Marvin “Jack” Adolph Cordes, age 94, was born on December 28, 1931, to Marvin J. W. Cordes and Ruth Kutzer Cordes on a ranch near Bandera, Texas. The Lord called him home on January 1, 2026.
Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Marvin John Cordes and Ruth Kutzer Cordes; his sister, Dorothy Schulte and brother in law, Marvin “Sonny” Schulte.
Jack is survived by his loving wife of 62 years, Anita Janak Cordes; his sons, Darrell Cordes (Stacy), John Cordes (Loretta), and James Cordes (Lumi); his daughter, Carmen Kenner (Jack); grandchildren, Marvin Cordes, Michael Cordes, Jacob Kenner, Caleb Kenner, Camille Kenner McMahon (Nicholas) and Ema Cordes; sister, Bobbie Nack (Charlie) and brother, William “Bill” Cordes as well as numerous nieces and nephews.
At the age of two, Jack’s family moved to Westhoff, where he enjoyed a happy childhood filled with Boy Scouting, hunting rabbits, fishing, and climbing trees in search of a breeze to cool off during the hot summer months.
Jack was a 1949 graduate of Cuero High School. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he learned aircraft mechanics. His enlistment was extended by the Strategic Air Command during the Korean Conflict. His service included a tour in England during the time of Queen Elizabeth’s coronation. After completing his service, Jack returned home to Texas.
He later attended Southwest Texas State University, now Texas State University, where he earned a degree in Business Management.
Jack went to work at the Cuero hospital, where he met his future wife, Anita.
He was employed by Texas Concrete Company for 31 years, from 1966 to 1997. Jack considered his coworkers family and cherished those relationships until the day he passed.
Jack was a proud member of St Michael’s Catholic Church, the American Legion, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
After retiring in 1997, Jack spent his days enjoying life on the farm, woodworking, and working on special projects in his children’s homes alongside his dear friend, Ed Scheffler. He took great pride in his work and had a true passion for a finely cut yard.
The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the wonderful staff at AlzCare, who cared for our father as if he were their own.
Visitation was held Tuesday, January 6, 2026, 10: 00 a.m. at St. Michael’s Catholic Church followed by the Rosary at 10:30 a.m. Funeral Mass was at 11:00 a.m. with Father Michael Odartey-Lamptey officiating. Interment at Westhoff Cemetery.
Jack was a mischievous, light-hearted, kind, and gentle man with a love for order. He will be missed greatly by all who knew and loved him.
Pallbearers include Jacob Kenner, Caleb Kenner, Marvin Cordes, Michael Cordes and Nicholas McMahon.
Honorary Pallbearers include Camille McMahon and Ema Cordes.
