A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to assist the family of Israel Perez, 62, longtime postmaster in Smiley, who died on July 25 after sustaining third-degree burns in a house fire authorities say was intentionally set.
The fire occurred on July 14 at a residence in Nixon. Perez, the only occupant inside at the time, was airlifted to San Antonio Military Medical Center, where he remained in critical condition until his passing. According to Nixon Police Lt. Travis Beck, the fire investigation—conducted jointly by local police, the State Fire Marshal’s Office, and Texas DPS Rangers—determined that the blaze was deliberately set.
Delia Ann Trigo, 64, Perez’s wife, was arrested later that day and charged with aggravated assault causing serious bodily injury to a family member and arson. She remains jailed at the Gonzales County Jail with bond set at $500,000.
🔗 Verified Fundraiser
Perez’s sister-in-law, Sulema Allen, has organized a GoFundMe campaign titled:
➡️ Support Israel Perez’s Funeral Expenses
Allen states: “My brother-in-law passed away on 7/25/25 in San Antonio. He got burned in a house fire. Raising money for his funeral expenses.”
The fundraiser aims to help the family bury Perez and honor his memory.
Cameron Blake Ybarra, 20, of Leesville, Texas, passed away on July 28, 2025. Cameron was born on October 21, 2004.
Cameron was a 2023 graduate of Nixon-Smiley High School. He started his college career at Texas A&M University in Corpus Christi, and due to a change in his major transferred to Blinn College where he began his pursuit of veterinary medicine. Cameron planned on returning back to Texas A&M University to complete his desired degree.
Cameron had a love for animals, big or small. This love is what prompted him to rescue his cat Pretzel.
During his summer breaks Cameron worked at Poco Seco Ranch which allowed him to gain experience with large animals such as cattle, donkeys and exotic animals.
He is survived by his parents: Daniel and Kassandra Perez; siblings: Rylan Perez and Daniel Perez Jr; grandparents: Wayne and Brenda O’Neal and Manuel Perez Jr.; Aunts and Uncles: Angelique Taylor (Wilbur), Patrick O’Neal (Alondra), Michael O’Neal, McKenzie O’Neal, Robert Perez(Tina), Joe Perez, Michael Perez, Manuel Perez III, along with extended family and friends.
Cameron is preceded in death by grandmother Lillie Perez, and great-grandparents Edward and Josie Pena.
Visitation -Saturday, August 2, 2025 @ 10:00am
Funeral Service @ 11:00am Finch Funeral Chapel-Nixon, Texas.
Yorktown, Texas — After decades of abandonment and whispered legends, Yorktown Memorial Hospital has officially entered a new era. On July 8, 2025, longtime paranormal tour guides Stephen Garza-Guzman and Fred Garza-Guzman, founders of Curious Twins Tours & Events, became the proud owners of the historic—and notoriously haunted—hospital.
Originally opened in 1951 to serve the Polish communities of Yorktown and Nordheim, the hospital operated under the care of the Felician Sisters. Though it never reached full capacity, nearly 2,000 deaths were recorded within its walls over 35 years, fueling rumors of malpractice and mysterious occurrences. After a brief stint as a drug rehabilitation center in the late 1980s, the building fell silent—until Stephen and Fred began hosting guided tours and paranormal investigations in 2018.
Where mercy met mystery — the nurse’s station at Yorktown Memorial still hums with memory. Some swear the nurse never left — just learned to tend to those we cannot see.”
Now, as official stewards of the property, the duo plans to preserve and celebrate the hospital’s legacy. Their offerings include guided tours, overnight investigations, and private rentals for events ranging from music videos to weddings. Visitors can book experiences through Peek’s booking platform, with additional options soon available at the upcoming yorktownmemorialhospital.com.
“We’ve always loved sharing this property and its haunts with our guests,” said Stephen. “Now, we’re excited to preserve and celebrate its past in brand new ways.”
The hospital’s mid-century architecture, designed by H.H. Moeller Construction Company and architect Leo M.J. Dielmann, remains a focal point of its eerie charm. From the cross-shaped layout to the small chapel, each corner holds stories—some documented, others whispered through the decades.
Curious Twins will also launch a gift shop featuring exclusive books, merchandise, and spiritual supplies, with proceeds supporting restoration efforts including roof repairs and enhanced security. Conservation updates, historical discoveries, and behind-the-scenes content will be shared across their platforms, including TheMorbidTravelGuide.com and social media accounts @CuriousTwins and @YorktownMemorialHospital.
Whether drawn by history, architecture, or the paranormal, guests are invited to experience the haunting magic of Yorktown Memorial Hospital firsthand. As Fred puts it, “This was no longer just a haunted location we visited. It was ours.”
For booking and more information, visit Peek’s official tour page or follow Curious Twins on social media.
Cuero, TX — Cuero Nursing and Rehabilitation Center witnessed the power of community firsthand this month during its Plate Pick-Up fundraiser, an event held in support of a team member facing hardship. With over four hundred plates sold, the center was overwhelmed by the generosity and spirit of its neighbors.
Cuero Nursing and Rehabilitation – Cuero, Tx July 29, 2025
From savory grilled plates to sweet desserts, every bite carried a message of hope and solidarity. Special thanks go to Crown Hospice for donating delectable desserts, Romero Catering for contributing wood supplies, and grill masters Henry & AJ, whose hard work kept the plates coming and spirits high.
Cuero Nursing and Rehabilitation – Cuero, Tx July 29, 2025
“This event was more than just a fundraiser—it was a testament to the compassion and strength of our community,” said a staff member at the center. “The turnout, the support, the love—it was humbling.”
Cuero Nursing and Rehabilitation – Cuero, Tx July 29, 2025
The center extends deep gratitude to everyone who purchased a plate and helped make this fundraiser a resounding success. Whether donating, grilling, or simply showing up, each act of kindness helped lift up a valued member of the team and showcased the best of Cuero’s heart.
YOAKUM: Delores Jean Cretors, 89, passed away Sunday, July 27, 2025. She was born September 19, 1935, in Moulton to the late Louis and Ottilie (Henrichs) Blaschke.
She married her beloved, Earl E. Cretors, on July 15, 1966, at Holy Cross Lutheran Church, and they spent the next 39 years working together until his passing in 2005. Delores worked in the leather industry for over 40 years, and one of her greatest accomplishments was that she hand-tooled the world champion saddle for the 1967 Calgary Stampede. She was a vibrant, active mother, always helping and supporting the Yoakum Athletic Booster Clubs. She had a heart of gold, loved gardening, sewing, dancing, but most of all her treasured times with her family, especially the Christmas gatherings. She was known for her unconditional love that her family will never forget.
Survivors are her sons: Kenny Cretors of Shiner, Randy Cretors and wife Janet of Harlingen; four grandchildren, T.J. Cretors, Shane Cretors, Clayton Cretors and Mitch Cretors.; eight great-grandchildren; sister, Lorine Gates.
Delores is preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Ottilie Blaschke; husband Earl Cretors and brother, Louis Henry Blaschke.
Visitation 5 to 7 P.m., Friday, August 1, 2025 at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home.
Funeral Service 10 a.m., Saturday, August 2, 2025 at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with her nephew, Jeremiah Taylor officiating. Private family burial to be held at Yoakum Oak Grove Cemetery.
Pallbearers are Clayton Cretors, TJ Cretors, Shane Cretors, Joshua Taylor, Mitch Cretors and Guy Shackleford.
Honorary pallbearers are her great-grandchildren.
Memorials may be given to the local Animal Shelter because she loved animals or to St. Jude’s Children Hospital where she was a faithful supporter.
YOAKUM: Sandra Lee Janak, 82, passed away Friday, July 25, 2025. She was born December 1, 1942, in Victoria to the late James and Agnes (Martignoni) Casal II.
She grew up in Victoria and graduated from Nazareth Academy in 1961. She married William “Bill” Janak, and they were blessed with two children, Carolyn and Roger. She was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church and was a loving wife and mother. She was a partner with Bill as owners/operators of Janak Electric Motors Service for 37 years until his passing in 2016. May she rest in peace.
Survivors are her daughter, Carolyn Janak of Victoria, and son Roger Janak of Victoria; three brothers, Jimmie Casal III and wife Delia of Victoria, Ronnie Casal and wife Barbara of Victoria, and Donnie Casal of Houston.
Preceded in death by her parents, James and Agnes Casal II; husband William “Bill” Janak Jr.
Graveside Funeral Service 10 a.m., Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery with Deacon Dennis Kutach officiating.
YOAKUM, TX — The City of Yoakum has officially welcomed Fred Rosales as its new Animal Control Officer, marking an important step in the city’s continued commitment to public safety and compassionate animal care.
Rosales joins the Yoakum Police Department with a clear passion for responsible stewardship and a dedication to serving both residents and animals across the community. His background in public service and his strong understanding of animal welfare positions him as a valuable addition to the city team.
A Sweet Welcome! The Yoakum Police Department celebrated Fred Rosales’ first day as Animal Control Officer with cake and warm smiles. Pictured here, Fred cuts into a delicious symbol of new beginnings—serving the community with heart and dedication. Yoakum, Tx – July 28, 2025.
As Animal Control Officer, Rosales will oversee pet safety enforcement, assist in community outreach and education efforts, and respond to local animal welfare concerns. His role is essential not only in protecting pets and wildlife but also in maintaining harmony across neighborhoods and public spaces.
Community members are encouraged to introduce themselves and offer a warm welcome as Rosales begins this new chapter of service in Yoakum.
YOAKUM: Bruce Allen Kelly, age 53, passed away Saturday, July 26, 2025.
He was born September 28, 1971, in Austin to Curtis Kelly and Novella Iretta Boultinghouse.
He was a handyman. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, cooking, traveling, being on the beach and dogs.
Survivors: son, Zachary Duffield; sisters, Agnes Mraz (Robert) and Dorothy Matejek (Kristopher); nieces and nephews; close friends, Cappri Friedrich, Heather Friedrich, Joe Gonzales and Richard Stark (Sherry).
Preceded in death by: parents; brother, William Curtis Kelly.
