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A Family’s Love: Salazar Children Honor Their Father’s 98 Years of Strength and kindness

Cuero, Tx -June 2, 2025

Family and friends gathered at the Cuero American Legion to celebrate Gregorio Salazar, a beloved figure in the community, on his 98th birthday. Born on May 25, 1927, in Cuero, Salazar has spent nearly a century embracing life with kindness, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to his family and neighbors.

Salazar was married to Josefa Vela Salazar, with whom he shared many beautiful years before she passed away several years ago. Together, they raised nine children: Rodolfo, Gregorio Jr, Daniel, Blanca, Diana, Rebecca, Linda, Jaime, and Armando. Though Armando sadly passed away in March 2022, his memory remains a cherished part of the family’s legacy.

Contributed Photo – Photo of the Gregorio and Josefa Vela Salazar children and their spouses.

Even at 98, Salazar refuses to slow down. True to his generous spirit, he still insists on mowing his own lawn—and even tries to mow his neighbors’ yards, simply to lend a helping hand. His determination and kindness make him a treasured member of the community, always leading by example.

The birthday celebration was filled with laughter, love, and heartfelt stories shared by those who admire Salazar’s remarkable journey. As he blew out the candles on his 98th birthday cake, his family and friends cheered, celebrating a life well lived and wishing him continued health and happiness.

A true inspiration, Gregorio Salazar continues to prove that age is no obstacle when it comes to kindness, hard work, and the joy of giving back. His legacy of love, family, and generosity will carry on for years to come.

Diocese of Victoria Hosts EPIC Family Gathering in El Campo

June 2, 2025

Families across the region are invited to participate in the Diocese of Victoria EPIC Family Gathering, a day dedicated to faith, fellowship, and fun. The event will take place at the El Campo Civic Center on Saturday, June 14, providing an enriching experience for families of all backgrounds.

For a $20 registration fee, attendees will receive a light breakfast and lunch, ensuring a full day of activities without additional meal costs. The event will open with a lively session led by Fr. David Michael Moses, setting the tone for a day of inspiration and connection.

Throughout the day, families can enjoy sessions designed for all age groups, helping strengthen their bonds both within the family unit and in their spiritual lives. In addition to faith-based discussions, the event will include a variety of entertainment options, including bounce houses, snow cones, face painting, and other engaging activities for children and adults alike.

The day will conclude on a high note with a concert, offering an opportunity for attendees to celebrate, reflect, and enjoy music together.

For those seeking more information or wishing to register, details can be found at www.victoriadiocese.org/epic.

Shannon Marie Escobar – February 12, 1976 to May 28, 2025 (49)

Shannon Marie Escobar, 49, of Cuero passed away Wednesday, May 28, 2025.  She was born February 12, 1976 in Victoria to Juan and Dorothy Sanchez Ruiz.  She married Christopher Escobar on September 22, 2018 in Victoria.  She was a physical therapy technician for Cuero Regional Hospital and a member of the Women’s Auxiliary.  Shannon attended Vida Church in Victoria.  She enjoyed playing games and treasured spending time with her family and grandchildren.

She is survived by her husband, Christopher; daughters, Angelica (Nemo) Garcia and Alicia Castillo; sons, Kristopher (Erika) Garza, Joseph (Nina) Garza, Isaiah Garza, Adrian (Nikki) Castillo and Anthony (Desirae) Castillo; sister, Patricia (David) Taylor; brother, Juan (Melissa) Ruiz and twelve grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Visitation will be held Monday, June 2, 2025, 5-7 PM at Freund Funeral Home.  Funeral Services will be held Tuesday, June 3, 2025, 10:00 AM at Freund Funeral Home with Pastor Efrain Pena officiating.

Memorial Contributions may be made to Freund Funeral Home to help defray funeral expenses.

William “Bill” Gene Hoad – 1938 to May 30, 2025 (87)

VICTOIA: William “Bill” Gene Hoad, age 87 passed away on Friday, May 30, 2025.  He was born in Mission, Texas to the late Dannie Andrew Hoad and Ruby Oleta Vinson Hoad.  Bill graduated from Patti Welder High School in 1956. He was employed at the DuPont Victoria plant and retired after 28 years of service.

Bill lived his Catholic faith with a passion.  He loved attending church and praising God with his beautiful voice.  Bill was a simple man who enjoyed his coffee, good food, and sharing conversation around the kitchen table.  He loved fishing and hunting, especially the campfire chats and the cookouts.  Bill was a good cook and loved sharing his food for the enjoyment of his family and friends.  He was an animal lover, especially his cats.

Bill is survived by his companion of 42 years, Raenell McCord; daughter, Le Anne (Patrick III) Welder;  grandsons Dr. Daniel A. Welder, Calan H. Welder (Liz), and Andrew B. Welder (Jessie); great grandson Charles A. Welder; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Preceding Bill in death are his father and mother; son Franklin Bryan Hoad; sisters Peggy Littlefield (Charles), and Wanda Payne (Ralph); brother Danny Hoad (Joy) and identical twin brother Robert “Bob” Hoad (Betty).

Visitation 10 a.m., Friday, June 6, 2025  with Rosary recited at 10:30 a.m. and the Mass of Christian burial at 11 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church, 704 Mallette Dr., Victoria, TX.  He will be laid to rest at 2:30 p.m., at St. Joseph Catholic Mausoleum in Yoakum.

Pallbearers are Dr. Daniel Welder, Calan Welder, James Hoad, David Hoad, Larry Pullin, and Carl Lecocke.  Honorary pallbearers are Mark Payne, Albert Garrison, George Velasquez, and Patrick Welder III.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or charity of your choice.

Law Enforcement Agencies Execute Warrant in Yoakum, Leading to Arrest

Yoakum, Texas – May 29, 2025

On Thursday, May 29, 2025, at approximately 12:30 p.m., officers from the Lavaca County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO), Yoakum Police Department (Yoakum PD), and members of the Westside HIDTA Task Force conducted a coordinated operation within the city limits of Yoakum. This operation was part of an ongoing effort to combat the distribution of methamphetamine in the community.

Following a thorough investigation, law enforcement officials arrested

, a resident of Yoakum, on an outstanding warrant for Manufacture/Delivery of a Controlled Substance, Penalty Group 1 (1 gram or more but less than 4 grams). Alvarado was taken into custody without incident and transported to the Lavaca County Jail, where he remains detained.

According to the Lavaca County Arrest Report, multiple arrests were made in the area on May 29, 2025, as part of ongoing law enforcement efforts. The Lavaca County Jail Roster also lists recent bookings and can be accessed through Texas Jail Roster for updates on individuals in custody.

Authorities emphasize their commitment to targeting individuals involved in the illegal distribution of narcotics and ensuring the safety and well-being of the community through continued enforcement efforts.

Phillip Lee Sralla – August 28, 1943 to May 26, 2025 (81)

SHINER: Phillip Lee Sralla, 81, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on Monday, May 26, 2025. He was born on August 28, 1943, the only child of the late Lee and Gladys (Wagner) Sralla.

Phillip met his beloved Joan Bujnoch at a dance, and from that moment on, they were inseparable. They spent the next 59 years working hard and raising their two children, Roger and Candice. As an only child, Phillip often said he was “blessed” to marry Joan and become part of the large and loving Bujnoch family. He cherished his connection to Anton and Mary Bujnoch and their nine children.

Phillip worked as a saddle maker at TexTan and later at Circle Y. In retirement, he embraced the simple joys that brought him happiness—his land, his cattle, his garden, and, most of all, time spent with his family. He and Joan faced life’s challenges together, their faith guiding them through difficult times. May he rest in peace.

Phillip is survived by his wife of 59 years, Joan (Bujnoch) Sralla; his daughter, Candice Lu; and his two granddaughters, Lauryn Lu and Megan Lu. He is also survived by numerous extended family members and dear friends.

He was preceded in death by his father, Lee Sralla, who passed away when Phillip was 13; his mother, Gladys Sralla Spann; his stepfather, Eddie Spann; his son, Roger Sralla, and Roger’s wife, Bonnie (Matula) Sralla; and his brothers-in-law, Larry Dierschke and Bobby Roznovsky.

A rosary will be recited at 1:30 p.m., followed by a Funeral Mass at 2 p.m. on Friday, May 30, 2025, at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church, with Rev. Jacob Mendoza officiating. Burial will follow at Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Serving as pallbearers are Bryan Sczepanick, Jeff Dierschke, Corey Vana, Jansen Flores, Thomas Landers, and Nathan Pilat. Honorary pallbearers include his brothers-in-law: George Bujnoch, Donald Bujnoch, David Vana, Paul Winkenwerder, Tommy Landers, and Curtis Pilat.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sts. Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church Repair Fund.

Abraham Zamora – December 22, 1992 to May 26, 2025 (32)

Born on December 22, 1992, in Columbus, Abraham was the son of Antonio Jr. and Elda Gonzales Zamora. He proudly served in the United States Army and Army Reserves, completing tours in Iraq and Syria. Outside of his military service, he found joy in hunting, fishing, mechanic work, and dancing. He loved spending time at the beach and was always eager to lend a helping hand to those in need.

Among the most important people in his life were his parents—particularly his mom, whom he fondly and playfully referred to as “toxic”—and his fiancée, Brittney Lesikar.

Abraham is survived by his parents, Antonio Jr. and Elda Zamora; his stepdaughters, Morgan and Makinley Lesikar; his stepson, Wyatt Lesikar; his sister, Tania Zamarripa (Javier); his brothers, Angel Zamora (Victor) and Alan Zamora (Autumn); and his nephews, Isai Zamarripa, Isael Zamarripa, and Adriel Zamarripa.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Freund Funeral Home, with a rosary recited at 6:30 PM. Funeral services will take place on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at 10:00 AM at Freund Funeral Home, officiated by Father Michael Odartey-Lemptey. Interment will follow at Westhoff Cemetery.

Pallbearers will include Alan Zamora, Morgan Lesikar, Wyatt Lesikar, Javier Zamarripa, and Isai Zamarripa.

His absence will be deeply felt, but his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.