Michael Dale Poenitzsch, 80, of Cuero, passed away on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. He was born on January 3, 1945, in Cuero to Jessie and Mary Louise Oellers Poenitzsch.
Michael was baptized at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Cuero and later became a member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Lindenau. He married Margie Ann Rau, and together they moved to Angleton, where they lovingly raised their family.
After graduating from high school, Michael attended Del Mar College in Corpus Christi, where he earned certification in welding. Beginning in 1964, he worked as a certified welder proficient in GTAW, SMAW, GMAW, and SAW processes. His strong work ethic and dedication were evident throughout his career.
Michael was employed by numerous construction companies, including Brown & Root, Austin Engineering Co., Bechtel Corp., H.B. Zachry, Payne & Keller, Tecon Green, D&N Construction, and C&M Construction, serving as either a welder or job site inspector.
In 1972, he joined K&L Welding in Angleton as a quality control manager, overseeing the construction, fabrication, and repair of pressure vessels. His leadership and expertise led to his promotion in 1984 to co-owner and vice president of the company.
Later in his career, Michael continued his work in refineries and chemical plants, serving as a welding inspector and maintaining the high standards that defined his professional life.
After retiring, Michael remained active by putting his craftsmanship to work—constructing BBQ pits, bumper-pull trailers, fire pits, and coffee tables. Known for his creativity and precision, he built everything to last. If something broke, Michael was the one to fix it—his hands were always busy, and his solutions were always reliable.
One of his greatest joys was caring for his beloved granddaughter, affectionately known as “Bitsy.” He took her along on his daily coffee shop outings and spontaneous adventures, creating cherished memories along the way. Visits from his grandchildren were the highlight of his days, and his steady presence and gentle wisdom left a lasting influence on each of them
In 2011, Michael and his wife returned to his childhood home—the family farm in Cuero. He found joy in tending to his cattle and took great pride in keeping the land well-groomed and welcoming. The farm became a place of peace, purpose, and connection.
Michael cherished hunting trips with his son, grandchildren, and extended family. He was known for his playful teasing—especially when someone passed on a shot. “Oh, a no shooter!” he’d say with a grin, delighting in the laughter that followed. His sense of humor and lighthearted spirit were woven into every family gathering.
Above all, Michael adored his family. He was steadfast in his beliefs, headstrong in his convictions, yet his heart overflowed with love, generosity, and kindness. He gave freely of himself, always wanting the best for those he loved.
He is survived by his wife, Margie; daughter, Tamara Poenitzsch; grandchildren, Courtney Poenitzsch Freeman (Jake), Michaela Ann Reynolds, Alexandria Joy Poenitzsch (Tyler), Cory Wayne Reynolds and Hunter Troy Poenitzsch; great-grandchildren, Westlyn Faith O’neal, Walker Wade Freeman, and Tucker Troy Freeman; daughter in law, Marti Poenitzsch; brother in laws and sister in laws, Franklin and Susie Rau, Elva Petersen, Mike and Joy Gyllenband and Carol Rau and his favorite little buddy, Rusty.
He was preceded in death by his parents; grandparents, Alex and Amelia Quast Oellers and Otto Max and Hermina Baca Poenitzsch; son, Michael Troy Poenitzsch; sisters and brother in law, Marsha Poenitzsch, and Shirley and Harold Holtman; sister in law and brother in laws, Marie and Gladney Harrell, Alton Rau, John Petersen and niece and nephew, Patsy Holtman and Derek Collins.
Pallbearers include Cory Reynolds, Hunter Poenitzsch, Jake Freeman, Kirk Harrell, Roque Feril and Jeff Rutledge.
Honorary Pallbearers include Frank Sanchez, Ronnie Slovacek and Garland Weber.
Visitation will be held Monday, August 18, 2025, 5-7 PM at Freund Funeral Home. Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, August 19, 2025, 10 AM at Freund Funeral Home with Rev. Jan R. Putnam and Chaplain Rand Bentson officiating. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.
Thank you to Harbor Hospice Nurse, Ariel and Palliative Nurse, Brenda as well as his phone friends, John Wheeler, Pat Elder, Sandy Miks and Little James.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the St. John Lutheran Church Lindenau.
