YOAKUM: Mary Alice Hamett passed away on October 21, 2025 at the age of 86. She was born January 4, 1939 in DaCosta, Texas to the late Earl Neisser and Maude (Shannon) Neisser Rypple.
Alice was a strong determined woman who was not afraid of hard work. She loved quilting and crocheting.
Survivors are her sons, Ronnie Guy Maynard and Randy G. Maynard and daughter, Yvette Hausmann and husband, Charles; 2 grandchildren, Emily and Erin Hausmann; nieces, Julie L. Hahn and Shannon Foley (Jason); nephews, Russel Johnson (Sharon) and Rick Johnson (Jamie).
Alice is preceded in death by her parents Earl Neisser, Maude Neisser Rypple and step-father, Edwin L. Rypple; sisters, Helen Baker, Bessie Hahn and Rebecca Rypple; nephew, Roger Johnson.
Private family service to be held at a later date.
By Pat Trevino | November 3, 2025 Cuero Online News
CUERO, TEXAS — The grounds of the Proctor-Green House were filled with friends, neighbors, and guests who traveled from near and far to honor Robert Leon Oliver. Cowboys and cowgirls in boots and hats stood alongside doctors, lawyers, artists, authors, business owners, neighbors, and lifelong friends. Some came from across town, others from across the state, all drawn to the same place by a shared connection to Robert Leon Oliver—a man whose generosity and vision helped shape the cultural heart of Cuero. Founder, benefactor, and guiding force behind the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum, Robert’s legacy was woven into every corner of the gathering.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Guests mingle near the museum grounds during the November 1, 2025 celebration of Robert Leon Oliver’s life and legacy—an afternoon marked by heartfelt tributes, shared memories, and the enduring spirit of community in Cuero, Texas.
Beneath the sprawling oaks, they came together not out of formality, but from the quiet pull of a man who moved easily between worlds, making everyone feel seen, welcomed, and part of something lasting. Family stood alongside friends, colleagues beside admirers, each one part of the wide and welcoming circle he had a way of creating around him. At 4 p.m., as golden rays filtered through the branches and the cool air carried a whisper of rain, the celebration of Robert’s life began. It was, like him, joyful and deeply moving—a tribute to a man who brought people together to build a legacy.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Guests share a quiet exchange during the celebration of Robert Leon Oliver’s life and legacy—an afternoon of reflection and community beneath the oaks in Cuero, Texas.
Oliver, born in Refugio in 1949 and raised in Cuero, was a man of dual devotions: to the land and to the legacy it carried. His passion for South Central Texas ranching culture was not nostalgic—it was architectural. He didn’t just preserve history; he curated it, codified it, and gave it a home. From 1998 to 2001, he chaired the Cuero Heritage Museum, curating exhibits with the precision of a scholar and the warmth of a host. By 2000, he had rallied stakeholders to establish the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum, navigating bylaws, capital campaigns, and restoration efforts with the quiet tenacity of someone who knew that memory, like masonry, requires structure.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Left to Right Guests Isabel Patton, Cynthia Orozco, and Angie B. enjoy a relaxed moment during the November 1, 2025 celebration of Robert Leon Oliver’s life and legacy—gathered in fellowship, reflection, and gratitude on the museum grounds in Cuero, Texas.
The museum opened in 2013, but its true opening was in the hearts of those who walked through its doors and saw not just artifacts, but themselves. Oliver’s vision expanded beyond the museum walls to include Peebles Park, the Steen Roundabout, and a future annex for Native American artifacts and Western art. He saw history not as something to archive, but as something to share, celebrate, and experience together.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Nessun Dorma – Turandot, ActIII, Giacomo Puccini
Saturday’s ceremony reflected the heart of Robert’s vision—community, culture, and connection. Rick Bluntzer, Chairman of the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum Board of Directors, welcomed guests, followed by a stirring musical offering: Puccini’s “Nessun Dorma” from Turandot, Act III. The aria soared through the trees, setting the tone for a program that was both elegant and heartfelt.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Will Oliver delivers a heartfelt tribute during the November 1, 2025 celebration of Robert Leon Oliver’s life and legacy—honoring his relative’s enduring impact on Cuero’s cultural and community landscape.
Then came the voices of family and friends. They spoke not in eulogy, but in testimony—Will Oliver, Kathy Oliver, Jeff Steen, and Patricia Muir. Their words moved between laughter and tears, weaving childhood memories with adult admiration. They recalled family dinners where the table was surrounded not just by loved ones, but by culture—Spanish music, jazz, classical compositions, and sounds from around the globe—offering a window into different worlds. There were stories that made the crowd smile, and moments of quiet stillness, when the weight of loss settled gently over the gathering. It became clear that Robert had not only shaped a museum—he had shaped the people around him. Their words painted a portrait of a man whose mentorship and generosity were as expansive as the Texas sky. And it was clear, too, that his happiness brought them happiness—especially in the life he shared with his beloved partner. To see him happy filled them with joy.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Guests gather in front of the Proctor-Green House during the November 1, 2025 celebration of Robert Leon Oliver’s life and legacy—an afternoon of remembrance, fellowship, and shared gratitude in Cuero, Texas.
A reading of George Bernard Shaw’s The Torch followed, a fitting metaphor for Robert’s life and legacy:
“This is the true joy in life, the being used for a purpose recognized by yourself as a mighty one; the being a force of nature instead of a feverish, selfish little clod of ailments and grievances complaining that the world will not devote itself to making you happy… Life is no ‘brief candle’ for me. It is a sort of splendid torch which I have got hold of for the moment, and I want to make it burn as brightly as possible before handing it on to future generations.”
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Jeff Steen reflects on family stories and history during the November 1, 2025 celebration of Robert Leon Oliver’s life and legacy—drawing on the knowledge his relative helped preserve for generations.
Gina Holcomb and Diana Thibodeaux read Maya Angelou’s When Great Trees Fall, and the metaphor landed with quiet force. Oliver was one of those trees.
“…Our senses, restored, never to be the same, whisper to us. They existed. They existed. We can be. Be and be better. For they existed.”
A special moment came when Bill Blackwell announced a matching gift from the Cuero Community Foundation to support the museum’s expansion—a fitting tribute to Robert’s enduring dream of creating spaces that bring people together to learn, celebrate, and connect.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Rick Bluntzer speaks from the podium during the November 1, 2025 celebration of Robert Leon Oliver’s life and legacy, announcing a generous contribution to the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum by longtime supporter Bill Blackwell.
The clouds held tight to the promise of rain as Rick Bluntzer and Sharon Weber raised a toast—not to an ending, but to a legacy. Guests were invited to enjoy refreshments and wander the museum grounds, including Peebles Park and the Steen Roundabout—spaces Robert Leon Oliver helped shape not just with vision, but with love. These places, like the museum itself, stand as living testaments to his belief that history should be experienced, shared, and carried forward. As the afternoon unfolded, guests lingered in conversation, laughter, and quiet reflection. And then, as the crowd thinned and most had made their way home, the long-promised rain finally arrived—soft drops falling over Cuero, closing the celebration with a blessing the land had been waiting for.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Sharon Weber and Rick Bluntzer raise their glasses in a toast during the November 1, 2025 celebration of Robert Leon Oliver’s life and legacy—honoring his vision, generosity, and the community he helped build.
As Cuero mourns the loss of one of its most visionary sons, it also celebrates a life that gave so much—generously, joyfully, and with deep intention. Robert Leon Oliver didn’t just build a museum; he built a legacy of belonging, one that will continue to echo through the halls of the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum and in the hearts of all who knew him.
(Photo by Pat Trevino) A massive oak tree anchors the front lawn of the Proctor-Green House—its wide canopy offering shade and quiet strength during the November 1, 2025 celebration of Robert Leon Oliver’s life and legacy.
Donation cards were available for those who wished to contribute, and gifts may still be made by mail to: Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum, 302 N. Esplanade Street, Cuero, TX 77954
Lovel Artice Blain, III entered Heaven to be eternally healed on Friday, October 31, 2025. Our hearts are broken, but we are forever grateful for God’s healing.
Lovel’s life began in Cuero on October 11, 1946, as God Blessed Lovel Artice “Dicky” Blain, II (preceded) and Caroline Serino Blain with their first born son. Lovel grew up in Yorktown where he learned to love the country. His love for family began with his siblings, Patricia Nelson, Robert “Bobby” Blain, and Janet Cooper (preceded). In his youth and adolescent years, Lovel took pride in his musical talent, playing the saxophone, gained his confidence and strength through athletic talent, playing all sports for the Yorktown Wildcats, and worked many jobs to help his family and enjoy life.
The magic of Lovel’s life shown as God brought the love of his life, Avis Ann Blain to him in 1985. Their love story has been a true inspiration to their children and grandchildren, and Lovel was the best role model of love! Lovel and Avis Ann were married October 12, 1985, and he fulfilled his calling to be a father and selfless caretaker of his family. Lovel Artice “Buck” Blain, IV was his only son, and Lovel became a loving father to his three daughters, Avis Lynn Jalufka (Gabe), Amanda Rose Rickman (Clayton), and Alexis Ann Cooper (Justin). His genuine love for his family will be cherished forever. Along with his loving wife and children, Lovel gave his heart and soul to his 12 grandchildren and 1 great grandson, Justin Braylon Blain, Alexandra Jessica Blain, Avis Gabrielle Montgomery (Matthew), David Utah Jalufka, Rancher DeWitt Jalufka, Ashtyn Rose Draper, Hunton Callon Rickman, Daizy Ray Rickman, Jaydie Blain Cooper, Cash Cleo Cooper, Hope Ann Cooper, Grace Ann Cooper, and Judah William Montgomery. His grandchildren will cherish the love and support their Papa offered to them, always.
Lovel was a true cowboy, steward of the land, and caretaker of animals. He was forever grateful for his work family that made his dreams a reality. The Crozier Family, Knandel Family, and Chico Korth Family were loyal Landlords and friends for the past 50 years, and Dr. Crozier gave Lovel the opportunity to fulfill his purpose in his career.
Lovel was deeply active in his community and a devoted supporter of youth programs. He was a faithful member of St. John’s Lutheran Church in Meyersville, where he served as Superintendent of Sunday School and as a teacher. His dedication extended to many local organizations, including the Meyersville School Board, the Meyersville Volunteer Fire Department, the Cuero Gobbler All-Sports Booster Club, and the Cuero Livestock Show Board. He was also a proud member of the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum, a strong advocate for R-Calf and a dedicated supporter of the Texas Junior High Rodeo Association.
Lovel was honored to receive the Cuero Livestock Show Honoree Award, the Cuero Chamber of Commerce Agriculture Achievement Award, and the 2025 Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum Cowboy of the Year Award.
Lovel Blain, Papa, will always be remembered for his Life, Lessons, and Legacy
A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 11 a.m. beneath the beautiful oak trees at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum. Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery. Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life and fellowship following interment at the Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum.
Pallbearers include Gabe Jalufka, Clayton Rickman, Justin Cooper, Justin Blain, Utah Jalufka, Rancher Jalufka, Cash Cooper, and Hunton Rickman.
Honorary Pallbearers include Alexandra Blain, Gabrielle Jalufka, Ashtyn Draper, Jaydie Cooper, Hope Cooper, Grace Cooper, Daizy Rickman, Stayton Weldon, Erroll John Deitze, Tooter Flack, Finley Blackwell, Dutton Lane, Bill Braden, Mark Doehrman, Buzz Jacoby, David Garcia, Robert Walsh, Johnny Blackwell, Steve Urbanovsky, Karl Kuecker, Marvin Cantrell, Ted Avant, Joe Adams, Ricky Gohmert, and Harlan Metting.
Honorary Family includes The Crozier Family, The Chico Korth Family, and The Knandel Family.
Our greatest love and thank you to Dr. Jennifer Gonzales and Hospice of South Texas, Dr. Ty Meyer, and all of the staff at the Dornburg Center for Compassion in Victoria, Texas. Memorials may be made to the Dornburg Center for Compassion – 1005 Mallette Drive, Victoria, Texas 77904 or The Chisholm Trail Heritage Museum, Cuero.
Deborah Lee Keech, 69, of Cuero passed away Tuesday, October 28, 2025. She was born to Jimmy Hubert and Ruby Pearl Borden Rogers on February 20, 1956, in Corpus Christi. She married Robert Lee Keech on August 1, 1981, at Calvary Baptist Church in Cuero. She was a unit secretary for Cuero Community Hospital for over 30 years.
She is survived by her sisters, Virginia Isenberg, Beverly Nelson (Jerry) and Jackie Reynolds (Joe); nieces, Candace Adkins (Chad), Tiffany Key (Michael) and Brittany Garza (Daniel); nephews, Jason Rogers (Carolyn), Todd Mutschler, Jerry Nelson III “Bubba” (Autumn) and Kerry Mutschler (Avery) as well as many great-nieces and great-nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband of forty-two years, Robert Lee Keech.
Visitation will be held Saturday, November 1, 2025, 1:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home. Funeral Services will begin at 2:00 PM with Pastor Jerry Nelson officiating. Interment to follow at Hillside Cemetery.
Pallbearers include Daniel Garza, Layne Rogers, Todd Mutschler, Kerry Mutschler, Bubba Nelson, Chad Adkins, Jason Rogers, Peyton Key, Warren Key and Michael Key.
Memorial Contributions may be made to Cuero Regional Hospital Volunteers.
CUERO, TX — A series of grass fires swept through northern DeWitt County on Wednesday, fueled by Red Flag Warning conditions first posted by the DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management and Floodplain Administration on October 28 at 12:13 p.m.. The warning cited strong winds, low humidity, and warm temperatures—a volatile mix that set the stage for rapid fire spread and extreme behavior.
DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management public Facebook photo
By late afternoon on Wednesday, crews had contained the largest blaze near FM 766, saving seven structures and later confirming that livestock had also been protected. The coordinated response involved a wide network of local and regional agencies, as well as private partners who stepped in to support the firefight.
Fires on Both Sides of the Road
Resident Loraine Elliott witnessed the fire as it burned on both sides of the road near her home, which intersects with FM 766. A second blaze ignited about half a mile further down, creating a corridor of smoke and flame that drew emergency crews from across DeWitt County. Elliott, who shared a photo of the scene, captured a rural stretch of FM 766 choked with thick white smoke, utility poles lining the roadside, and vehicles slowed or stopped as visibility dropped to near zero
A Countywide Response
The firefight drew in personnel and equipment from across the region. Cuero Fire Department and Cuero Volunteer Fire Department were among the first on scene, joined quickly by crews from Thomaston, Yorktown, and Yoakum Volunteer Fire Departments. Support came from DeWitt County Precincts #1 and #2, the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office, and the Texas Department of Transportation, who helped manage traffic and access along FM 766 and Highway 183 North.
DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management public Facebook photo
State-level coordination was provided by the Texas Division of Emergency Management, while the DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management oversaw local logistics and public communication. In a critical assist, Friedel Drilling deployed water tankers to the fire line, supplying crews with the additional water needed to suppress flames in areas without hydrants. Their support helped stabilize the perimeter and protect both structures and livestock.
The Cuero Auxiliary of the Volunteer Fire Department also played a vital role, delivering hydration and supplies to crews working in high heat and heavy smoke.
DeWitt County Office of Emergency Management public Facebook photo
What Red Flag Means
A Red Flag Warning signals that critical fire weather conditions are either occurring or imminent. Under these conditions, even a small spark can lead to a fast-moving wildfire. Officials are asking residents to:
Refrain from outdoor burning
Report smoke or fire immediately
Stay clear of active fire zones
Monitor updates from local emergency management
This week’s fires underscore the importance of preparedness, rapid response, and community coordination. Thanks to the efforts of first responders and local partners, lives were protected and damage was minimized.
The 7-1 Cuero Gobblers are riding high into Week 9 after a thrilling 56-55 victory over then-ranked #5 Sinton Pirates—a win that earned quarterback Jaxxon Marie the Week 8 Built Ford Tough Player of the Week honors. Marie lit up the field with a career-high 7 passing touchdowns, going 23-for-39 for 322 yards, and added another score on the ground with 100 rushing yards on 16 carries. Now, the Gobblers look to carry that momentum into Mustang Stadium as they face the 2-5 Ingleside Mustangs in a pivotal district matchup.
Source: MaxPreps
Cuero’s offense has been electric, and by the numbers, they’re expected to do what they do best—rack up yards and light up the scoreboard. Ingleside, however, comes in allowing an average of 42.2 points per game, a stat that favors Cuero’s high-powered attack. But as every coach knows, district games are never a gimme. The Mustangs may be down in the standings, but the old adage rings true: anything can happen on any given Friday.
This game carries extra weight for Cuero. It’s a “win and you’re in” scenario—if the Gobblers take care of business in Ingleside, they’ll punch their ticket to the state playoffs. Seeding and district championship outcomes remain up in the air in this tightly contested district, likely to be decided in the final week. But a win Friday puts Cuero in prime position to chase another district title.
Source: MaxPreps
History favors the Gobblers, who haven’t lost to Ingleside since 2015 and dominated last year’s matchup with a 40-14 victory. Still, the stakes are high, and Cuero will need to stay sharp, focused, and hungry.
Source: MaxPreps
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Friday at Mustang Stadium. Expect fireworks, grit, and a Gobbler squad determined to keep the momentum rolling.
Reporting from Cuero, this is Splashwith Cuero Online News—covering the heart, hustle, and hometown pride of Gobbler football.
Meet the Contributor: Splash is a die-hard Gobbler fan, a self-proclaimed sports aficionado, and a Friday night lights loyalist. Whether he’s breaking down last week’s varsity thriller or teeing up Thursday’s JV matchup, Splash brings energy, insight, and hometown pride to every post.
Follow his coverage all season long—only in Cuero Online News.
CUERO – TDCJ Clarence N. Stevenson unit came together in a wave of pink, standing united in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. From offices to classrooms, staff lit up with compassion and purpose during their annual “Pink Out Day.“
October is more than just a month on the calendar—it’s a call to action. Breast cancer affects 1 in 8 women in the U.S., and early detection remains one of the most powerful tools we have. By wearing pink, we not only raise awareness but also send a message of hope and solidarity to those currently battling the disease, those who have survived it, and the families who carry the memory of loved ones lost.
👚 The amazing team at TDCJ Clarence N. Stevenson unit showed up in full force, dressed head-to-toe in pink—from bold shirts and hats to creative accessories and heartfelt messages. The energy was uplifting, the smiles contagious, and the commitment unmistakable.
Each photo captured the spirit of the day: coworkers linking arms, survivors sharing stories, and teams posing proudly in their pink gear. The event served as both a celebration and a reminder: awareness leads to action, and action leads to change.
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in the U.S., and the second-leading cause of cancer death—just behind lung cancer.
As Breast Cancer Awareness Month comes to a close this October, the urgency doesn’t fade. Let’s keep up the fight—not just with pink shirts, but with action. Awareness, early detection, and education are our strongest weapons against one of the deadliest threats to women’s health. Every screening scheduled, every story shared, and every conversation sparked helps push back against the statistics. Because in communities like ours, solidarity isn’t seasonal—it’s a promise we carry forward.
CUERO — During a special meeting held on October 23, 2025, the Cuero City Council entered executive session to discuss personnel matters concerning City Manager Wayne Berger. The closed-door session, held pursuant to the Texas Open Meetings Act, began at 5:41 p.m. and concluded at 6:34 p.m. Upon reconvening in open session, the council took no formal action.
The executive session was convened under Texas Government Code Sections 551.071 and 551.074, which allow for private consultation with legal counsel and deliberation regarding the appointment, evaluation, discipline, or dismissal of a public officer or employee.
Although no action was taken following the session, the decision to deliberate behind closed doors signals that internal concerns may be under review.
Sources familiar with internal discussions, speaking on condition of anonymity, have described the complaints as serious in nature. While specific allegations have not been publicly disclosed, the concerns reportedly prompted the council to seek legal guidance and consider personnel matters in executive session.
Cuero Online News has submitted a public information request and contacted council members for comment. In an email response, Mayor Emil Garza confirmed that the request has been reviewed by the City Attorney. At this time, no formal action has been taken.
City Manager Wayne Berger was recently approved for a $15,000 salary increase, according to official council records.
As of this writing, no disciplinary measures have been announced, and the council has not indicated whether further action will be considered. Cuero Online News is committed to keeping the public informed and will share verified updates as they become available.
CUERO — In a unanimous vote during a special meeting on October 23, the Cuero City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2025-20, a sweeping measure designed to safeguard the city’s public water supply by regulating land use around its five municipal wells.
The ordinance establishes a 150-foot protective radius around each well, prohibiting a wide range of activities and facilities that could pose a risk to water quality. Among the banned uses are underground chemical storage tanks, sewage treatment systems, injection wells, feedlots, and other operations deemed unsanitary or hazardous.
City officials say the move is a proactive step toward ensuring the long-term safety of Cuero’s drinking water.
“These wells are vital to our community’s health and infrastructure,” said a city spokesperson. “This ordinance gives us the tools to protect them from contamination and comply with state and federal standards.”
Under the new rules, residential construction is permitted within the 150-foot zone, provided it adheres to strict sanitation guidelines. However, septic systems, cemeteries, and livestock are barred from coming within 50 feet of any well.
The ordinance also grants city employees and authorized representatives the right to enter properties within the protected zones to conduct inspections and enforce compliance. Violators may face misdemeanor charges, daily fines, and mandatory removal of any prohibited structures or contamination sources.
In addition to outlining penalties, the ordinance includes a severability clause to preserve its enforceability even if portions are challenged in court. It also defers to stricter state or federal regulations when applicable.
Councilmember Terry Glover introduced the motion to adopt the ordinance, with Councilmember Tony Allen seconding. The measure passed unanimously on its final reading.
Cuero’s water wells serve as the primary source of potable water for residents. City officials emphasized that maintaining sanitary conditions around the wells is essential not only for public health but also for regulatory compliance and environmental stewardship.
For more information or to view Exhibit A identifying the well locations, residents may contact Cuero City Hall.
The energy is high and the stakes are even higher as the Yoakum Lady Bulldogs charge into the Bi-District Playoffs! These fierce athletes will take on longtime rival Goliad on Thursday, October 30th at 5:00 P.M. at Victoria St. Joseph High School—and they need your support in the stands!
After a season of grit, teamwork, and determination, the Lady Bulldogs have earned their shot at postseason glory. From powerful serves to unstoppable blocks, this team has shown what it means to play with heart—and now it’s time to bring that same fire to the playoffs.
Let’s fill the gym with Bulldog pride! Wear your blue, bring your signs, and get loud as we cheer on our girls in this high-stakes showdown. Whether you’re a proud parent, alum, student, or fan, your voice matters—let’s make sure Goliad knows Yoakum came to play.
Good luck, Lady Bulldogs! You’ve already made us proud—now go show them what Yoakum is made of. We believe in you. You got this!
Meet the Contributor: Splash is a die-hard Gobbler fan, a self-proclaimed sports aficionado, and a Friday night lights loyalist. Whether he’s breaking down last week’s varsity thriller or teeing up Thursday’s JV matchup, Splash brings energy, insight, and hometown pride to every post.
Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women in the U.S., and the second-leading cause of cancer death—just behind lung cancer.
