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Ralph Bruce Abel – January 23, 1940 to March 26, 2025 (85)

Ralph Bruce Abel, 85, of Corpus Christi, passed away peacefully on March 26, 2025. He was born to Ross and Dorothy (Rabke) Abel on January 23, 1940.

Bruce grew up in Cuero and had many stories about his youth. In high school and after, he especially enjoyed weekend dances in the area. He graduated from Cuero High School in 1958. Having no skills, plan, or money, he joined the Navy like his father. He said it was the best decision he had ever made.

In the Navy, Bruce made two six-month cruises to the Mediterranean aboard the aircraft carrier, USS Saratoga. He remembered the second cruise was life changing. He had matured and decided to tour Europe and the Middle East. Through these worldly travels, he decided he needed to get a college education.

After he was honorably discharged from the Navy, Bruce enrolled in Victoria College. There, he earned an Associate of Arts Degree in 1964. He then enrolled at Texas A&M University. While at A&M, Bruce was a member of the Accounting Society. He graduated top of his accounting class, earning a Bachelor of Business Administration with a Major in Accounting in 1966.

After passing his CPA exam, Bruce joined the accounting firm of Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Co. He was there from 1966 until 1970. He became Assistant Controller for Lichtenstein’s Department Store in March 1970 and was later promoted to Controller in April 1971. When Frost Brothers bought out Lichtenstein’s in 1972, Bruce moved to Whataburger. In 1979, he was promoted to Vice President and Controller. He retired in 1997 as CFO.

Bruce had many interests. He said the first time his Dad took him fishing, he was hooked. Bruce was extremely passionate about fishing, rarely missing a weekend to fish. He even built a cabin on a spoil island in the Laguna Madre to be closer to the water. He had a vegetable garden, traveled, took up photography, and collected coastal art. Later in life, he picked up golf and enjoyed playing it for many years. He was very proud of his work with GCCA, now CCA. He was a lifetime member.

He said his proudest moment was when his niece, Lisa, and then his daughter, Wendy, followed in his footsteps and graduated from Texas A&M.

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

He is survived by his daughter Wendy (Craig Lifton) Abel; sister, Susan (Ken) Adams; brother, Brad Abel and beloved cousin Nancy (Wayne) Brackeen. He is also survived by his niece, Lisa (Elaine Gomez-Greenfield) Semper and nephews, Tim (Nancy) Adams, John Abel, and Austin (Geordian) Abel.

Visitation will be held Saturday, April 5, 2025, 1:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home.  Funeral Services will begin at 2:00 PM.  Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery with Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Association of Former Students of Texas A&M University or the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA).

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 Ralph Bruce Abel, please click here to visit our Sympathy Store.

Yorktown FFA’s Vet Science Team Shines Across Texas

Yorktown, Texas – The Yorktown FFA Veterinary Science team recently participated in two major events in Glen Rose and at Tarleton State University. Through their dedication and skill, the team upheld the program’s values of leadership, personal growth, and career success while proudly representing Yorktown.

At the Glen Rose competition, the team achieved a noteworthy 49th place out of 107 teams. Layne distinguished himself with an individual placement of 50th out of 453 competitors, showcasing his exceptional performance.

The team continued their efforts at Tarleton State University, demonstrating significant progress and determination. Out of 221 teams, Yorktown FFA earned 100th place, accompanied by notable individual achievements:
– Layne advanced to 76th place out of 878 competitors, reflecting his consistent improvement.
– Allie reached an impressive milestone by increasing her overall score by 140 points.
– Taylor met her personal goal of ranking in the 700s, demonstrating her perseverance and commitment.

Ms. Alatorre, a dedicated mentor and advocate for the program, shared her enthusiasm for accompanying the team and witnessing their diligence firsthand. The experience was especially meaningful as the team competed at her alma mater, Tarleton State University, adding a personal connection to the journey.

Yorktown FFA remains devoted to fostering leadership development, career readiness, and community engagement through contests like these. The accomplishments of the Veterinary Science team exemplify the organization’s ongoing commitment to excellence and student growth.

Green Cow Creamery – Cuero Location Announces Closure

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Cuero, Texas – In a heartfelt announcement, The Green Cow Creamery has shared that its Cuero location will officially close its doors on March 30th. Known for its handcrafted ice cream and cherished by the local community, the creamery’s decision comes with bittersweet emotions.

“Serving this incredible community has been an absolute joy,” the owners shared in their message to customers. “We are deeply grateful for your support, smiles, and shared love for handcrafted ice cream. While this chapter is coming to a close, the memories we’ve made together will always hold a special place in our hearts.”

While the Cuero location is bidding farewell, there is good news for ice cream enthusiasts: The Green Cow Creamery’s Victoria location will remain open. Residents are encouraged to visit and continue sharing sweet moments with the creamery’s signature flavors.

Additionally, the owners hinted at future plans to maintain their presence in Cuero, promising that more details will be revealed soon.

Until the final day of operation, the Cuero location will stay fully stocked to give loyal customers a chance to savor their favorite treats one last time.

The Green Cow Creamery invites the community to join them in celebrating their journey, reflecting on the memories, and making the final days as sweet as the ice cream they’ve proudly served.

For more updates on their future endeavors, patrons are encouraged to stay connected with The Green Cow Creamery.

Michele Elizabeth Greenwell – May 25, 1945 to March 26, 2025 (79)

MOULTON: Michele Elizabeth Greenwell, age 79, passed away Wednesday, March 26, 2025. She was born May 25, 1945 in California to Cyril Edward Van Loozen and Lois Marie Monahan Van Loozen.

Michele was a dedicated wife for 61 years and was fiercely loyal and lovingly dedicated to her family.  She was selflessly committed to the care and service of the elderly where she worked as an aide and med-aide for Shady Oaks Nursing Home in Moulton and Oak Manor Nursing Home in Flatonia for nearly 50 years.  She loved horses, chickens and her dog Gabby.  Michele loved the Lord Jesus Christ with all her heart, soul, mind and with all her strength.

Survivors: husband, Bob Greenwell; sons, Steven Greenwell (Kim) and Jeff Greenwell (Milana); 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren; sister, Jennifer Collentro; brothers, Steven Van Loozen and Billy Van Loozen (Gay).

Preceded in death by; parents; son, Chris Greenwell; grandson, Brian Greenwell and brothers, Jimmy Van Loozen, Clay Van Loozen and David Van Loozen.

A Memorial Service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be given to Meadow Haven Horse Rescue (meadowhavenrescue.com).

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home in Yoakum 361-293-5656

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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.