Juanita “Janie” Colunga Morin Zelinger, 79, of Cuero passed away Monday, April 14, 2025. She was born March 23, 1946 in Rio Hondo to Paciano and Marie Colunga Morin. She married Charles A. Zelinger on July 22, 1983 in Rio Hondo, Texas. She enjoyed fishing, being around her family and going to church.
She is survived by her sons, Pedro Garza III and Ruben Garza; sister, Becky Molnar; brother, Paciano Morin III; grandchildren, Christina Garza, Pedro Garza IV and Jacob Porter; great-grandchildren, Andrew Porter and many others.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of twenty-three years, Charles; daughter, Linda Porter; sisters, Connie Morin and Frances Berronez and brothers, Paciano Aden Morin Jr. and Robert Berronez.
Cuero, Tx April 7, 2025Cuero residents came together for an open-house workshop designed to shape the future of their community. The event, provided a platform for discussions, brainstorming, and sharing insights on ways to enhance Cuero as a place to live, work, play, and grow.
Locals had the opportunity to voice their ideas and contribute to meaningful conversations about the town’s development. Organizers encouraged participation, ensuring that a diverse range of perspectives were heard in this important initiative.
For those who were unable to attend in person, an online survey was made available in both English and Spanish, allowing residents to provide input at their convenience. This accessible option ensured that all community members had a chance to contribute their thoughts, regardless of their schedules.
The collaborative effort aimed to pave the way for a thriving Cuero, reflecting the vision and aspirations of its residents. With strong participation and engagement, the event marked a significant step toward lasting change and progress for the community.
If you were not able to attend the in-person workshop, you can still provide your input to help shape the future of Cuero! Click the link below to respond. https://arcg.is/1DH8qD0
SHINER: Paul Lekander, age 85 passed away with his family by his side, his family wrote, “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved father, Paul Lekander, on Thursday, April 10th. Affectionately known as “Poppy” by his grandchildren, he was a devoted family man who cherished every moment with his loved ones. Until his final hours, he continued to express his love and affection for his family. He had a unique gift for connecting with others, effortlessly striking up conversations and sharing humor with everyone he met. His selfless nature and willingness to lend a helping hand were hallmarks of his kind and gentle spirit.”
Paul was born February 9, 1940, in Ashtabula County, Ohio to Carl and Clara (Hanson) Lekander. He graduated from high school and went onto college to obtain his bachelor’s degree in biology. While pursuing his master’s degree, he was called to St. Cloud, Florida to help his dad run the family dairy farm, that he later purchased. He met his sweetheart; Barbara Farris and they were married 61 years. In 2016 they decided to move to Texas in their retirement to be near their son, Craig and wife, Joy. Through good and bad times, their faith remained strong, and Barbara finds peace in Paul’s eternal rest.
Survivors are his wife, Barbara Lekander; sons, Craig Lekander (Joy), James Lekander (Stacy) and Michael Lekander (John): 5 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren; brother, John Lekander.
Preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Howard Lekander.
Graveside Service 11 a.m., Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at Shiner Cemetery with Pastor Chris Heinold officiating.
Pallbearers are Michael Lekander, Craig Lekander, Jace Caddell, James Wyatt Caddell, Dale Shreve and Cody Staricha.
Honorary Pallbearer is Cody Lekander and James Lekander.
Memorials may be made to Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home to defray funeral costs.
Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, 361-293-5656.
Yorktown, Tx April 14, 2025 – Yorktown FFA members showcased their dedication and talent at the Horizon District Speaking Event in Weimar, where they competed and participated in important leadership roles. In the afternoon, members proudly served as voting delegates, helping to select the next Horizon District Officer Team and the Area Talent Show representative.
Katie Bolting
A historic moment was achieved by Katie Bolting, who became Yorktown FFA’s first-ever participant in a Speaking Development Event (SDE), with records dating back to 1997. Competing in Junior Prepared Public Speaking, Katie delivered an insightful speech on “The Different Factors Affecting Family Agribusinesses” and earned 6th place, bringing home a banner for her remarkable achievement.
Yorktown FFA also celebrated strong results at the Area XI Career Development Events (CDEs), held this past Saturday. The Vet Tech team secured 3rd place in District and 18th in Area, earning a well-deserved banner. Special recognition goes to Layne for being named the 1st Place Top Individual in the district. The Horse Judging team placed 6th in District, also earning a banner, and ranked 22nd in Area. Meanwhile, the Poultry Judging and Livestock Judging teams placed 9th in District, ranking 23rd and 22nd in Area, respectively.
Though none of the teams advanced to state this year, the growth, commitment, and perseverance demonstrated throughout the season have been outstanding. Yorktown FFA continues to uphold its tradition of excellence, with each member contributing to the team’s success.
Cuero, Texas April 11, 2025 – The Cuero ISD Trotter Dance Team delivered an unforgettable Spring Show that blended entertainment, creativity, and heartfelt moments. This annual event, held in a theater brimming with anticipation, marked a bittersweet milestone—the final performance for the senior Trotters. It was an evening that showcased not only their immense talent but also the spirit of unity and joy that defines this extraordinary group.
Parents filled the audience, cheering and celebrating their dancers. Seniors were honored with the opportunity to set up personalized stations, lovingly decorated with hats, letterman jackets, pictures, and highlights from their journey as Trotters. The heartfelt decorations, organized by proud parents, reflected the hard work, dedication, and unforgettable memories created throughout the year.
The Trotters proved they were more than just dancers—they are artists, athletes, and ambassadors of joy. Each performance sparkled with creativity and passion, leaving the audience captivated. As the final notes of the night echoed through the theater, applause erupted—not just for the dancers’ skill but for the community they’ve built.
Certificates of recognition were presented to some dancers, each one carrying a story—a testament to late-night rehearsals, moments of overcoming stage fright, and triumphant performances. For Ms. High Kick – Nadia Light, Mr. Congeniality – Isai Zamarripa, and Most Improved – Isabela Baldachin. Lexie Garcia received an award, showcasing her excellence.
For the seniors—Lexie Garcia, Mercedes Barbontin, Julissa Barbontin, Kassidy Cowey, Isai Zamarripa, Emmerson Rickman, Mauricane Walker, and Evelyn Gonzales—tonight was profoundly emotional as they prepared to hang their hats for the last time. The moment marked the end of their journey as Trotters, filled with memories of passion, dedication, and camaraderie that will forever remain in their hearts. It was a bittersweet farewell to a chapter that shaped their lives in countless meaningful ways.
This year’s Spring Show marked an exciting new era under the guidance of Mrs. Courtney Kalinowski, who stepped into the role of the Trotters’ Director for the first time. With her fresh perspective and boundless enthusiasm, she brought a renewed energy to the team, fostering both artistic excellence and a strong sense of camaraderie.
The Cuero ISD Trotter Dance Team Spring Show was more than an evening of entertainment—it was a true celebration of artistry, unity, and the spirit of teamwork. Bravo to the Trotters for a spectacular performance!
“A Final Bow: Seniors Hang Their Hats in a Bittersweet Farewell to the Trotters”
SHOWCASING SENIOR TROTTERS
Evelynn Gonzales – 3 year member – Social Officer 2024-2025, Favorite Style of Dance – Lyrical “My favorite thing about being on Trotters is becoming friends with people I would have never talked to.”Lexie Garcia- 4 year member, Social Officer 2023-2024, Captain 2024-2025, favorite Style of Dance – “Everything! I love them all!” “My favorite thing about Trotters is being able to share a passion of dance with a group of people and have fun!”Isai Zamarripa- 2 year member, 2nd Lieutenant 2024-2025, Favorite Style of Dance – Jazz, “My favorite thing about Trotters is performing at football games and competition with all my favorite people.”Mauricinae Walker – 3 year member, 1st Lieutenant 2024-2025, Favorite Style of Dance is Hip Hop, “My favorite thing about Trotters is getting to dance at pep rallies and football games.”Emmerson Rickman – 4 year member, 1st Lieutenant 2023-2024, Co-Captain 2024-2025, Favorite Style of Dance is Jazz, “My favorite thing about Trotters is making new friends each year.”Julissa Barbontin – 3 year member , social Officer 2023-2024, Social Officer 2024-2025, Favorite Style of Dance – Lyrical “My favorite thing about Trotters is the friends I have made along the way.”Kassidy Cowey – 4 year member, Social Officer 2022-2023, Social Officer 2024-2025, Favorite Style of Dance – Kick, “My favorite thing about Trotters is the bond we create together as a team.”MERCEDES BARBONTIN – 2 YEAR MEMBER – FAVORITE STYLE OF DANCE -LYRICAL – “My favorite thing about being on Trotters is becoming closer with my sister, Luz, and dancing with my cousin, Julissa.”
Cuero, Texas – On Saturday, April 12, Keep Cuero Beautiful (KCB) held its annual Don’t Mess with Texas cleanup of local highways, with four dedicated teams working to make Cuero cleaner and greener. The event highlighted community spirit and environmental stewardship, with the top three teams earning $100 each to donate to their chosen local nonprofit.
Team Berger
Team Berger earned 1st place with an impressive 25.39 pounds of litter collected, followed by Team Urban in 2nd place with 16.46 pounds, and Team Ayers, Posts, & Meyer in 3rd place with 11.40 pounds. Team City Environmental Services received an Honorable Mention for their effort in gathering 2.28 pounds of litter.
Team Urban
Participants worked diligently to clear highways of plastic bottles, metal screws, cigarette butts, wood signs, and cardboard boxes—though a few items, such as oyster shells and partial deer skin, were left behind. KCB extends heartfelt thanks to every team member for their contributions to keeping Cuero cleaner and greener.
Team Ayers, Posts, & MeyerTeam City Environmental Services
This yearly cleanup showcases the commitment of Cuero residents to preserving their community’s beauty and supporting local nonprofits. Together, they continue to inspire action for a healthier environment.
GOLIAD — Esperanza (Hope) Debo of Goliad, Texas, passed away Saturday, April 5, 2025. Hope was born to Maria Cantu and Jose De Los Santos on June 16, 1949, in Cuero, Texas. She grew up in a humble home on the O’Connor Duke Ranch. She was a Vietnam veteran, having served in the US Navy as a hospital corpsman.
Family and friends will gathered for visitation on Thursday, April 10, 2025 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with the Holy Rosary to be prayed at 7:00 PM at Grace Funeral Home in Goliad, Texas. Funeral Mass was held Friday, April 11, 2025 at 10:00 AM at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in Goliad. Lunch was served following the mass, before burial at the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church Parish Hall. Burial at San Antonio Cemetery in Fannin, Texas.
She is survived by her husband Michael Debo, her daughter Tina Marie Stocker (Brian), grandson Austin Olivarez, granddaughter Kiersten Stocker (Jason Blackwell), three great grandchildren: Noah, Novalee and Mia; godson Xavier Perez, sisters Eva Humphries (Jessie), and Carlotta Gonzales (David). She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Estella Perez.
Her outdoor enjoyments included tennis, soccer, golf and running. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, painting and cooking. She loved children and dogs, especially her little Jackson and Jasper, her four-legged grandsons.
Hope loved serving others. At Saint Louis King of France, she was a Eucharistic Minister, served on the Parish Council, led a Prayer Blanket Ministry and a Bereavement Ministry, taught Catechism, was a Scout leader and member of the Knights of Columbus Ladies Auxiliary and volunteered in many school activities and events.
Hope retired after 25 years as Manager at the IRS and earned the highest award for service and dedication.
She served Immaculate Conception Church as a Faith Formation/CCD teacher and as an officer in the Catholic Daughters. She was Post Adjutant for American Legion Post 193, President of the Goliad County Garden Club, and member of the Crafty Quilters.
Hope survived colon cancer but later succumbed to the effects of stage 4 breast cancer.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Immaculate Conception Church in Goliad, the Goliad County Garden Club, or the Goliad Senior Citizens Center. www.gracefuneralhome.net.
In today’s column, Beyond The County Lines: The Legacy of People from DeWitt County, we pay tribute to Carol Hoff—a name some residents of DeWitt County may recognize, though her remarkable story remains less widely known. Only recently did I uncover the extraordinary contributions Hoff made to children’s and young adult literature. Born in Arizona in the early 1900s, Hoff later became a high school teacher, living and working in Yorktown, Texas, before embarking on her journey as a published author.
Her Literary legacy is rooted in Texas and she is best known for her book Johnny Texas—first published in 1950—skillfully brings to life the experiences of a German immigrant family arriving in Texas during the early 1830s. Through Johnny’s adventures, readers witness the challenges of frontier life and the Texas Revolution against Mexico, providing a vivid snapshot of an era that shaped our state’s identity.
Johnny Texas
The book received the Charles W. Follett Award and recognition from the Texas Institute of Letters, establishing Hoff as a significant literary figure. Its sequel, Johnny Texas on the San Antonio Road, continues this engaging narrative. Hoff’s works appeal to both children and young adult readers, offering insights into historical and cultural themes. Her authentic portrayal of frontier life is valued by anthropologist and historians alike, even down to the practical quirks, such as the challenges of making grape jelly from wild Mustang grapes.
In January 2012, the Yorktown Public Library honored Hoff by dedicating the Carol Hoff Meeting Room, celebrating her inspiring legacy. Hoff’s books, including Johnny Texas, are available at the Cuero Public Library, inviting readers to explore her rich storytelling.
Beyond The County Lines: The Legacy of People from DeWitt County celebrates the stories of De Witt’s very own residents who have shaped history—not just through grand events or fame, but through the courage, resilience, and humanity of everyday lives. This column honors both the extraordinary tales of triumph and struggle, and the beautifully ordinary moments that reveal the depth of character and connection within our community. Together, these voices bring history to life and remind us of the shared legacy we carry forward.
Please share your suggestions or the names of individuals from De Witt County whom you believe should be featured in this column email: cueroonlinenews@gmail.com
