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Ferman Curtis, Jr. – July 11, 1944 to May 3, 2026 (81)

SHINER: Ferman Curtis, Jr., 81, passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2026.  He was born in Shiner, Texas, July 11, 1944, to Ferman Curtis, Sr. and Lela (Price) Curtis.  He married Leona “Tumpy” Curtis, who passed away in 2021.  They were married 50 years before her passing. Ferman worked in construction and paving.

Survivors are his daughters, LaCherryl Curtis (Dewayne) of Shiner, Sharon Washington (Melvin) of Vanderbilt, Samantha Dilworth (Alton) of Cuero; sons, Dennis Curtis (Tracy) of Houston, David Curtis of Yoakum and Trey Curtis (Destiny) of Shiner, Martin Rosales (Megan) of Yoakum; brother, Edward Curtis (Katherine) of Houston; 18 grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: wife, Leona Curtis; parents;

Buried May 9, 2026 at Blue Bonnet Hill Cemetery in Shiner.

Kent Kohleffel Obituary – January 7, 1967 to May 10, 2026

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Kent Kohleffel, a devoted husband, loyal friend, and hardworking man whose life was rooted in love, family, and the simple joys of life. Kent was born in Houston, Texas on January 7, 1967, and his presence brought comfort, kindness, and a quiet strength that will be deeply missed by all who loved him.

Kent dedicated many years of service to working at CCC and Alcoa, and then owning his own business KK Civil Construction where he built lasting friendships and earned the respect of all who knew him through his strong work ethic and kind heart.

On May 25, 1996, in Cuero, Kent married the love of his life, Linda Salazar. Together they built a beautiful life filled with love, laughter, and treasured memories, many of them spent along the peaceful riverbanks of the Guadalupe River. Kent loved fishing, the outdoors, and spending time with his beloved fur companion, Brodie, always happiest near the water with Linda by his side.

He was preceded in death by his loving mother, Meredith Haass; his stepfather Leo Haas: father Melvin E. Kohleffel; his brother, Chad Kohleffel and brother Terry Haass.

Kent is survived by his loving wife, Linda Salazar; his sisters Debbie Colorado & Sylvia Cerda, Laurie & Bruce Holzle, Susan Parker, sister -in-law Bobbie Kohleffel; along with many extended family members and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Visitation will be held Sunday, May 17, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. -6:00 p.m., at Grace Memorial Chapel. Funeral Service to continue on Monday, May 18, 2026, at Grace Memorial Chapel with a burial to follow at Memory Gardens Cemetery. Pall bearers will include Gregorio Salazar III., Zachariah Salazar, Mario Saenz, Samuel Caudillo, Raymond Rocha Jr., Robert Rocha, and Armando Salazar II. Honorary Pallbearers are Jeremiah Murillo, Dobeart (Dobie) Williams, Jonathan Molands, and Oscar Grahman.

Though Kent may be gone from our sight, the love he shared, the laughter he brought, and the quiet moments spent on the Guadalupe River will live on forever in the hearts of those who loved him.

Linda S Chandler – November 20, 1952 to April 29, 2026 (73)

YOAKUM:  Linda S. Chandler, 73, passed away Thursday, April 29, 2026.  She was born November 20, 1952, in Beeville, TX, to Richard and Clara (Goode) Dunham.  She married John Chandler in 1978.  They had two daughters, Erica Chandler, of Austin, and Shannon Chandler of Nampa, Idaho.

Before retiring, Linda worked at Alco as a Department Manager.  She enjoyed collecting owls, and antique shopping.

Survivors: husband of 48 years, John Chandler; daughters Erica and Shannon Chandler; sister Tomelynne Hemingway of Washington State; six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Preceded in death by: parents and two brothers.

It was Linda’s wish to be cremated.  There will be no services

Cuero High School Trotters Recognized for Multi‑Sport Excellence at All Sports Banquet

By Pat Trevino | May 11, 2026

CUERO — The Cuero High School Trotters Dance Team received special recognition during the 2025–2026 All Sports Banquet for the outstanding achievements of several team members who not only shine on the dance floor but also compete across multiple athletic programs.

These student‑athletes were honored for their dedication, versatility, and commitment to representing Cuero High School in more than one arena. Balancing the demands of dance with the rigor of competitive sports, each honoree demonstrated exceptional work ethic and school pride throughout the year.

The following Trotters were recognized:

  • Bailey Blank — Cross Country, Softball, Track
  • Grace Becker — Powerlifting, Track, Tennis
  • Jeana Naranjo — Cross Country, Basketball, Powerlifting, Track
  • D’Zaylia Bonner — Basketball, Track
  • Kamryn Villa — Cross Country, Track

These athletes exemplify the spirit of the Cuero High School Trotters Dance Team—students who lead with discipline, teamwork, and a commitment to excellence both on the field and on the stage.

Their contributions highlight the important role the Trotters play in Cuero’s athletic community, showcasing not only school spirit but also the strength and talent of student‑athletes who go above and beyond.

Frankie Joseph “Butch” Raindl- September 5, 1946 to April 27, 2026 (79)

SHINER — Frankie Joseph “Butch” Raindl, 79, of Shiner, passed away April 27, 2026.

He was born September 5, 1946, in Levelland, Texas, to Frank and Esther Seidenberger Raindl. Over the years, Raindl worked for Purina Mills, K. Spoetzl Brewery, in road construction, custom hay baling, and in the oilfield. He later operated B & B Bait and Tackle before retiring from Frank’s Bar‑B‑Que, where he served the community for 12 years. He was known for his chopped‑brisket stuffed baked potatoes, picnic stew, and his homemade pickles, sauerkraut, and wine.

Raindl enjoyed hunting deer and turkey, spending time at deer camp, and fishing both saltwater and freshwater with his sons and grandsons.

Survivors include his wife of 41 years, Beverly Balusek Raindl; sons, Michael Raindl and wife Laura, and Tim Raindl and wife Belinda; grandchildren, Amber, Avery, Peyton, and Cooper; and sister, Patricia Heins.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Ellen Dvorak; brothers‑in‑law, Joe Heins and Jack Dvorak; and his longtime companion, Toby.

Pallbearers were Peyton Raindl, Cooper Raindl, Paul Koone, Mark Panus, Keith Dvorak, Steven Bolech, and Kirk Jones. Honorary pallbearers were Greg Wagner, Leon Svetlik, and Garland Schlenker.

Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice Dornburg Center of Compassion in Victoria.

Crews Clear Scene After Structure Fire in Yorktown

Cuero Online News | May 11, 2026

Yorktown, Texas — May 2026 The DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management and Floodplain Administration reported that fire crews responded Monday night to a structure fire at 726 W. 6th Street in Yorktown.

According to officials, units arrived on scene and worked to secure the area and bring the fire under control. At 10:15 p.m., all crews had cleared the location. No injuries were reported among the family involved or the first responders.

Authorities urged residents to avoid the area during the response to allow emergency personnel to work safely and efficiently.

The cause of the fire has not yet been released. Additional information will be provided as it becomes available from local officials.

Yoakum Police Department Issues Public Alert After Rash of Burglaries

By: Pat Trevino | May 11, 2026

Yoakum, Texas — The Yoakum Police Department is urging residents to stay vigilant after a recent spike in vehicle and home burglaries reported over the past week.

According to the department, several of the vehicle burglaries occurred during the early‑morning hours between 2:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m., and in many cases, the vehicles had been left unlocked. Police also reported one residential burglary that took place during daylight hours.

Affected areas include: • Mathew St. • Elk St. • Rose St. • Montgomery St. • Ranney St. • Clark St.

Officers are encouraging all residents to take simple but important steps to protect their property:

  • Lock vehicle doors
  • Lock residential doors and windows
  • Remove valuables from vehicles overnight
  • Report suspicious activity immediately

“Help us help you. If you see something, say something,” the department emphasized in its message to the community. Officers noted that increased awareness and cooperation from residents can make it more difficult for criminals to target local neighborhoods.

Anyone with information about these incidents or who observes suspicious activity is asked to contact the Yoakum Police Department.

El Zorro’s Corner: “The Anonymous Neighbor and the Great Utility Crisis”

Dear El Zorro,

I’m writing this anonymously because I don’t need half of Cuero knowing my business — you know how fast news travels around here. A sneeze on one side of town becomes pneumonia by the time it reaches the other.

Anyway, here’s what happened.

The other morning, I’m sitting at home enjoying my coffee when my neighbor comes barreling across the yard like he’s being chased by someone with a chain saw.  And I’m thinking why is he coming to my house?  I don’t need any Texas Chain saw drama! He’s yelling, waving his arms, and hollering, “HELP! HELP! I NEED YOUR HELP! CALL 911!”

Naturally, I panic. And I yell at him. What happened?  You okay? Why are you running?  I immediately think I need to grab my gun.

Nope, this fool about gave me a heart attack.

Turns out, his electricity got shut off because he “forgot” to pay the bill…. And now he’s standing in my yard demanding I call 9‑1‑1 because, and I quote, “This is a humanitarian crisis!”

I told him 9‑1‑1 is for emergencies, not for people who treat their bills like optional suggestions. But he insisted there had to be SOME number to call.

So, Zorro… what number do people call when life goes sideways but it’s not a police situation?

Signed,

Anonymous in Cuero

 


Dear Anonymous,

Amigo… you’ve just described a situation that is more common than folks admit. Every neighborhood has at least one person who thinks every inconvenience is a national disaster.

Let’s paint the picture.

The Great Cuero Utility Meltdown

Your neighbor comes sprinting across the yard like he’s reenacting a scene from a telenovela. He’s dramatic. He’s sweaty. He’s convinced the universe is personally attacking him because his electricity won’t turn on.

He wants you to call 9‑1‑1. You want to call 9‑1‑1 — but only to report him for being a pain in the you know what.

But you’re right: This is NOT a police matter. No crime. No danger. Just a man who needs a payment plan and maybe a calendar reminder.

So who DO you call?

Not the sheriff. Not the fire department. Not your cousin who “knows a guy.”

The number he needed — the number MOST people need when life gets messy but not criminal — is:

2‑1‑1 

At least that’s what the folks at Golden Crescent Regional Planning Commission tell me.

What 2‑1‑1 can help with:

  • Utility shut‑off assistance
  • Rent help
  • Food programs
  • Mental health support
  • Transportation
  • Local shelters
  • Disaster resources
  • And basically anything that makes people say, “I don’t know who to call.”

It’s free. It’s confidential. It’s available 24/7 — even when your neighbor’s electricity isn’t.

Why this matters

9‑1‑1 is for emergencies. 2‑1‑1 is for everything else that feels like an emergency but won’t land anyone in the ER.

Your neighbor didn’t need law enforcement. He needed information, resources, and maybe a chill pill (lol).  You handled it like a true hero, amigo. Not all emergencies require sirens. Some just require the right number.

Until next time,

El Zorro

 

DeWitt/Lavaca Democratic Women to Host Rally in Hallettsville on May 23

News Release

May 8, 2026 — Hallettsville, Texas The DeWitt/Lavaca Democratic Women, in partnership with the Lavaca Democratic Party, announced plans for a public rally in Hallettsville on Saturday, May 23, from 11 a.m. to noon.

According to the organizers, the event is described as an anti‑Trump and pro‑U.S. rally and will take place in front of Crossroads Bank on Highway 90‑A (Fairwinds). Community members of all ages are invited to attend and are encouraged to bring signs expressing concerns about issues such as rising costs, the war in Iran, and other topics important to them. Parking will be available near the event site.

For additional information, organizers can be reached at DeWittlavacadems@gmail.com or by contacting Lavaca Democratic Party Chair Marilyn Thibodeaux at marilynkthibodeaux@gmail.com.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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