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Janet Marie Lemke – April 7, 1958 to May 25, 2026 (68)

Janet Marie Lemke of Yorktown, Texas, went home to Jesus on May 25, 2026. She was born in Yorktown, Texas, to Melvin and Lorene Lassmann.

Janet grew up in Yorktown and married the love of her life, Warren Lemke, on April 1, 1978, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Yorktown. She was a devoted wife, mother, sister, aunt, cousin, and grandmother—known affectionately as “Jan” to her grandkids. She was the heart and glue of her family, holding everyone together through life’s ups and downs with love, faith, hope, obedience, and perseverance. Her hands were rarely still—she was always cooking, cleaning, or comforting others. Her lap was always open for her grandchildren. Her phone was always on for any of us, day or night. She watched over her children and grandchildren, making sure they always had more than enough. She bought her grandchildren more toys than any child could ever need. Mom loved spending time with family at birthdays and holiday gatherings. She also enjoyed taking care of her animals and spent plenty of time shopping.

She is survived by her children, Caleb (Paige) Lemke and Brandon (Crystal) Lemke; grandchildren Easton, Lainey, Mia, and Hesston; her brother, Glenn (Olga) Lassmann; her sisters, Barbara Cramer, Ruby Broll, and Patricia Lassmann; and numerous nephews and nieces.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Melvin and Lorene Lassmann; her husband, Warren Lemke; her brother, David Lassmann; and her brothers-in-law, Byron Cramer and Fred Broll.

Special thanks to Olga Lassmann, Gloria Villarreal, and Betty Rosales for the countless hours they spent taking care of her. The family also extends heartfelt thanks to Barbara Cramer and Riley Metting for constantly checking in and visiting. Thank you to Crown Hospice for being there during the last few months. The family would also like to thank Danielle Robertson for praying with Mom in those very important final moments.

Pallbearers will be Buddy Lassmann, Stephen Broll, Ricky Hilbrich, Joe Nash, Dillan Johnson, and Joe Baros Jr. Honorary pallbearers are Glenn Lassmann, Kyle Kerlick, David McDonald, and Kyle Robertson.

Visitation 2-3 pm Sunday, May 31, 2026 with funeral service beginning at 3 pm at St. Paul Lutheran Church. Interment to follow at Westside Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church or donor’s choice.

Franklin Neubauer – November 18, 1957 to May 17, 2026 (68)

SHINER: Franklin Neubauer, 68,  passed away peacefully on May 17, 2026. Born on November 18, 1957, in Wichita Falls, TX to Alvin Heidrich and Geneva Allgood, later adopted and raised by Willie and Ida Neubauer of Shiner.

He married the love of his life, Diane Neubauer (Christen) on June 18, 1977, and during their 48 years of marriage had two children, Christopher and Jennifer.

Franklin spent his younger years working farms, fishing, and hunting. He was active in his community assisting with barbeque fund raisers and supporting his children in their many activities. You could often find him on a Friday night, in the stands, watching his son or nephews play ball. He worked for years at Stanley’s grocery store and later at the Spoetzl Brewery as a brewer. He liked to say he gave out over a million Shiner beers during his time running the Shiner Bock Van to all the events and festivals. Franklin always had a good story to tell and an ice-cold beer to go with it.

Franklin is survived by his wife, Diane Neubauer, children; son, Christopher Neubauer, wife Kelly Neubauer and daughter, Jennifer Neubauer Wick, and fiancé David Akin. Also, his beloved grandson, Dane Kidneigh. Brothers; Bobby Neubauer and wife Karen, Randy Heidrich and wife Sheri, Alan Allgood and wife Catherine, and Billy Blackmon. Sisters; Annie Smith and husband Freddie, Susie Cerecedez and husband Jorge, sister-in- law Bertha Heidrich, brother-in-law Leonard Christen Sr., brother-in-law Melvin (Red) Christen Jr. and wife Marilyn. As well as numerous nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents Alvin Heidrich and Geneva Allgood and Willie and Ida Neubauer and his brother, Johnny Heidrich.

Serving as pallbearers will be Nick Neubauer, Russell Neubauer, Chad Neubauer, Quinton Christen, Weston Christen, Landon Christen.

Honorary Pallbearer: Leonard Christen Jr and Katelyn Neubauer Rodriguez.

He is buried at Shiner City Cemetery.

Eunice Kathryn Lee – December 28, 1943 to May 24, 2026 (82)

Eunice Kathryn Lee, 82, of Cuero passed away on Sunday, May 24, 2026. She was born December 28, 1943 in Lindenau to Robert George and Mary Laura Cunningham Kueker. She married Robert Patrick “Pat” Lee on June 15, 1963 at St. John Lutheran Church in Lindenau. She earned her Master Degree in Education from the University of Houston. She worked as a Reading Specialist Teacher for Cuero Independent School District for 31 years. She enjoyed gardening and was a C.T.A. Victoria Master Gardener. She was also a faithful member of Calvary Baptist Church.

She is survived by her daughters, Christine Lee Hrabovsky (Roger) and Laura Lee Buckley (John); sister, Betty Jo Afflerbach (Curtis); brothers, John Kueker and Roy Kueker; grandchildren, Jennifer Gohlke, Chelsea Chaloupka and Joshua Hrabovsky; great-grandchildren, Faithlyn Hrabovsky, Jake Chaloupka, Owen Chaloupka and Olivia Chaloupka and numerous nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 47 years, Pat Lee; sisters, Wanda Huey, Dorothy Matejek, Rosemary Young and Anna Schlinke; brothers, Robert Kueker, Kenneth Kueker, Ralph Kueker, Bill Kueker and Albert Kueker.

Pallbearers include Roger Hrabovsky, John Buckley, Chris Chaloupka, Joshua Hrabovsky, Jake Chaloupka and Owen Chaloupka.

Visitation will be held Friday, May 29, 2026, 9:00 AM at Freund Funeral Home with funeral services to begin at 10:00 AM with Curtis Afflerbach officiating. Interment will follow at Alexander Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to the Eric Afflerbach Scholarship Fund or Alzcare of Dewitt County Activity Fund.

The family would like to say a special thank you to the staff at Alzcare of Dewitt County, Andrea Strait and Crown Hospice for your love and compassion.

Brenda Lopez Becomes First Woman Elected to DeWitt County Commissioners Court

By Pat Trevino | May 27, 2026

CUERO, Texas — In a landmark moment for local history, Brenda Lopez has been elected as the first woman to ever serve on the DeWitt County Commissioners Court, breaking a 175‑year precedent in county government.

Lopez won the race for County Commissioner, Precinct 2, securing a decisive victory that marks a significant shift in representation for the county. Her election places a woman on the Commissioners Court for the first time since DeWitt County was established in 1846.

For decades, DeWitt County has had women serve in other elected offices — including county clerk, district clerk, treasurer, and justice of the peace — but no woman had ever held a seat on the four‑member Commissioners Court, which oversees county roads, budgets, infrastructure, and administrative policy.

Local residents and community leaders have described Lopez’s win as both historic and long overdue. Supporters say her election reflects changing demographics, growing civic engagement, and a desire for broader representation in county leadership.

Lopez has emphasized community accessibility, infrastructure needs, and responsive local government as key priorities heading into her term. She is expected to take office on January 1, 2027, pending certification of the election results.

Her victory adds DeWitt County to the growing list of Texas counties where women have begun to break long‑standing barriers in traditionally male‑dominated local offices.

Congressman Cloud, RWOYA, Scouts Join Yoakum Ceremony Honoring the Fallen

Cuero Online News | May 26, 2026

Memorial services were held in Yoakum in solemn remembrance of Memorial Day and the men and women who gave their lives in service to the nation. Congressman Michael Cloud joined local residents, the Boy Scouts of America, and community leaders in honoring fallen service members through wreath‑laying ceremonies and patriotic tributes.

(Contributed photo)

The RWOYA participated in both DeWitt and Lavaca counties, paying respects to loved ones who passed away while in uniform. The gathering reflected the community’s deep gratitude, bringing together generations to remember sacrifice, uphold tradition, and ensure that the legacy of those who served is never forgotten.

Yoakum High School National Honor Society Welcomes New Inductees, Honors Outstanding Members

By Pat Trevino | May 26, 2026

-The Yoakum High School National Honor Society held its annual induction ceremony on Tuesday, celebrating academic excellence, leadership, service, and character — the four pillars that define NHS. Senior officers led the program, guiding the formal induction of new members and recognizing students who exemplified the organization’s core values throughout the year.

As part of the ceremony, individual awards were presented to both senior and junior members whose contributions stood out among their peers.

Senior Award Recipients

Emma Fling — Leadership, Alexandra Jurena — Scholarship, Dylan Shimek — Character, Luis Valdez Nunez — Service

Junior Award Recipients

Amy Ramirez — Leadership, Jax Boswell — Scholarship, Madie Svec — Character, Jared Ramirez — Service

Faculty sponsors praised the students for their dedication to academics and their commitment to serving the school and community. The ceremony highlighted not only the accomplishments of current members but also the promise and potential of the newly inducted students.

Congratulations to all current members and new inductees. Your academic performance, leadership, dedication to service, and strength of character truly deserve this recognition.

(Contributed photo)

Cuero Students Earn Top Marks at UIL Texas State Solo & Ensemble Contest

By Pat Trevino | May 24, 2026

San Antonio, Tx -Cuero High School musicians represented their community with pride this weekend as they traveled to San Antonio to compete at the UIL Texas State Solo & Ensemble Contest, one of the most rigorous fine arts evaluations in the state.

The contest brings together top high school performers from across Texas who previously earned a Division 1 – Superior rating on a Class 1 solo or ensemble at their regional UIL event. Those students advance to the state level, where they perform for collegiate‑level judges and are evaluated against the highest statewide performance standards.

Strong Performances From Cuero Band and Choir

Caitlyn Geigle, representing the Cuero High School Band on flute, delivered a poised and polished performance at the state contest. Her musical preparation earned her a Division 2 – Excellent rating, a strong accomplishment at a competition known for its demanding expectations.

In the vocal division, Landri Dyer and Nadia Light both achieved the top honor possible at State, receiving a Division 1 – Superior rating for their solo performances. Their scores reflect exceptional musicality, technical skill, and expressive interpretation—qualities that UIL judges evaluate at the highest level.

Adam Taylor also qualified for the state contest in voice after earning a Division 1 rating at region, though he was unable to attend the San Antonio event.

A Showcase of Statewide Talent  

The UIL State Solo & Ensemble Contest is not a head‑to‑head competition; instead, each student is evaluated individually by expert judges. Performers from all classifications—1A through 6A—present their prepared works and are scored on tone, technique, musical interpretation, and overall artistry. The contest draws thousands of the most advanced high school musicians in Texas each year.

Pride for Cuero High School

Cuero’s students demonstrated dedication, discipline, and a commitment to excellence throughout the season. Their achievements at the state level highlight the strength of the school’s fine arts programs and the hard work of both the students and their directors.

With two Superior ratings and one Excellent rating at one of the most competitive music events in Texas, Cuero High School continues to shine among the state’s talented young musicians.

Walter Wayne Warwas – July 18, 1959 to May 13, 2026 (66)

Walter Wayne Warwas was called by God to follow the Angel, Gabriel, home to heaven, on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. He was born in the Yorktown Hospital on a hot, summer day, July 18, 1959 to parents Milton Arthur and Helen Berckenhoff Warwas. He had spent the last three years living in the Yorktown Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility.

He was baptized into Catholic faith on July 26, 1959, his sponsors were Walter and Leona Berckenhoff. He attended Holy Cross Catholic Church, receiving First Communion on May 5, 1968, and getting confirmed on May 10, 1972. Walter attended Holy Cross Catholic School then transferred to Yorktown public school. In high school, he was active in Yorktown FFA and was a member of the senior class of 1978. Walter had many different jobs such as farming, ranching, oil field, road construction and gate guarding.

Walter is survived by his brothers, Bernard (Joyce Ann) Warwas from Nordheim and William (Ann) Warwas of Yorktown. He is also survived by his nephews and their children Joseph (Johanna), Ellyn and Aileen; Franklyn (Gabby), Amzie and Bryce Warwas, all from Nordheim.

Walter is preceded in death by his parents, maternal grandparents, Laura Lena Riebschlaeger Berckenhoff and Henry Bernard Berckenhoff, paternal grandparents, Frieda Meta Huck and Frank Joe Warwas.

He is buried at Holy Cross Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Joseph Warwas, Franklyn Warwas, Michael Gwosdz, Ben Hahn, Chester Buesing and Tracy Metting. Honorary pallbearers are Kenneth Ray Tam, Joseph Respondek, James Muschalek and Michael Hernandez.

In lieu of flowers, plants, and trees, memorials may be given to Remarkable Hospice, Yorktown EMS, Holy Cross Catholic Church, or donor’s choice.

James Carl Gripp – July 13, 1939 to May 9, 2029 (86)

YOAKUM:  James Carl Gripp, 86, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, May 9, 2026. He was born July 13, 1939, in Victoria to the late Edwin and Lillie (Pargac) Gripp.

James was a loving husband to Melva Brewer Gripp, father to Kelly and grandfather to Casey, caring the best name of all, ‘PaPo”. He worked as a helicopter mechanic for many years until he went to work for Miller Brewery in Fort Worth for the next 30 years. For their retirement they moved back to Yoakum where he enjoyed working in his garden, fishing, hunting and cheering on his Dallas Cowboys.

Survivors are his wife of 63 years, Melva Gripp of Yoakum; daughter, Kelly Gordon and husband Paul of Sanger; grandson, Casey Gordon of Sanger; sister, Mary Louise Ruth of Victoria; his beloved fur baby, Mr T and numerous extended family.

Preceded in death by his parents, Edwin and Lillie Gripp; son, Scott Gripp; brothers, Eddie Gripp and Rolla Don Gripp.

Private Celebration of Life to be held at a later date.

Memorials may be given to First United Methodist Church in Yoakum.

Debra “Debbie” Alvarez (Mungia) – June 1, 1961 to May 19, 2026 (64)

Debbie Alvarez, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas, at the age of 64.

Born on June 1, 1961, in El Campo, Texas, Debbie was the daughter of Gilbert Mungia Sr. and Teresa Rodriguez Mungia. She was one of thirteen children and grew up surrounded by the love and strength of a large family that remained important to her throughout her life.

On March 15, 1980, Debbie married the love of her life, Jerry Alvarez, at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Yorktown, Texas. Together they shared 46 wonderful years of marriage built on faith, devotion, and family.

Debbie dedicated many years of service as an assistant administrator in the healthcare industry, where she was known for her compassion, kindness, and caring spirit. A devoted Catholic, she was a faithful member of San Luis Catholic Church and lived her life grounded in faith and love for others.

While Debbie loved her husband and children deeply, her greatest joy came from her grandchildren, who lovingly knew her as “MoMo.” She cherished every moment spent with her grandbabies and created countless memories filled with laughter, warmth, and unconditional love.

She is survived by her devoted husband of 46 years, Jerry Alvarez; daughter, Kaycee Hunt and husband Gordon; son, Jerry Alvarez Jr. and wife Mallary; granddaughter, Kimberlee Alvarez; grandson, Cristobal Alvarez; siblings, Gloria Gomez, Lucia Davila and husband Mario, Gilbert Mungia Jr. and wife Amelia, Valerio Mungia, and Ruben Mungia and wife Rebecca; along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends who will miss her greatly.

Debbie was preceded in death by her parents, Gilbert Mungia Sr. and Teresa Rodriguez Mungia; and siblings, Martin Mungia, Roman Mungia Sr., Armando Mungia Sr., Yolanda Mungia, Alicia Barrera, Jimmy Mungia, and Rene Mungia.

Debbie will be remembered for her unwavering faith, loving heart, selfless nature, and the deep love she shared with her family and friends. Her legacy of love and devotion will continue to live on in all who knew and loved her.

A mass was held at San Luis Catholic Church in Yorktown with Father Scott Hill officiating. She is buried at the San Luis Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers were Valerio Mungia Jr, Dylan Mungia, Braden Villarreal, Deagan Mungia, Rocky Barrera, and Daniel Villarreal.

Memorial contributions may be given to the San Luis Catholic Church.