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John Raz – October 1, 1956 to Oct 2, 2025 (69)

SWEET HOME: It is with heavy hearts and deep love that we announce Richard “Ricky” John Raz was called back to be with our Lord on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at the age of 69.  He was born October 1, 1956, to Jim and Louise (Barcak) Raz in Yoakum, TX.

At the center of his world was his wife, Denise Ann (Simper) Raz.  His best friend, love of his life and anchor, that kept him grounded.  Among his many titles, Husband & Papaw were his favorites.  He worked the last 14 years as a Salesman for Hansa-Flex alongside his friends and eldest son, Chris.  He poured his heart into his career, where he was not only respected for his work, but loved for his laughter and uplifting spirit.  It was never about work for him. Ricky believed relationships were the true measure of a good life.  He proudly served in the U.S. Army Reserves directly after high school.  He was a faithful member of the Queen of Peace Catholic Church and a volunteer for the Sweet Home Fire Department for many years.  Outside of work, he enjoyed fishing and following his grandchildren and great grandchildren to all of their sports and extra-curricular activities, regardless of the distance.

His legacy is one of absolute joy, exuberance and unwavering kindness. He will be remembered not by just the stories that we tell, but by the way he made us all feel – valued, loved and uplifted.  His happy disposition and easy laugh became his signature. By example, he taught us to make friends, to love deeply and to see the blessing in every single person.  He never met a stranger anywhere he went, and strangers soon became friends, and friends turned into family. He always had a story to tell or a memory to share.  He loved his family and friends unconditionally and supported them all without hesitation.

He is survived in death by his wife of 50 years and the love of his life, Denise Simper Raz.  His love for her will endure the test of time.  He is also survived by his eldest son, Chris Raz, and wife, Cindy of Inez, his daughter, Melissa and husband, Wayne Wauson of Midland, his son, Jason Raz, and wife, Mariah of Yoakum, his daughter, Wendy, and husband, Greg Mican of Victoria, and his youngest daughter, Sandy, and husband, Justin Butschek of Hallettsville; grandchildren, Morgan & Alex Heimann, Mason and Madison Raz, Brayden and Ashtyn Wauson, Layne and Brynlynn Wauson, Wyatt and Peyton Mican, Tyler, Trace and Trent Butschek, Zac Raz, and; great grandchildren, Briley and Hadley Heimann and Halle Wauson;  brother James Raz of Ganado, sister, Barbara Nilsson, and husband Weldon of Victoria, and baby sister, Vickie Sobotik, and husband Patrick of Yoakum.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Jim & Louise Raz; son, Jeremy John Raz; great granddaughter Emma Grace Heimann; father-in-law, George Simper; and mother-in-law, Georgie Simper

Visitation 4 to 6 p.m., with Rosary recited at 6 p.m., Sunday, October 12, 2025, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home.

Funeral Mass 10 a.m., Monday, October 13, 2025, at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Sweet Home with Rev. Dominic Antwi-Boasiako officiating. Burial to follow at Koerth Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers are his grandsons, Brayden Wauson, Wyatt Mican, Mason Raz, Tyler Butschek, Trace Butschek, Zachary Raz, Peyton Mican, Layne Wauson, and Trent Butschek.

Honorary Pall Bearers are his granddaughters, Morgan, Briley and Hadley Heimann, Madison Raz and Brynlynn Wauson

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John the Baptist Church in Koerth or the Sweet Home Volunteer Fire Department.

Mother and Children Left Homeless in Alleged Arson at 207 Togo Street

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Pat Trevino | October 7, 2025

A mother and her three children are left homeless following a fire at 207 Togo Street in Cuero, Texas. Based on preliminary information gathered by this reporter, the incident is being investigated as a possible case of arson. The name of the alleged suspect is being withheld pending further investigation.

The fire broke out around 8:00 PM. A neighbor driving along Togo Street had just turned left onto Crain Street when she noticed an unusual brightness on the front porch of a nearby home. Upon seeing smoke, she immediately contacted emergency services. Multiple fire crews responded to the scene, and firefighters were observed using chainsaws in the backyard. Cuero City Manager Wayne Berger and Emergency Manager Billy Jordan were also present.

(photo by Pat Trevino) Firefighters worked in the backyard of the Togo Street home as chainsaws echoed through the night. This reporter maintained a safe distance. No official statement has yet been released by the Cuero Fire Department. – Oct 6, 2025
(Photo by Pat Trevino) Smoldering debris and soaked earth mark the aftermath of the blaze at 207 Togo Street. Fire hoses lie across the yard as firefighters remain stationed at the front of the home. No official report has been released.

The home belongs to Rhonda Michelle Thomas, a young mother of three. Her children were not present at the time of the fire. Ms. Thomas had recently ended a relationship with a local man. She reported that he had broken a window at her home prior to the incident and that she hadn’t seen him again until the day before the fire. While sitting on her front porch, she observed him circling the property multiple times before stopping to speak with her.

(Photo by Pat Trevino) Thick smoke lingers as firefighters work through the night at the scene of a house fire on Cuero’s west side. Water-soaked ground and scattered hoses mark the intensity of the response. No official report has been released by the Cuero Fire Department
Photo by Pat Trevino

Ms. Thomas stated that the individual returned to her residence on the evening of October 6, 2025. She informed him that she was ending the relationship, intended to lock the house, and planned to visit a nearby friend. She suggested that he leave. As she walked a few yards to her neighbor’s home, she observed the vehicle still in front of her house. According to Ms. Thomas, she had been inside the neighbor’s residence for less than two minutes when her friend alerted her that her house was on fire. It is unclear when the individual left the scene.

Photo by Pat Trevino

These details are based solely on Ms. Thomas’s account; law enforcement has not yet confirmed the timeline or any suspect involvement.

No injuries were reported. From visual observation, the home appears to be a total loss. Ms. Thomas said all of her belongings and her children’s clothing were inside the residence. No official statement has been released by the Cuero Fire Department, and the investigation remains ongoing.


Editorial Note on Source Attribution and Ongoing Investigation
This article includes firsthand accounts from Ms. Rhonda Michelle Thomas, whose home was destroyed in a fire on October 6, 2025. Her statements reflect her personal experience and observations surrounding the incident. At the time of publication, law enforcement has not released an official report or confirmed any suspect involvement. Cuero Online News is committed to responsible reporting and will update this story as verified information becomes available.
We recognize the importance of protecting community dignity while ensuring public accountability. All allegations remain unconfirmed, and readers are urged to avoid speculation until the investigation concludes.

CHS Band Shines at US Bands Competition

 Staff Writer | October 6, 2025

Victoria, TX —The Cuero High School Band had a fantastic morning on Saturday, October 4, showcasing their talent and spirit at the US Bands competition in Victoria, Texas. Under crisp fall skies and the watchful eyes of judges and supporters, the Gobblers delivered a dynamic and polished show that reflected months of hard work, discipline, and heart.

The band’s performance featured intricate formations, powerful musicality, and a unified energy that reflected their dedication and preparation. Band students maintained focus and teamwork throughout the competition — a clear result of the countless hours of rehearsal, early mornings, and late nights they had invested this season.

Several parents and community members turned out in support, cheering on the Gobblers and celebrating their success. For many students, the event marked a milestone in their musical journey — a chance to perform on a larger stage and connect with fellow musicians from across the region.

The CHS Band will continue its competitive season with upcoming performances across South Texas. Their showing at US Bands sets a high bar and builds momentum heading into the next round.

Great job, Gobblers — your community is proud of you!

Brenda Faye Tislow – October 8, 1946 – September 24, 2025 (78)

In Loving Memory of Brenda Faye Tislow

Brenda Faye Tislow, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, after a brief battle with cancer. She was 78 years old.

Born in Vincennes, Indiana, on October 8, 1946, Brenda was the daughter of Russell and Norma Campbell. A lifelong caregiver, she dedicated her professional life to nursing, retiring from Cuero Nursing Home after a long career of compassionate service. Her nurturing spirit extended far beyond her career — she was the heart of her family and a source of comfort to all who knew her.

Brenda’s love for travel began in her youth and blossomed again in recent years, bringing her joy and adventure. She cherished quiet moments with a good book in the sunshine, casting a line from a beach chair, and long, chatty phone calls with family and friends.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Bob Tislow, in 2019. Their bond was deep and enduring, and we take comfort in knowing they are now reunited.

Brenda is survived by her siblings: Forest Lee Campbell of Victoria, TX; Linda Higdon of Vincennes, IN; and Russell Campbell of Shelbyville, IN. Her greatest pride was her family — her three sons: Destry (Erika) of Spring, TX; Bobby (Kristy) of Goliad, TX; and Josh (Brittany) of Cuero, TX. She was a devoted grandmother to 14 grandchildren and joyfully embraced her role as great-grandmother to 17.

A celebration of Brenda’s life will be held on October 18th at Cuero Park. Her legacy lives on in every hug, every memory, and every story shared. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Judge Julie C. Bauknight Announces Re-Election Bid for 267th Judicial District

October 5, 2025

Republican District Judge Julie C. Bauknight has formally announced her intention to seek re-election to a second term on the Republican ballot as District Judge of the 267th Judicial District, which serves Calhoun, DeWitt, Goliad, Jackson, Refugio, and Victoria Counties.

Judge Bauknight made history as the first female district judge elected in Victoria. Prior to her judicial service, she practiced family law for 24 years and served as an assistant district attorney in Victoria County for four years. She earned her law degree from St. Mary’s School of Law in May 1993, following her undergraduate studies at Southwestern University, where she majored in English and minored in Spanish and political science.

Since taking the bench, Judge Bauknight has presided over dockets, trials, and hearings across all six counties, ruling on a wide range of criminal, civil, and family law matters. A longtime resident of Victoria, she has been actively involved in numerous community and school-related organizations while raising her four children. She also served on the board of the Victoria County Bar Association for four years.

“I look forward to continuing my service to the citizens of the 267th Judicial District,” Bauknight stated. “I remain committed to providing fair and equal justice to all who appear before me. The community can be assured that I will rule in accordance with the law and never legislate from the bench.”

Bernice Hargrove – August 5, 1938 to October 3, 2025 (87)

Bernice Hargrove, 87, of Cuero passed away Friday, October 3, 2025.  She was born on August 5, 1938, in Fresno, CA to Rudolph and Minnie Bertha Waltersdorf Michalek.  Bernice married O’Daniel Hargrove in Cuero at their pastor’s house on February 17, 1957.  She was a “long time” childcare giver for many families.  Bernice was a member of Frelsberg Church in Columbus and when she moved to Cuero, she became a member at First Baptist Church of Cuero.

Bernice is survived by her daughter, Norma Stewart; sisters, Doris Buesing and Helen Serece; grandchildren, Eric Hargrove (Amanda), Scottie Stewart, Keisha Vazquez (Lucio), Chantz Stewart and Breanna Stewart; and eight great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, O’Daniel Hargrove and her son, Robert Hargrove.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, October 7, 2025, from 5 to 7 pm at Freund Funeral Home.  Funeral Services will be Wednesday, October 8, 2025, 11 am, at Freund Funeral Home. Interment to follow at Hillside Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Pet Adoptions of Cuero or First Baptist Church, Cuero.

 

Gwenn Celesse Wolf – October 14, 1946 to September 27, 2025 (78)

“God is our refuge and strength. Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”

Gwenn Celesse Wolf, 78, of Cuero passed away Saturday, September 27, 2025.  She was born on October 14, 1946, in the Gruenau Community of Yorktown to the late Edgar William and Sonja Marie Peters Stratmann.  Gwenn was baptized on December 15, 1946, by Rev. C.G. Hankammer and confirmed on March 26, 1961, by Rev. Walter Probst at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Yorktown.  She married Lynn Douglas “Doug” Wolf on June 20, 1965, in Yorktown.  After marrying, Doug’s military service took them to Mississippi, Rhode Island, and then back to Arneckeville. Gwenn was always so proud of Doug’s service to his country.

In Gwenn’s 22 years of employment, she worked for Kraege Drugstore, Bohman Clinic, and spent 14 of those years working for the DeWitt Lavaca Special Education Coop.  She and Doug were members of Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church of Arneckeville, and Gwenn was a member of the Women’s Evangelical Lutheran Church of America. She was also a member of the Texas Retired Teachers Association and the Gruenau Turn and Schuetzen Verein in Yorktown.  Gwenn loved traveling, gardening, flowers, dancing, and most importantly – spending time with her family.  She absolutely adored her grandchildren who lovingly called her “MeMom”.

Gwenn is survived by her husband of 60 years, Doug Wolf; children, Lynn D. Wolf, Jr. of Dallas, Timothy M. (Michele Mitchell) Wolf of Fort Worth, and Stephanie Beth (Matt) Kates of Abilene; brother, Rodney Charles Stratmann (Kathy) of Victoria; sister, Wanda Grace Stratmann Styra (Charles) of Yorktown; and grandchildren, Taylor Wolf, Bo Kates, Avery Wolf, Eleni Wolf, Madelyn Marie Kates, Makenzie Celesse Kates, Sean Cass, Lindsay Elizabeth Wolf, and Carson Wolf.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Edgar and Sonja Stratmann; brothers, Carroll Jeffrey Stratmann and Edgar Herman Stratmann; sister, Theresa Ruth Stratmann Bowles; and grandparents, Herman and Ella Anna Warmuth Peters and Ernst and Auguste Stulken Stratmann.

Visitation will be held Sunday, October 5, 2025, from 4 to 6 pm at Freund Funeral Home. Funeral services will be Monday, October 6, 2025, 11 am, at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church in Arneckeville.  Interment will follow at Zion Lutheran Cemetery.

Pallbearers include Taylor Wolf, Bo Kates, Avery Wolf, Eleni Wolf, Madelyn Marie Kates, Makenzie Celesse Kates, Anna Styra, and Carson Wolf. Honorary pallbearers include Lindsay Elizabeth Wolf, Judy Meyer Johnson, and Sean Cass.

Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church of Arneckeville or to the Zion Lutheran Cemetery in Arneckeville.

Royal Night in Gobbler Country: Cuero Celebrates Homecoming Court

October 5, 2025 | Trisha Garcia – Cuero Online News

Cuero, TX — Last Friday night, Cuero High School came alive with pride and tradition as the community gathered for its 2025 Homecoming celebration. Students, families, alumni, and supporters packed the stadium for an unforgettable evening of school spirit. Beneath the glow of the stadium lights and the roar of the crowd, the Gobblers took the field and delivered a thrilling victory, adding to the excitement of the night. But the spotlight wasn’t only on the scoreboard—it also belonged to a distinguished group of students whose grace, pride, and leadership embodied the heart of Cuero High: the Homecoming Court.

Honoring the Homecoming Court
As part of the halftime festivities, the 2025 Homecoming Court was formally introduced to the crowd. Dressed in their Royal Gobbler Green sash and the ladies in their amazing traditional mums beaming with pride, the court members were recognized for their positive contributions to campus life. From left to right, the court included:
• Walker Dietze
• Caroline Kubesch
• Prince Landon Pelot
• Queen Kirsten Trevino
• Cole Moore
• Melany Vela
• Duke Aiden Alcazar
• Duchess Julianna Cox
• King Kaimarye Lopez
• Princess Amari Rodriguez

The crowning moment came as Kaimarye Lopez and Kirsten Trevino were named King and Queen, earning cheers from classmates and families alike. Their selection reflected not only popularity but also the respect they’ve earned through their dedication to Cuero High’s values.
Joining them in the royal court were Prince Landon Pelot and Princess Amari Rodriguez, as well as Duke Aiden Alcazar and Duchess Julianna Cox, each representing the spirit and unity of the student body.

Each member of the Homecoming Court proudly wore the signature Gobbler Green royal sash, a symbol of honor and tradition at Cuero High. The girls added a festive touch with their beautiful mums—vibrant, ribboned creations that shimmered under the stadium lights and showcased school spirit in true Texas fashion. The combination of sashes, mums, and heartfelt smiles made for a picture-perfect moment that captured the pride of the evening.

Football, Festivities, and Community Spirit
The Homecoming game itself was a thrilling matchup, with the Gobblers showcasing their grit and determination on the field. Fans packed the stands, waving green and white, and alumni returned to their hometown to reconnect with old friends and relive cherished memories.

Throughout the evening, the Cuero community came together in celebration—not just of a football game, but of the legacy and pride that define Gobbler Nation. From the marching band’s stirring performance to the cheerleaders’ high-energy routines, every moment was a testament to the school’s vibrant culture.

A Tradition That Lives On
As the final whistle blew and the stadium lights dimmed on Friday, September 27, 2025, Cuero High School’s Homecoming celebration came to a triumphant close. The Gobblers secured a thrilling 50–43 victory over Belton, a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats and added a powerful exclamation point to an already unforgettable night. The win marked Cuero’s sixth straight home victory and pushed their season record to an impressive 5–0—an achievement that will be remembered with pride for years to come.
But beyond the scoreboard, it was a night filled with heart. The Homecoming Court stood proudly on the field, each member wearing the signature Gobbler Green royal sash. The girls dazzled in their beautiful mums—some larger than life, others delicately crafted—all made with love and care by moms, sisters, aunts, and family members who spent countless hours perfecting every detail. Each mum was a reflection of the student who wore it, and each one told a story of pride, tradition, and the deep bonds that make Cuero special.
For the parents, it was a moment of overwhelming pride—watching their children shine under the lights, cheered on by a community that celebrates every milestone. Years from now, these students will look back on this night not just as a game won or a crown received, but as a moment when everything came together: family, friendship, school spirit, and the timeless tradition of Cuero Homecoming 2025.


Community Update
We’d like to extend our sincerest apologies to the Home Court community for the absence of coverage at Homecoming week’s football event. Our dedicated reporter, Pat Trevino, who normally brings you all the highlights and updates, was unfortunately under the weather and unable to attend.
We appreciate your understanding and continued support, and we are happy to announce Pat's speedy recovery. Coverage will resume as usual at the next event.
Thank you for being part of our community!

Lady Gobblers Clinch Championship Title at Cuero Invitational

CUERO, TX — October 4, 2025
The Cuero Junior High gym was electric this weekend as the 8th Grade A Team Lady Gobblers clinched a thrilling victory in the Championship game of the Cuero Invitational Tournament, earning a well-deserved 1st place finish and igniting pride across the community.

Over two days of fierce competition, the Lady Gobblers proved their mettle. On Day 1, they swept Industrial in two sets with sharp serves and relentless defense. Day 2 brought tougher matchups—first against Edna, where Cuero battled through three sets to secure the win, and then against Goliad, where they sealed the championship with a decisive two-set triumph.

From the first whistle to the final point, the Lady Gobblers played with grit, unity, and undeniable talent. Their defensive hustle and offensive precision left no doubt: this team came to win. “These girls showed up ready to fight for every point,” said a source close to the team. “They’ve worked hard all season, and today they proved what Cuero pride looks like.”

The tournament featured top middle school A Teams from across the region, but Cuero’s athletes rose above the rest. While individual player highlights are still being compiled, the team’s collective effort was unmistakable—every dig, set, and spike reflected hours of practice and a deep bond among teammates.

Parents, classmates, and community members were in the stands, waving green and white and chanting “Go Gobblers!” as the final seconds ticked down. The energy was contagious, the pride overwhelming.

This championship run is more than a win—it’s a reflection to Cuero’s spirit, discipline, and rising athletic talent. For these 8th graders, it’s a moment they’ll carry with them, a reminder that hard work and heart can lead to greatness.

Congratulations to the Cuero Junior High Lady Gobblers—2025 Invitational Champions!

Phil Arlen Steen – September 27, 1938 to October 2, 2025 (87)

HOCHHEIM: Phil Arlen Steen, 87, passed away Thursday, October 2, 2025. He was born September 27, 1938, in Cuero, the only child born to Conde J. and Lou Allie (Mayfield) Steen.

Phil’s father passed away when he was 9 years old. Phil and his mother returned to the Hochheim community in 1970. He was a member of Hochheim Baptist Church, was a rancher, loved fishing at the coast and had an absolute love for airplanes. He spent hours flying his large remote planes and building new ones.

Phil is survived by extended family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents and step-father, A. G. Herman II.

Graveside Funeral Service 2 p.m., Wednesday, October 8, 2025 at Hochheim Cemetery with H.E. Fowler officiating.

Memorials may be made in his honor to the Hochheim Cemetery Association.

The family would like to express unconditional Thanks to Dr. Courtney Welch, the staff at Today’s Assisted Living, Yoakum Community Hospital, Yoakum Nursing and Rehabilitation and Hospice of South Texas, for the love and care provided to Phil.