeral services for Herman Rainosek, 82, were held at the Hostyn Catholic Church on Monday, April 1, with the Rev. Jansky officiating. Interment was in the Hostyn Cemetery.

Mr. Rainosek was born at Freyburg and when just a few years old he moved with his parents to a farm about 3 1-2 miles from La Grange, where he lived until his death. He was 82 years and one day old at time of death. He was united in marriage to Agnes Konvicka of Dubina in the year 1886.

Survivors include his widow, three daughters, Mrs. Frank Janacek, Mrs. Adolph Cervenka of La Grange, and Mrs. Joe Janacek of Weimar; one son, Willie Rainosek of La Grange; 17 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Annie Foitek of Flatonia.

Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

JUSTINE RAINOSEK

Schulenburg Sticker, 8 Oct 1903

Death Record.

Rainosek: Died near Bluff, Sept 19-03, of Pernicious Malaria, Justine Rainosek, aged 6 years and 11 months.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MARTIN RAINOSEK

Schulenburg Sticker, 22 Aug 1913

DEATH REPORT

Martin Rainosek, aged 56 years, 8 months, pulmonary tuberculosis, Bluff.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MARY MUENSTER RAINOSEK

Weimar Mercury, Friday, November 5, 1943

Funeral Services for Mrs. Mary Rainosek Wednesday A. M.

Funeral services were held Wednesday morning for Mrs. Mrs. Mary Rainosek at St. Michael's Church with Msgr. Joe Szymanski officiating. Interment was made in the Hostyn Cemetery, the Rev. Kaspar conducting the services at the grave.

Mrs. Rainosek was born Feb. 2, 1885, in Australia [probably Austria], coming to this country early in life and making her home at Hostyn until about five years ago, since which time she had made her home with her daughter, Mrs. Adolf Polk, near Weimar. She had attained the age of 88 years, 8 months and 29 days. She was a daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Muenster.

Survivors include three daughters, Mrs. Adolf Polk and Mrs. John Banse of near Weimar, and one daughter who lives at Hostyn.

Pallbearers were six grandsons, Edgar Banse, Harry Janacek, Geo. Hauser, Herbert Helmcamp, Louis Behar, Robt. Behar.

The Mercury extends sincere sympathy to the bereaved.

Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

Weimar Mercury, 12 Nov 1943

Attend Rainosek Funeral Here

Among the friends and relatives attending funeral services for Mrs. Mary Rainosek last Wednesday, as given to us, were:

Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Munster of San Antonio; Mr. and Mrs. George Hauser and baby, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Helmcamp and son of Houston; Mr. and Mrs. Robt. Behal and son of Smithville; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Behal, Mrs. F. Behal and sons, Mr. F. Hauser and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. George Janda and daughters, Mr. and Mrs. August Janda, Mr. and Mrs. F. Janacek and son, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Rainosek, Mr. and Mrs. Ad. Cervenka, all of Hostyn.

Also, Mr. and Mrs. Otis Wright, Mrs. John Kocian of Flatonia; Mr. Anton Dreitner, Mr. and Mrs. Steve Wick, Mr. and Mrs. F. Polk, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Elstner and Miss Leona, Mr. and Mrs. August Shumbera and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Frank Wanja, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Janacek, Mr. and Mrs. Ed Keiner and Miss Annie Keiner, Mrs. Willie Osina, Mrs. F. Seifert, Mrs. E. Grohman, Mrs. F. Berger, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Helmcamp and daughter, Mrs. B. Slavik and son, Lt. Chas. Slavik, all from Weimar.

Contributed by Matt Cross

GUILFORD RAMSEY

Schulenburg Sticker, 16 March 1923, page 1

Guilford Ramsey

Guilford Ramsey, a man of sterling worth and integrity, heard the call of the Lord last Sunday morning, March 11th., and his spirit cast away the old clay body in which it had resided nearly 80 years, in exchange for its heavenly garment.

Mr. Ramsey was one of the finest characters ever known in Gonzales County. He was a devout christian [sic] all his life.

In 1862 when the heavy war clouds hung over his beloved southland, he immediately enlisted. In the thick of the battle of Murfreesboro, Tenn., a big shell exploded and tore his arm away. He was left on the ground a long time by his comrades thinking him dead. After he was released from the hospital he was entitled to be discharged but no, he took his gun and remained in the war until the end.

Mr. Ramsey lived at Black Jack, this county a short time, about 50 years ago. While in Schulenburg on a visit with his daughter, Mrs. Ballard recently, he remarked that he still had a saw he purchased from Charles Kessler at High Hill.

Mr. Ramsey was Tax Assessor of Gonzales County several terms, was one of the first tax assessors Gonzales county ever had. He also served Gonzales County as Tax Collector for 14 years.

The body was laid to rest in the Wrightsboro cemetery, which is the family burial ground, Monday afternoon at five o’clock. The grave was smothered with beautiful floral decorations of every kind and hue.

Attending the funeral from here were W. D. Cowan, Chas. Vogt, Henry Russek and E. A. Bosl.

He is survived by his widow, five sons and four daughters namely, D. U., Hugh, D. W., R. C., and Ed. Mrs. C. T. Ballard of Schulenburg, Mrs. Della Shelby, Mrs. Ben Davis, and Miss Sue Ramsey of Gonzales.

To these the Sticker tenders its sincere sympathy.

Contributed by Matt Cross

WALLACE RAMSEY

Schulenburg Sticker, 22 Oct 1903

Death Record.

Ramsey: Died at Winchester, Oct 8 03, of Organic Heart Disease, Wallace Ramsey, aged 35 years and 11 months.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOHN RANKIN

Shiner Gazette, 1 Dec 1897

John Rankin.

“Those that live by the sword will perish by the sword” is an old saying and generally a true one. Ex United States Marshal John Rankin, formerly of Fayette county, had killed his man and established his reputation as a bad man. Saturday he died with his boots on in Austin, being shot down in the streets by Police Officer Grizzard of Austin. He was shot four times and did not have time to defend himself. His slayer was afraid of him. No body seems to know what the trouble was between the two men. All the Fayette county people in Shiner were acquainted with John Rankin, knowing him when he was sheriff and county clerk of Fayette county. He began his career as a constable at Round Top in that county and made such a good officer that the people elected him sheriff, which office he held three times. Every one speaks of him as being a fearless officer. Later on he became county clerk. In the spring of 1891 he shot and killed Fritz Homuth of LaGrange. It was said at the time that Homuth had threatened Rankin and the latter lay in wait for him with a double-barreled shotgun. His chance came one morning when Homuth was on his way to the meat market. Rankin shot him down without warning and when the case came to trial secured an acquittal. This ruined him at LaGrange and he moved to Austin and served several years as a United States Marshal for this district. He killed a train robber up in Frio county while marshal.

[on another page in same issue]

The killing of John Rankin created quite a stir here, where he was well known. The latest sensation in connection with the killing is the assertion that Jim Grizzard, his slayer, was hired to kill him by Fritz Homuth whom Rankin killed at LaGrange six years ago. This theory is not given much credence and it is generally believed that there was an old feud between the men.

Shiner Gazette, 15 Jun 1898, Local News column

Policeman Grizzard, charged with killing John Rankin, formerly of Fayette county, at Austin, has been tried and acquitted.

Contributed by Matt Cross

PATTON RANKIN

Galveston Daily News, 31 Aug 1869, page 2

A letter dated Round Top, Fayette county, August 24th, says:

"This town was the scene of an unfortunate difficulty on last night, between two young men, Patton Rankin and Walter Holt, Rankin was killed, Holt mortally wounded."

Houston Union, 12 Jan 1870, page 4

Walter Holt, who killed Patton Rankin at Round Top some time since, was killed by Mac Zapp at Wilson’s store, Washington County, last Friday.

Union article transcribed by Donna Baker

DELLA MAE ADAMCIK RASH

Weimar Mercury, Thursday, February 25, 1971

Funeral Services For Mrs. Rash, 54, Saturday

Funeral services for Mrs. Della Mae Adamcik Rash, 54, of Houston, wife of Al Rash, were held Saturday, Feb. 20, at Hubbard Funeral Home here and Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, Dubina, with burial in the church cemetery.

Rev. Gerald Hubertus officiated.

Born March 5, 1916, at Dubina, a daughter of William and Agnes Vacek Adamcik, she had lived in Houston most of her life. She was a member of the Dubina KJZT.

Surviving in addition to her husband are one brother, Victor Adamcik of Weimar; and seven sisters, Mrs. Edna Southerwood of Corpus Christi, Mrs. Ann Heck of Houston, Mrs. Mary Bohac and Mrs. Evelyn Mazoch of Schulenburg and Mrs. Lillian Rainosek, Mrs. Willie Mae Holub and Mrs. Agnes Lidiak of Weimar.

Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

TOM RATIGAN

Shiner Gazette, 30 Aug 1899

JOHN RILEY, city marshal of La Grange, attempted to arrest Tom Ratigan in Mosig’s saloon one day last week. Ratigan resisted and Riley shot him four times, killing him instantly. Riley surrendered to Sheriff Loessin and was released on $6,000 bond.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Dallas Morning News, 23 August, 1899

Gave Bond

LaGrange, Tex., Aug. 22—City Marshal John Riley, who shot and killed Tom Ratigan in Frank Mossig’s saloon yesterday evening, waived examination before Justice Ledbetter this morning and his bond was fixed at $6000, which he gave and has resumed his duties as city marshal.

Contributed by Debbie Hanson

Kenosha [Wisconsin] Telegram Courier, Thursday, Sept 7, 1899

MEET A VIOLENT DEATH.

Old Kenosha Man Killed in Texas.—Ends an Old Feud.

Tom Rategan, of La Grange, Texas formerly of this county, was shot down in cold blood by the marshal of that place on the 22nd ult.

The shooting terminates a political feud of long standing. Rtegan had opposed the election of Marshal Riley at the last campaign, and Riley took revenge upon Rategan at his first opportunity. Rategan was a man of varied career, having been a police officer in Chicago and St. Louis, from whence he moved to Texas to become a party to many of the exciting scenes of that state.

Rategan leaves a wife and only son, nine years of age, who promises to avenge the death of his father. Rategan was well known in Kenosha as a fearless man, and quick with his gun, and the wonder to his friends here is that Riley got the drop on him.

Contributed by Ann Day

RAY CHILD

Schulenburg Sticker, 17 Dec 1903

Death Record.

Ray: Died near Muldoon, Dec 3-03, of Haemoglobinuric Fever Mrs. C. N. Ray’s child aged 9 yrs.

Contributed by Matt Cross

BENNETT RAY

Schulenburg Sticker, 5 May 1904

Death Record.

Ray, Died at Cistern 4,21-04, of Hepatia Carcinomia, Bennet Ray, aged 68 years

Contributed by Matt Cross

C. N. RAY

Schulenburg Sticker, 10 Aug 1905

Deaths Recorded Since Last Report.

C. N. Ray, Muldoon, age 35 years, died July 13.

Contributed by Matt Cross

GEORGE RAY

Colorado Citizen, 5 May 1881, page 2

Last Saturday night, on the old plantation of Steve Jarmon, in Fayette county, Charley Scott killed George Ray. It seems the difficulty occurred about Scott's wife, whom he had abandoned, and whom George Ray had subsequently married. Ray came upon the place where Scott was employed, and Scott shot him, and left for parts unknown. up to date he had not been arrested.

JABEZ M. RAY

Knowles [New Mexico] News, 8 Nov 1912

J. M. Ray, (Holly Ray's father) died at his home in Muldoon on Thursday, Oct. 10, and was burried [sic.] at Muldoon on Oct. 11. He was born in Macon, Ga. on Feb. 2, 1833, came to Texas in 1849; was married to Miss Mary Jane Robbins in Fayette county on Sept. 24, 1858 [possibly 1853].

He was a confederate veteran and fought through the entire civil war.

Six children, Dan Ray, Robert Ray, and Mrs. Franklin, of Muldoon, and Mrs. N. Richardson, of Gatesville, Mrs. M. A. Richardson of San Antonio and Holly Ray, of New Mexico were present when the end came.

Funeral services, held by Rev. W. Pocty[?], of Flatonia, were attended by a large number of friends and relatives of the deceased.

J. M. Ray is buried in the Pitman Cemetery with his wife. Their graves are unmarked except for names on the curbing around their plot. Obituary contributed by David Minton, Lea County NMGenWeb lookup volunteer.

NELLIE RAY

Schulenburg Sticker, 1 Aug 1901

Miss Nellie Ray, the 16 year old daughter of Mrs. Joe Ray, died at the home of her mother, near St. John, Tuesday afternoon and was buried at 4 p. m. Wednesday. The sympathy of the entire community is extended the afflicted relatives.

Schulenburg Sticker, 29 Aug 1901

OBITUARY.

Glass Chapel, Aug. 28th 1901.

A very sad death occurred in our community last Tuesday three weeks. The death of Miss Nellie Ray, aged 16 years, daughter of Mrs. Joe Ray. She was sick 52 days. Everything that human hands could do was done for her, but God took her, He thought best. Nellie has not only gone; she has been transplanted from earth to the garden of God. Look up, she is now safe from all harm, no more can disease fasten its fangs upon and torture her, she is in God’s house. You cannot call Nellie back, but you can go to her. May you so live that some sweet day you may meet your little daughter around the throne of God.

Contributed by Matt Cross

RUTH RAY

Schulenburg Sticker, 9 June 1904, page 1

Death Record.

Ray – Died near Muldoon, 5-27-04 of Cholera Infantum, Ruth Ray, aged 1 year and 9 months.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MRS. A. T. REAVES

Weimar Mercury, 29 Nov 1920, page 1

MRS. REAVES AT REST.

The sad news of the death of Mrs. A. T. Reaves, which occurred on Saturday of last week, was received here by many friends in sadness. She was 73 years of age. She came to this section during her early childhood, and has since lived in the Hackberry section. A few weeks ago she was taken to Boerne in the hope of improving her health, but this was futile. In 1876 she was married to A. T. Reaves, which union was blessed with thirteen children, only three of whom are still living. Funeral services were held early this week, and the bereaved relatives have the sympathy of a large circle of friends.—Schulenburg Sticker.

ARCHIE THOMAS REAVES

Houston Chronicle, July 12, 2001

ARCHIE THOMAS REAVES

ARCHIE THOMAS "A.T." REAVES , 95, passed away July 11, 2001 in Dallas, TX. He was born April 22, 1906, in Hackberry, TX, Lavaca County. He was the son of the late Harvey Clark Reaves and Alice Warren Reaves. He was preceded in death by Alpin Jean McKinnon Reaves , of Schulenberg, TX, his high school sweet heart and beloved wife of 64 years. He was also preceded in death by his four brothers: Clyde, Vernon, Harvey ("H.C."), and Branch Reaves . He was the oldest of five children. A cherished father, grandfather, loving husband, and dedicated family man, he loved gardening, travel and community service. A devout Episcopalian, he served on the Vestry and as Treasurer for Grace Episcopal Church in Galveston, TX. After graduation, he began work in the accounting department of Wald Transfer in Houston, TX, eventually becoming CFO of the company. He retired in 1971. He moved to Dallas in 1994. He is survived by his sister, Dorothy Reaves Pakebush, his daughter, Sarah Reaves White, son-in-law, James Allen White, Sr., granddaughter Claire Elizabeth White, grandson, James Allen White, Jr., granddaughter-in-law, Wendy Lea Drake White, M.D., and two great-grandchildren, Emma Grace White and Reaves Drake White, as well as several great-nieces and great-nephews. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, July 17, 2001 at 9:30 a.m. at Grace Episcopal Church, 1115 36th St., Galveston, TX, 77550, (409) 762-9676, The Rev. R.L. Benson presiding. Interment will follow at City Cemetery, Schulenberg, TX. Memorial contributions may be made to Grace Episcopal Church. Sparkman/Hillcrest, 7405 W. Northwest Hwy. Dallas, Tx. 75225, 214-363-5401.

ADOLPH REBECEK

Victoria Advocate, August 27, 1978

Adolph Rebecek

Advocate News Service
FLATONIA – Adolph Rebecek Sr., 84, of Flatonia, a retired farmer, died Saturday in a Shiner hospital.

He was born May 24, 1894 in Lavaca County, the son of the late Mr. and Mrs. Jacob Rebecek. He was a member of the Catholic Church.

Rosary will be recited Sunday at 7 p.m. at the Smith Funeral Home Chapel.

Funeral services will be at 3 p.m. Monday at the funeral home with the Rev. Anthony Matula officiating.

Burial will be in the Flatonia Catholic Cemetery.

He is survived by four sons, Louis and Steve Rebecek of Flatonia, Edward Rebecek of Beeville and Adolph Rebecek Jr. of Shiner; three daughters, Mary Dlouhy of Moulton, Frances Morisak of Moulton and Lorraine Biehunko of Hallettsville; four sisters, Mrs. Effie Bartos of Moulton, Mrs. Millie Wagner of Shiner, Mrs. Annie Culak of West, Texas, and Mrs. Julie Michalec of California; 15 grandchildren and 19 great grandchildren.

Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

ADELL FRANCES KRCHNAK REBSTOCK

The Fayette County Record, Tuesday, March 16, 2010

Adell Frances Krchnak Rebstock, 87, died Thursday, March 11, 2010, in Stafford.

Funeral services were held at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 13 at Earthman Southwest Chapel. Interment was in St. John Catholic Cemetery in Fayetteville.

She was born on March 10, 1923, in Fayetteville, the daughter of Joe Louis and Mary Kulhanek Krchnak.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 61 years, Robert Rebstock; son, Robert Edward Rebstock; and brothers, Joe Krchnak and Daniel Krchnak.

Survivors include her daughter, Sandra Barnett and husband James; sons, Ron Rebstock and wife Reta, Paul Rebstock and wife Peggy; grandchildren, Matthew Rebstock and wife Jan, Lt. Jeri Barnett, USN and wife Carolin, Travis Rebstock, Allen Cole and wife Kerrie, Lisi Cole, Brenna Maloney; and eight great-grandchildren.

Earthman Southwest Chapel of Houston was in charge of arrangements.

Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

GLADYS LILLIAN STERNADEL REDDING

Schulenburg Sticker, March 6, 2012

Gladys Lillian (Sternadel) Redding passed away Tuesday, Feb. 28. She was born Dec. 3,1918. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce Mom’s passing,” her family writes. “She lived a long, full life. Her secret to a long life was hard work and a ‘can do’ attitude. She was born into farming and housework.”

She was preceded in death by her husband, Grover Redding; parents, Ernst and Regina Sternadel; brothers, Clarence Sternadel and Merle Sternadel; sisters, Geneva Antosh and Gloria Ann Vinklarek; two sons-in-law, Robert Simper and Allen Simper.

Cherishing her memories and love are her four children, Ernie Redding and wife Barbara, Glen Redding and wife Octavia, Elaine Simper and Murlene Simper; 12 grandchildren; and 17 great-grandchildren.

A funeral service was held at First United Methodist Church, Schulenburg, at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 3. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to a charity of one's choice.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

MIKE REDMOND

Shiner Gazette, 16 Nov 1898

Mike Redmond, after several weeks’ sickness, died at the home of his brother, Pat Redmond, in this city Sunday night, Nov. 6, 1898, and was buried at Praha on the afternoon of the 7th day of this month. Deceased was well and favorably known throughout this section of the state, having lived here for many years with his brother. A large number of friends accompanied the remains to their last resting place. – Flatonia Record.

Weimar Mercury, 19 Nov 1898, page 7

Mr. Mike Redmond departed this life on last Sunday evening, Nov. 6th, at the residence of his brother, Pat Redmond, and was buried in the Praha cemetery Monday. Deceased, when a boy, was badly afflicted for many years, and after testing the skill of many of the best physicians of both Ireland (his native country) and England, emigrated to America, recovered his health and became a robust, stout man. He was honest almost to a fault. Several years since he lived in St. Louis, but at last was unable to procure employment, became involved in debt and left there for Flatonia, walking most of the way. When he reached Weimar, on foot and out of money, George Henkel seeing his distressed condition, gave him $1.50 to bring him to Flatonia. Last summer when he worked on the J. M. Harrison brick building, he sent all his earnings to St. Louis to pay the debt he owed there. Five or six months since his health began to fail, and finally his robust constitution succumbed to disease and his noble physique rests beneath the sod. To say he was a son of Erin is prima facie evidence he was a noble man.—Flatonia Argus.

Weimar Mercury, 26 Nov 1898, page 7

Flatonia Argus: Miss Nellie Redmond wrote us, complaining of the manner in which the Argus mentioned the death of her uncle Mike. All we said was as we understood it from Mr. Pat Redmond, and we understood him to say his brother walked from St. Louis, after failing to get business there, rather than borrow money. We certainly did not intend to represent him as a tramp, but rather to show his independent spirit; and to show his integrity, we mentioned his working here and sending the money to St. Louis to pay his debts there. We did not forget, but hadn't heard, that your uncle owned 200 acres of land, valued at five to six thousand dollars. Far be it from us, Miss Nellie, to detract from the noble character of your uncle.

Gazette obituary contributed by Matt Cross

PATRICK REDMOND

Weimar Mercury, February 7, 1913, page 1

News Special: Flatonia, Tex., Feb. 2.—Patrick Redmond, aged 77 years, died at his home here Saturday night. Interment was made in the city cemetery Sunday.

GEORGE MARIE STRYK REHAK

Schulenburg Sticker, July 24, 2012

Georgie Rehak

Georgie Marie Stryk Rehak of Schulenburg passed away at Cornerstone Hospital in Austin on Sunday, July 8 at 8:35 a.m. at age 76 years, 4 months, 24 days.

The funeral was held at St. Rose Catholic Church in Schulenburg on Wednesday, July 11 at 10 a.m., followed by interment in the church cemetery. Officiating were Rev. John Bily of Weimar and Rev. Robert Guerra of Eagle Lake. Pallbearers were grandsons Jason Klam, Jeremy Klam, Joshua Klam, Jordan Rehak, Jakob Rehak and Christopher Kubala; great-grandson Carson Klam; and nephew Jimmy Rehak.

A rosary was said on Tuesday, July 10 at 7:30 p.m. at St. Rose Catholic Church, led by Rev. Tim Kosler.

Born at Praha on Feb. 14, 1936, she was the daughter of Anastasia (Migl) and John C. Stryk Sr. She attended St. Mary's School at Praha. On Nov. 7, 1955, she married Leroy Rehak Sr. at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Praha. She lived in Houston from 1955-73, and Schulenburg from 1973 until her death. She was a member of St. Rose Catholic Church. “She was a devoted mother, grandmother and great-grandmother who enjoyed and treasured her family, shopping and trips to Coushatta,” her family writes.

Survivors include four daughters, Debbie Klam of Dubina, Barbara Kubala and husband Tommy of Spring Branch, Cindy Srubar and husband Ernest of Schulenburg, and Kathy Rehak and fiancé Jimmie Belicek of Hallettsville; a son, Leroy Rehak Jr. and wife Brenda of Schulenburg; two sisters, Martha Sitka of Hallettsville, and Ann Cerny and husband Stanley of Katy; a sister-in-law, Hattie Stryk of Praha; a brother, Ernest Stryk of Houston; and 11 grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. A granddaughter preceded her in death.

Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

CHRISTIAN REHMANN

Schulenburg Sticker, 21 April 1911

Christian Rehmann of Rutersville, an old Confederate veteran, died Thursday afternoon last and was buried the following day. His many friends of this section will regret to learn of his death.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MARY REICHERS

Weimar Mercury, 13 Nov 1897, page 8

Flatonia Argus. Miss Mary Reichers was found lying dead in a pasture, near her father's home, a few miles from town, Tuesday morning. A vial was found containing some kind of poison, not known to the coroner's jury. Some of her neighbors had before this thought her mind was not right. Justice W. A. Beckham held the inquest and the jury rendered a verdict in accordance with the above facts.

VERNA MARIE LETZERICH REICHERT

Fayette County Record, May 1999

Reichert

Verna (Letzerich) Reichert, 102, of La Grange died Sunday, May 16 at Fayette Memorial Hospital.

A committal service was held Wednesday, May 12 at 1 p.m. followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church. The Rev. Ronald R. Weber and the Rev. Clarence Oestreich officiated.

Born March 19, 1897 in La Grange, she was the daughter of Henry Konnert and Lucy (Speckels) Reichert. She married Frank Hugo Reichert who preceded her in death in 1938.  A civic activist, she was a member of the Friday Club since 1915, past president of the La Grange City Cemetery Association for some 30 years, longtime member of the La Grange Garden Club where she served as its first president and participated it its obtaining and preserving the Faison Home as a museum, member of the Fayette Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and the Wednesday Club.  She was also a former member of the Fayette County Historical Commission, member of the La Grange Chamber of Commerce through which she was recognized by the Texas Legislature as a Historical Treasure, member of St. Paul Lutheran Church and member of the St. Paul Women of the Church.

Survivors include one son and daughter-in-law, James A. and Betsy Reichert of Houston; three grandsons, Frank T. Reichert and his wife Connie of Austin, James Alsworth Reichert of Foster City, California and Arthur Thompson Reichert and his wife Katie of Staten Island, New York; and one great-granddaughter, Megan Reichert of Austin.

She was preceded in death by husband, Frank Hugo Reichert; and one son and daughter-in-law, Frank Henry Reichert & Sheryl.

Memorials are suggested to the St. Paul Lutheran Church.

Sergeant Memorial Funeral Home, Inc. was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Kathy Carter

ALFRED ALEX REICHLE

Fayette County Record, Tuesday, March 21, 1970

Alfred Reichle Dies, Funeral Held Sunday

Alfred Alex Reichle, 81, of 1024 E. Eblin died Friday at Retama Manor Nursing Home.

Funeral services were held Sunday at 3 p.m. at the Koenig Funeral Home, Inc.  The Rev. Clarence Oestreich officiated and burial was in the La Grange City Cemetery.

The deceased, a life-long resident of La Grange and area, was born here July 17, 1896, the son of Jacob and Marie Laux Reichle.  On Nov. 23, 1920, he was united in marriage with Lillie Hengst at O’Quinn.  He was a retired farmer.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Lillie Reichle of La Grange; two daughters, Mrs. Manfred (Lucille) Warnken and Mrs. Paul (Iva) Wolff, both of La Grange; two sons, Lawrence of New Ulm and William of La Grange; two sisters, Mrs. E. T. (Annie) Carby of Houston and Mrs. Charles (Alma) Hengst of La Grange; eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Rob Brown

JULIA ANNA REICHTER

Schulenburg Sticker, 29 Jan 1903

Mrs. Julia Anna Reichter, 86 years of age, who was born in Austra [sic], died at her home near St. John on January 21st and her remains were interred in the Catholic cemetery at the above point at 1 p. m. on the 22nd, Rev. Father Neubert officiating.

Contributed by Matt Cross

RUBY VASUT REID

Angleton Times, June 6, 2004

RUBY VASUT REID

Funeral services for Ruby Vasut Reid, 87, of Angleton are scheduled for 10:00 a.m. Monday, June 7, 2004, in the First Presbyterian Church in Angleton with Pastor Steve Floeck officiating. Graveside services will be held at 3:30 p.m. Monday, June 7, 2004, in LaGrange Cemetery. Friends may call from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sunday, June 6, 2004, at Palms Funeral Home in Angleton.

Ruby was born September 13, 1916, in Fayetteville, Texas, to Emil and Johanna Coufal. She had lived in Angleton since 1952 and was a member of First Presbyterian Church and the Angleton Danbury Hospital Auxiliary.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Lad Vasut, in 1974 and second husband, James Lelon Reid, in 1992; grandson, Dusty Blake Vasut and niece, Roxanne Vasut.

Survivors include her sons, Gene Alan Vasut and wife, Helen, of Angleton, Laddie Vasut and wife, Barbara, of Damon; stepdaughter, Carol Hasten and husband, Albert, of College Station; stepson, Don Reid and wife, Sue, of Richwood; grandchildren, John and Pella Vasut, Alan and Angela Vasut, Donna Bradford and fiancee, Bruce Cranfill, Barbara and Bennie Shuler, Greg and Geralyn Vasut, Mike and Lisa Blanks, Jim and Rachel Blanks, Margo McGrath, Susan and Stephen Hilton, Brian and Lawren Hasten; great-grandchildren, Derrick Dees, Darrin Dees, Whitney Bradford, Crystal and Billy Hawk, Cody Vasut, Ashley Vasut, Jennifer Vasut, Brandon Wood, Jonathan Wood, Brianna Wood, Dustin Shuler, Blake Vasut, Stacey Vasut, Timothy Vasut, Jennifer Blanks, Colin Blanks, Kristin Keller, Robbie Keller, Katie McGrath, Sara Hasten, Stephanie Hilton, Travis Hilton, Trey Reid and Colby Orton; sisters, Estella Vasut and husband, Eddie, Doris Henslee Miller and husband, Leland; brother, Emmett Coufal and wife, Adele; nieces, Sherry Fenn, Debra Glaze, Janice Wasut, Lucille Tobias; nephews, Edward Vasut, David Vasut, Terry Vasut, Tommy Henslee and Emmett Coufal Jr.

Pallbearers will be John Vasut, Alan Vasut, Greg Vasut, Derrick Dees, Darrin Dees, Mike Blanks and Jim Blanks.

Honorary pallbearers will be nephews and members of the Angleton Danbury Medical Center Auxiliary.

In lieu of usual remembrances, donations may be made to the Angleton Danbury Medical Center Auxiliary, 132 Hospital Drive, Angleton, Texas 77515.

Final arrangements by Palms Funeral Home in Angleton. (979) 849-4343.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

ANNA LOWKE REINSCH

The La Grange Journal, April 2, 1936 pg. 2

Death Claims Another

The populace of this community is mourning the passing of Mrs. F. Reinsch, aged 65 years, 6 months and 15 days, who died at Bastrop, Monday night March 23.

Mrs. Reinsch, nee Miss Anna Lowke, was born September 8, 1879 in Saxony, Germany. As a child she, with her parents, came to Texas. She received the rites of confirmation at Paige, from Pastor Geo. Birkmann, and was married to Fritz Reinsch, June 19, 1889, at Hill’s Prairie.

In the fall of that year the couple removed to Winchester where for many years Mr. Reinsch was engaged in the blacksmith and wheelwright business, and was a good mechanic. He ventured into the mercantile business and for several years conducted a general merchandise store. Disposing of that business later, he returned to his first love and again conducted the blacksmith shop.

Mrs. Reinsch was a devout member of the Lutheran Church, and a regular attendant at services. Friends of the family are legion.  Children born to Mr. and Mrs. Reinsch, nine in all, six sons, and three daughters are living, with the exception of two sons, Herman and Walter, who preceded her to the Great Beyond, years ago. The four living sons, and three living daughters are: Carl and Leon Reinsch of Winchester, Max and Martin of Vernon; the daughters are: Mrs. J.L. Hart of near Austin, Mrs. Frank Stasny of Houston, Mrs. M. F. Oberndorfer of Kewanee, Ill.

Besides the family there are three brothers and one sister, the brothers are: John, Andrew, and Ernst Lowke, the sister is Mrs. Chas. Groeschel of Houston, there are 14 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren.

The body of Mrs. Reinsch was brought to Winchester for burial, and the funeral was held Thursday, March 26, at 2:00 o’clock in the afternoon, with interment at the Lutheran cemetery, Rev. L. A. Trienklein, local Lutheran pastor officiating. Rev. Trientklein paid a glowing tribute to the deceased. Pall bearers were C. A. Kaiser, Fred Kasier, Marvin Wenke, W. H. Karisch, Alfred Fritsche and Traugott Franke. Two Brothers, Andrew and Ernst due to illness could not attend the funeral.

The high esteem in which this good woman was held was attested to by the large attendance at the last rites, the funeral cortege being more than a mile in length. All business houses closed for the funeral; tears moistened the eyes of relatives and friends. Her grave was hidden from view by a high bank of beautiful flowers, so fitting as a reminder of her who, during the years she lived here, ever had her flowers to grace the ground on which her home stood.

Relatives here with express their heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to all who have stood by them in their hours of bereavement. And may Mrs. Reinsch sleep peacefully until the last Great Day.

Transcribed by Stacy N. Sneed

HARRY REISING

La Grange Journal, Wed., April 27, 1977

Harry Reising

Funeral services for Harry Reising of Rt. 1, Fayetteville were held Wed., April 27, at 2:00 P.M. at the Jecmenek Chapel in Ellinger with Rev. Lee Eschberger of Rutersville officiating.  Interment was in the Brune Cemetery [Colorado County] under direction of  Koenig Funeral Home, Inc.

A retired farmer, Mr. Reising passed away Monday in Fayette Memorial Hospital.  He was 73.

Born in Columbus Sept. 18, 1903, he was a son of Henry and Minnie Schmidt Reising.  A World War II veteran, Mr. Reising was a lifetime resident of the Fayetteville community.  He had never married.

Surviving are three sisters, Mrs. Minnie Werland of Brushy, Mrs. Margaret Schutte of Columbus, and Mrs. Lillie Kirsch of La Grange; and two brothers, Robert Reising of Houston and Emil Reising of Fayetteville.
Contributed by Rob Brown

HERMAN REISNER

Schulenburg Sticker, 13 Aug 1908

Reisner Killed in Mexico.

El Paso, Tex, Aug. 11. – Herman Reisner of Schulenburg, Tex. was shot and probably fatally wounded today at Ocampo, Mexico. He has a son living in Schulenburg. No other information about the shooting has been received here. – Galveston News.

Mr. Herman Reisner formerly lived in this city. His wife and a son, Louis is living in Weimar and he also has a son, Alfred living at Halletsville.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ANNA KOENECKE REISS

La Grange Journal, Thursday, January 2, 1947

Mrs. Anna Reiss, 74 Buried Here Sunday

Mrs. Anna Reiss, 74, passed away at the hospital here Friday after a 3-day serious illness.

Funeral services were held at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Sunday at 2 p.m. with Rev. H. T. Flachmeier officiating and interment was in the New City Cemetery.  Koenig Funeral Home directed.

Born Sept. 5, 1872 at Gamsen, Hanover Province in Germany, Mrs. Reiss nee Koenecke came to this country with her parents when she was one and settled at Ammannsville.  On Jan. 21, 1892 she was married to Ernest Reiss and had lived in La Grange since that year.  Her husband died July 18, 1932.

Mrs. Reiss had served as president of the Lutheran Frauen Verein for about 27 years, was a charter member of the American Legion Auxiliary and was otherwise active in civic work.

Surviving are one daughter, Miss Irene Reiss of here; one son, Edwin H. Reiss of San Luis Obispo, Calif.; one sister, Miss Emma Koenecke and one brother, Henry Koenecke, both of La Grange.

Contributed by Rob Brown

WILLIAM REITZ

Schulenburg Sticker, 14 Apr 1904

Reitz: Died at Cistern, 4-3-04, of heart failure, William Reitz aged 64 years.

Contributed by Matt Cross

EDITH F. HRUSKA REK

from Fayette Memorial Funeral Home, La Grange

Edith F. Rek of La Grange, passed away on December 24, 2009 at the age of 87. She was born on September 12, 1922, to Ed Louis Hruska and Frances Zabcik Hruska at Fayetteville.

She was a homemaker and enjoyed sewing, baking and rose gardening. She was a member of the Fayetteville Brethren Church and also a member of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary.

She is survived by three daughters; Patricia L. Rek of Fayetteville, Debbie Tagliabue and her husband Larry, of Alvin, and Joyce Beseda and her husband Jim, of Magnolia. She is also survived by six grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. She is also survived by two sister-in-laws, Vlasta Roeder and Rose Rek.

Edith was preceeded in death by her husband, Joe Rek, her parents, Ed and Frances Hruska, a brother, Leroy Hruska and his wife, Mary Helen, and a great-grandson, Billy Joe Fritz.

Visitation is scheduled for Saturday December 26, 2009 from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM, at Fayette Memorial Funeral Home in La Grange. The family will receive visitors from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM.

Funeral services are scheduled for Sunday December 27, 2009, at 2:00 PM at Fayette Memorial Funeral Home Chapel in La Grange. Committal will follow at the Gazebo in La Grange City Cemetery.

The family would like to say a special thanks to Beth Chapline and David Hruska, as well as special friends, Ed and Edna Krivacka.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Fayetteville Brethren Church and Cemetery.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

REK INFANT

Schulenburg Sticker, 4 May 1905

Deaths Recorded Since Last Report.

Baby of J. Reck [sic.], Roznov, died April 13.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MARY REK

The La Grange Journal, 12 Jan 1933

Mrs. Mary Rek

Sunday morning Mrs. Mary Rek died at the family home, at the age of 69 years. Mrs. Rek had been an invalid for the past four years, and to her, death came as a relief. She bore her sufferings like the true Christian she was.

Funeral services were conducted from the Catholic church Monday, with interment in our [Fayetteville] Catholic cemetery, Rev. Jos. Klobouk officaiting.

She leaves to mourn her departure her aged husbnd and three daughters, and a number of grandchildren, to whom we extend our deepest sympathy.

May her sleep be peaceful.

FRANK S. REKTORIK

Schulenburg Sticker, 6 Dec 1906

FRANK S. REKTORIK.

A sad death occured [sic] in our city at 5 o’clock Thursday morning of the 29th when Mr. Frank S. Rektorik, after an illness of only three days, passed away to that borne from whence no traveler returns. Mr. Rektorik had been a citizen of our city only a few months, he having held a responsible position with Mr. H. Horner, but during that time he made many friends among both old and young. He was born in this city on the 4th day of December 1886, living with his parents on Fr. Russek, Sr.’s place, afterwards removing to Moravia, Lavaca county where he grew to manhood.

The funeral took place at the City Cemetery from the residence of Mr. and Mrs. Emil Gieptner at 1 o’clock Friday afternoon and his remains were laid to rest surrounded by grief stricken relatives and sorrowing friends.

Mr. Ferd. Breska and Mr. J. St. Wrba made addresses at the grave in Bohemain [sic] and German.

The Sticker joins the many friends of the family in extending sincere sympathy.

Contributed by Matt Cross

DR. J. C. B. RENFRO

Weimar Mercury, 2 Apr 1898, page 8

LaGrange Journal: Died, in Houston, Texas, on Sunday, March 27th, Dr. J. C. B. Renfro. Dr. Renfro ws a citizen of this place, but had gone to Houston for medical treatment. He had been a sufferer from some chronic bladder trouble for the past six months, but never gave up until a short time ago. The deceased moved here about twenty years ago and although he removed several times to other points he came back to LaGrange finally and was practicing his profession here when he was stricken with his last illness. Dr. Renfro was well known throughout this country and had many friends. He was a good physician, an indulgent father, affectionate husband and an impulsive and ardent friend. He left a wife and several grown children surviving, to whom we extend our sympathy.

JIMMIE R. RENFRO

La Grange Journal, November 6, 1930, a look at an earlier issue of the newspaper

LAGRANGE IN 1885

SEPTEMBER 17

Master James Renfro, son of Dr. J. C. B. Renfro of Fayetteville, was severely lacerated by the saws of a gin one day last week. His right arm and hand were so badly injured it was feared amputation would be necessary to save his life, but we are glad to know that all danger is now passed, and his recovery will speedily follow. Drs. Smith and Foster were called to see him last Sunday, and rendered medical aid.

Later—Since writing the above we have heard he was dying.

La Grange Journal, November 13, 1930, a look at an earlier issue of the newspaper

LAGRANGE IN 1885

SEPTEMBER 24

In Memoriam

Died at his home in Fayetteville, September 17, Jimmie R. Renfro, aged 13 years and 4 months. He was born in LaGrange, and lived among us the greater part of his life, and many hearts were saddened—many tears wept at his untimely death. One year ago, he joined the Methodist church at this place, and as we looked upon his bright happy face we did not think that ere the close of another year, he would be called to join the "Angel" band. His suffering was great—yet he bore it patiently and though he knew the Angel of Death hovered near, he was fearless and submissive, he called his loved ones round him, bade them farewell and calmly fell asleep in Jesus, whose hand after all is as soft as the dews of the morning, and yet death is cruel, I do not mean for hearts o'er worn by tears and grief—but oh for sunny childhood, with eager hands out-stretched to grasp life's rosy fruits, oh death thou art a cruel thing. But that which is universal, cannot be an evil, the following of a leaf is death as is the fading of the flowers, thus our friends pass away from us, and we can only look forward to the reunion in a place where death cannot enter. May He who gives and taketh away, heal the sorrowing hearts of the bereaved family, and help them to say: "Thy will be done."

Fallen asleep—oh Shepherd take him home
Thine for eternity,
Ye stars bend down from Heaven's dome
Watch oer'r him tenderly,
Oh winds, howl not with loud shrills sound
O'er this little new made mound
For Jimmie sleeps.

—A Friend.

Jimmy Renfro was buried in the Old La Grange City Cemetery.

 

RENKEN

Shiner Gazette, 13 May 1909, Local News column

—Grandma Renken died recently at her home in La Grange at an advanced age. Her son, Gerhard Renken, Anton Deharde and Gus. Jahne attended the funeral.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ANNA RESSEL

Schulenburg Sticker, 22 Feb 1906

Mrs. Ressel Near Fayetteville.

Fayetteville, Texas, February 17 – Mrs. Anna Ressel a widow, aged 89 years and 10 months, died at the home of her son, William, two miles north of Fayetteville, at 2 p. m. yesterday, and was laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery at 4 p. m. today, Rev. J. Chromcik officiating.

Contributed by Matt Cross

CAROL RESSEL

Schulenburg Sticker, 7 Sep 1905

Deaths Recorded Since Last Report.

Carol Ressel, age 67, died August 27.

Contributed by Matt Cross

CHARLES J. RETHKE

La Grange Journal, June 25, 1936 pg. 2

Chas. J. Rethke Called by Death Tuesday—81 years

Chas. J. Rethke, aged 81 years, 9 months and 13 days, died at the home of his son-in-law and daughter Mr. and Mrs. W. E. Shulze, with whom he had resided for the past ten years, Wednesday morning at 2:00 o’clock, after being confined to his bed, for the past three months. He had been in failing heath for the past two years.

Mrs. Rehke was born near Ledbetter, and had lived in Fayette County practically all his life, tho’ a resident of Brenham, Yoakum, and Smithville for brief periods. His wife died in 1902, after which time he lived with his children.

He is survived by three children; a son preceded him in death. The surviving children are: R.W. Rethke of Port Arthur; Mrs. W. E. Shulze and Mrs. Aug. Hensel of La Grange; there are five grandchildren and one great grandchild.

The funeral will be held Thursday morning at 10:30 o’clock, at the residence of W. E. Schulze, and interment will be made at the old cemetery. Rev. H. H. Bain, pastor of the Travis Street Methodist Church, will officiate. The Journal offers its sincere sympathy to the surviving children.

Transcribed by Stacy N. Sneed

RETHKE INFANT

Schulenburg Sticker, 9 June 1904, page 1

Death Record.

Rethke – Died near Ledbetter, 5-16-04, of Milk Infection, Infant Rethke aged 5 days.

Contributed by Matt Cross

RUDOLF RETHKE

Weimar Mercury, 3 Sep 1898, page 7

LaGrange Journal: Chas. Rethke of this city went to Ledbetter Monday, having received the sad message that his brother Rudolf was no more. It seems Mr. R. was endeavoring to tie a bull (who was a fence jumper), and had forced the animal's head downward. While in the midst of this task, the bull made a determined lunge upward, the left horn entering the left side of Mr. R., almost disemboweling him. He was tenderly carried into the house and the physician summoned, but he bled to death before medical aid arrived. Mr. Rethke was well liked and his death is deeply regretted. We extend our sincere sympathy to the surviving relatives.

WILHELMINA RETHKE

La Grange Journal, August 15, 1911

Mrs. Wilhelmina Rethke

Mrs. Wilhelmina Rethke, aged 82 years, 7 months, and 16 days, died at the home of her son, Fritz, a few miles from Ledbetter, last Thursday morning, after having been an invalid several months.  Last February she fell and broke her arm, and since then has been unable to be up and about with her relatives. Although not considered dangerously ill, and giving every indication of eventual recovery, her relatives were shocked to notice on Thursday morning that her end was at hand.

Mrs. Rethke was born in Freinstein [Freyenstein], Germany, December 25, 1827. amd came to America in 1852 with her family, having been married to Fritz Rethke in 1846.  Several children were the result of this union—two girls and five boys.  All but two, Fritz  and Charley, preceded her in death.  Her husband died at the farm home near Ledbetter in 1898.

The remains were laid to rest beside her relatives Friday afternoon, the funeral ceremonies being attended by a large number of friends and relatives.  We extend to the bereaved our sincere sympathy.
Contributed by Jan Jackson

MILTON REUTER

Schulenburg Sticker, 18 June 1908

DEATHS REPORTED.

Died at Round Top, Milton Reuter, age 3 months and 3 days, of coma.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ETHEL RHEM

Schulenburg Sticker, 23 July 1903

Death Record.

Rhem: Died 7 miles west of LaGrange of marasmus, Ethel Rhem, colored, aged 8 years and 6 months.

Contributed by Matt Cross

W. T. RHODES

La Grange Journal

W. T. Rhodes, of Flatonia, who was wounded in a shooting affray at Waelder, a few weeks ago, died last week at Dr. Allen's hospital, where he had been carried for treatment. The unfortunate man had every attention that it was possible to bestow, but when the doctor found it necessary to amputate his arm, which had been badly shattered by two or more shots, he succumbed and death relieved him of his sufferings. He had been a resident of Flatonia nearly twenty years. He left a widow and five children, four sons and a daughter, to mourn his death. They have the sympathy of the community in which they live in their sad bereavement.

W. T.Rhodes died November 28, 1896, not 1898 as his gravemarker states.

EDMOND RICHARDS

Fayette County Record, 13 Oct 1953

Edmond Richards Taken By Death

Edmond Richards, 44, former Fayette resident, died in a New Braunfels hospital Saturday.

Funeral services were held Sunday at Marrs Memorial Chapel in Smithvile at 3 p.m. with Rev. Merle Walter officiating. Burial was in the Weimar cemetery.

Survivors include his wife, Mrs. Martha Richards at New Braunfels; his mother, Mrs. Frances Richards of Kirtley; three sisters, Mrs. Laura Mach and Mrs. Patience Hannisch, both of Kirtley, and Mrs. Effie Spittler of Nederland; and one brother, Coleman Richards of Kirtley.

HENRY B RICHARDS

La Grange Journal, June 19, 1902

Captain H. B. Richards.

The entire community was greatly shocked and much grieved at the unepected and untimely death of Captain H. B. Richards Monday afternoon. Few knew of his very brief illness and the sudden announcement that the gavel had again been sounded in the East and one of LaGrange's most highly respected citizens removed from our midst, caused expressions of genuine regret. Captain Richards was a Christian gentleman and an excellent citizen, ever alert and ready to do something for his fellowman and the public generally.

Captain Richards was born at Lynchburg Va., on February 16th, 1837 and during the war between the states served in the Confederate army as captain of the Ninth Virginia cavalry. At the close of the war he went to New York, and from there, in company with German immigrants sailed for Texas, landing at Galveston in the fall of 1867. He at once removed to Eagle Lake with the immigrants and proceeded to raise cotton. The attempt proved a failure and on the search for better fields located at Rabb's Prairie in this county where he made a sucess of farming. He was married to Miss Annie Manton in February 1869 and six children are the fruits of this union, four of whom are now living, viz: Mrs. J. O. Patterson, Greenville; L. H. Richards, Waco; and Harvey and Ed. Richards, LaGrange.

To Captain H. B. Richards the farmers of Texas are indebted for the knowledge of the use of oxide of iron as an exterminator of the boll weevil. It was due to his untiring efforts to induce the farmers to profit by his experience that they are enabled to successfully carry on warfare against this pest. Up to the time of his recent illness he was an active worker for the advancement of our agricultural interests. He was also numbered among the truck growers, being vice president of that organization.

Captain Richards died in the manner he had frequently spoken of—with very little suffering and fully prepared. The funeral took place Tuesday afternoon at 5:30 o'clock, the cortege being very large. Religious services were conducted by Rev. Percy Jones of Seguin. The remains were interred in the new cemetery in the presence of relatives and a large number of sympathizing friends. Many floral tributes were offered.

RICHARD RICHARDSON

Dallas Morning News, 30 July 1893

LaGrange, Fayette Co., Tex. July 29—
Today two brothers, Richard Richardson and Jesse Richardson, Negroes, both having families and tenants of A.E. Falke of Warda, living on a farm eight miles north of LaGrange, got into a fight and shot each other. Richard was instantly killed, Jesse mortally wounded. He was shot in his right hip and had his left leg broken.

Contributed by Debbie Hanson

ALFRED C. RICHERS

The Daily Tribune, Thursday, November 19, 1970

Richers

Richers, Alfred C., age 80, passed away on November 19 in Matagorda General Hospital.  He was a native of La Grange, Tex. but had been a resident of Bay City for 63 years.  Mr. Richers was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, the Oddfellows and Fraternal Order of Eagles.  He is survived by widow, Mrs. Frances Taylor Richers, and five sons: Alfred Bryan, John Wesley, Gus Clifton, Charles George and Victor Eugene, all of Bay City; also, one sister, Mrs. Frances Hunger of Austin, and one brother, L. W. Richers, Sr. of Bay City.  He also had 8 grandchildren.  Funeral services will be in Taylor Brothers Chapel at 2:00 p.m. Friday, Nov. 20.  The Reverend W. D. O’Neal will officiate and interment will be in Roselawn Memorial Park.  Pallbearers will be Burton Lee Bates, Bill Fehmel, Jimmy Shawler, Gilbert Otto, James Cheatham and James Wagnor.  Taylor Brothers Funeral Home in charge.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ANTON RICHERS

See news article on Civil War page.

 

EMIL RICHERS, SR.

La Grange Journal, Thursday, November 11, 1915

Emil Richers, Sr. Dead

The news was brought in yesterday morning from the old family home south of town, that Emil Richers, Sr., for many years a citizen of La Grange and vicinity had died early Wednesday morning.  Mr. Richers had reached a ripe, old age, being past eighty years old.  He leaves a wife, four daughters and five sons.  The funeral will be held this Thursday afternoon, services at his home, with interment at the Cedar cemetery.

La Grange Journal, Thursday, November 18, 1915

Emil Richers, Sr.

While ailing for several years the death of Emil Richers, Sr. which occurred at the family home south of town, November 10, came as a shock, none expecting so sudden an end.  He had about decided to remove to Bay City, when his condition grew steadily worse and his end came hurriedly.

Emil Richers was born in Germany, and in 1846 came to America.  At all times he was identified with the progress of La Grange, was its mayor in the sixties, and for many years a merchant.  He was united in marriage with Miss Elise Huebner and to them were born twelve children, two of whom died in infancy.  The ten children living are: Mesd. Geo. Kehrer, and F. A. Otto, Houston; Mrs. R. A. Kehrer, Bay City, and Misses Regina and Francis Richers; the five sons are John, Victor, Louis who is married and Gust. and Alfred, all grown.  Four sisters, Mrs. P. Nordhausen, Miss Hermina Richers and Mrs. H. A. Eck of Bluff and Mrs. C. Hubrich of Berlin, Germany, and one brother, Robert Richers of Bluff, beside his widow, also survive.

In his passing away, the county has lost one of its early and energetic settlers.  The remains were placed to their last rest at the Cedar cemetery last Thursday, a large following witnessing the sad rites.  May he rest in peace.  To his widow, his children and other relatives, we offer our sympathy.   A Friend.

Contributed by Rob Brown

GUS RICHERS

Fayette County Record, Tuesday, October 8, 1968

Gus Richers Rites Held Monday at 2

Funeral services for Gus Richers, a La Grange native were held at 2 p.m. Monday at the Marrs-Dean Funeral Home chapel in Smithville, and interment was in the Flatonia City Cemetery.

Mr. Richers, who would have been 81 on the last day of the year, passed away Sunday morning at the Smithville Hospital.

He was born at La Grange on Dec. 31, 1887, in a family of 13 children, and was united in marriage with Miss Alma Hillmann.  A retired oil scout, Mr. Richers and his wife had lived at Bay City, Flatonia, Schulenburg, Houston, and New Braunfels.

Surviving are his wife; one sister, Mrs. F. W. Hunger of La Grange; and two brothers, Louis Richers and Alfred Richers, both of Bay City.

Obituary contributed by Rob Brown. Photo from Rox Ann Johnson.

HERMINE RICHERS

The La Grange Journal, 21 Jun 1923

Death Claimed Another

Monday afternoon death came to Miss Hermine Richers, who had made her home with the family of Louis Eck of the Bluff section recently. Miss Richers was past eighty-three years of age and will be remembered by many as the sister of the late Robert and Emil Richers. Deceased waa born in Goslar, Hanover, Germany and came to America with her parents when a child in the year 1847. The family settled in the Bluff section where she remained until death came to her. She witnessed the development of that farming section and saw La Grange grow from a village to its present city size. Tuesday afternoon relatives and friends accompanied the remains to the Cedar Cemetery and placed them to their last rest. Funeral services were held at the home of Louis Eck. She was born 4 September 1839 and died 18 June 1923.

JOHN RICHERS

La Grange Journal, Thursday, October 26, 1933

John Richers Dies at Bay City Sunday Night

John Richers, aged 59 years, 11 months and 22 days, eldest son of the late Emil Richers of near La Grange, and a brother to Mrs. F. W. Hunger of La Grange, died at Bay City, in the hospital, Sunday night, after an illness of several weeks.  News of his death reached here early Monday.

The body was brought from Bay City the following day, Tuesday, and in motor vehicle was carried to the Cedar cemetery – and there interred, Tuesday afternoon at 3:00 o’clock.

Local citizens will remember the deceased who spent his younger years in this neighborhood.  He is survived by his mother, Mrs. E. Richers of Bay City, four brothers and five sisters, these are:  Louis and Victor of Bay City, Gus. of Smithville and Alfred of West Point; Mrs. Geo. Kehrer and Mrs. F. A. Otto of Houston, Mrs. Rich. Kehrer and Miss Regina Richers of Bay City, and Mrs. F. W. Hunger of this city.

Contributed by Rob Brown

JULIA LETZERICH RICHERS

Matagorda County Newspaper, Bay City, Texas, September 1987

Richers

Funeral services for Julia Richers, 96, of Bay City will be held 10 a.m. Wednesday at Holy Cross Catholic Church with the Rev. Charles Sonnier officiating. Burial will be in Roselawn Memorial Park, Van Vleck.  A rosary will be held 8 p.m. Tuesday at Taylor Brothers Funeral Home chapel.

Mrs. Richers was born June 26, 1891, in LaGrange, Texas, to William and Justina Hans Letzerich and died Sept. 26, 1987, at Matagorda House.  Prior to her death, Mrs. Richers was the oldest member at Holy Cross Catholic Church.

Survivors include six daughters, Elviera Cernosek of San Antonio, Geneveieve Gaudet of Acampo, Calif., Julia Marie O’Roark of Dallas, Lilly Carr, Sybella Green and Antoinette Rogers, all of Bay City; four sons, L.W. Richers and E.E. “Otto” Richers of Bay City, Frank Richers of Santiago, Chili, and Sherwood Richers of Albuquerque, N.M.; 36 grandchildren; 58 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers include Robert Richers, Stanley Cernosek II, Johann Richers, Douglas Green, Barry O’Roark, Joe Lawhon, Kirk Carr and Andy Richers.

Contributions can be made to Holy Cross School Foundation or the charity of you choice.

Arrangements are with Taylor Brothers Funeral Home, Bay City.

Contributed by Rob Brown

LILLY ELISE HUEBEL RICHERS

Matagorda County Newspaper, Bay City, Texas, April 26, 1951

Funeral Services Held Here For Mrs. Richers, 101

Funeral services were held here Friday morning for Matagorda County’s oldest citizen, Mrs. Lilly Elise Richers, who died last Wednesday at the age of 101 years.

Mrs. Richers was a sister of Andrew, Franz, and Louie Huebner, all of whom lived to ripe old ages. Louie lived to be 89, Andrew to 94, and Franz to 91.

Mrs. Richers was a native of LaGrange, moving here in 1915. She would have been 102 on November 16, 1951.  She was loved and respected by all.

Surviving are four daughters, Mrs. Pauline Kehrer, Mrs. Emma Kehrer, and Mrs. Louise Otto, all of Bay City, and Mrs. Frances Hunger of LaGrange; four sons, Louis, Alfred, and Victor, all of Bay City, and Gus of Flatonia; 28 grandchildren, 32 great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren.  Burial was in LaGrange.

Contributed by Rob Brown

LOUIS WILLIAM RICHERS

The Daily Tribune, Tuesday, January 28, 1975

Richers

Louis William Richers, 91, of Bay City died at the Matagorda General Hospital January 27.  He was born in La Grange, March 11, 1883.  Survivors include: wife, Ms. Julia Letzerich Richers of Bay City; daughters, Mrs. Elveria Cernosek of San Antonio, Mrs. Genevieve Gaudet of Acampo, Calif., Mrs. Sybella Green of Bay City, Mrs. Julia Marie O’Roark of Dallas, Mrs. Lilly Carr and Mrs. Antoinette Brueggan of Bay City; sons, L. W. Richers, Jr. of Bay City, Frank Richers of Tehran, Iran, E. E. Richers of Greenville and Sherwood A. Richers of Albuquerque, New Mexico; sister, Mrs. Frances Hunger of Austin; 37 grandchildren and 36 great grandchildren.  Services are pending at Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.  Arrangements made by Taylor Bros. Funeral Home.

Contributed by Rob Brown

VICTOR RICHERS

Fayette County Record, Friday, February 19, 1965

Victor Richers, 86, Buried Here Thursday

Graveside services for Victor Richers, 86, of Bay City, were held at the Old City cemetery here at 3 o’clock Thursday afternoon.  Prior services were held at 11 a.m. at Bay City where he had resided for 50 years.

Mr. Richers, a native of the Bluff community and brother of Mrs. F. W. Hunger of Austin but formerly of La Grange, passed away in the Wagner hospital in Shiner Wednesday.  He was not married.

Surviving are two other sisters, Mrs. Pauline Kabrel and Mrs. Louis Otto of Bay City; and three brothers, Louis and Fred Richers of Bay City and Gus Richers of Smithsville.

Koenig Funeral Home was in charge of the local arrangements.

Contributed by Rob Brown

WALTER RICHERS

The La Grange Journal, Thursday, July 3, 1911

Walter Richers Dead

As we prepare to go to press the news of the death of Walter Richers, who was reared near this city, and who, a few years ago was married to Miss Gruesen of Rutersville, had died at Austin Tuesday.  We have no further particulars.  The deceased will be remembered as a brother to Emil Richers, Jr.

La Grange Journal, Thursday, July 20, 1911

Interred at Rutersville

The remains of Walter Richers, who died at Austin last week, after a brief illness from typhoid fever, arrived here Thursday morning.  The funeral was held the same afternoon at the residence of his brother, Emil, with interment at Rutersville.

Walter leaves, beside his father, a father and several brothers, a young wife and babe.  He was united in marriage to a daughter of Pete Gruesen at her father’s home in Rutersville about eighteen months ago.  The young couple lived most happily in that brief period, and when a sweet babe came to bless their home their joy was ---------.  ----- became ill a few weeks ago, and though he battled bravely, the grim reaper conquered.

We extend to the relatives our sincere sympathy.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ANTON RICHTER

Schulenburg Sticker, 23 June 1904, page 1

Death Record.

Richter: Died at Bluff, 6-10-04 of consumption, Anton Richter, aged 1 yr and 1 mo.

Contributed by Matt Cross

F. W. RICHTER

Colorado Citizen, 10 Sep 1891, page 1

Flatonia Argus: It is the painful duty of the Argus this week to chronicle the death of Mr. F. W. Richter, which occurred at his residence about eight miles northeast of Flatonia on Wednesday of last week. Mr. Richter was one of Fayette county's oldest citizens, having lived on the place where he died nearly forty years. He was a kind-hearted man, and was well liked by all his neighbors. Several weeks ago he was stricken by paralysis, which deprived him of his speech and the use of one side. Otherwise, he seemed to be in good health up to the day of his death, when he passed quietly to the great beyond. He leaves a wife, five sons and one daughter to mourn his departure, to whom the Argus extends its heartfelt condolence.

fritz richter

Schulenburg Sticker, 20 July 1905

Deaths Recorded Since Last Report.

Fritz Richter, age 52, died at Round Top June 27.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HELENE RICHTER

Schulenburg Sticker, 12 April 1912, page 1

DEATH REPORTS

Helene Richter, age 5 days, convulsions Holman.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HERMAN RICHTER, SR.

The LaGrange Journal, Thursday, June 1, 1950, page 6

Herman Richter, Sr. Rites Held Tuesday

Funeral servies were held Tuesday for Herman Richter Sr., 76, who died at his home on May 26.

Mr. Richter was born near Bluff on April 29, 1873, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Ignac Richter. He was married to Miss Julia Mueller at Hostyn in 1918.

Survivors include his widow: one daughter, Mrs. Joe Schulte of Bethune, Colorado; one son, Herman Richter of la Grange; three sisters, Mrs. Louise Thumler [sic] and Mrs. Lena Thumler [sic], both of Hostyn, and Mrs. Annie Beyer of Corpus Christi; and two grandchildren.

Rev. Adolph Janda officiated at the services which were held at the Koenig Funeral Home at 8:30 AM with continued services at the Ammannsville Catholic Church. Burial was in the Ammannsville Cemetery.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

RICHTER TWIN Infant

Schulenburg Sticker, 11 Jul 1901

The infant son of Mr. John Richter of St. John died Tuesday night and was buried in the Catholic cemetery at that place Wednesday afternoon.

Contributed by Matt Cross

RICHTER TWIN INFANT

Schulenburg Sticker, 18 Jul 1901

The infant child of Mr. and Mrs. John Reichter of the St. John Neighborhood died Friday last and the remains of the little one were interred in the Catholic cemetery at the above point Saturday afternoon. This is the second child Mr. and Mrs. Reichter have lost within the past ten days, the children having been twins and being only a few weeks old. The sympathy of the community is extended the bereaved parents.

Contributed by Matt Cross

LAURA RICHTER

Schulenburg Sticker, 26 March 1915

DEATH REPORTS

Laura Richter, age 1 month and 6 days, near LaGrange.

Contributed by Matt Cross

PATRICIA MARIE KUCK RICHTER

Hallettsville Tribune-Herald, October 25, 1995

Patirica M. K. Richter

Patricia Marie Kuck Richter, 42, of Waelder, died Wednesday, Oct. 18, 1995.

She was born May 13, 1953 in Shiner, daughter of Victor and Alice Hirach Kuck of Shiner.

She was a school district secretary. Mrs. Richter was a member of the Baptist Church of Flatonia.

Survivors include her husband, Donnie Richter of Waelder; a daughter, Ronda Richter of Waelder; her parents, Victor and Alice Kuck of Shiner, and two sisters, Barbara A. Paulk of Smithville and Peggy A. Parker of Austin.

She was preceded in death by a daughter, Tina Marie Richter.

Services were conducted at 10 a.m. Friday, Oct. 20 at Smith Funeral Home, Flatonia. The Rev. Dean Evans officiated.

Burial followed in the Flatonia City Cemetery, under the direction of Smith Funeral Home, Flatonia.

Pallbearers were Danny Janecka, Danny Janecka III, Roy Krametbauer, Michael Spinks, Bill Poye and Richard Steinhauser.

Memorials may be made to a charity of the donor’s choice.

Transcribed by Sandra Long Anders

WILLIAM A. RICHTER

Weimar Mercury, 28 Oct 1893, page 2

Schulenburg, Texas. October 24. Wm. A. Richter died at his residence in this place on Monday. He was born July 2, 1858, in San Antonio, where his parents still live. Deceased was a member of the orders of knights of Honor, Anceint Order of United Workmaen, and Independent Order of Odd Fellows. He leaves a wife and three young children.

L. D. RIDGEWAY

Weimar Mercury, 28 Jul 1894, page 2

LaGrange Democrat: Died, at his residence in LaGrange, Texas, at 9 o'clock, July 20th, 1894, Rev. L. D. Ridgeway, pastor of the Christian church at this place. The deceased was widely known and well beloved. He leaves a wife and two children to mourn his untimely loss, and all classes of our citizens extend to them their sympathy in their bereavement.

WILHELMINE CLEMENTINE "MINNIE Caroline" (NEESE) RIEDNER

San Antonio Express, Friday January 5, 1940, page 5

Mrs. W. P Riedner Dies;  Rites Saturday

Mrs. Minnie Caroline Riedner, wife of W.P. Riedner, died at her home, 215 Delaware Street, Thursday. She was a native of Texas and had lived here 40 years.

Other survivors are a daughter, Miss Willis Elizabeth Riedner, and a son Lloyd N. Riedner, both of this city; two sisters, Miss Tessie Neese of Round Top, Tex., and Mrs. George T. Jambers of this city; four brothers, Barney W., Earl C., Del F., and Otis V. Neese, all of this city; and Elo L. Neese of Round Top.

Rosary will be recited Friday evening at the Porter Loring Chapel. Service will be held Saturday morning at the chapel and at the St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Rev. Arthur J. Kaler officiating.

Contributed by Kathy Carter

antonio RIEHS

Schulenburg Sticker, 5 Feb 1915

DEATH REPORTS

Mrs. Antonio Rheids [sic.], age 81 years, died Jan. 7, near LaGrange.

Mrs. Riehs' gravestone in the La Grange City Cemetery states she was born in 1830 and died January 7, 1914. Contributed by Matt Cross

CHARLIE RIEHS

Weimar Mercury, 24 Apr 1969, page 1

Charlie Riehs Dies Same Day As His Brother

Charlie Riehs, 77, of Mullins Prairie died of a stroke at 2 p.m. Sunday, about four hours after being admitted to Fayette Memorial Hospital, unaware that his brother Robert had died by suicide in Weimar that morning.

Another brother, Louis, of La Grange, had come to Weimar early Sunday after being notified of the tragedy here. A little after 9 a.m. he went to Mullins Prairie to notify Charlie and found him lying on a couch, very ill.

Charlie Riehs' wife had died in December and he was living alone.

Louis went to Mullins Prairie Store and called for a La Grange amulance. Charlie died without learning what he had gone to tell him.

Services for Charlie Riehs were held Wednesday afternoon at Koenig Funeral Home, La Grange, with Rev. Clarence Oestreich officiating. He was buried in Cedar Cemetery at O'Quinn.

A lifelong resident of Mullins Prairie, he was born Feb. 7, 1892, a son of Karl and Pauline Fritsch Riehs. His wife was the former Mrs. Louise Fein von Minden.

Surviving him are a stepson, Emil von Minden of La Grange; two step grandchildren and two step-great-grandchildren; two sisters, Mrs. Annie Fein and Mrs. F. G. Knigge, both of Houston; and two brothers, Louis of La Grange and Engelbert of Hallettsville.

KARL H. RIEHS

La Grange Journal, 26 May 1938

Funeral services for Karl H. Riehs, farmer, living south of La Grange, and who died Wednesday afternoon, May 18, 1938, were held at the Koenig Funeral Home Thursday afternoon at 3:30 o'clock, Rev. A.E. Moebus, Pastor of Zion Lutheran Church, officiating. Deceased was 76 years, 6 months and 3 days old at the time of his death. He had followed the life of a farmer since locating in Fayette County

Karl Riehs was a plain, honest citizen; his closest friends stood to this and ever recognized him as a good friend, neighbor and husband.

He was born October 15, 1861, was united in marriage with Miss Pauline Fritsch in 1891 at La Grange. He emigrated to America in 1885 and located at Beigel. He later moved to near Cedar and lived in the county continuously until his death. He was a member of the Lutheran Church, and held insurance in the La Grange Burial Association. Interment was made in the Cedar Cemetery.

Surviving are his wife, Mrs. Pauline Riehs; daughters: Mrs. Annie Fein, La Grange and Mrs. Nora Knigge, Houston; sons: Charlie, Engelbert, Louis and Robert of La Grange. Three brothers: E. Riehs, Houston; John Riehs, West Point and Robert Riehs, Austin, also survive.

LEOPOLD RIESS

Shiner Gazette, 20 Feb 1901

The sad news of the death of Mr. Leopold Riess, which occurred at Flatonia last Saturday, was received here with sorrow by his many friends. For about two years he had lived in Moulton, but on January 1st his health had become so bad that he resigned his position and went to Flatonia in the hope of gaining his health. He leaves one child, a little girl, and a number of relatives and friends to mourn his death, to whom the Eagle extends condolence.

Shiner Gazette, 20 Feb 1901

Mr. Geo. Baur and wife and Mr. and Mrs. C. M. Kotzebue went to Flatonia Sunday evening to attend the funeral of Mr. L. Riess.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MRS. LEOPOLD RIESS

Schulenburg Sticker, 16 Nov 1899

Death of Mrs. Leopold Riess.

The sad news of the death of Mrs. Leopold Riess, which occurred at Moulton, where they recently moved to, reached here Tuesday morning. The funeral took place at Flatonia Wednesday morning.

The deceased was afflicted with that dread disease, consumption and had suffered for some time. She leaves a husband and one child, quite young, to mourn her untimely demise. The STICKER extends heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved.

Contributed by Matt Cross

CARL RIETZ

La Grange Journal, January 22, 1920

CARL RIETZ DIES.

Carl Rietz, whose age was far in the eighties, died at his daughter's home near Walhalla Sunday. Most of our local readers will remember the kindly disposed old citizen who accompanied Dr. Vastine C. Lunn upon his medical calls over the county during his period of practice here, and will regret to hear of his death. Mr. Rietz encouraged a love for Dr. Lunn that few men know does exist, and when death claimed the doctor in 1904, he mourned as greatly as others.

KARL RIETZ

La Grange Journal, October 15, 1942

DEATH’S TOLL

KARL RIETZ

Carl [sic] Rietz, aged 73 years, 1 month and 10 days, died at his home near Cistern (Waelder, Rt. 2) Sunday, Oct. 11.  Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon by Rev. Erhard Eilers, and interment was in the Cistern cemetery, Koenig Funeral Home of La Grange in charge.

Deceased was born in Germany and immigrated to America at the age of 17 years, the family locating near Gonzales.  For the past [46?] years, he has lived near to Cistern, following the occupation of a farmer.  He was a member of the Lutheran church and the Sons of Hermann; surviving are his wife, Mrs. Elsie Rietz, nee Naumann, four sons, Walter Rietz of Flatonia, Reinhardt of Waelder, Guenther of Schulenburg, and Arnold Rietz of Freyburg; two daughters, Mrs. Erika Huebner of Shelby and Mrs. Gertrude Loth of Freyburg.  There are also two sisters, Mrs. Meta Rietz and Mrs. Ida Albright, both of California.

Transcribed by Judy Koehl

A. RIPPEL

Schulenburg Sticker, 19 Nov 1903

Death Record.

Rippel: Died at Fayetteville, Nov. 13th-03, of burns, A. Rippel aged 1 year and five months.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JOSEPH RIPPEL

Schulenburg Sticker, 7 Jan 1909

JOSEPH RIPPEL DEAD.

Joseph Rippel, an aged citizen of this county, died at his home near Schulenburg, Tex., Sunday morning, December 27, at the advanced age of about 82 years.

Deceased was a native of Bohemia, a province of Austria, and emigrated with his family to this state over sixty years ago. He first settled in Austin county, near New Ulm; some years later he moved to Colorado county, where he made his home for twelve years, and then moved to Fayette county, where he has since resided.

Surviving him are four sons and one daughter, all of whom, except one son, are married and have homes of their own.

Since the death of his wife, who preceded him three years, he has made his home with his children. A few months ago he felt a longing to return to the old homestead which is now occupied by Mr. Fiedler and family. Here he died on the date above named.

In religion he was a protestant, but at which particular shrine in the wide field of Protestantism he bended his knee the writer of this does not know.

His funeral occurred on the following Monday afternoon from the home of his friend, Mr. Fiedler, and the remains were laid to rest in the Schulenburg cemetery. The funeral services were conductee [sic] by Rev. Charles J. Pauling and were well attended by the deceased’s old friends in this community.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Aloysia Haas Ripper

The Schulenburg Sticker, Friday, January 16, 1925

Mrs. Jos. Ripper

Mrs. Jos. Ripper, one of the highly respected and beloved mothers of this section, passed away to her eternal reward Sunday, January 11th, following a case of pneumonia.

Deceased was virtually over this and was thought to be much better when a sudden turn Sunday ended her life.

Deceased was born in Boehlten Mahren, Austria, her husband was born in the same city but they did not marry until they had located in this country.

Mrs. Ripper had attained the ripe old age of 78 years, 8 months, and 11 days. Her husband preceded her in death he having died March 25th., 1922.

The remains were laid to rest in the High Hill cemetery Tuesday morning at 10 o’clock. Rev. Father Schweller officiating.

She is survived by three sons and four daughters, they are Frank, Joe and Rudolph Ripper, Franziska, Alouisia, Ludmilla, and Annie, they are grown and married. To these survivors the Sticker tenders its sincere sympathy in the loss of their beloved mother.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

anton j. RIPPER

The Schulenburg Sticker Thursday, Nov. 25, 1965, Page 6

Anton J. Ripper Rites Held Nov. 18

Anton J. Ripper, retired farmer, passed away at the family residence Monday, Nov. 15, terminating an extended illness of fifteen years. He had reached the age of 74 years, 8 months and twenty days.

Funeral services were held from the Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Chapel Thursday, Nov. 18 at 8:45 a.m. with continued services at the St. Rose Catholic Church at 9 a.m. Rev. Eugene Nee officiated at the Requiem Mass and graveside services with burial in the St. Rose Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Henry and Albert Ripper, Henry Oeltjendiers, Adolf Kubica, Adolph Falke and John Neiser.

Mr. Ripper was born Feb. 24, 1891 at Holman as a son of the late Joseph and Louisa Berger Ripper. On Oct. 26, 1914 he was united in marriage to Sophie Oeltjendiers at Weimar where the couple made their home until moving to Schulenburg in 1936. A lifetime resident of Fayette County, he was a member of the St. Rose Catholic Church.

Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Sophie Ripper of Schulenburg; three daughters, Mrs. Wm. (Olga) Trojacek and Misses Dorothy and Evelyn Ripper, all of Schulenburg; seven sons, Alfred Ripper of Rosenberg, Martin and Charlie Ripper of LaGrange, Ben Ripper of Weimar, Anton A. Ripper of Webster, N. Y. and Erwin and Walter Ripper of Schulenburg; two sisters, Mrs. Joe Kubica of Weimar and Mrs. Anton Walla of Houston; a brother, Edward Ripper of Schulenburg and 15 grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by a daughter in infancy, four brothers and two sisters.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

edward RIPPER

The Schulenburg Sticker, March 28, 1974, Page 3

Last Rites Held for Edw. Ripper

Edward Ripper, retired Schulenburg area farmer, succumbed March 20 at the Colonial Nursing Home here after an illness of three months. At his passing, he had attained the age of 87 years, 6 months and 20 days.

Funeral services were held from Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Chapel Thursday, March 21, at 9:30 a.m. with continued services at St. Rose Catholic Church at 9:45 a.m. Rev. Roger Robbins officiated at the funeral Mass and interment was in St. Rose Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Erwin and Charlie Ripper, Adolf Falke, Adolph Kubica, Joe Wick and John Neiser.

Mr. Ripper, son of the late Joseph and Aloisia Berger Ripper, was born August 30, 1886, at Dubina. On November 9, 1914, he was united in marriage to Annie Kubica at St. Michael’s Catholic Church in Weimar. He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church here.

Survivors are his wife, Mrs. Annie Ripper at the Colonial Nursing Home, Schulenburg; a daughter, Mrs. Waldo (Martha) Kalich of Houston and a sister, Mrs. Theresa Walla of Houston.

He was preceded in death by a son, Henry Ripper; also four sisters, Mary in infancy, Mrs. Amelia Blaske, Mrs. Alousia Neiser and Mrs. Annie Kubica; five brothers, John, Joseph, Ferdinand, Anton and Adolph.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

Gus Ripper

Gus Ripper, 73, Former Weimar Resident, Dies

Funeral services were held here Wednesday afternoon for Gus F. Ripper Jr., 73, of Wharton, who died Feb. 2, in Gulf Coast Hospital, Wharton.

Mr. Ripper had been a patient there 24 days, for treatment of emphysema, when he died at 3 p.m, Monday of a heart attack. He had been in bad health for several years.

After a service at Hubbard Funeral Home, he was buried in Brandt Cemetery at Holman. Rev. Harold Tesch, Lutheran minister from Wharton, officiated.

A son of Gus and Anna Witte Ripper, he was born here Oct. 10, 1896, and was a blacksmith here until 1940, when he moved to Columbus. In 1945 he moved to Wharton. He married Miss Martha Brandt here in 1916.

His wife survives, along with three sons, George, Lawrence and Ralph, all of Houston; nine grandchildren and two great-grandchildren; a brother, Frank Ripper of Eagle Lake; and two sisters, Mrs. Rosa Seifert and Mrs. W. H. (Annie) Hollien, both of Weimar. One sister, Mrs. Frank Freis Sr., preceded him in death.

Weimar Mercury, February 1970
Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

H. RIPPER

Schulenburg Sticker, 7 Sep 1905

Deaths Recorded Since Last Report.

H. Ripper of Holman, age 7 months, died August 22.

Contributed by Matt Cross

IRENE LEE FISHER RIPPER

Austin American-Statesman, March 2, 2008

Funeral services for Irene Ripper, 78, of La Grange, Texas, will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday March 4, 2008 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in La Grange. Interment will follow in the Holy Rosary Catholic Cemetery in Hostyn. Friends may call Koenig & Strickland Monday from 12:00 - 8:00 p.m., with a rosary at 7:00 p.m., Monday evening.

Irene Lee Fisher Ripper passed away peacefully in her sleep early in the morning of March 1, 2008. A life-long resident of Fayette County, Irene was born in Ammansville, Texas, on July 28, 1929, the eldest daughter of three children born to John and Vlasta (Bordovsky) Fisher. Irene was a gifted student who excelled in her studies at the Ammansville Parochial School and the La Grange and Schulenburg Public Schools. She married Charlie Henry Ripper in Ammannsville on June 14, 1948. Irene and Charlie had one daughter, Carol. Irene was a member of the Sacred Heart Catholic Church and the Altar Society.

Irene was a dedicated employee of the Texas Department of Human Services, where she worked as a secretary in the La Grange DHS office for almost 30 years. When she was in her early 30's, Irene developed multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic, debilitating disease of the nervous system. She battled MS for almost 50 years and was fiercely determined to keep the disease from getting the best of her. She was an inspiration to all who knew her.

Irene is survived by her husband of almost 60 years, Charlie; daughter and son-in-law, Carol and Rick Peters and one beloved grandson, Ryan Peters; all of Austin; dear sister, Regina Gilbreath of New Braunfels and Regina's children, Marcia Goldstein of Pacific Palisades, CA; Tad Gilbreath of Austin; Don Gilbreath of San Marcos; the children of her deceased brother, Norbert Fisher, Judy Wood, Janice Sweeney, Michael Fisher and Norman Fisher of the Austin area; and Jackie Stark of Lubbock; brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Annie Mae and Walter Ripper of Schulenburg; sisters-in-law, Evelyn (Mrs. Martin) Ripper of La Grange; Shirley Ripper of Nacadocoches, and Evelyn and Dorothy Ripper of Schulenburg; special cousins, Virginia and Ed Leech and Margie Wood of La Grange; Shirley Blackburn of Newport News, VA; and many other treasured nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Norbert Fisher and sister-in-law Georgie Fisher; brother-in-law, Marvin Gilbreath; and mother and father-in-law, Anton and Sophie Ripper.
Memorials may be made to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Sacred Heart Catholic Church, or a charity of one's choice.

Contributed by Connie Sneed

JOSEPH H. RIPPER

Schulenburg Sticker, 31 Mar 1922, page 1

OLD CITIZEN PASSES AWAY

Jos. H. Ripper of Near Schulenburg Dies at Age of 79 Years.

Jos. H. Rippper was called from his earthly labors last Saturday moroning, March 25th, at 3:30. He had been ill for some time, being confined to his bed for the last ten weeks.

He was buried at the St. Mary's Cemetery at High Hill at 4:00 p.m., March 26th. Rev. Joseph Schelter officiating, St. Joseph's Men's Society, of which deceased wa a member, attended the funeral in a body. Many relatives and friends from Schulenburg, Weimar, Moulton and Shiner attended the funeral.

Joseph H. Ripper was born July 15, 1843, at Boelten, Moravia, Austria. He came to this country July, 1866, on the first immigration ship arriving at Galveston after the civil war.

He was married to Miss Aloisia Haas at High Hill Sept. 14, 1866, the bride having come from the old country with him.

He worked several years as a carpenter, this being his trade. In 1870 he bought a farm and resided there until death. He was near his 79th birthday. Eight children were born, three of whom preceeded him in death. He is survived by his wife and five children: They are Frank Ripper, Edward Ripper of High Hill, Mrs. Ad. Michniek, Weimar, Mrs. Jos. Stanzel and Mrs. Ferd Dittrich, High Hill.

The Sticker tenders its sympathy to these in the loss of their husband and father.

Joseph Ripper, Jr.

The Schulenburg Sticker, Thursday, January 25, 1900

Death of Jos. Ripper, Jr.

Jos. Ripper, aged 28 years, the second son of Jos. H. Ripper, Sr., died Tuesday morning of typhoid fever, at his home north of town. The deceased was but recently married (in November) and to the bereaved young widow and relatives the sincere sympathy of the community is extended. Young Ripper had been ill but two weeks, and his untimely demise is indeed a sad blow to his relatives and friends. The family have been signally unfortunate of late, it being but a short while since the elder Ripper was thrown from his wagon and sustained a broken leg.

Jos. Ripper, Jr., was a young man of excellent character, was well liked, and his death is a subject for general regret. The remains were laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery at High Hill, Father Gerlach officiating.

Submitted by Sandra Long Anders

LENORA HOEGEMEYER RIPPER

Weimar Mercury, 9 Oct 1942, page 1

Last Rites Held Here Saturday for Mrs. Geo. Ripper

Funeral services for Mrs. Lenora Hoegemeyer Ripper, 20, whose death occurred at 10:30 Thursday evening at the Renger Hospital in Halletsville following a still-birth at noon on Thursday, were held at the Hubbard Funeral Home in Weimar. Saturday morning at ten o'clock with the Rev. Christian Emigholz, Lutheran pastor, officiating.

Interment took place at the Brandt Cemetery near Holman.

Mrs. Ripper, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hoegemeyer of near Weimar, was born and reared near Weimar. She married George Ripper on August 26, 1949, and the couple made their home on the A. and I. College farm near Kingsville, where Mr. Ripper was manager of the farm until March, 1942, when the young couple moved to Columbus, where Mr. Ripper became an assistant in the AAA office for Colorado County.

In addition to her husband, George Ripper of Columbus, and her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Hoegemeyer of Weimar; the deceased is survived by three sisters, Mrs. Hugo Helmcamp, Mrs. Richard Muehr, and Miss Inez Hoegemeyer; three brothers, Milroy Hoegemeyer of Oakland, Leo Hoegemeyer of Columbus, and Wilfred Hoegemeyer of Weimar.

The Mercury joins numerous friends in extending sincere sympathy to the bereaved.

Martha Brandt Ripper

Weimar Mercury, February 15, 1979, p. 5

Mrs. Ripper's Funeral Held Here Saturday

Funeral services for Mrs. Martha Ripper, 78, a resident of Parkview Manor, were held Saturday afternoon, February 10, from Hubbard Funeral Chapel, with burial in Brandt Cemetery at Holman.
Rev. Ernest S. Dean Jr. officiated.
Mrs. Ripper died Wednesday at the Manor.

A native of Holman, she was born July 23, 1900, a daughter of George and Julia (Hickel) Brandt Sr. She was married there to Gus F. Ripper Jr. on November 16, 1916. Mr. Ripper died in 1970.

The Rippers lived here most of their lives but were living in Wharton, where they owned a grocery store, when he died. She lived at Wharton 15 years and at Houston six years.

Surviving are three sons, George, Lawrence and Ralph, all of Houston; seven grandchildren and six great-grandchildren; four brothers, George Brandt Jr., Hugo and Arthur Brandt, all of Holman, and Oscar Brandt of Weimar; and one sister, Mrs. Edna Witt of Holman. A brother and three sisters preceded her in death.

Transcribed by Sandra Long Anders

RUDOLPH RIPPER

Weimar Mercury, 20 Jun 1889, page 2

We are sorry to note the death of Rudolph, aged about 16 years, son of Mr. Joseph Ripper, living three miles north of Schulenburg. Rudolph was hoeing cotton about 11 a. m. last Saturday, when he was stricken by sun-stroke, falling in the field. He never regained consciousness, and died at 4 a. m. Monday. The funeral was one of the largest and most impressive ever seen in this country. The remains were interred at 6 p. m. Monday, according to the solemn and impressive rites of the Catholic church, Rev. John Kirch officiating. A large number of relatives and friends join in sympathy for the bereaved family.—Messenger

W. B. RIVES

Weimar Mercury, 23 Nov 1901

A continual sufferer for the past eight years, and at times almost helpless, and a victim of failling eyesight, W. B. Rives, aged fifty-seven years, died at his home Sunday afternoon at 7:30 o'clock, leaving a devoted wife and two children.—La Grange Journal.

MONROE ROBERSON

La Grange Journal, May 28 1903

DEATHS RECORDED.

Roberson, Monroe, colored, aged 7 months and 2 days, of chronic bronchitis, at Fayettteville, May 11.

DOLLY ROBERTS

Weimar Mercury, 18 Jan 1890, page 3

DIED, Monday, Jan. 13, 1890, at the family residence in Holman's Valley, Fayette county, of consumption, Mrs. Dolly Robers [sic.], wife of Mr. Walter Roberts, inthe 30th year of her age. She was a daughter of the late Mr. Geo. Holman, and was a lady much beloved by everyone. She leaves a husband and a number of relatives and friends, to whom THE MERCURY extends its sincere sympathy.

C. W. ROBERTSON

Weimar Mercury, 14 Feb 1891

Died, at his residence in this city on Thursday, Feb. 5, 1891, Mr. C. W. Robertson, aged 71 years. Since 1855 the deceased had been a resident of LaGrange and the host of friends who today carry saddened countenances and heavy hearts over his death speak volumes for his worth. Mr. Robertson married a sister of Messrs. A. T. and R. T. Bradshaw of this city and several years ago was engaged in merchandising here, but was compelled to abandon it on account of ill health. One tragic element connected with his death is that on that same morning his daughter, Miss Belle, had become a happy bride and departed for her new home, not dreaming of the shock in store for her. A bride at seven; fatherless at six. Robert, son of the deceased, also left that morning for Austin, where he will attend college. The sympathies of the Democrat and the entire community go forth to all the bereaved. LaGrange Democrat.

MRS. S. C. ROBERTSON

La Grange Journal, Thursday, July 8, 1920

Another Gone Hence

Protracted Illness Ceased When Death Came to Relieve

The announcement of the death of Mrs. S. C. Robertson early Friday morning created no surprise but saddened the hearts of everyone in our little community.  Deceased had suffered many years, and death mercifully relieved a weary pilgrim.  She had prepared for her new journey, and she welcomed it, yet her going, as ‘twas ever in --- history of man, caused the heart to ache.  And the explanation is given in one brief sentence: She was the mother!

Mrs. Robertson had lived in La Grange for over sixty years, some of her children, several of her grandchildren and one great-grandchild live here now.  Bereft of the love and protection of her husband over thirty years ago, she raised her children, three of whom residing here, were with her, ever looking to her comfort during the last yet long struggle against the grim reaper’s approach.  Hers was a life that merits its reward, her cross was carried onward until the parting of the ways and then her children and friends carried her to her little couch to sleep until the horn blast awakens the just.

Children of the community, children then but grandparents now, and they knew her ever as a devout member of her faith, hers was a life worthy of emulation, she leaned to the habit of generosity to those in need, and depended upon her energies until an unfortunate fall which caused a break in one of the most important members of her body and a dependance upon those who still loved her as a mother.  Hers was a will power and energy that charmed; none knew her but to love her, none spoke but to praise.

Deceased was a sister to Amzi and R. T. Bradshaw, for many years respected citizens of La Grange, now numbered with those who have preceded her.  Many changes in the town occurred during her period of residence here; we think of her now as we did early in life, as one who lived to do what she could for those she loved and for those who loved her.  Past eighty-nine years of age, she stood, ready and prepared to go, and her eternal sleep came after suffering had reigned for years.  Friends accompanied the relatives and decked her grave with flowers.

Those who mourn her loss are Mrs. J. B. Holloway of La Grange, Bradshaw Robertson of ----, C. W. and R. M. Robertson of La Grange, Mrs. J. W. Radford of Quanah, her children; many grandchildren and all who knew her.  As one who knew her to be as written, the writer adds his name to those who shall mourn, and we pray that her sleep will be peaceful.

Contributed by Rob Brown

WILLIAM BRUCE ROBERTSON

Schulenburg Sticker, 1 Aug 1901

WILLIAM BRUCE ROBETSON [sic].

Died of consumption at 3:30 a. m. Tuesday, July 30th, at his home five miles south of Schulenburg, after an illness of several months, during which time he suffered intensely, William Bruce Robertson, about 45 years of age, a native of Alabama. Until about one year ago Mr. Robertson, who has been a prominent citizen of this neighborhood for nearly twenty years, was a man of robust appearance and magnificent physique and certainly none of his large concourse of friends could have seriously entertained the idea of his ever being afflicted with that most dreaded disease, consumption. How he contracted it is not known but its ravages became preceptible [sic] several months ago and continued their destructive work until its victim, having been deprived of all practical vitality, recognized the inevitable and having become resigned to his fate, began to await with patience the call of the Master. Mr. Robertson was a successful planter, a generous and gracious gentleman and a faithful and considerate friend. His funeral services, under the auspices of the W. O. W., of which society he was a loyal member, conducted by the Rev. Mr. Gates of the Christian church, occurred Wednesday at 10 a.m., and was largely attended. The constant attention of Mr. J. T. Robertson of Ala., a brother of the deceased, the tireless efforts of the members of the W. O. W. to alleviate the suffering of their distressed brother, the faithful ministration of his many personal friends during his long illness confirms the conviction that all the worlds akin. To the bereaved widow and relatives the Sticker extends its condolence.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ROBINSON

The Galveston Daily News, 5 Dec 1873, page 4

FAYETTE COUNTY.— . . . The Record of the 2d says: "We learn that a young man by the name of Robinson, grandson of W. B. Turnage of this city, was drowned two or three days since while attempting to cross the Colorado river near Winchester. It seems that the late high waters had changed the ford, and not being aware of this, he got into deep water and lost his horse. It seems that one or two persons were on the opposite shore, but were unable to render any assistance. This is the third member of this family that has passed away during the present year. First, the oldest son; then the mother, and now another son. This family were among the earliest settlers of this county. At last accounts the body had not been found"

DORIS KEUPER ROBINSON

Weimar Mercury, 27 May 1960, page 1

Funeral Services For Mrs. Robinson, 34, Held Saturday

Funeral services for Mrs. Wm. B. Robinson, 34, of San Antonio, were held Saturday afternoon at St. Paul's United Church of Christ, Schulenburg, with interment in High Hill Cemetery.

The Rev. Wm. Anderson officiated, assisted by the Rev. Fred Mehrtens.

Mrs. Robinson died at her home at 11:00 p.m. Wednesday, May 18. She had been ill since August 1959.

The former Miss Doris Keuper, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Keuper, she was born August 1, 1925, at the Santa Rosa Hospital in San Antonio. A graduate of the Schulenburg High School and the University of Texas, she taught school for awhile before her marriage to Mr. Robinson April 15, 1948. They had lived in eastern states for several years before moving to San Antonio in 1958.

In addition to her husband she is survived by a daughter, Melody, 10, and a son, Noel, 8 of San Antonio; her parents, Mr. and Mrs. W. R. Keuper of Schulenburg; and a brother, Dr. Charles Keuper of Boston, Mass.

Pallbearer for her funeral were Henry Babylon, Lloid Henderson, J. R. Jackson, J. R. Yoder, G. C. Ruhmann and Ralph Maricle.

SAMUEL WILLIAMSON ROBINSON

Unidentified news clipping:

Samuel William Robinson

July 30, 1981 - Oct. 25, 2000

WARRENTON, Texas — Services for Samuel William Robinson, 19, of Warrenton are set for 10 a.m. Friday at St. John’s Catholic Church in Fayetteville. Monsignor Ben Mazurkiewicz will officiate. Burial will be at Fayetteville Catholic Cemetery.

Arrangements are under the direction of Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home in LaGrange. Visitation will be after 1 p.m. Thursday at Knesek Chapel in Fayetteville. A Catholic Daughters rosary will be recited at 7 p.m. Thursday followed by a Knights of Columbus rosary at 7:30 p.m. at Knesek Chapel. A parish rosary will be recited at 9:30 a.m. Friday at St. John’s Church.

Mr. Robinson died Wednesday in Brenham.

He was born in Victoria, Texas. He was a full-time student at Blinn College and a cook for Royer’s Cafe in Round Top. He was a member of Hermann Sons, Round Top, and a volunteer for the Warrenton Volunteer Fire Department.

Survivors include his parents, Ken and Becky Robinson of Warrenton; one brother, James Wesley Robinson of Warrenton; grandparents, Fred and Ann Robinson of Gonzales and Mary Okruhlik of Bryan; and numerous aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Memorials may be sent to Round Top/Warrenton Volunteer Fire Department.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

ZULEN Robinson

La Grange Journal, May 28, 1903

DEATHS RECORDED.

Robinson, Zule, colored, aged 13 years and 6 months, of pneumonia near Walhalla, May 18.

NEAL ROBISON

Schulenburg Sticker, 22 June 1905

NEAL ROBISON DEAD.

Sunday the 18th inst. at 8 p. m. Neal Robison died.

Neal Robison was born in Fayette county, Texas, July 16, 1848. He was the son of Joel W. Robison, with whose history every one who knows aught of Texas history is familiar, on account of the important part he acted in the battle of San Jacinto, when he with others captured Santa Anna.

Neal Robison enjoyed the advantages which the University of Virginia gives her sons. He attended this institution of learning during the years 1867 68 69.

Mr. Robison was endowed with a mind of more than ordinary capacity, which enabled him to receive a most liberal education, not only academic, but of the law as well. He never practiced law, having no taste for the actual practice at the bar, he, however, took much pleasure in discussing propositions of law and kept up with the later decisions of the higher courts.

In 1879, he married Miss H. P. Carter, the daughter of John H. Carter. His wife and one child survive him.

In 1882, Mr. Robison was elected tax collector of Fayette county which office he held at the time of his death. He was of a most kind, amiable and obliging disposition. Although he had been in poor health for several years, yet he remained as cheerful and amiable as if enjoying the best of health. He never complained and when asked how he felt, his invariable answer was “I am much better, I will soon be on my feet.”

When confined to his bed during his last illness he retained his wonted cheerfulness, and assured those in attendance that he would soon be “alright.” There was not a man in Fayette county more popular than Neal Robison. No man had a warmer heart; no man was more generous and kind to his fellow man than he.

Contributed by Matt Cross

AGNES K. ROBSON

The Fayette County Record, Friday, February 11, 1955

Miss Agnes Robson Buried Thursday

Funeral services were held at the St. James Episcopal church here Thursday afternoon for Miss Agnes Keith Robson, 74, who died Wednesday, at Fayette Memorial hospital after an extended illness.

The Rev. Arthur J. Lockhart officiated and burial was in the La Grange city cemetery.

Miss Robson was a daughter of the late Judge W.S. Robson and Lucy Praetorius Robson. She was born in La Grange and spent her entire life here.

Survivors include three sisters, Mrs. Mae Eldridge, Mrs. Siddie R. Armstrong and Mrs. Juanita Logan, all of La Grange, and a brother, Max R. Robson of Houston.

Miss Robson remained at her home until shortly before the church services. Koenig Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Bruce G. Williams

CHARLES GUY ROBSON

The Fayette County Record, Friday, November 7, 1952

C. G. Robson, 20-Yr. Mayor, Dies Monday

City Civic Leader Buried Wednesday After Long Illness

C. G. Robson, who, because of his long service to the city, could readily be call "Mr. La Grange," died Monday night at Fayette Memorial hospital.

Death came to him at the age of 74 years, 2 months and 15 days—just a day before he could have seen the return to power of the Republican party of which he had long been an ardent member.

"Mayor Robson" as he was known in or out of office, served as mayor at three different times for a total of 20 years - the longest of any La Grange mayor.

He served first during 1917-1919, again in 1923-25 and then for a 16-year period, 1931-1947.

Then, after retiring as mayor, he served by appointment as tax assessor-collector and later was elected to that position, which he held at the time of his death.

City government was a hobby with Mayor Robson. He needed no city job. The remuneration was meager anyway. But he loved his community and took joy and pride in serving it.

Funeral services for him were held Wednesday. Burial was in the new La Grange City Cemetery.

Mayor Robson's interests were not confined to the political scene. He was active in a variety of business and civic projects. He was owner, builder and operator of the La Grange telephone system for 22 years, was a charter member and former officer of the La Grange Chamber of Commerce, Fayette County Fair Association and La Grange Lions club, and took active interest in youth work, meriting the Silver Beaver award for his activity in the Boy Scouts of America.

A life-long resident of La Grange, Mr. Robson was the son of the late Judge W.S. Robson and Lucy Praetorius Robson. He attended school here, then went to A&M college where he graduated in 1898. Shortly afterwards, his country called him and he saw service in the Spanish-American war.

He was also an honorary member of the La Grange Fire Department.

The deceased was married twice. His first wife, nee Lula Eiche of Giddings, died in 1926 after 26 years of wedded life. In 1928, he married Miss Ella Lenchow of La Grange who was his wife, nurse and companion until his death.

For many years Mr. Robson held extensive ranching interests in West Texas. Because of his health, he disposed of them in recent years and was content to devote his time to serving his friends and neighbors as a city official.

Surviving him are his wife; four sisters, Miss Agnes Robson, Mrs. Mae Eldridge, Mrs. Siddie Armstrong and Mrs. John A. Logan, all of La Grange; and a brother, M. R. Robson, of Houston.

Out of respect to this long time public servant, business places of La Grange closed from 2 to 4 Wednesday afternoon during the time of the funeral.

The huge assortment of beautiful flowers was testimony of the esteem in which he was held by both local and out-of-town residents.

Contributed by Bruce G. Williams

FRANKIE LOWRY ROBSON

Fayette County Record, May 3, 1996

Funeral services for Frankie Lowry Robson, 97, presently of Troup, were held Wednesday, May 1 at 2 p.m. in the First Presbyterian Church. The Rev. Patterson Lyles officiated with burial in the La Grange City Cemetery.

Mrs. Robson died April 26 in East Texas Medical Center in Tyler.

Born in Troup August 3, 1898, Mrs. Robson was the daughter of the late J.F. and Mary E. (Salmon) Lowry. She was united in marriage with William S. Robson, Jr. in 1924. Mrs. Robson was a home economics teacher in La Grange ISD for 23 years. She was a graduate of OCIA Finishing School, received her undergraduate degree from Texas Woman's College and her Masters Degree from Southwest Texas State University.

She was a member of the First Presbyterian Church, La Grange, where she served as an elder and was a member of the Women of the Church. Mrs. Robson also was a member of the Fayette Memorial Hospital Auxiliary. She resided in La Grange for 75 years and only two weeks ago went to Troup to live near her son because of illness.

Surviving are her son and daughter-in-law, William S. Robson III and Beverly of Troup; one son-in-law, C.R. Bass of Houston; one sister, Mary Jo Burns of Lake Charles, Louisiana; five grandchildren, William S. Robson IV, Kenneth Robson, Richard Bass, Frank Bass and B.J. Bass. She was preceded in death by her husband, William S. Robson, Jr., a daughter, Mary Lucy Bass; and a sister, Letta Burns.

Memorials are suggested to the charity of ones choice.

Funeral services were under the direction of the Koenig-Peel Funeral Home.

Contributed by Bruce G. Williams

JULIA AGNES SCHUHMACHER ROBSON

Houston Post, circa 1941

Mrs. J. S. Robson's Rites Held Here

Funeral services for Mrs. Julia Schuhmacher Robson, wife of M.R. Robson, vice president and treasurer of the Schuhmacher Company, were held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Earthman Funeral Home and at 11 a.m. at St. Anne's Church. The body was taken to La Grange for burial at 3 p.m. under direction of Earthman Funerals. She died Tuesday night at the family home, Oak Street and Avenue E, in Bellaire.

Mrs. Robson, born in La Grange, was the daughter of John and Louise Fred Schuhmacher. She had been a resident of Houston since 1907.

Mrs. Robson was a member of the Newman Circle and the Camellia Garden Club. She is survived by her husband; two daughters, Mrs. Maxine Kyle and Mrs. Dorothy Kight of Houston; two sons, M. R. Robson, Jr., of Austin and H.C. Robson of Houston; three sisters, Mrs. Betty Hooper, Mrs. Martha Perlitz and Mrs. Lillie King of Houston, and a brother, John Schuhmacher of Rutersville.

Contributed by Bruce G. Williams

LUCY PRAETORIUS ROBSON

La Grange Journal, February 23, 1922

Death Claims Another

Our citizens were much grieved Saturday when it became known that Mrs. Lucy Robson, widow of the late Judge W.S. Robson, had passed away early that morning. Mrs. Robson had been ill for several weeks, and had received every attention that loving hands and medical knowledge could give her. Her end came very quickly.

Mrs. Robson, whose maiden name was Praetorius, was born and reared in our little city. She was united in marriage with W.S. Robson, a prominent attorney of La Grange, and for many years our county judge, and the surviving children of that union are: M.R. Robson of Houston, associated with the Schuhmacher Company of that city; C.G. Robson, president-manager of the Southern Telephone Company at La Grange; Robert of Juno; William, Miss Agnes, and Mrs. John A. Logan of La Grange; Mrs. Siddie Armstrong of Waco and Mrs. May Eldridge of Dallas; a sister, Mrs. Siddie Rice, and a brother, Benno Praetorius, also survive.

The friendship and the esteem of a community's people for this good woman was attested to Sunday afternoon when the remains were carried to the new cemetery, accompanied by many sympathizing friends, who brought such beautiful flowers, and helped to place them to rest by the side of her husband who had preceded her some seventeen years. Rev. M. H. Arnold officiated at the home and the grave.

The community sympathizes with the children who have been called upon to part, temporarily, with their best friend. Consolation may come to them when they consider that mother has gone to rest, that her sufferings have ceased, and that hers was a departure but to precede those whom she loved and to join her former earthly companion. And that grief, which the parting of loved ones occasions here, is the grief one feels when mother, the home maker, the teacher of love and the guiding influence that helps to mould good citizens is called away.

Contributed by Bruce G. Williams

MAX R. ROBSON

Fayette County Record, March 6, 1962

Max R. Robson, 85, Buried Here Saturday

Max Radcliff Robson, 85, a La Grange, native and a former official of the Schuhmacher Co., passed away Friday at his home in Houston following a long illness.

Funeral services were held Saturday morning at the Holy Ghost Catholic church in Houston and graveside services were held at 2 p.m. at the La Grange City cemetery.

Mr. Robson, son of the late Judge W. W. Robson and wife Lucy Praetorius, was born here on February 24, 1877, and was married to the former Julia Schuhmacher, who preceded him in death in 1941.

The deceased was associated with the Schuhmacher Co. for 60 years, beginning as a clerk with the company and was serving as treasurer at the time of his retirement in 1955. He had lived in Houston for more than 50 years.

Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. W. A. Kyle and Mrs. H. M. Kight, and two sons, M. R. Robson, Jr. and H. C. Robson, all of Houston; three sisters, Mrs. Siddie Armstrong, Mrs. May Eldridge and Mrs. John A. Logan, all of La Grange, and a number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Bruce G. Williams

Bellaire Texan, 7 March 1962, page 14

M. R. Robson Dies After Long Illness

Funeral services were held Saturday from Earthman Southwest Funeral Home and Holy Ghost Catholic Church for Max Radcliff Robson, 85, of 6022 Renwick, who died Friday after a lengthy illness.

Mr. Robson was secretary-treasurer of the Schuhmacher Co., at the time of his retirement in 1955. He has joined the wholesale grocery concern as a clerk in 1895. The company merged with the Fleming Co. in April, 1960.

Mr. Robson was a member of Holy Ghost Catholic Church. He was a charter member of the River Oaks Country Club and the Houston Yacht Club.

Survivors include two daughters, Mrs. W. A. Kyle and Mrs. H. M. Kight, both of Houston; two sons, M. R. Robson Jr., and H. C. Robson, both of Houston; three sisters, Mrs. Siddie Armstrong, Mrs. May Eldridge and Mrs. John A. Logan, all of La Grange, and a number of grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Burial was at La Grange.

Contributed by Matt Cross

 

 

 

 

 

WILLIAM SION ROBSON

Shiner Gazette, 11 Oct 1905

Death of Judge Robson.

La Grange, Tex., Oct. 7. – Judge W. S. Robson died this morning at 5 o’clock and will be interred in the new cemetery at 10:30 tomorrow.

Deceased was a Mason, a member of the Knights of Honor and a member of the A. O. U. W. lodge, in which he held one of the highest positions in the United States and Canada.

He was very prominent in this district, having been the Democratic nominee for Congress in 1898.

He served as County Judge of this county for a number of years.

Schulenburg Sticker, 12 Oct 1905

JUDGE ROBSON.

The death of Judge W. S. Robson which occured [sic] at his home in LaGrange, at 4:40 o’clock the morning of the 7th inst. was a shock not only to the people of Fayette County but to the entire state. Judge Robson “Bill Robson” as he was familiarly called by his friends was born in Georgia Feb. 4th, 1851; came to Texas with his father Dr. Robson when he was about three years old. His mother died while he was of tender years. Dr. Robson died of yellow fever during the yellow fever epidemic in 1867. Judge Robson’s parents were intellectual people, of gentle birth, culture and refinement. From them he inherited many amiable traits of character which made him most agreeable and persuasive. After the death of his father Judge Robson was thrown upon his own resources. The only school he ever attended was the common country school at Round Top in Fayette County. It is unnecessary to give the positions of honor and trust with which the people of his county and state honored him; this is a matter of history.

When W. S. Robson was a mere stripling, men noticed in him those characteristics which in after years made him the man he was. To hear him talk, one would involuntarly [sic] ask oneself “What university was this man’s Alma Mater?” In address he was the embodiment of the polished Southern gentleman, that unmistakable air of good breeding which characterizes the gentleman of the South. He has a personality at once vigorous and strong, yet withal so kind, so gentle, so polite, all so beautifully blended as colors are blended and woven into one another in some rare work of art. And this man acquired this education, this polish of the gentleman while driving wild cattle, oft in company with yet wilder men. When others sat around camp fires and spun dull yarns, he took a history or one of the classics from his saddle pockets and read to himself. Oftimes it was told that he made the cow boys be quiet while he read aloud to them of Caesar, Napolean [sic], Frederick the Great or from Homer’s Iliad, “A strong, hold youth was he, ever faithful to friend and open and fair to foe. Nature had been most kind, generous, nay lavish in her choicest gifts to this man. His mind was clear and strong; he saw and understood. Often he has been seen in the court room when his case looked hopeless, strong analytical minds storming and forcing him back step by step, then he would rally and his mind working like a gatling gun would come to his rescue and he would snatch victory from defeat. He had that gift few men possess; he was eloquent. Few men could say things as he could say them. Few speakers could move men as he could. And he is dead; that mind so quick to grasp, so pliable to explain; that tongue so eloquent to do the bidding of its master, silent forever. He was taken away in the “full tide of manhood.”

Obituaries contributed by Matt Cross. Photo contribtued by Bruce G. Williams.

WILLIAM SION ROBSON, Jr.

La Grange Journal, Thursday, December 18, 1947

W. S. Robson Passes Away After Illness

William Sion Robson, [Jr.] well-known La Grange electrician and electrical contractor, passed away at the local hospital late Saturday after a brief illness. He was 52.

Funeral services were held at the First Presbyterian Church here Monday at 2:30 p.m., Dr. Guy B. Duff officiating, Koenig Funeral Home directing, and interment was in the New City Cemetery.  The local La Fayette Masonic Lodge also participated in the last rites.

A native of La Grange, Mr. Robson was born July 24, 1895.  On Sept. 30, 1924 he was united in marriage with Miss Frankie Lowry at Troup.  They lived in West Texas several years and then moved back to La Grange, where Mr. Robson was in business about 20 years.

He leaves his widow; a son, William Sion Robson Jr. [III], student at A&M College; a daughter, Mary Lucy, at home; four sisters, Miss Agnes Keith Robson, Mrs. May Eldridge and Mrs. John A. (Jaunita) Logan, all of La Grange, and Mrs. Siddie R. Armstrong of Galveston; and two brothers, former Mayor C. G. Robson of La Grange and M. R. Robson of Houston.

Contributed by Rob Brown

VIRGIE ROCKINS

Schulenburg Sticker, 30 July 1903

Death Record.

Rockins: Died at Schulenburg, June 27th-03, of inflamation [sic], Virgie Rockins, colored, aged 27 years.

Contributed by Matt Cross

CALVIN RODGERS

Weimar Mercury, 9 May 1924

Death of Infant Son

The infant son born to Prof. and W. E. Rodgers early Sunday morning, April 27, died shortly after it had opened its eyes to behold the beauties of this world. Funeral took place at the Pagel cemetery at five o’clock. The mother and three children are down with the measles. The mother, we are glad to learn, is doing as well as circumstances permit.

The Enterprise sympathizes with the bereaved parents. —New Ulm News.

STEVEN RODGERS

Schulenburg Sticker, 17 Dec 1903, page 1

Death Record.

Deaths reported for the week ending December 5, 1903:

Rodgers – At LaGrange, November 26, Steven Rodgers, colored, aged 80 years.

Contributed by Matt Cross

WALLACE RODGERS

Schulenburg Sticker, 17 Dec 1903

Death Record.

Rogers: Died at La Grange, Dec 8-03, of borns [sic], Wallace Rogers, aged 59 years.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Weimar Mercury, 19 Dec 1903

Wallace Rodgers, a negro, met with a horrible death last Monday. Wallace was somewhat the worse for drink and while in that condition crawled into a grass hedge upon the hill and fell asleep. Later some little chaps, not aware of the sleeping negro being there, set fire to the dry grass, which rapidly burned the clothes from his body, and otherwise severely and painfully burned him. Wallace died the next day.—LaGrange Journal.

RODKINS

The Austin Weekly Statesman, 17 Jul 1873, page 2

They are pulling fodder in Fayette county. In the neighborhood of Kroll's Store, last week, a oy, named Rodkin, only ten years old, went to the woods and hung himself. No cause for the act is given or known, according to the New Era.

FERDINAND ROEDER

Schulenburg Sticker, 25 Nov 1921, page 1

Ferdinand Roeder Dead

On last Thursday, Nov. 17th, Ferdinand Roedor [sic] was summoned to his eternal reward, in the great beyond.

Mr. Roeder was born in Austria, August 15, 1849, coming to this country in 1900 and locating near High Hill where he resided about two years ago when he moved to Freyburg where he resided until his death.

He is survived by three son [sic], Rudolph of this city and Joe and Reinhold of Freyburg, and three daughters, Misses Annie of San Antonio, Christine of this city, and Mrs. Henry Knape of near Schulenburg.

Funeral services were held at St. Rosa’s Catholic Church and interment in St. Rosa’s Cemetery, Rev. Lenzen officiating.

The Sticker tenders its sincere sympathy to the grief stricken relatives.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HEINRICH ROEDER

Schulenburg Sticker, 22 Feb 1906

Deaths Recorded Since Last Report.

Heinrich Roeher [Roeder] age 8 months died at Freyburg, Jan 31, 1906.

Heinrich Roeder is buried in the High Hill Catholic Cemetery. Contributed by Matt Cross

ANTON ROEHRICH

Colorado Citizen, 17 Aug 1882, page 3

WEIMAR LOCAL MATTERS

There was an inoffensive Bohemian named Anton Rohrich called out of his house last Friday night, a few miles north of Weimar, in Fayette county, and shot to death. These are about the facts elicited at the inquest: A negro in the neighborhood, by the name of Ben Wooldridge, had become enraged against Mr. R. for reporting him for carrying a six-shooter, and he was fined. And on the night of the killing, this negro, with one other, whose name could not be learned, went to the house, as above mentioned, called Mr. R., who would not go until he asked what he wanted, and he remarked, "one of the neighbor's has a child fallen in the well and want assistance to get him out." He and his wife both, in the excitement, ran out towards the negro at the fence, and as the wife stepped out, discovered Ben Wooldridge near the corner of the house with a shot gun. She hallowed [sic.] to her husband to run back, as the negro would shoot him. He turned to run back and was literally shot to pieces with two loads of buck shot. She recognized the negro that did the shooting as Ben Wooldridge, and so stated at the inquest. The negro was captured and turned over to the authorities by Mr. E. T. Adams. There was strong talk of lynching, but the Sheriff of Fayette county, with a strong guard, took charge of the prisoner, and his brother, also suspected, and is now, we presume, safe in LaGrange jail, and will have proper justice from the hands of the offended law.

 



RUBY ROENSCH

La Grange Journal, Thursday, June 27, 1957

Funeral services held for Ruby Roensch

Funeral services were held for Ruby Christiana Roensch, 20, of La Grange at the Zion Lutheran Church Friday June 21.  Burial was in the La Grange City Cemetery.  Rev. Theo. H. Graalmann officiated.

Miss Roensch was born on April 20, 1937 at Warda.  Her parents are Mr. and Mrs. Edwin Roensch.

Surviving besides her parents are three sisters, audrey Bernice, Dorothy Jean and Marlene of La Grange and two brothers, Edwin Doyle and Ovie of La Grange.
Contributed by Rob Brown

WADE ANTHONY ROENSCH

Schulenburg Sticker, March 6, 2012

Wade Anthony Roensch, age 30 years, 4 months, 2 days, died at his home in Ammannsville on Friday, Feb. 24.

The funeral was held on Monday, Feb. 27 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Ammannsville, followed by interment in the church cemetery. Officiating were Rev. John C. Bily, great-uncle, and Rev. Timothy Kosler. Pallbearers were Jeremy Burns, J.J. Burns, Josh Alberthal, Josh Blue, Phil Kallya, Chase Powell, Raymond Blaha, Mike McCullough and Joe McCullough.

Rosary was said on Feb. 27 at 1:30 p.m. at the church preceding Mass, with the Rev. Bily leading the rosary.
Mr. Roensch was born in Shiner on Oct. 22, 1981. His mother is Peggy (Lednicky) Roensch and his father is the late Curtis Roensch Jr. He attended St. Rose of Lima School and Schulenburg High School. He attended Blinn College in Schulenburg and Brenham for two years, and later Texas State University in San Marcos, majoring in accounting. He spent most of his life in Fayette County. He was a metal worker, and was a member of the Catholic Church and KJT.

Survivors include his mother; a sister, Victoria Roensch Norman of Ammannsville; two brothers, Curtis Roensch III and Stephen Roensch, both of Houston; and grandparents, Lucy Lednicky of Ammannsville and Curtis Roensch Sr. of Bayou La Batre, Ala. Besides his father, he was preceded in death by his grandfather, Jim Lednicky, and grandmother, Mary Roensch.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

ADOLPH ROEVE

Schulenburg Sticker, 4 Jan 1900, Freyburg Locals column

Little Adolph, son of Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Roeve, died at 4 o’clock Sunday morning. The remains were taken to Swiss Alp for burial, Rev. Kern conducting the funeral services. The family have our deepest sympathy. Tuesday a doctor was called to see another child of Mr. Roeve, but we hope it is not seriously ill.

Contributed by Matt Cross

BENJAMIN ROITSCH

The Schulenburg Sticker, Thursday, December 15, 1988

Benjamin Roitsch Rites Held Dec. 9

Benjamin Franklin Roitsch of Rt. 1, Schulenburg, succumbed Wednesday, Dec. 7 at approximately 5:00 a.m. at Colorado-Fayette Medical Center in Weimar after a lengthy illness.  He reached the age of 72 years, 2 months, 24 days.

Services were held on Friday, Dec. 9 at 2:00 p.m. at St. Paul Lutheran Church in La Grange, with interment in the La Grange City Cemetery.  Officiating were Rev. William C. Hassel, Rev. Deborah L. Conrad and Rev. Gary A. Koopmann.

Pallbearers included Oscar Dieringer, C. M. “Pat” Lamascus, Milton Kaase, Fred Buehring, Edgar Roitsch and Eldon Earl Knape Jr.  Members of American Legion Post 143 and Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 5623 served as honorary pallbearers.

Mr. Roitsch was born Sept. 13, 1916 in the Freyburg community to Edmund and Louise (Kaase) Roitsch.  He graduated from Schulenburg High School in 1936.  On Mar. 24, 1946, he married Lolita Koopmann in La Grange.  He grew up in the Freyburg area and resided in Schulenburg as an adult.  Mr. Roitsch worked as a laboratory technician and field man for Carnation Co. for almost 25 years.  In 1961 he joined South Texas Producers Association as a field man, and then served as area supervisor for Associated Milk Producers, Inc. until his retirement in 1979.  His active duty in the U.S. Army extended from June 15, 1942 to Nov. 30, 1945, and he served in the Philippines during World War II, with the rank of sergeant.  Mr. Roitsch was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church of La Grange, American Legion Post 143 and VFW Post 5623.

Survivors include his wife; two daughters and a son-in-law, Arline and Fred A. Rinehart Jr. from Gonzales and Dr. Carolyn Roitsch from Strasbourg, France; three sisters, Hedy Roitsch of Schulenburg, Esther Bennight of Bastrop and Ida Pool of Dallas; and two brothers, Erwin Roitsch and Kermit Roitsch, both of Schulenburg.  His foster family includes Foo and Tzu-chin Lam and foster-granddaughter Karen Lam from Las Cruces, New Mexico.

Mr. Roitsch was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Irene Roitsch; and two brothers, Elmo Roitsch and Hubert Roitsch.

Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Chapel was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Rob Brown

EDMUND ROITSCH

Weimar Mercury, 27 Jan 1961, page 4

Edmund Roitsch, 79, Buried At Schulenburg

Funeral services for Edmund Roitsch, 79, Schulenburg area farmer, were held this (Thursday) afternoon at Zion Lutheran Church, Schulenburg, with the Rev. H. E. Baumann officiating. Burial was in the Zion Cemetery at Swiss Alp.

Mr. Roitsch died Tuesday morning, January 24, after a 7-month illness.

Born Jan. 12, 1882, near Schulenburg, he married Miss Louise Kaase on Oct. 26, 1904. She died in 1950.

Surviving are five sons, Hubert, Erwin, Kermit and Benjamin Roitsch of Schulenburg and Elmo Roitsch of Fort Worth; four daughters, Misses Hedy and Irene Roitsch of Schulenburg, Mrs. Ernest Moehle of Bastrop and Mrs. Lee W. Pool of Dallas; two brothers, Hugo and Robert, of San Antonio; one sister, Mrs. Bertha Romberg of Seguin; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

HENRY ROITSCH

The La Grange Journal, March 12, 1936 pg. 7

Hy. Roitsch dies at family home Wednesday morn.

(The Journal makes brief reference on the first page of the illness of Hy. Roitsch. As the first run of the pages 1,4,5, and 8, was completed , news came to us that he had passed on. His death is a source of keen regret to the editor; by his death another link from friendship’s chain is taken. Henry Roitsch died Wednesday morning, aged 72 years, 6 months and 10 days. Funeral services will be held at the family home Friday morning at 9:00 o’clock. The body will be taken to the Philadelphia cemetery at Swiss Alp for burial.)

*****************

Henry Roitsch was born at Frelsburg, in Colorado County, September 1, 1863, and fives years later his parents removed to Fayette County, near Swiss Alp. He was baptized in the Lutheran faith by Rev. John Kilian, one of the first ministers of the Missouri Synod to locate in this part of Texas. In 1889, October 24, he was united in marriage with Miss Lydia Rudi at Swiss Alp, Rev. G Buchschacher, officiating, and located on a farm near Black Jack, which farm he lived on and continued to improve until 1927, when the family removed to La Grange.

There was born to this union 10 children; Hebert dying at the age of two and a half years, and Mrs. John (Annie) Kaase, a daughter, died several years ago. The survivors are his wife, and the following children: Mrs. Emil (Marie) Jochen, Swiss Alp; Mrs. Francis Hoelter, La Grange; Conrad Roitsch, McAllen; Mrs. Alfred (Reneta) Minzenmeyer, who occupy the old Roitsch home at Black Jack; Miss Emma Roitsch, teacher in our public school; Mrs. H. O. (Paula) Niemeyer of Crosby; Misses Erna and Clara Roitsch of La Grange. One brother Aug. Roitsch of La Grange and one sister, Mrs. Fritz (Lena) Niemeyer of Freyburg, and several grandchildren also survive.

Henry Roitsch was an example of rugged honesty, a man who inspired confidence. He was a very successful farm operator, and always willing and active in such public matters at found birth in the community in which he lived while a farmer, serving for many years as a trustee for the Washington public school at Swiss Alp. When the family removed to La Grange in 1929, and built a modern home where vacant lots graced the highway, he became associated with the Fayette County Fair Board Association as a director and chairman of the agricultural section, and director of the First National Back of La Grange. At the hours of his illness he was serving his second term as its president.

Transcribed by Stacy N. Sneed

FRANK ROLAK, JR.

Schulenburg Sticker, 30 Mar 1905

Deaths Recorded Since Last Report.
Frank Rolak, jr., of West Point, age fourteen years.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Mrs. R. O. ROLLINS

Schulenburg Sticker, 17 Dec 1903

Death Record.

Rollins: Died at La Grange, Nov 30-03 of Malaria, Mrs. R. O. Rollins, aged 71 years and 7 mos.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HELMUTH B. ROMBERG

Weimar Mercury, 12 Jun 1942, page 1

H. B. Romberg's Body Is Sent To Schulenburg

The body of Helmuth B. Romberg, 29-year-old Houston attorney, who died in a hospital at Houston at 3:30 a. m. Tuesday, was sent to Schulenburg for burial Tuesday afternoon.

Mr. Romberg had been ill about two weeks and died of complications that followed an appendectomy. He lived at 3602 Telephone road.

He is survived by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Ernest Romberg of Freybug; a brother, Marion Romberg of Beaumont.

Funeral services were held at the Hyde Park funeral home at 8 a. m. Tuesday, with Rev. DF. Baltzer officiating. Services and burial at Schulenburg were at 3 p. m.

JOHN ROMBERG

Schulenburg Sticker, 22 Sep 1910

JOHN ROMBERG DEAD.

Mr. John Romberg died very suddenly Tuesday morning of heart failure, and his remains were laid to rest in the City cemetery Wednesday afternoon at 4:30.

Mr. Romberg complained of pains over his heart a day or two before he died, but he was feeling so much better Monday last that he came to town and joined in the Hermann Sons’ celebration and assisted the Liederkranz in the rendition of several songs. Mr. Romberg was one of our old pioneers, which are one by one, rapidly passing away. A brief history of his life will be produced in our next issue. To the grief stricken wife and children, we extend our sincerest sympathy.

Schulenburg Sticker, 29 Sep 1910

JOHN ROMBERG.

Mr. John Romberg was born in Boitzenburg, Germany, April 14, 1836, and came to this country in 1847, first settling in Austin county between Cat Springs [sic] and New Ulm. Was married in 1878 to Miss Carolina Buebring. Three children blessed this union, one of whom died at the age of nine months. A daughter, Miss Hedwig now of Houston and a son, Walter, of San Antonio, and a wife, survive him.

The family moved to Schulenburg in 1903.

Mr. Romberg was an unassuming, jolly good hearted old gentleman, esteemed by all who knew him. He was an active and enthusiastic member of the Schulenburg Liederkranz and an honorary member of the local lodge of Herman Sons, under the auspices of which two societies he was buried. Rev. Piepenbrok, pastor of the Lutheran church officiating at the grave.

As we mentioned in our last issue the end came suddenly. The day before he participated in the celebration by the Herman Sons, and assisted the Liederkranz in rendering a few selections. When the news was spread abroad that he was dead it was quite a shock to his many friends.

Thus on Tuesday morning the 20th day of September, he passed to his reward. Wednesday afternoon him [sic] remains were laid to rest in our silent city. Peace to his ashes.

Contribuuted by Matt Cross

MINNIE KESSLER ROMMEL

Schulenburg Sticker, 8 July 1921, page 1

Mrs. Rommel At Rest

Our city and community was enveloped in an overwhelming pall of sorrow when the sad tidings went abroad that Mrs. J. M. Rommel has passed away to her eternal reward. In the early hours of Friday, July 1st. 1921 as the hours of darkness lingered before the first sun-beams of another day, God in his mercy relieved her of the trials and sufferings which she had endured with sublime patience and heroic fortitude for many months, and called her Angelic spirit unto Him to that Celestial abode where the riches of His grace preside for his own beloved children in the bliss and peace of a life Eternal.

A vast concourse of sorrowing friends from all walks of life gathered at the home of her Sister, Mrs. Gus Russek, where she passed away, to pay the last token of respect to one who in this life had been universally loved, and whose beautiful life and character had been a noble inspiration to those privileged to know her.

She was laid at rest in the afternoon of Saturday July 2nd., 1921 in the presence of a multitude of sorrowing relatives and friends whose anguish and sadness was a magnificent tribute to the love and respect which was hers.

Rev. J. T. Windham of Houston, who also officiated at the wedding of Mr. and Mrs. Rommel, pronounced the solemn Episcopal burial service.

Mrs. Minnie Rommel was born in Schulenburg on Nov. 7th., 1883 and her whole life was spent here. She is survived by her bereaved husband, her parents, Mr. and Mrs. E. B. Kessler, her brother, V. E. Kessler, her sister, Mrs. Gus Russek, and a large circles [sic] of other relatives.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Frank roodbauer

Schulenburg Sticker, 6 June 1907

Mr. Frank Roodbauer of Hackberry died Monday morning and his remains were laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery at this place Tuesday afternoon.

The deceased leaves a wife, two daughters and three sons to mourn his loss. The Sticker join in sympathy.

Contributed by Matt Cross

HATTIE ROOS

Weimar Mercury, 2 Jan 1897, page 5

Miss Hattie Roos, a pretty and lovable young lady of Schulenburg, died last Sunday morning in that city, aged 17 years, of pneuonia, after a brief illness. She had been attending school in San Antonio, and had just arrived at home to spend the holidays when she wa taken ill. Her death is deeply regretted.

OSCAR ROOS

Weimar Mercury, 26 Oct 1895 supplement

Yoakum Times:
The very unwelcome news of the death of Oscar Roos, father of Messrs. R. C. and Hampus Roos, reached the city last Saturday morning. Mr. Roos, it will be remembered, left Yoakum just two years ago, and located at Ardmore, Indian Territory, where he conducted a large business for several months, when he sold out and at the time of his death he was in Denver, Colorado. The remains of the deceased were embalmed and shipped to Schulenburg, where the funeral services occurred last Wednesday. To the bereaved relatives and friends the Times extend sincere sympathy.

C. DIENESOTT ROSCHER

Weimar Mercury, 2 Jan 1897, page 8

La Grange, Tex., Dec. 30. —A farmer named C. D. Roscher, who lives near Cedar, about five miles form here, accidentally killed himself yesterday. He intended to kill a cat with a 32-caliber rifle. The trigger of the weapon caught on something and caused it to fire, the ball passing through Roscher's head, killing him instntly. He leaves a family.

C. Dienesott Roscher, 9 Dec 1849 - 29 Dec 1896, is buried in the Cedar Cemetery.

SELMA ROSCHKE

Schulenburg Sticker, 2 June 1904

Death Record.

Roschke – Died near Warrenton, 4-29-04, of Pneumonia, Selma Roschke aged 1 yrs and 3 months.

Contributed by Matt Cross

DR. BENJAMIN FRANKLIN ROSE

Weimar Mercury, 7 Dec 1889, page 3

The many friends in this city of Dr. B. F. Rose of Schulenburg will be sorry to hear of his death, which occurred near that city Thursday of last week. The Messenger contains the following obituary:

It becomes our painful duty to announce the death of Dr. B. F. Rose, whose demise occurred on the morning of the 28th inst. Dr. Rose was one of the oldest and most respected citizens of this section, and leaves a long line of relatives and friends to mourn his loss. He led a most exemplary life and leaves a bright legacy to his numerous progeny, and an unspotted record for the guidance of those who follow him. His remains were interred at the family burying ground Friday morning in the presence of many sorrowing friends, and the ceremony was a very impressive one.

Photo contributed by Irise Rose Guertin

BERTHA ADELIA ROSE

Weimar Mercury, 1 Jun 1928, page 4

FORMER SCHULENBURG LADY BURIED TUESDAY MORNING

Mrs. Chas. H. Rose, who died at the home of her daughter, Miss Emma Rose, in Waxahachie the first of the week, was buried at Schulenburg, her former home, Tuesday morning. Chas. H. Rose was express agent at Schulenburg for many years, and he and his good wife were well and favorably known to many Weimar people. Several from here attended the funeral.

CHARLES H. ROSE

Schulenburg Sticker, 16 March 1917, page 1

Chas. H. Rose Dead

Chas. H. Rose died at the family home Tuesday morning, aged 69, following a stroke of paralysis which occurred Sunday evening.

Mr. Rose was born near Manasas, Va., and came to Schulenburg when 9 years of age. He was united in marriage to Miss Bertha Cooksey here in 1873, to whom seven children were born, five of whom are living, Charles at Portland, Oregon; Foard at San Antonio; Emma at San Antonio; Mable at Livingston; and Martin, who is attending A. & M. college.

Mr. Rose was weigher at the oil mill for nineteen years. Always agreeable and courteous, his happy disposition made him friends throughout this entire section. He was a member of the Odd Fellows, the Praetorians and the Knights of Honor.

The funeral services were held from the family home Wednesday afternoon by Rev. Stack of the Baptist church, under the auspices of the Odd Fellows lodge.

The many friends unite in extending sympathy to the family in the loss of a kind and loving husband and father. His kindly influence will be missed in Schulenburg.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ELIESE WILHELMINA ROSE

Schulenburg Sticker, 2 May 1913, page 1

DIED AT TAYLOR.

A brief message received by her son, Alderman L. J. Rose, announced the death of Mrs. Eliese Wilhelmina Rose at the home of another son, H. G. Rose, of Taylor, Sunday morning.

Mrs. Rose resided here until last year; believing that a change of climate would improve her health, she left for Taylor. The change helped her only temporarily.

The remains were brought to La Grange Sunday evening, and from the home of her son the funeral took place the next afternoon, a large number of sorrowing friends assisting the mourning relatives in administering the last rites.

Mrs. Rose was born at Voerden, Osnabrueck, Honover, Germany, February 7, 1847. At the age of five years she accompanied her parents to America, landing at Galveston April 14, 1852, after a voyage lasting fourteen weeks. She was united in marriage with Charles Rose, June 6, 1867 and to them were born six children, one son, Berthold Rose, dying December 2, 1882. The living children are L. J. and W. F. Rose, LaGrange; Mrs. Ella Harmes, Sweet Home; K. John Rose of Fayetteville, and H. G. Rose of Taylor. Her husband preceded her in death in the year 1897.

She also leaves a sister, Mrs. Lina Ruhmann, to mourn her departure. To those we offer our sincere sympathy. – LaGrange Journal.

Mrs. Rose was an aunt of our fellow townsmen, Messrs. G. E., M. E. and Albert Ruhmann.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MARY A. ROSE

Schulenburg Sticker, 1 March 1906

Mrs. Mary A. Rose Dead.

At 9 o’clock Tuesday night the soul of Mrs. Mary Rose, of near Schulenburg took its flight to the great beyond where all is peace and happiness, and her remains were tenderly consigned to their last resting place in the Old Baptist Cemetery a few miles south of the city, by loving hands.

Deceased was born in Washington Va., in the year of 1848, came to Texas in 1859, first residing in Columbus, afterwards removing to Fayette county in 1868, having lived here ever since.

Mrs. Rose had been married three times and three times left a widow. Seven children blessed these unions, Mr. W. H. McInteer, of Columbus, by the first; Mr. J. P. Thomas, of this county, by the second, and Miss Lucretia and Messrs. Langton and Louis, by the third. Two now being dead. She was the stepmother of our fellow townsman, Mr. Chas H. Rose.

The Sticker extends its sincerest condolence to the bereaved ones.

Schulenburg Sticker, 1 March 1906

Mr. McInteer of Columbus was in the city this week to attend the funeral of his mother, Mrs. Mary A. Rose, which occurred in the Old Baptist Cemetery four miles south of Schulenburg.

Contributed by Matt Cross

MINNIE CHARLOTTE SCHOTT ROSENBERG

La Grange Journal, January 27, 1982

ROSENBERG
Last rites for Minnie Rosenberg, 86, of Rt. 4, La Grange, were held Tuesday at 2:00 pm, at St. Paul Lutheran Church with Rev. Clarence Oestreich officiating. Burial was in the La Grange City Cemetery.

Mrs. Rosenberg passed away Sunday in Fayette Memorial Hospital.

Born Feb. 13, 1895 in Rutersville, she was the daughter of Emil and Lena Stoecker Schott. She married Max Rosenberg on May 21, 1919 in La Grange. Mr. Rosenberg preceded her in death in 1968. She was a charter member of Missionary Society of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church.

 Survivors include one daughter, Mrs. Will C. (Maxine) Moore of La Grange; two grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

Minnie Rosenberg died January 24, 1982.

Contributed by Kathy Carter

KATHERINE RANDL ROSENAUER

Colorado County Citizen, 26 Nov 1959, page 12

Mrs. Rosenauer Dies Suddenly, Last Rites Friday

Last rites for Mrs. Jim Rosenauer of Flatonia, 82-year-old mother of Mrs. H. P. Meyer of Columbus, were held at the Catholic church there last Friday morning with the Rev. Allen Black officiating and with burial in the Flatonia Catholic cemetery.

Mrs. Rosenauer, who lived alone next door to her children, was found dead in her home early on the morning of Nov. 18 by a daughter who stopped in to check on her mother each day. She had gotten up, dressed and lighted her electric heater. A doctor, who was called, said she had died only a very short while before.

Born in Czechoslovakia, Mrs. Rosenauer came to this country when she was 9. Her maiden name was Kathryn Randl. Her husband died 16 years ago.

Besides Mrs. Meyer, wife of Columbus' mayor, Mrs. Rosenauer is survived by 4 other daughters, Mrs. Bill Etlinger of Moulton, and Mrs. Jim Simcik, Mrs. Louis Kolar and Mrs. Willie Walker of Flatonia, and 2 sons, Frank and Joe Rosenauer of Flatonia, also a sister of Yoakum. Her oldest daughter, Mary, died 4 years ago.

EMMA DIPPEL ROSENBAUM

La Grange Journal, Thursday, November 10, 1938

Mrs. E. Rosenbaum

Mrs. Emma Rosenbaum, 64, wife of William Rosenbaum, died at the family residence, 913 West First St., at 4:15 Thursday afternoon, after being ill about four years.  Death resulted from a heart attack.

Born at Round Top, April 18, 1874, she was Miss Emma Dippel before her marriage to William Rosenbaum at Welcome, November 8, 1895.Besides her widower she is survived by five daughters and six sons: Mrs. Henrietta Harmsdorfer, Mrs. Herbert Alder, and Mrs. Edna Deutrich of Brenham; Mrs. Herbert Hinze, Bellville; Mrs. Henry Baker, Kenney; Erwin Rosenbaum, Kenney; Charlie Rosenbaum, Welcome; Willie, Bennie, Herbert, and Hillbert Rosenbaum, all of Brenham; three brothers: Emil Dippel, Sealy; Ernest Dippel, La Grange; and William Dippel of Munday, Texas; two sisters: Mrs. Lena Brown, Willow Springs and Mrs. Ella Stark, Oklahoma City, and 13 grandchildren.  A sister and two brothers preceded her to the grave several years ago.

Funeral services were held from the family residence at 2:00 o’clock  Sunday afternoon, with Rev. Arthur Hartmann officiating, and the Leon Simank Funeral Home in charge of arrangements.  Iterment was in the Willie Rosenbaum family lot at Prairie Lea cemetery.  Brenham Banner, November 4.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ANNA HASCHKE ROSENHAIN

The La Grange Journal, Thursday, March 3, 1960

Mrs. Hanna Rosenhain

Mrs. Anna Rosenhain, 84, died Wednesday, Feb 24, at her home in Winchester.

Funeral services were held Friday at 2 p.m. at the Winchester Methodist Church.  Burial was in the Winchester Cemetery.

Survivors include three daughters Mrs. Helen Hart, Mrs. Gussie Hart and Miss Anna Rosenhain, all of Winchester; a son Max F. of Port Arthur; two sisters, Miss Eda Haschke and Miss Augusta Haschke, both of Winchester; nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ISAAC ROSENTHAL

The La Grange Journal, Thursday, April 19, 1906

An Old Citizen

“And Papa Rosenthal is dead!”  Such was the sad and terse message that was conveyed from one citizen to the other on Monday morning.  It was received with regret, not that the friends of the family were not prepared to receive the sad tidings, but for the fact that the hope was general that the Supreme Ruler would grant the prayers of his friends and spare Papa Rosenthal to his family for a number of years.  But why should we question His ruling?

Just a short week prior to the demise of this good man, he was stricken with apoplexy, and all that mortal man or woman could do in order to stay the hand of death was willingly done, but the roll had been called and an answer became necessary.  Patient had been his sufferings up to the night before he passed away, but in the struggle for life the strong constitution of the deceased made his last hours one of great suffering.  He was conscious of the approach of death and his surroundings, and when the last effort was made he passed from the knowledge of all earthly things with a gasp.  With the exception of two sons, the entire family was constantly at his bedside.

Tuesday morning at ten o’clock the remains were conveyed to the Jewish cemetery east of La Grange and in the presence of a large and sympathetic attendance committed to Mother Earth.  Being a member of the Knights of Honor, the Masonic Lodge and the La Grange fire department, the members of these organizations attended in a body.  The pall bearers were Dr. R. A. McKinney, B. White, C. H. Steinmann, Louis Rice, G. A. Stierling and G. Friedberger.  Judge Moore, in a most feeling manner, spoke of the deceased, dwelt upon the virtues of Papa Rosenthal, of his goodness of heart, his irreproachable character, and the fact that the people of La Grange had honored him for years as alderman and that few if any ever addressed him otherwise than “Papa.”  The floral tributes were numerous and beautiful, that of the Masonic lodge and the fire department exceptionally so.  At the close of the ceremonies, Jonas Levy read a prayer in Hebrew.

Isaac Rosenthal was born in the province of Posen, Germany, on the 14th day of January, 1826, and came to America in the year 1848, landing in New York, where in August, 1853, he made his declaration for citizenship of the United States.  In 1855 Mr. Rosenthal located at Georgetown, at which place, in partnership with Simon Gans, he conducted a mercantile business for a few years.  He was married to Miss Estina Rosenfield at Houston in 1860, and one year later the family removed to La Grange where the deceased resided up to the hour of his demise.  To them were born eleven children, of whom seven sons and one daughter still survive, viz.:  Max, Morris, Joe, Nathan, Frank, August, Leon and Miss Melina, and who together with the widow are the chief mourners.  Mr. Rosenthal was elected alderman of this city in the year 1880, and his successive election to that office best demonstrates the highest esteem in which he was held.  At the time of his death he was serving in the capacity of alderman for the twenty-seventh year.  He became a member of the Masonic Lodge in 1854, and for twenty-six years was the tiler of La Fayette Lodge of La Grange.  He was also a member of the local lodge Knights of Honor.  When the La Grange fire department was organized in 1894, he was unanimously elected as treasurer, and the funds of that organization have been entrusted to his keeping since.

To his honor the business houses of La Grange closed during the hours of the obsequies, and the fire bell was tolled.  The entire citizenship mourns the loss of Papa Rosenthal.  A good man has gone to his reward.  Ever mindful of his neighbor’s interest, universally beloved by all, his death has caused expressions of condolence from many parts of the state to be offered to the mourners.  In this dark hour THE JOURNAL extends to the family its sincere sympathy.

Contributed by Rob Brown. Isaac Rosenthal is buried in an unmarked grave in the La Grange Jewish Cemetery.

Schulenburg Sticker, 26 Apr 1906, La Grange News column

[DELAYED.]

Monday morning the 16th inst. occurred the death of “Papa” Rosenthal, who has been in a critical condition for the past ten days. “Papa” Rosenthal passed away in the fullness of years surrounded by a large family of grown children and loved and honored by everybody.

Contributed by Matt Cross

JONAS ROSENTHAL

Galveston Daily News, 10 Jun 1876

FAYETTE COUNTY.

. . . At La Grange, a few days since, Little Jonas Rosenthal, only eight years of age, in company with his playmates, was bathing in the river; he got beyond his dephth and was drowned.

NATHAN ROSENTHAL

La Grange Journal, 27 May 1909

AT HIS FATHER'S SIDE

The mortal remains of Nathan Rosenthal, who died in San Antonio Wednesday, May 18, 1909 of last week, were brought to La Grange the same night, and at the residence of Mrs. D. Alexander, the funeral services were held next morning at 10:00 o'clock. A large cortege followed the remains to the Jewish Cemetery, east of the city, where the last sad rites were administered and Nathan was placed to sleep at the side of his father, who died several years ago.

At the house, Henry J. Dannenbaum, a bosom friend of the deceased, spoke of the life of his departed companion; that during their residence in Houston, they were ever in close intimacy, and that as a man of sterling qualities, he could always point to Nathan as a model. He dwelt upon the patient manner in which the deceased bore his affliction for the past two years and of his willingness to respond at any time the summons should come.

Nathan Rosenthal, had he lived until July 8, would have been thirty-eight years of age. He was born July 8th, 1872 and raised here, the fourth son of "Papa" I. Rosenthal, and as a boy and young man, his friends were legion. After a clerkship in the mercantile establishment of C.J. von Rosenberg, he left La Grange and went to Houston, where he for many years successful conducted a jewelry store. His fidelity to his aged parents, ever considerate of their wants, and ready to relieve any of their burdens, made him the beloved man that he is.

His health began to wane a few years ago, and although he essayed in every manner to recuperate, traveling in Mexico and other climes, his efforts were of no avail. Finally the return trip to San Antonio was made, where he remained until the gentle touch of the death angel relieved him from all knowledge of earthly things. At his bedside was his brother, August, who sought to do all in his power to carry out the instructions of the physician, and to him the sufferer stated that he was willing to make the long journey. Up to the hour, the moment of his demise, he was in full possession of his mental powers. There, at the east enclosure, where relatives and friends have been placed before, he will sleep until the last great day, when all will mingle in the joy and share the blessings of eternal life.

FRED ROSS

Fayette County Record, March 5, 2002

Fred Ross

Fayette County Justice of the Peace, Fred Ross, 87, of Fayetteville died Fri Mar 1 at Care Inn of La Grange.

A private family service will be held.

Born Sept 8 1914 in St John, New Brunswick, Canada, he was the son of Fred and Grace Dennis Ross. He married Theresa Coufal Dec 9 1934 in Hereford.

He was a retired Justice of the Peace and member of the Christian Church in Brenham. He served in the U.S. Army during WWII. He was a member of the Shelby VFW, Fayetteville Lions Club, National Epilepsy Foundation board member, Chicago M. S. Chapter president, was first president of the Old Jail Renovation Committee in Fayette County; past president of AARP; past Deputy District Lions Club governor; chairman of Veterans Memorial at the Fayette County Courthouse, La Grange; member of Boys Scouts Executive Circle 10 Council of Dallas, and was one of three persons who organized the local Crimestoppers.

Survivors include his wife, Theresa Coufal Ross of Fayetteville; son, Fred Ross and wife Pettey of El Paso; one daughter, Justice of the Peace Terry Ross of Fayetteville; three grandchildren, Fred Halfpap of Tampa FL, Kristen Huddleston of Ann Arbor MI and Avelyn Ross Brouthton of Austin and three great-grandchildren.

Sergeant Memorial Funeral Home of La Grange was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Brenda Simek

LAURA ROST

Schulenburg Sticker, 3 Sep 1908

DEATHS REPORTED.

Died at Ledbetter, Aug. 10, Laura Rost, age 10 years and 11 months of congestion of bowels.

Contributed by Matt Cross

FRITZ ROTTER

The La Grange Journal, March 26, 1936 pg. 1

Fritz Rotter Dies

An invalid, paralytic since his birth, Fritz Rotter, aged 51 years, died at Halsted, Saturday, March 21. He was born in Fayette County and was a son of Hy. Rotter.

Transcribed by Stacy N. Sneed

AMANDA ROUTH

Schulenburg Sticker, 15 April 1909

Flatonia Argus:…Mrs. A. M. Routh, aunt of A. W. Routh of this city, died at Ballinger Sunday and was buried at Black Jacks Cemetery by the side of her husband, Dr. Kenzie Routh, Tuesday afternoon. Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Nash, Dr. Ed. Walker and Miss Stella Routh all of Ballinger, Mr. and Mrs. Kenzie Walker of San Antonio, Mrs. W. W. Walker of Dallas and Mrs. F. M. Tuttle of Rosebud returned home Tuesday, via Flatonia after attending the funeral.

Schulenburg Sticker, 15 April 1909

Weimar Mercury:… J. R. Gusman and E. R. Willenberg attended the funeral of “Grandma” Routh, near Flatonia, Tuesday. Mrs. Routh died at Ballinger several days previously, and the remains were brought to Flatonia for interment. This good lady visited in our city and section a few months ago, but was taken sick soon after her return home. Her death is deeply and sincerely deplored, for she was a most excellent lady in every respect.

Contributed by Matt Cross

Mr. ROUTH

The Fayette County Record, Vol. 1, No. 38, Ed. 1, Tuesday, January 6, 1874

We are informed that a Mr. Routh, Brother to Dr. Kenzie Routh, died very suddenly on New Year's day at the residence of Joseph H. Routh, seven miles above LaGrange.

SAMUEL ROYAL

La Grange Journal, 3 Jun 1926

Crazed Negro Shot to Death

On Friday afternoon of the past week, 28 May 1926 at Ellinger, Sam Royal, colored, was shot to death. Royal, pistol in hand, had sought to threaten the family of J. F. Martinek, going through the entire house, and finding no one in the home, he went to the home of Ed. Martinek and there threatened Mrs. Ed. Martinek with the gun.

Four of our townsmen, informed of the rampage of the negro, went to the Martinek home and met the negro who immediately turned the gun on the men, compelling them to hide in a garage. With one door open and the other closed, they were taking little chance on being protected; the negro came along and told them to get out of there, that he will get them, and fired a couple of shots into the door and the men exchanged a few shots with him. After being shot four times, he still stood there a moment, then he walked about twelve steps and fell to the ground, dead.

Sheriff Loessin and Deputy Vogt of La Grange, and Deputy Sladek and Justice of the Peace Spacek of Fayetteville, came over and made an examination. It was found that the negro was shot twice; an inquest was held. Later, it was found that the negro was shot four times, one bullet penetrating the heart.

The negro, Sam Royal, was the local colored preacher. He was believed to be of unsound mind for some time, and while so considered, was not regarded as being dangerous.

Samuel Royal was buried in the Spring Hill Baptist Cemetery. Transcribed by Norman C. Krischke

JOHANNA RUDI

Schulenburg Sticker, 3 Feb 1910

DEATH OF MRS. C. C. RUDI.

We hear the sad news of the death of Mrs. Rudi, who died Jan. 27, near Swiss Alp. Mrs. Rudi was born the 16 of Jan. 1847 in Germany; came to this country in her youth. She was married to Rev. C. C. Rudi in the year 1870. She was well known in our county, especially in German circles. Seven children, 6 sons and one daughter, were born to her, one dying in infancy. All her other children are grown and married.

She was buried last Friday, Rev. H. Liepke of Swiss Alp officiating. Her children with her numerous friends followed her remains to the grave. Those who knew her best have lost a dear friend, the Old Rev. Rudi a faithful wife, her children a devoted mother.                  Contributed.

The Sticker extends to the bereaved relatives its sincere sympathy.

Schulenburg Sticker, 3 Feb 1910

LAGRANGE NEWS.

The last will and testament of Mrs. Johanna Rudi was filed for probate on Jan. 31st, Mrs. Rudi having died the previous week at her home near Swiss Alps [sic], where she and her husband Rev. C. C. Rudi lived for many years. Besides her husband, Mrs. Rudi is survived by six children all grown.

Contributed by Matt Cross

LYDIA KAASE RUDI

La Grange Journal, Thursday, April 30, 1936

In Memoriam

Last week the Journal briefly mentioned the passing of Mrs. Lydia Rudi, wife of Chris. A. Rudi of La Grange.  The following biographical sketch was read by her pastor, Rev. A. E. Moebus, at the funeral ceremony held Thursday afternoon at the Zion Lutheran cemetery, near Swiss Alp:

It has pleased the Almighty God to call from the vale of tears to Himself in heaven, Mrs. Meta Johanna Lydia Rudi, nee Kaase.  She was born at Freyburg, on January 25, 1873, and was baptized by Rev. J. Kasper on May 18, 1873.  Her parents were Friedrich and Henrietta Kaase, nee Laas.  She had six brothers and eight sisters, of which, however, her brothers Albert and Gustav, as well as her sisters, Mrs. Otto Urban and Mrs. August Lehmann, preceded her into eternity.

At the age of 13 years she was confirmed by Rev. M. Leimer at the Zion Ev. Lutheran church and has been a faithful member there ever since.

On December 18, 1900 she married Chris C. A. Rudi, with Rev. Buenger performing the nuptial rite; thus, for early 36 years they lived in matrimonial bliss.  After their marriage they made their home at Swiss Alp and remained there until 4 years and 4 months ago, removing then to La Grange.

The mourners are:  the grief stricken husband, brothers Fred Kaase of Moulton, Otto, Paul and Adolph of Swiss Alp; sisters, Mrs. Anna Deterling, wife of Franz Deterling, La Grange; Mrs. Pauline Schumacher, widow of the late Rev. Schumacher, Louisville, Ky.; Mrs. Minna Placke, widow of the late George Placke of Giddings; Mrs. Bertha Rudi, wife of Wm. Rudi of San Antonio; Mrs. Louise Roitsch, wife of Ed. Roitsch, Swiss Alp; Mrs. Selma Roitsch, wife of Will Roitsch, La Grange; seven sisters-in-law, eight brothers-in-law, nephews, nieces, other relatives, and a host of friends.

Her allotted span of life was 63 years, 2 months and 25 days.  May she rest in peace!
Contributed by Rob Brown

KATHERINA RUDOLPH

Schulenburg Sticker, 5 Oct 1917

DEATH REPORTS

Katherina Rudolph, died July 23, near Flatonio [sic] age 76 years, 6 months and 27 days.

Contributed by Matt Cross

ToMMIE RUDOLPH

Schulenburg Sticker, 13 July 1917

DEATH REPORTS

Tommie Rudolph, died May 8, aged about 6 years, Flatonia.

Contributed by Matt Cross

WILHELM RUETHER

La Grange Journal, February 1, 1940

Wilhelm Ruether

Wilhelm Ruether, aged 68 years, 2 months and 9 days, died at his home near Columbus, Friday, January 26, following an illness of one day.  Funeral services were held Saturday at the family home and interment was made in the Hostyn Catholic (near Ellinger) cemetery, Rev. Raska officiating.  Koenig Funeral Home and Frank Mercantile in charge of the funeral.

One brother, Chas. Ruether and one sister, Mrs. Annie Miller, survive.  Pall bearers were Hy. Elsik, Frank Elsik, T. D. Meyer, Leo W. Meyer, Ben Meyer and Alfred Aschenbeck.

Contributed by Rob Brown

J. P. RUHMANN

Weimar Mercury, 14 Mar 1889, page 2

The Schulenburg Messenger chronicles the death of Mr. J. P. Rhumann [sic.] of that city, which sad event occurred on Wednesday last at 1 o'clock p.m.

CLARA RUMMEL

La Grange Journal, 26 Aug 1926, page 3

MISS CLARA RUMMEL.

Expressions of sincerest sympathy were unanimous for those who are in the family circle, when the news came from Austin last Saturday that Miss Clara Rummel had yielded, and her spirit had taken flight across the vast expanse to dwell with those who had gone before. Friendly interest, locally and out of Round Top, Carmine, Ledbetter and other parts of the county where she had been known, was manifested, and in the expression of such sympathy to her mourning sisters, brother and other relatives, tears mingled freely with those of the family relatives.

Miss Rummel—in the sense that is permissible, and conveying the tribute of respect to one whose character was so ennobling, and whose unselfish work for others was so inspiring—was a lovable woman. Childhood acquaintances refer to her as one would refer to the goodness of purity; she loved her church work, she found happiness in living and doing for those near and dear to her and those with whom she came in contact, and her ever deed reflected her character. Attesting the esteem and love encouraged for her, was the immense gathering at the Round Top Lutheran church Monday afternoon, where Rev A. H. Falkenberg, pastor of the church spoke with marked feeling and eulogized the departed.

Miss Rummel frequently visited here with the family of C. G. Franz, Mrs. Franz being a sister. During . . . this year she became a patient at the LaGrange Hospital, her health having become impaired to the extent that the best of medical and nursing care be given. Recovering sufficiently and resting at the home of Mrs. Franz after leaving the Hospital, she later left for Austin and there became critically ill and finally succumbed, Mrs. Franz leaving Thursday to be with her and Mr. Franz joining her later.

We pay a tribute to those whom we love and whose memory we shall cherish so long as the life that has been granted to us is in force. We give to the living the kindness of thought and words of cheer because they are appreciated; yet, when the curtain of life is drawn, and the impenetrable darkness surrounds those who are passing out, we feel the humbleness of our claim, and leave to Him, whose judgement is superior, the task of assignment. We know, as we refer to this good woman, that the spirit dwells in the house of many mansions, and with her, happy to welcome her, are those who have preceded her on the great journey.

Rev. A. H. Falkenberg, officiating last Monday afternoon, found it a cumbersome task to control the feeling of regret that heaved his bosom, yet he pointed out, for the benefit of others, the unselfish life Miss Rummel has lived, and likened her unto the prophet who, firm in his belief, said: "It is enough, take this life." Biographically, the pastor said:

"Clara Johanna Rummel was born at Round Top, baptised and confirmed by Rev. Neuthard in this (Round Top) church. In the beginning of her teaching career she taught in Fayette County in this Community and Bell Settlement, where she exerted a profound influence on the lives of many young people She lived to see the fruits of her labor in the success attained by her boys . . . she taught in Woodsboro and in Round Top.

"After the death of her father and mother she went to Austin and made her home with her sister, Mrs. B. Dornberger, and attended the University of Texas, from which institution she graduated in 1920. All during her educational career she continued her faithful work in the Lutheran church. She served for a number of years as editor of the Luther Link.

"After her graduation from the University she became connected with the State Department of Education. This position she fulfilled until five days previous to her death, although she had to struggle for many months against failing health. Only her wonderful will power enabled her to continue her work. On Thursday, August 19, after a night of intense suffering she was removed to an Austin hospital. In spite of the utmost in attention and medical aid, she succumbed to her malady and on Saturday morning at two a.m. she passed on the her final . . . .

"She was an active worker in all phases of church activities in St. Martin's Church. Her closest survivors are two sisters, Mrs. B. Dornberger of Austin and Mrs. C. G. Franz, and a brother, H. C. Rummel, who for two years has been forced to sojourn in California on account of ill health and was physically unable to come to the funeral. One brother, W. H. Rummel, and her parents preceded her in death.

"Loving hand will today carry out her request that she be laid to rest beside her father and mother in the little cemetery by the village church, where for many years, her ancestors, even unto her great-grandfather worshipped.

"She was a talented musician and will live in the hearts of her friends through the poems that expressed so well her phylosophy [sic.] of life, as well as of the heavy cross she bore through the year of suffering.

Our sympathy for those who mourn the departure of Miss Rummel is sincere, yet we would admonish them to not grieve, there is no death; the Good Master has said: "Come unto me, all ye who labour and are heavy laden." It should be remembered that Miss Rummel had been a patient sufferer for the past year, that she never lost her faith, that to her there was a rest coming that we mortals cannot fully understand, that to her was a grant tendered that gave peace and comfort to her soul. We may not understand it all now, but at some future day, the light will dawn and the happiness so far in excess of that we cherish here on earth, will be better understood. In addition to the many beautiful flowers that were placed upon her earthen couch in the church yard at Round Top, which flowers told in silent methods of a love borne for her, is the thought that her sisters, her brother, her other relatives, mourn not alone.

The best we have will be taken, it is so written.

The following were the active pall bearers: Max Ginzel, Arthur Fricke, H. A. Dippel, Robt. Richter, Alton Marburger, Ben Wiederaenders.

- - -

Giving as an example the wonderful disposition of the woman, suffering from the malady that finally severed the threads of life, we reproduce her the poem Miss Rummel penned a short time before she mad her last brave fight, and which was sent to Mrs. Judith Harwell, a patient at the LaGrange Hospital:

My dear Mrs. Harwell:

These lines are dedicated to you in fond appreciation of your steadfast spirit and the inspiration you have proved to your fellow men through life, and to your fellow-sufferers in the LaGrange Hospital.

I think of you often and wish that I could see you. I trust, when I come to LaGrange again, it will be possible for me to make the steps to your room.

One of the the many that loves you.

Clara J. Rummel.

A Tribute.

You cast your bread upon the waters
On tides of time, year after year,
Each . . . returning, . . . to you
Bears message of some deed of cheer.

For all your words in kindness spoken,
The many tears that you have dried,
. . . their fruits of blessings . . . for you,
Have gained for you friends, staunch and tried.

I look to you in admiration,
I pray that I may be like you,
To learn to bear my Cross in silence,
To be, like you, a Christian true.

- - -

Miss Rummel was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Rummel, old settlers of the Round top section, who preceded her in death several years. Gifted, both as a musician and a teacher, she was successful in her work. Yielding to the call of securing better and high education, she continued her studies after teaching.

Many parts of this obituary are illegible.

OTTILIE BAUER RUMMEL

The La Grange Journal, Thursday January 3, 1935

Death Came Quick Claims Mrs. Rummel Friday, Dec. 28

Death, whit the swift stroke claimed Mrs. Ottilie Rummel, wife of L. C. Rummel of Ledbetter, Friday morning of last week.  In excellent health, having enjoyed the happy Yuletide with her family and neighbors, visiting with friends and spreading good cheer, the Grim Reaper suddenly stepped forward and spread the evil of sorrow, where Christmas cheer and good will had reigned with vigor.

Mrs. Rummel left her kitchen Friday morning to visit the poultry yard, and spread the feed for the fowls; without warning the reaper struck, without an outcry, the victim passed away. Local relatives – Mr. and Mrs. C.G. Franz (nee Miss Lillie Rummel, a niece) – were preparting to welcome their aunt and uncle upon the occasion of Christmas week visit, when the message came: “Mamma died suddenly!”. Almost unbelievable, yet death is ever certain.

Sunday afternoon at 3:00 o’clock, Rev. Brunotte, pastor of the Lutheran church at Carmine, officiated at the family home at Ledbetter, and at the Ledbetter cemetery committed all that was mortal of a beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, to earth while many relatives and numerous friends, gathered to witness the ceremonies, and with moistened eyes acquiesced to the will of Him who doeth all thing for the best.

Fifty-five years ago, July 7, L. C. Rummell and Miss Ottilie Bauer were united in marriage near Round Top; the then young couple located at Ledbetter where they reared an interesting family, Mrs. Rummel’s death being the first break. All the children, with the exception of a son, residing in Oregon were present at the funeral, Sunday.

The aged husband, L.C. Rummel, a prominent citizen of the village of Ledbetter and the following nine children survive: Luis Rummel of Ledbetter, Mrs. Leonie Weyand of Beaumont, Rhinehard Rummel of Marble Falls, Hubert of Dallas, Arthur of Quanah, Edgar of Ledbetter, Jerry of Houston, Alfred of Oregon, and Miss Helen Rummel of the University of Austin. There are several grandchildren.

Mrs. Rummel was a devout member of the Lutheran church, she maintained her faith and encouraged a most loveable disposition, kind to all, generous and very sympathetic. She had the happy faculty of spreading good cheer wherever she visited and had maintained a healthy and vigorous constitution active and ready for all calls for neighborly courtesy. She was 75 years 7 months and 19 days old when death so quickly took her from our midst.

May he who stilled the storm look with compassion upon those she has left to mourn her passing, and help them to understand that Grandmother Rummel has gone to prepare a place for their coming. Where mother has gone, her companion of 55 years and her children will also go.

-A FRIEND.

Transcribed by Stacy N. Sneed

ANNA ELISE RUSCHER

La Grange Journal, Thursday, November 23, 1944

Mrs. Anna Ruscher

Mrs. Anna Elise Ruscher died at Houston, in a hospital, Sunday, Nov. 19, aged 72 years, 8 months and 17 days.  The body was brought to Prairie Valley where interment was made in the churchyard cemetery Tuesday afternoon, Koenig Funeral Home in charge.  Services were held in the Prairie Valley church by Rev. R. Heise.

Deceased was bereft of her husband several years ago; she is survived by her six sons, Fred of West Point, Hermann of Muldoon, August of Schulenburg, Henry, Charley and Louis Ruscher of Houston; one daughter, Mrs. Albert (Casnia) Bell of Houston and two sisters, Mrs. John (Meta) Schroeder and Mrs. Hy (Anna) Stahmer of La Grange and eight grandchildren, one grandson serving overseas.

Deceased immigrated from Germany July 27, 1913, locating near West Point where she remained until one year ago, removing to Houston.  She was a consistent member of the Lutheran church.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ERNEST RUSSEK

Weimar Mercury, 7 Apr 1950, page 1

Ernest Russek, 69, Schulenburg Native, Succumbs At Austin

Funeral services for Ernest Russek, 69, formerly of Schulenburg but for the past nine years auditor in the state comptroller's office at Austin, were held at 3 o'clock Monday afternoon in Schulenburg.

Mr. Russek, who was well known here, suffered a heart attack last Saturday afternoon and after rallying briefly died Sunday at Breckenridge Hospital.

Born in Schulenburg, he was a banker and cattle raiser there for many years. He also held oil interests and was a member of the Schulenburg City Council for many years.

Surviving him are his wife; a son, I. W. Russek of Huntsville; and two sisters, Mrs. I. Schwartz of Schulenburg and mrs. J. M. Garrett of Edna.

FRANK RUSSEK

Schulenburg Sticker, 23 March 1923, page 1

Frank Russek Dies

Frank Russek passed into the valley of the shadow at three o’clock Sunday morning at his home in Skidmore.

He had attained the age of 61 years. Death was due to stomach trouble, with which the deceased had been afflicted for some six or more months.

The remains were laid to rest at 5 o’clock Sunday afternoon in the Skidmore Cemetery.

Mr. Russek was a brother of the late Ignaz Russek of this city. Their parents with their children migrated to this country from Europe in the sixties, settling in Fayette county.

Frank moved to Bee county in 1890 where he has resided since. He was married to Miss Hulda Richter of Weimar some 30 years ago.

Deceased was engaged in the real estate and merchandise business.

Surviving him is his wife, three sisters, Mrs. August Gallia of Falfurious [sic], Mrs. I. J. Gallia of Houston, and Mrs. Frank Blumrich of Hallettsville. A number of neices [sic] and nephews among them are, Ernst, Gus and Henry Russek, Mrs. Fred Bittner, Mrs. Isy Schwartz of this city and Mrs. Monroe Garrett of Houston.

Among those attending the funeral from here were, Henry Russek, Volentine Vlcek, E. L. McKinnon. From Weimar were Otto Rose and Charles Herder.

Contributed by Matt Cross

IGNAZ RUSSEK

Schulenburg Sticker, 9 Jan 1908

MR. I. RUSSEK DEAD.

The news of the sudden death of Mr. I. Russek, one of our most prominent and substantial citizens, which occured [sic] at his home Monday evening shortly after nine o’clock, cast a gloom over the entire city. Monday he was at his post of duty and apparently seemed well and in good spirits, conducting his business affairs at the store and bank as usual, and the news of his death could hardly be believed by those who had had business dealings with him Monday. His death was easy and free of pain. His remains were tenderly laid to rest in the City Cemetery Wednesday morning at 10:30 o’clock. The sympathy of the entire community goes out to the grief stricken wife and children. A more extensive write up will appear in our next issue.

Schulenburg Sticker, 16 Jan 1908

MR. IGNAZ RUSSEK.

Died at his home in our city of heart failure at 10 o’clock p. m. Jan. 6, 1908 aged 53 years.

Mr. Russek was born in Hustepech, Austria; came to Schulenburg in 1869 and engaged in the mercantile business in 1874, and afterwards in the banking business in 1882, in which he was actively engaged until the day of his death. He was married to Miss Rosa Pivoda in 1878 and six children, Messrs. Gus, Ernst and Henry, and Mrs. Fred Bittner, Misses Lydia and Emma, blessed this happy union.

Mr. Russek was one of the first settler [sic] in this community, and watched the city grow from its infancy to its presence [sic] prominence.

He was a man of excellent habits and fine moral character. Was a most conservative business man and by strictly adhering to honest business methods he massed considerable wealth.

In his death, his wife and children are bereft of a loving husband and dutiful father, and Schulenburg loses a valuable citizen.

But he is gone! Another name is stricken from our ever lessening roll of our old settlers, and a grief stricken family are left to attest how sadly they will miss him. It must be so; these tender human ties can not be severed without a pang.

Besides his wife and children, Mr. Russek leaves one brother, Frank of Skidmore and three sisters, Mesdames I. J. Gallia, Engle, Aug. Gallia, Refugio and Anna Blumerich, Halletsville to mourn his loss to whom the Sticker extends its sincerest sympathy.

Those who attended the funeral from a distance were: Mr. I. J. Gallia and family. Mrs. Alfonz Herzik, Mr. Frank Herzik, of Engle; Mr. and Mrs. Frank Russek, Skidmore; Mrs. Anna Blumerich, and son, Alex, Halletsville; Mr. and Mrs. Joe Schimek, Mr. Chas. Bittner, Mrs. A. Richter, Mr. Chas. Herder, Weimar; Messrs. C. P. Johnson and E. A. Arnim, Mrs. L. Geyer, Flatonia; Mr. Henry Sengelmann, Houston; and Mr. Joe Schindler of Gonzales.

Contributed by Matt Cross

BETTYE MICA RUTLEDGE

The Fayette County Record, Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Bettye Mica Rutledge, 67, and lifelong resident of Flatonia, died peacefully surrounded by her family on Feb. 23, 2014.

She is survived by her mother, Ella Mica; brothers, John Mica and wife Marcie and Harvey Mica and wife Vickie; sister, Patricia Prihoda and husband Carl; son, Brent Etlinger and wife Janet; and Bettye’s two favorite people in the world, grandson Henry Walker Etlinger and granddaughter Ella Elizabeth Etlinger.

Many loved ones were waiting for her in heaven that day, particularly her father, John Mica; little sister, Judy Mica and husband, Carl Rutledge.

Bettye loved the town of Flatonia and poured her heart and soul into making her family’s lives special each and every day.

Bettye requested a private burial, followed by a celebration of her life. Friends and family invite you to join them in this celebration on March 8 at 2 p.m. at Las Brisas Farm, 1108 Ross Prairie Church Rd., Fayetteville, Texas (979) 378-1108.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, please make memorial donations in Bettye’s name to The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at www.lls.org

Submitted by Rosemary Ermis

GLENN RUTLEDGE

Weimar Mercury, 28 Nov 1952, page 1

INFECTION FATAL TO RUTLEDGE INFANT; RITES AT FREYBURG

Glenn, the 9-month-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Alson Rutledge, died at Youens Hospital here at 1:10 Monday morning, a few hours after being admitted, of an "acute, overwhelming intestinal infection," according to the Schulenburg physician [attending].

The baby was the only child of Mr. and Mrs. Rutledge, who formerlly lived south of Weimar but some time ago moved nearer Schulenburg.

Funeral services were held Tuesday afternoon, with burial in the Freybury [sic.] Lutheran Cemetery.

JIMMY RYBA

Schulenburg Sticker, June 26, 2012

Jimmy “Jimbo” Ryba of Weimar died on Thursday, June 21 at Schulenburg Regency Nursing Center at age 62 years, 6 months, 7 days.

The funeral was held on Monday, June 25 at 10 a.m. at Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home. The Rev. Tim Kosler officiated, and burial took place in the St. Rose of Lima Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers were Chester Krueger, Eric Steinbach, Ronnie Little, Ricky Machicek, Jerry Shupak and Paul Kaluza.

Rosary was said on Sunday, June 24 at 7 p.m. at Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home, led by Rev. Kosler.

Born on Dec. 14, 1949 in Weimar, he was the son of Edwin Sr. and Angelina Peterek Ryba. He attended Bishop Forest High School. On Aug. 28, 1993, he married Shirley Adamek in Schulenburg. He was a lifelong resident of the Weimar and Schulenburg areas and worked as a truck driver and machine operator. He was a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church.

Survivors include his mother, Angelina Ryba of Schulenburg; his wife, Shirley Ryba of Weimar; three daughters, Theresa Ryba and fiance Charlie Stiles of Katy, Stacie Ryba and fiance Chris Barley of Brookshire, and Lori Rojas and husband Julian of Texarkana; a step-daughter, Kari Kalina and husband Pat of La Grange; two sons, James Ryba and wife Stacy, and Randy Ryba and wife Charlet, all of Schulenburg; a step-son, Wayne Shupak and wife Karen of Weimar; a brother, Edwin Ryba Jr. of Schulenburg; and 22 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

His father preceded him in death.

Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Rosemary Ermis

JOE FRED RYBA

Weimar Mercury, 23 Nov 1961, page 8

Joe Fred Ryba, Retired Farmer, Buried Saturday

Funeral services for Joe Fred Ryba, 74, a veteran of both the German and American armed forces, were held Saturday at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church, Dubina, with burial in the church cemetery.

The Rev. Louis Fritz officiated.

Mr. Ryba died Nov. 15 in the Veterans Administration Hospital at Houston, where he had been a patient about two months. He had been ill for a year.

Born Dec. 4, 1886, in Austira, he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Jim Ryba. He served awhile in the German army before coming to this country in 1905, settling at Cameron. He married Miss Mally Dedek in 1919, and she died in 1944. During the past three years he had made his home with his son and daughter-in-law, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Ryba, here. He was a member of the Catholic faith and the American Legion and a veteran of U. S. Army service in World War I.

Surviving him are five sons, Edwin of Schulenburg, Emil of Weimar, Alfons of New London, Conn.; George of Sulphur Springs and Cyril of Oceanside, Calif.; and a number of grandchildren.

Pallbearers for his funeral were Jerome Mican, Leo Mican, Albert Schilhab, Ray Krenek, Jim Jurica and Jerome Kahanek.

EMIL A. RYZA

Houston Chronicle, 10 May 1978, section 6, page 12

EMIL A. RYZA, 82, of La Grange, Texas, died Tuesday, May 9, 1978.

Survivors: Wife, Mrs. Mary Ryza; daughters, Adele Wrightson, Miss Marian Ryza; son, Arnold Ryza, all of Houston; sister, Mrs. Francis Jecmenk and Mrs. Albina Janca, both of La Grange, Texas; brother, William Ryza of La Grange, four grandchildren and a number of nieces and nephews. Remains taken overland to La Grange, Texas for services and burial under the direction of Koenig Funeral Home.

Contributed by Matt Cross

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