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Friday, March 14, 2025
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Lois (Wolpman) Strieber April 17, 1935 – March 3, 2025 (age 89)

Lois (Wolpman) Strieber 89, was born on April 17, 1935, at 417 North Church Street in Yorktown, Texas.  She was the oldest of three children born to Fred and Melba (Hinsey) Wolpman.  Lois was baptized in the Christian faith on July 21, 1935, in Nordheim’s St. Paul Lutheran Church.  Her baptismal sponsors were Mrs. Hertha Wolpman, Mrs. Marian Poehlman, Dorris Hinsey, and Delores Neumayer.  She later confirmed her faith on April 2, 1950, at Yorktown’s St. Paul Lutheran Church.  Lois’s confirmation verse was Titus 2: 11-12.

On January 16, 1955, she married Jerry Strieber at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Yorktown.  They were blessed with 39 years of marriage before Jerry’s passing on December 23, 1994.  Lois and Jerry had three children, Rhonda, Bobby, and Tim.

In August 1953 Lois began working at Strieber Bros. Hardware.  She began her banking career in October 1957 at The First National Bank of Yorktown.  Lois joined the start-up team at Yorktown Community Bank as Vice-President/Cashier in February 1965.  She enjoyed 19 years in the banking industry until February 1976 when she left banking to manage Strieber Bros. Feed & Hardware Store.  As Jerry’s health deteriorated, the feed store was sold in October 1981 for Lois to care for Jerry, help manage their farm and ranch operation as well as Strieber Bros. Hardware.  Strieber Bros. Hardware closed its doors for business in May 1993.

After Jerry’s death, things were tight and in December 1997 Lois went to work for the Yorktown Housing Authority.  She later became their Executive Director in October 2000 and enjoyed 20+ years there.  Lois’s compassion prevailed as she dearly loved the tenants.

Home, work, and church kept Lois very busy.  She was always available to help the people no matter what the need.  People were a vital part of her life, and she had a very positive influence on them.

Service was her life, and prayer was an integral part of her daily routine.  She and Jerry were members of the First Presbyterian Church in Yorktown.  She faithfully served her church as Treasurer of the Women of the Church for many years.

Lois often reminded her family, especially her grandchildren, to pray.  Lois truly believed in the power of prayer and that it is the answer to any situation, good or bad.

Grandma celebrated her heavenly birthday on March 3, 2025.

Lois was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Jerry Strieber; her brother, Manroy Wolpman; and her sister-in-law, Judy Wolpman.

Lois is survived by daughter, Rhonda; son, Bobby (Patty); son, Tim (Melissa); grandchildren, Eric Lechuga; Tyler Strieber; Maggie Naranjo (Richard); Lane Strieber (Jacque); Cy Strieber (Cayla); and great-grandchildren, Annie Naranjo, and Paisley Strieber.  She is also survived by brother, Kraege Wolpman, sister-in-law Gracie Wolpman, as well as numerous nieces.

Visitation will be held at Massey Funeral Home, Yorktown, Texas on Thursday, March 6, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 p.m.  Funeral service will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church in Yorktown with Pastor Michael Smith officiating.  Interment will be at Westside Cemetery, Yorktown, Texas.  A reception will follow at First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall.

Pallbearers will be Tyler Strieber, Lane Strieber, Cy Strieber, Richard Naranjo, Jr. John Hans, William Potcinske, Scott Skogen, Chris Garcia

The family wishes to acknowledge with deep appreciation Yorktown Nursing & Rehabilitation Center and Hospice of South Texas Dornburg Center of Compassion in Victoria for all their compassionate nursing care.  A special thank you is extended to Becca Gallegos and Irma Garcia for all their support and loving care of our mother and grandmother.  You are a true blessing to the Strieber Family.

Memorial contributions may be given to First Presbyterian Church of Yorktown, Yorktown EMS, or donor’s choice.

Arrangements by Massey Funeral Home, Yorktown, Texas 361-564-2900

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Lois (Wolpman) Strieber, please visit our floral store.

Ricky Ortiz -October 27, 1963 – March 2, 2025 (age 61)

Ricardo (Ricky) Ortiz, of Yorktown, went home to be with our Lord and his heavenly family on Sunday, March 2nd, 2025.

Ricky was born October 27, 1963, in Lamesa, Tx to Jose Ortiz, Sr and Maria Garcia Ortiz. Ricky graduated from Yorktown High School in 1983 and attended college for 2 years. After a brief stint offshore, he went to work where his heart always was, Ortiz Construction.

Ricky was a self-proclaimed bachelor until fate brought him the second love of his life Cheryl (first being the Dallas Cowboys). They were married December 27, 1997, and with the marriage came two children that Ricky made his own, April and Gary.

Ricky joined the Yorktown Fire Department in 1998 and proudly served the community of Yorktown for 26 years. The joy of Rickys life was his grandchildren, Chandler, Brayden, Brody, Lindsey, and Lincoln. He also loved his daily rounds visiting family and picking up his lottery tickets.  Ricky’s first true love was the Dallas Cowboys, win or lose, he bled blue.

Ricky is survived by his wife Cheryl Ortiz, children April (Casey) Shelton and Gary (Dorian) Self, grandchildren, Chandler Kainer, Brayden Self and Brody Self.  Brothers: Pete (Sylvia) Ortiz, Johnny Ortiz, Joe Jr. (Esmeralda) Ortiz, Michael Ortiz. Sisters: Alice (Rudy) Perez, Esther (Tony) Corpus, Irma Ortiz, Yolanda (Sean) Wollerman, and Amber Ortiz. Sister-in laws Robin (Herbert) Chandler and Diana Knight. Brother-in-law Keith Chandler.  He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews and cousins he dearly loved.

Ricky is preceded in death by his parents, In-laws Bill and Barbara Chandler, sister Josie Nunez and brother-in-law Adam Nunez, Brother-in-law Jeff Chandler and sisters-in-law Sylvia Chandler and Sandra Chandler.

Visitation 9-10:30 am Thursday, March 6, 2025, with Rosary at 10:30 am at Holy Cross Catholic Church. Funeral Mass at 11 am Thursday, March 6, 2025, at Holy Cross Catholic Church. Interment to follow at San Luis Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be Gary Self, Chandler Kainer, Brayden Self, Brody Self, Matthew Ortiz, Russell Ortiz, Jamie Chandler, Randy Corpus and Chris Perez.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Yorktown Fireman’s Association.

You are invited to sign the online guest book at www.masseyfh.com

Arrangements by Massey Funeral Home, Yorktown, Texas 361-564-2900.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ricky Ortiz, please visit our floral store.

Francesca Nevaeh Solis, March 17, 2007 – March 1, 2025 (17)

YOAKUM: Francesca Nevaeh Solis, age 17, passed away Saturday, March 1, 2025. She was born March 17, 2007, in San Antonio.

She was a senior at Yoakum High School and after graduation in May she already made plans to join the U.S. Navy in July. She was an office aide at Yoakum High School and completed the medical assistance course. She worked at Dairy Queen. She was respectful, responsible, caring, loving, kind, compassionate and was the lightbulb to everyone she knew. She had such a radiance about her. She was cared for and loved by her sisters and aunts.

Survivors: sisters, Tya Douglas, Jazmyn Rivera and God-sister, Taji Smith: brothers, Jaydn Rivera, Xavier Rivera, Eimbry Solis and God-brother, Terano Arkadie; grandmother, Lillie Dominguez; grandfather, Patrick Mata; aunts, Francesca Wright, Nikia Strait and Sheila Strait; uncles, Niko Cruz, Terrance Wright, T.J. Smith and John Strait.

Preceded in death by: mother, Roselynn Cruz; aunt, Latasha Adams; cousin, Jaylee Adams; uncle, Derek “Bubba” Strait.

Funeral 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home with Pastor Dwayne Arkadie officiating. Burial Yoakum Oak Grove Cemetery.

Pallbearers: Terrance Wright, Terrance Wright Jr, Truvarius Wright, Jaydn Rivera, Xavier Rivera and Terano Arkadie.

On behalf of the family they appreciate all of the prayers, condolences and compassion that has been giving.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home 361-293-5656.

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Cuero Lady Gobbler Basketball Senior Arissa Carbonara Shines in State Tournament

Cuero, Texas – Senior Arissa Carbonara of the Cuero Lady Gobblers has made a significant mark in the 2024-2025 basketball season, earning a spot on the Girls Basketball State All-Tournament Team for 4A Division II. Her outstanding performance throughout the season and in the UIL Basketball State Championships has solidified her reputation as a formidable player.

Carbonara, standing at 6’2″, has been a key player for the Lady Gobblers, consistently delivering impressive stats. In the state tournament, she showcased her skills and determination, contributing significantly to her team’s success. Her efforts did not go unnoticed, as she was selected for the All-Tournament Team by the Texas Association of Basketball Coaches.

Throughout the season, Carbonara has averaged a double-double, with 17.1 points per game and 11.5 rebounds. Her defensive prowess is equally notable, with averages of 2.5 assists, 4.4 steals, and 2.6 blocks per game. These statistics highlight her versatility and impact on both ends of the court.

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In the state championship game, despite the Lady Gobblers facing a tough opponent in Dallas Lincoln, Carbonara’s performance stood out. She scored a game-high 21 points, demonstrating her scoring ability and leadership on the court. Her contributions were crucial in keeping Cuero competitive throughout the game.

Carbonara’s selection to the All-Tournament Team is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and talent. As she graduates, she leaves behind a legacy of excellence and sets a high standard for future players in the Cuero Lady Gobblers basketball program.

The Cuero community celebrates Arissa Carbonara’s achievements and looks forward to seeing her continue to excel in her future endeavors. Her journey serves as an inspiration to young athletes, showing that with determination and effort, great accomplishments are within reach.

Cuero’s Green Initiative: A Community Effort to Enhance Urban Green Spaces

Cuero, Texas – In a spirited display of community effort, the city of Cuero recently hosted a tree planting and giveaway event that added over 70 trees to the urban landscape. The event saw residents, volunteers, and several organizations come together to enhance the city’s green spaces.

The event was made possible through the generous support of Repsol, which donated the trees and resources needed for the initiative. The Texas A&M Forest Service played a pivotal role in organizing the event and educating participants on the importance of natural resource conservation and stewardship. Attendees participated in educational sessions that provided valuable insights into the care and maintenance of newly planted trees.

Key contributors to the event included members of Keep Cuero Beautiful Inc., Cuero City Council, City of Cuero Tree Board, City of Cuero Parks Department, Repsol representatives, Victoria County Master Gardeners, and numerous local volunteers. Their combined efforts ensured the success of the tree planting, which is part of a broader initiative to create accessible green spaces for Cuero residents.

The benefits of this project extend beyond aesthetics, as trees play a vital role in reducing urban heat, improving air quality, and providing habitats for wildlife. The newly planted trees will contribute to cooler temperatures, cleaner air, and safer outdoor spaces for recreation, ultimately enhancing the community’s overall well-being.

In addition to the tree planting, the event featured a tree giveaway, allowing residents to take home trees to plant on their own properties. This initiative underscores the positive impact of community collaboration and highlights the importance of environmental stewardship.

 

Sean Douglas Announces Candidacy for Cuero ISD Board of Trustees District 1

Cuero, TX – Sean Douglas has officially announced his candidacy for the Cuero ISD Board of Trustees District 1. With a deep commitment to education, community engagement, and transparent governance, Douglas is poised to bring fresh perspectives and effective leadership to the school district.

A longtime advocate for quality education and community involvement, Sean Douglas has built a reputation as a proactive leader. His extensive experience in educational initiatives and local volunteer work has prepared him to represent the diverse interests of Cuero’s families, educators, and community members on the board. Douglas emphasizes that his candidacy is rooted in his belief that every student deserves a safe, well-resourced learning environment that cultivates both academic excellence and personal growth.

Douglas’ platform focuses on several key priorities:
– Strengthening Education Programs: Promoting modern, inclusive teaching methods and extra-curricular programs to better prepare students for a rapidly changing world.
– Enhancing Community Engagement: Ensuring open communication between the school district, parents, teachers, and local leaders to address pressing concerns collaboratively.
– Fiscal Responsibility and Transparency: Advocating for prudent budget management to maximize resources while holding district leadership accountable.

Douglas plans to hold town hall meetings and engage in one-on-one conversations with community members during the coming weeks, providing a forum for parents, teachers, and students to share their insights and concerns. By prioritizing dialogue and collaborative decision-making, he hopes to build a solid consensus around shared goals for the district.

As the campaign for the Cuero ISD Board of Trustees District 1 unfolds, Sean Douglas’ commitment to his community and to the future of Cuero’s education system promises to be a cornerstone of his platform. His fresh ideas and dedication to inclusive progress make him a standout candidate poised to lead Cuero ISD toward a brighter, more innovative future.

For more information on Sean Douglas’ campaign and upcoming events, community members are encouraged to visit his campaign website and attend the scheduled town hall sessions. Stay tuned to local news updates as the conversation about the future of Cuero’s schools continues.

Payton Robert Jiral, October 27, 2003 – March 1, 2025 (21)

YOAKUM: Payton Robert Jiral, 21, passed away in an accident on March 1, 2025. He was born October 27, 2003, in Cuero to Jason and Gena (McCaskill) Jiral.

Payton was the first-born son and grandson in the Jiral family, and he was a treasured gift that brought others so much joy. He graduated from Yoakum High School in 2022 and was employed by Lopez Tree Service. Payton loved the outdoors and spent his free time fishing, riding his dirt bikes and four wheelers. He was born with the gift of wit, and he never met a stranger. His time on earth was short but he leaves behind a legacy of love and caring for others.

Survivors are his parents, Jason and Gena Jiral of Yoakum; brother, Tyler Jiral; grandparents, Bobby and Gladys Jiral, Kathy Moore and Ronnie McCaskill (Kay); great-grandparents, Ruby Jiral and Ruby Wigginton; Godparents, Katy Adams and Stuart Kalisek; numerous extended family and friends.

Preceded in death by great-grandparents, Johnny Jiral, Frank and Julia Sedlar, Donald Moore, Norman and Viola McCaskill.

Rosary to be recited at 9:30 a.m. and Funeral Mass 10 a.m., Wednesday, March 5, 2025 at St. Joseph Catholic Church with Rev. Matthew Huehlefeld officiating. Private burial to be held at a later date.

Pallbearers are Trey Janca, Robbie Whittley, Ali Morley, Kamren Meyer, Shane Flessner and Mac Eggmeyer.

Honorary pallbearers are all the friends he made along the journey in his life.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Carl and Mary Welhausen Library Fund.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home, 361-293-5656.

Edmund Arthur Caka, September 1, 1928 – February 28, 2025 (age 96)

SHINER: Edmund Arthur Caka, 96, passed away February 28, 2025. Born September 1, 1928, to Jim Caka and Ida (Janak) Caka in Shiner, Tx. Edmund was raised on the family farm and attended Michna school in the Vlastenec Community. On February 28, 1949, he married the girl next door, love of his life- Marie Antonia Petru.

A country boy at heart, he enjoyed the simple things in life; hunting, fishing, camping and gardening. Hard work on the farm helped install his unrelenting work ethic. Strong in his convictions and core values, he was steady, stern, if need be, and oh so humorous in many moments. He loved riding his Kawasaki mule in the pasture, checking his cattle and fences with a watchful eye and doting heart. After taking cows to Gonzales Auction barn on Friday evenings, you could find him eating a bowl of “menuda” at Mr. Taco’s. He also made a habit of sitting on the front porch in the morning and the back porch in the evenings, alongside his beloved puppy, Daisy.

In addition to life-long ranch work, he also worked as a carpenter, butcher at Yoakum Packing Co., in shipping at Kaspar Wire Works, and as a deer processor at EJ’s until the age of 92. When he wasn’t tending to his ranch, he spent hours watching the Catholic TV channel’s masses and prayers, the Big Joe Polka Show, Mollie B. and RFD.

Family gatherings were especially dear to him. He had a soft spot for babies and was considered a patient and compassionate man. Edmund was affectionately devoted to his wife, whom he would visit nearly every day in the nursing home in her later years. He was proud of his Czech heritage and the Czech language, as anyone who engaged in conversation with him would discover. He was also a proud member of the Shiner Hobo Band but would happily play music and sing for anyone who would listen at any time. Playing the accordion and harmonica without missing a note was something he was known for, charming us all with polka classics like A Ja Sam, You are my Sunshine, and Frankie & Johnnie. Edmund was also a member of the St. Cyril & Methodius Catholics Church and KJT for 75 plus years.

Survivors: daughters, Catherine Ann Caka and Beverly Jane Caka Bland (Earl); 9 grandchildren and 21 great-grandchildren; brother, Victor Caka (Delores).

Preceded in death by parents; wife, Marie Petru Caka; daughter, Dorothy Marie Caka Cowan; granddaughter, Candice Annissa Caka; sister, Mary Agnes Caka Wagner; twin brother, Edward James Caka.

Visitation 5-6:30 p.m. with a Rosary at 6:30 p.m. on Monday, March 3, 2025, at Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home.

Funeral Mass 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at Sts Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church with Rev. Bryan Heyer officiating. Burial Shiner Catholic Cemetery.

Pallbearers will be the grandsons and great-grandsons.

Memorial contributions may be given to Sts Cyril & Methodius Catholic Church Building Fund or donor’s choice.

The family would like to offer special thanks to Our House: Josie Orosco and staff, Crown Hospice, Excel Home Healthcare, Dr. Tim Wagner for his many years of medical care, and Shiner Catholic Church Deacon Michael Morkovsky and Pastor Bryan Heyer.

Arrangements by Thiele-Cooper Funeral Home 361-293-5656.

Dianne (Poetter) Simpson March 2, 1932 ~ February 27, 2025 (age 92)

Dianne Poetter Simpson, a remarkable woman known for her kindness, warmth, and unwavering faith, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on March 2, 1932, in Yorktown, Texas, to Wilbert Charles and Virginia Lee Taylor Poetter, Dianne was a descendant of the pioneering Taylor family, who arrived in Texas before the establishment of The Republic of Texas. Her grandfather, John Milam Taylor, played an integral role as a rancher near Yorktown, instilling in her a deep appreciation for heritage and community.

Dianne grew up in Yorktown, where she embraced small-town values that would shape her character. At Yorktown High School, she excelled as a student, played clarinet in the band, and was on the basketball team. She served as the senior class secretary and was a friend to all.

After graduating Yorktown High School in 1950, she attended the University of Texas and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. She married her childhood sweetheart, John Edward Simpson, Jr. on September 2, 1953. Together, they built a beautiful life, raising four children and creating cherished memories in Houston and Glendale, CA. Upon retirement, they returned to Yorktown, immersing themselves in the First Presbyterian Church and community life. They became active members of the Yorktown Lions Club, enjoying travels across Texas, the U.S. and internationally through their civic engagements.

Dianne was crowned queen of the Yorktown Centennial Celebration in 1948, the Sesquicentennial Celebration in 1998, and Yorktown’s 175th Birthday Celebration, with John faithfully by her side. An active member of her church, she served as the organist and a Sunday school teacher, sharing her love for music and Scripture with many generations. She was a beautiful reflection of God’s love and grace in all her interactions.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband John, her parents, her great-grandson Luke Thomas White, many close cousins, and dear friends. She is survived by her four children Marsha White (Steve), Charles Simpson (Amelia), Brad Simpson (Belinda), Virginia Spangler (Eric), 13 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.

Visitation will be held on Friday, March 7, 2025, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Massey Funeral Home in Yorktown, Texas.

A celebration of Dianne’s life will take place on Saturday, March 8, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church in Yorktown, Texas, followed by a graveside service at 11:00 a.m. and lunch at the church afterward.

Known for her sweet, kind, gentle, and thoughtful nature, Dianne’s life was a testament to her unwavering devotion to serving the Lord and leaves a lasting impact on those who have crossed her path.

You are invited to sign the online guest book at www.masseyfh.com

Arrangements by Massey Funeral Home, Yorktown, Texas 361-564-2900.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Dianne (Poetter) Simpson, please visit our floral store.