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Adolph Joseph “A.J.” Mican Jr. – April 2, 1943 to March 25, 2025 (81)

SWEET HOME: Adolph Joseph “A.J.” Mican Jr, age 81, passed away Tuesday, March 25, 2025. He was born April 2, 1943, in Shiner to Adolph and Justina Fikac Mican.
He was a heavy equipment operator at Alcoa for 35 years. He was a member of Queen of Peace Catholic Church. He served in the U.S. Army reserves. His hobbies included: hunting elk and mule deer in Colorado & New Mexico and whitetail deer in Texas, reloading bullets, shooting guns, sighting in rifles for friends, working on his vehicles and raising deer and antelope. He enjoyed watching his grandkids play sports and was known to play jokes on his grandkids. A.J. loved the mountains and enjoyed taking summer trips to New Mexico and Colorado with the family. He enjoyed watching the Houston Astros and Dallas Cowboys and going on casino trips. He loved riding his four-wheeler with his sweet granddog Daisy and watching the birds and squirrels.

Survivors: wife of 54 years, Elizabeth Lipinski Mican; daughter, Tracy Green (Darren); son, Greg Mican (Wendy); grandchildren, Wyatt Mican, Peyton Mican, Sydney Green and Garrett Green; sister, Marie Jo Mucala; brothers, Larry Mican and Johnny Mican (Lolly); 4-legged family members, Daisy and Sadie.

Preceded in death by parents; sister, Marcie Picha (Ronnie) and an infant brother.
Visitation 5:30 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, March 30, 2025, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home.

Funeral Mass at 10:00 a.m. Monday, March 31, 2025, at Queen of Peace Catholic Church with Rev. Dominic Antwi-Boasiako officiating. Burial to follow at Queen of Peace Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Wyatt Mican, Peyton Mican, Garrett Green, Hunter Mican, Chad Mucala and Keith Picha.

Honorary pallbearers: Jason Mozisek, John Pesek, Mikie Fenske, Kevin Picha, Raymond Opela, Larry Springer and Layne Brandt.

Memorial contributions may be given to Queen of Peace Catholic Church or Hospice of South Texas.
Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home 361-293-5656

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Structure Fire on Lakeside Drive Leaves Home in Ruins

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Cuero, Texas – A devastating fire broke out late Sunday evening, March 23rd, on Lakeside Drive, completely destroying the home of Dr. Hill and his wife, Janie. While the official report from the fire department is still pending, a reliable witness familiar with the incident believes that embers from a barbecue pit, used earlier in the evening, may have ignited a thick layer of dry oak leaves blanketing the ground. The combination of dry conditions and gusty winds is thought to have played a significant role in the rapid spread of the fire.

Photo by Pat Trevino 

The blaze erupted around 11 PM, prompting an urgent response from local firefighting teams, including Cuero Volunteer Fire Department, City of Cuero Fire Department, Yorktown Volunteer Fire Department, and Yoakum Volunteer Fire Department.

Photo by Pat Trevino

Firefighters faced additional challenges as an incoming storm brought heavy lightning and strong winds, temporarily halting operations due to safety concerns. The fire crews resumed their efforts once conditions improved and worked tirelessly to contain the blaze. The scene was cleared just after 3 AM.

Photo by Pat Trevino

The collaboration of Cuero EMS, DeWitt Precinct 1, DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management, Cuero Police Department, and DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office helped ensure the situation was handled effectively. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.

Photo by Pat Trevino

Although rain has since fallen in the area, providing some relief, the tragedy endured by the Hills serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of fire safety, especially during periods of elevated risk. Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the fire.

 

 

Lydia Gaytan Millington – January 18, 1932 to March 25, 2025 ((93)

At the age of 93 years old, Lydia Gaytan Millington, of Nixon, Texas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. She was born January 18, 1932, in Nixon, Texas to parents Adan and Luzgarda Gaytan.

She is survived by her daughter Olga Yanes, grandchildren: Amanda Labbé (husband Todd Labbé), Kimberley Lower (husband Mike Lower), Adam Yanes (wife Lindsay Yanes), and Sarah Yanes; great grandchildren: Aidan Yanes, Kevin Labbé, Jaxon Lower, Brooklyn Lower, Asher Yanes, great-great granddaughter: Kaiya Yanes and generations of family

Lydia is preceded in death by her husband Dr. Wilfred George Millington; her daughter Nancy Yanes, and siblings: Emelia Valdez, Concha Leal, Ray Cevallos, Rodolfo Cevallos, Angel Cevallos, Raul Tamez, Alfredo Gaytan, and numerous other family and friends.

She dearly loved her family, friends, and community. She was devoted to her grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great granddaughter.

Lydia was a distinctive lady! She enjoyed life, was an adventure seeker, a risk taker, and made an impact on many lives. The memories we all made with her will be cherished forever.

On March 29, 2025, a rosary is scheduled for 9:00 am at St. Joseph Catholic Church, visitation 9:30 am – 10:30 am, mass 10:30 am – 11:30 am, a graveside service after the mass at the Nixon Cemetery, followed by a celebration of Lydia’s life 12:30 pm – 4:30 pm at The Nixon Community Center.

Come join us to celebrate her life and share your stories!

You are welcome to sign the online guestbook at www.finchfuneralchapels.com.

Services in care of Finch Funeral Chapel, LLC.

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To send flowers to the family of Lydia Millington (Gaytan), please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

7 Days Left for Eligible Voters to Register for May 3, 2025 Elections

De Witt County resident have until April 3, 2025, to register to vote for the May 3, 2025, Elections in De Witt County. There are numerous political offices up for election in De Witt County, with several qualified candidates vying for your vote. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard.

In Cuero, voters will have the opportunity to elect two hospital board members for Cuero Regional Hospital, with three candidates running for these positions.

Additionally, there are two City Councilmember-At-Large positions open in the City of Cuero, with three candidates vying for these seats. Furthermore, two candidates are running for the Single Member District 1 school board position in Cuero ISD.

In Yorktown, the election will include the selection of a new mayor, two Yorktown City Council members for two-year terms, and one council member for a one-year unexpired term. Additionally, there are three Trustee positions open in Yorktown ISD, with five candidates competing for these roles.

Democracies thrive when citizens actively defend their rights and freedoms. Civic engagement ensures that civil liberties are protected and that injustices are challenged. When diverse groups come together to discuss issues and propose solutions, it leads to innovative and effective problem-solving. Civic engagement brings fresh perspectives and ideas to the table.

By participating in civic activities like voting, attending town hall meetings, volunteering, and advocating for causes, individuals contribute to the well-being and progress of their society. In light of the current political climate, with so many Americans divided on numerous issues, your vote can help tip the scales toward a better tomorrow.

DeWitt County, Texas

Register now at the De Witt County Elections Office
115 N. Gonzales St., Ste. A 

Cuero, Texas 77954

Office Hours:
Monday – Friday
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

(Candidates running for office are encouraged to contact our editorial staff to be featured in Cuero Online News.  Email:  cueroonlinenews@gmail.com)

Diane Ruth Mendez – September 12, 1958 to March 24, 2025 (66)

Diane Ruth Mendez, 66, of Smiley, Texas passed away on March 24, 2025. Born to parents, Amador Hernandez and Lidia Charro in Cuero, Texas on September 12, 1958.

She loved spending time with the family and doing puzzles. She loved her church and reading the bible.

Diane is survived by children: Jamey Lynn Mendez (Benjamin Del Val); Yvonne Mendez; Elizabeth Kay DeLeon (Mikey Jr. DeLeon): grandchildren: Kailynn Brooke Mendez, Jaden De Val, Ethan De Val, Lauren Grace DeLeon, Mason H Houseton, Ava Grace Houseton: Siblings; Moses Hernandez, Manuel Hernandez, Elias Hernandez, Mary Cook, Martha Martinez, and Ann Dorantes.

Diane preceded in death by her parents, Amador and Lidia Hernandez, and her husband Joe Mendez.

Visitation will be Thursday, April 3, 2025, at 5:00pm at Finch Funeral Chapel-Nixon, Texas.

The Prayer Service will be recited at 6:00pm.

Funeral Service will be April 4, 2025, 11:00am at Finch Funeral Chapel-Nixon, Texas.

Interment will be at the Smiley Latin Cemetery.

You are welcome to sign the online guestbook at www.finchfuneralchapels.com.

Services in care of Finch Funeral Chapel, LLC.

To send flowers to the family of Diane Mendez, please visit our Heartfelt Sympathies Store.

Dorothy Elizabeth Ware St. Clair – May 19, 1934 to March 23, 2025 (90)

Dorothy Elizabeth Ware St. Clair, 90, of Magnolia peacefully passed away Sunday, March 23, 2025.  She was born May 19, 1934, in Gonzales, TX to Granvil and Ruthie Hopkins Ware.  In her early years, she worked at the Cotton Mill in Cuero, TX where she met the love of her life, Jackie William St. Clair.  They were married on September 9, 1955, at the Church of Christ in Cuero.  She also worked at the Amusement Machine Commission, the Comptroller’s Office and Texas Rehabilitation.  She retired from the State of Texas. Dorothy loved to sew and made several leisure suits for Jackie and clothes for her daughter.  She also enjoyed crocheting, playing the organ and was an AVID Bingo player.  She volunteered for meals-on-wheels, was the President of the Ladies Auxiliary Moose Lodge of Austin, TX, President and member of the Ladies Auxiliary of Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 790 club of Victoria.  She and Jackie traveled to London and France to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.  She visited Dollywood and always enjoyed a Big Thanksgiving and Christmas.

She is survived by her loving husband of sixty-nine years, Jackie; daughter, Debbie (John) Gascoyne of Magnolia; sons, Ricky (Deborah) St. Clair of Weir and Dicky (Gayla) St. Clair of Leander; brother, George (Josie) Ware of Cuero; sister-in-law, Jean Ware; twelve grandchildren; twenty nine great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Ronald Ware.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 29, 2025, 1:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home.  Funeral Services will begin at 2:00 PM with Pastor Brian St. Clair officiating.  Interment will follow at Ebenezer Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Meals on Wheels Central Texas, 3227 E. 5th St., Austin, TX 78702.

You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.

To plant Memorial Trees in memory of Dorothy Elizabeth St. Clair, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

At The Cross Fellowship Hosts Kidz Kamp 2025 for Elementary-Aged Children

Get ready for a day full of fun, learning, and fellowship! At The Cross Fellowship is thrilled to host Kidz Kamp at The Cross 2025, a special event designed for kids entering grades K-5th in the 2024-2025 school year.

📅 Date: Saturday, May 31, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
📍 Location: At The Cross Fellowship

This exciting one-day camp promises unforgettable experiences with engaging activities, new friendships, and moments to grow in faith. Kids will leave with smiles, laughter, and memories they’ll cherish all summer long!

Dick Reynolds Henderson – December 5, 1947 to March 22, 2025 (77)

Dick Reynolds Henderson, 77, of Cuero passed away Saturday, March 22, 2025.  He was born December 5, 1947 in Texas City to Gilbert and Mary Lou Henderson.  He proudly served in the United States Army from 1970-1973.  During his time in the service, he worked as a military policeman and earned the rank of sergeant.  He married Candy Marshall on August 4, 1984 in Houston.  He worked for the Harris County Sheriff’s Department for twenty six years and retired as a captain.

He is survived by his wife of forty years, Candy; sister, Kathy Henderson and brother, Bill (Corena) Henderson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and brother, James Henderson.

A funeral service with full Military Honors will be held Thursday, March 27, 2025, 11:15 AM at Houston National Cemetery.

You may sign the online guestbook at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.

Pentagon Faces Backlash Over Removal of Diversity Content, Including Roy Benavidez’s Legacy

Cuero, Texas March 2025- The Department of Defense has come under scrutiny for its recent removal of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) content from its platforms, following an executive order issued by former President Donald Trump. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth directed the military to eliminate materials highlighting diversity efforts, resulting in the deletion of tens of thousands of photos, posts, and webpages. The purge has disproportionately affected content celebrating the contributions of women and minorities in the military.

Roy Benevides

Among the notable figures impacted by this directive is Roy P. Benavidez, a Medal of Honor recipient and Vietnam War hero who was born in Cuero, Texas. Benavidez, revered for his extraordinary bravery during a six-hour firefight near the Vietnam-Cambodia border in 1968, saved the lives of eight soldiers while sustaining nearly 40 wounds. His heroic actions earned him the Medal of Honor, presented by President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

The iconic raising of the U.S. flag in Iwo Jima-
Until recently, a page on the Defense Department’s website celebrated Pfc. Ira Hayes, a Pima Indian who was one of the six Marines photographed hoisting a U.S. flag on Iwo Jima in 1945, as an emblem of the “contributions and sacrifices Native Americans have made to the United States, not just in the military, but in all walks of life.

Cuero, Benavidez’s hometown, honors his legacy with a statue located on U.S. Highway 87. The site is part of the Tour of Honor, a self-directed motorcycle ride that pays tribute to American heroes, including military veterans and first responders. Cuero has become a significant stop for military personnel and history enthusiasts, who view Benavidez as a symbol of courage and resilience.

Jackie Robinson, the first Black Major League Baseball player and WWII veteran

The Pentagon’s removal of webpages detailing Benavidez’s story, along with those of other legendary minority service members, has sparked widespread criticism. The deletions also included content about Jackie Robinson, the first Black Major League Baseball player and WWII veteran, and Ira Hayes, a Native American Marine famously depicted raising the American flag at Iwo Jima during WWII. Additionally, pages commemorating Black History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and Women’s History Month were targeted.

Charles Calvin Rogers (September 6, 1929 – September 21, 1990) was a US Army officer and a recipient of the highest military decoration in the United States, the Medal of Honor, for his actions during the Vietnam War. In March 2025, the Department of Defense removed the “Medal of Honor” recipient.

The Pentagon’s directive to remove diversity content has triggered widespread public outcry, prompting the restoration of some webpages and historical material. According to a Defense Department spokesman, while efforts have been made to recover key profiles and milestones of legendary service members, including those of Roy Benavidez and Charles Calvin Rogers, a significant portion of the content remains permanently lost. The sweeping deletions have erased countless stories and achievements of marginalized groups, leaving gaps in the historical narrative that may never be fully recovered.

The removal and subsequent restoration of this content highlight ongoing debates about the role of DEI initiatives in the military. As the Pentagon navigates these challenges, the legacy of heroes like Roy Benavidez serves as a reminder of the diverse contributions that have shaped the United States Armed Forces.