Mike Mazurkiewicz, 67, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Wednesday, November 29, 2023. He was born September 18, 1956 to Eddie W. Mazurkiewicz and Martha Mikolajewski Mazurkiewicz in Bellville, Texas. He is preceded in death by his parents Eddie and Martha Mazurkiewicz, and his brother Frank Kmiec. Mike is survived by his son Dwayne Joseph Mazurkiewicz, daughter Michelle Kupper and husband Casey, brother Edward Mazurkiewicz, sister Rosie Failla and husband Frank, two grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Christine Baker, lovingly known as “Aunt Chris” by all who knew her, was born May 5, 1935 in San Angelo, Texas and passed away at home in Big Spring, Texas on Wednesday, October 25, 2023. Chris Woods married Clarence Baker and to this union were born 2 children, Wayne Baker and Choyla Kay Baker. They began their life together in Hempstead, Texas where they were longtime residents and business owners of Baker’s 290 Truck Stop, and James’ Automotive. After Clarence passed in 1991, Aunt Chris moved to Snyder, Texas to be near her nephew, James Northcutt. She then moved to Big Spring, Texas where she bought a home and then later moved in with her niece Ila Mae Bebee. Aunt Chris and Uncle Clarence took in and helped to raise several nieces and nephews along with their own 2 children. Aunt Chris was preceded in death by her husband Clarence, her son Wayne, and daughter Choyla. She is survived by numerous nieces and nephews and all who loved her. Graveside services were held Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at 2:00 pm at Hempstead Cemetery with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Chad Alan Sims passed away at his home in Houston, Texas, on Sunday, October 22, 2023.
Chad was born on October 31, 1985. He graduated from Waltrip High School and received his Bachelors Degree in Chemical Engineering from the University of Houston. He was employed by Liftmoore, Inc. Chad is preceded in death by his grandfather, James Sims. He is survived by his mother, Jenny Sims Wehring, and stepfather, Gary Wehring; grandmother, Marian “Granny” Sims; aunt, Ann Sims Reinbold and her husband, Doug Reinbold; aunt, Lisa Sims Wesneski, and her husband, James Wesneski; cousins Jacob Reinbold, Matthew Reinbold, Hayden Wesneski and Cole Wesneski. Chad was an avid sports fan. He grew up playing both football and baseball. He got to watch the Astros win with friends and family the Friday before his passing and was discussing his Fantasy Football team on Sunday. He was on a cruise with several friends earlier this month and was said to have had a fabulous time. He had a wicked sense of humor and a quick wit. He was up on all of the funny tv shows, both new and old. He had a love of cooking. Many people got to know him when he worked at Cavatore Restaurant for many years. He loved animals, especially his beloved rescue cat, Charlie. He was extremely close to his Granny and helped her in so many ways. He had a very loyal group of friends from school. His apartment complex friends were his adopted tribe, especially Ms. Kat. Chad will be greatly missed by everyone that knew him, and we are also sad for those who now will never have the privilege of knowing him. We will honor Chad’s memory at a Memorial Service on Monday, November 13, 2023, at 3 p.m.at Champions Cowboy Church, 27633 FM 1488, Hockley, TX 77447
With great sorrow, we announce that Jason Emmett Crawford, 28, went home to be with Jesus on Saturday, September 16, 2023. Jason was born in Houston, Texas to Scott & Katherine on February 5, 1995. He grew up in Cypress, Texas, attending Cy Fair & Magnolia High Schools. Upon graduation, Jason enrolled in the United States Army. Throughout his entire life, Jason had a passion for animals, especially his beloved dogs. He loved hunting, fishing and almost anything outdoors. Jason lived life to the fullest and lived it on his own terms. Jason is survived by his parents: Scott, Kathi, Bobby, & Kiley, siblings: Kendra, Kayla, Ethan, Alexis, & Brayden, grandparents: Tom, Janet, Brenda, Mike, & Connie, aunts and uncles: Sherri, Vicki, Tressa, Ashley, Erica, Sara, Karen, Troy, Mark, & Brad, cousins: Morgan, Paige, Gavin, Keller, Cooper, Jadon, Camden, Lorren, Serena, Trenton, Julia, & Olivia, and his son Greyson. Jason’s celebration of life will begin with a visitation on Saturday, September 23, 2023 from 9:00 until 10:00 am at Mc Williams Funeral Home, 706 Bremond St, Hempstead, Tx 77445 and the service will begin at 10:00 am with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating.
Victor J. Machac, of Brookshire passed away on September 4, 2023 in the family home. Victor was born in Waller County on August 28, 1937, the firstborn son of Joseph and Christina Machac. He is survived by his two brothers, Joe Machac Jr., and James Machac; his two sisters, Theresa Machac Worthy and husband Roy III, and Linda Machac Burke; and, his four nephews, Roy Worthy, IV,, and Andrew Worthy, and Christopher Burke and Nathanial Burke. He was preceded in death by his parents, Christine Jurek Machac and Joseph Machac, his brother Marvin and sister-in-law, Brenda, brother David Machac, his sister, Carolyn Machac, and his brother-in-law, Michael Burke. Victor was a hard worker. He helped his father and brothers on the family farm and was the lynchpin in the process of keeping the machinery running. It is with confidence that the family can say that most of the older tractors in Waller and surrounding areas have been repaired by Victor. Victor’s favorites were the two-cylinder tractors with hand clutches, and he lovingly called them “Papa Johns”. Although Victor kept the farm equipment running, he drew the line against chopping or picking cotton; instead, he was more likely to be found at the shop, working on the square baler and honing such special skills such as repairing the knotting system for wire ties. Victor was never shy by nature, but he was quiet and spent more energy working with and talking to the “ornery” tools while visiting with the many friends, neighbors, and family members who brought their trucks, tractors and implements to be repaired and, sometimes to be totally overhauled or re-built. If Victor were to have a title, it would be The Tractor Guru. Victor was faithful in his Christian beliefs and was a member of St. Catherine Drexel Catholic Church in Hempstead. He was pleased to have visitors, and appreciative of the many times his friends and neighbors came to see him when he was in the hospital and after he returned home. Victor was a caring person and will be missed. Ushers are Victor’s 4 nephews: Chris and Nathanial Burke, Roy and Andy Worthy; cousin Bobby Drehn, and friend John Busby.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted with McWilliams Funeral Home in Hempstead, Texas: Visitation: Friday, Sept 8th, 9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.at McWilliams Funeral Home with funeral service beginning at 10:00 a.m. Burial following at St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Cemetery. Donation may be made to St. Katharine Drexel Catholic Church, 800 FM 1488, Hempstead, Texas 77445.
James Elza “Jim” Royce, 86, formerly of Hempstead, Texas, passed away Monday, July 17, 2023 in Des Moines, Iowa. He was born July 23, 1936 in Portsmouth, Ohio. Graveside Memorial Services will be held Tuesday, September 12, 2023 at 10:00 am at Hempstead Cemetery, Hempstead, Texas with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Roy Lamar Wawarofsky, 75, of Brookshire, TX went to be with the Lord Wednesday, August 9th, 2023. After years of fighting numerous health conditions his final days were spent surrounded by family and friends that loved him dearly. Roy was born February 24, 1948 to Daniel and Emilie Wawarofsky in Navasota, Tx. He grew up in Waller, TX where he went to school and met who would quickly become his wife, Debra Garrett. A girl crush and teenage marriage which 3 ½ years later produced their first daughter. A couple of years later their marriage would temporarily end only to welcome 3 more daughters to the family when they were reunited in marriage February 14, 2004. They spent the remainder of Roy’s life as husband and wife. Roy’s life was spent in service to his community. From being a lineman with Houston Lighting & Power to a patrol officer in the Cities of Waller, Sealy and Katy he dedicated his life to serving others. In 1981 Roy joined the Waller County Sheriff’s Office under Sheriff Ronnie Sitton. With years of specialty training and a book full of certificates he quickly moved up the ranks retiring as Chief Deputy in 2009. After retirement Roy continued to enjoy his K9 dogs (which he loved raising and training), BBQ cook-offs (where he won many trophies), fishing (a longtime family favorite) and working on guns (a passion he continued until his death). Roy was preceded in death by his father, Daniel Wawarofsky, mother, Emilie Divin, sisters, Janie Wawarofsky Rochen and Ann Seigle, daughter, Sandra Ballew and great granddaughter, Madelyn Woodard. Roy leaves behind wife, Debra Wawarofsky, sister, Dianna Schulte (husband Arthur), daughters, Tamera Marshall, Linda Santleben (husband Ed) and Sharon Spurrier (husband Michael) along with 10 grandchildren, 9 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews and more adopted daughters and sons than anyone could ever imagine. Once you were taken into Roy’s heart he counted you as family and forever had your “six”! Visitation: Saturday, August 19, 2023, 9:00 am – 10:00 at Church at Friendship, 25979 Kickapoo Rd, Hockley, TX 77447. Funeral Service following at 10:00 am. Burial following at Fields Store Cemetery under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Steve Derkowski, 87, passed away Saturday, July 22, 2023 in Brazoria, Texas. He was born August 29,1935 to Joseph Derkowski and Sophie Kaliszewski Derkowski in Chappell Hill, Texas. He lived on the San Bernard River in Brazoria, Texas for the last 31 years. He spent his younger years in Houston before moving to Conroe in 1968. He worked for one company his entire 39-year career at Texsteam Corporation. Steve held many titles during that time, the last one being Shop Superintendent until his retirement at age 55. He loved to fish and was happy taking trips to Louisiana to visit the casinos. Steve was very active until his death, going shopping every week and taking care of his dog Big Foot. He is preceded in death by his wife Allie Mae (Susie) Derkowski, his parents Joesph and Sophie Derkowski, four brothers: Edward, Albin, Bill and Floyd, and two sisters: Theresa and Angeline. He is survived by his son Ricky Derkowski and wife Lynn and his daughter Connie Pyburn and husband Don. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Ginny Robinson, Ricky Derkowski ll and wife Laci, Rodney Cheatham and wife Nicole, and Wesley Cheatham; and his great-grandchildren: Gaige Martin, Gracie Derkowski, Brayden Cheatham, Gunner Robinson, and Grady Derkowski.Visitation: Saturday, July 29, 2023, from 9:00 am until 10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home, 706 Bremond Street, Hempstead, Texas 77445. Funeral Service: Saturday, July 29, 2023, at 10:00 am. Burial following at Fields Store Cemetery, Farm to Market Rd 1488 Waller, Texas 77484, with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Kristopher William Lewis (age 38) born June 5, 1985 in Westminster, California passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 20, 2023 in his home in Waller County, Texas. He is preceded in death by his grandparents: Doyle Lewis, Gertrude (Louis) Dutra, Donald Pearson, and Joseph F. Stout; “backup father” Dennis Merrell; aunts Belinda Lee Stout and Charlene Stout; and his beloved dogs: Daisy, Jake, Buddy, Sophia, Ginger, and Sally. He is survived by his grandmother, Charline Pearson; parents Natalie Pearson Lewis (Joseph Daniel “Danny” Stout) of Hempstead, Texas and Mark Henry Lewis (Dr. Nancy Lewis) of Litchfield, Minnesota; “backup mom” Ruth Merrell of Texas; ex-fiancé/best friend, Lila Coley of Texas; and daughter, Amelia Rose Coley of Texas; brothers, Charles Michael Lewis of Texas and Travis (Alexis) Hislop of Minnesota; sisters, Kayla Burchill and Lindsey Greenlun of Minnesota; nephews Micah Reign Lewis of Texas, Lucian Hislop of Minnesota, and Jacob Greenlun of Minnesota; aunt and uncle Yvonne and Rod Hernandez of California; cousins Krystal Hernandez, Steven (Krissy) Hernandez, Baby Niko, and Caleb Hernandez of California; aunt Judy Lewis of Illinois; cousins Lindsay and Jennifer of Illinois; uncle Joseph Stout of Florida; and many other beloved family and friends. Kristopher had a huge heart, was very caring, and family oriented. He was always willing to help, no matter who you were. He loved children, animals, and any Chicago sports teams, especially his Cubbies. He found pride in being a father to Amelia, “Da-Da” to Micah, uncle to Lucian and Jacob, and a loving presence for various other family members. He found happiness and peace on the beach, anywhere near, in, or on the water. Kristopher spoke of his wishes to not have a memorial service; therefore, in lieu of a memorial service there will be a “Celebration of Kristopher” with his immediate family and friends. Kristopher lived large and dreamed big. He will be dearly missed by all who were lucky enough to know him. You will always hurt and miss him and love him. Love him by loving yourself and others the way he did. Loving what he loved, the water and the beach and cutting down trees and sculpting the wood. He was so creative and amazing with his hands. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Bonnie Leona Hotvedt, 79, recently of Hempstead, Texas passed away Tuesday, July 18, 2023 at her home. She was born March 15, 1944 to Harland Stone and Muriel Butterbrodt Stone in San Francisco, California. Bonnie is survived by her son, Adam Erik Hotvedt. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
On July 7, 2023, Maxine Olivia (Freitag) Wiggins passed away peacefully at the age of 93. She was born on December 4,1929 in Hempstead, Texas, where she was a lifelong resident. She is preceded in death by her husband Patrick Wiggins and parents “Fennie” & Olga Freitag. She is survived by her two sons, James Dryden & wife Linda, and Ricky Dryden & wife Sheri; grandchildren: Nina Dryden, Gina Heath, Kent Dryden & wife Tanya, Erin Garrett & husband Stephen, Ashley Harris, Kristyna Gibson, and Kara Gibson; great grandchildren; Lauren Mikeska, Trace Mock, Jacob Heath, Joey Heath, Preston Heath, Kasey Garrett, Laken Garrett, Mac Gonzales, Aiden Beene, Kendall Gibson, Kylee Dixon, Carter, Dixon, Camden Dixon, Jacob Averitt & Zailynn Konrath; great-great grandchildren; Tinsley Mikeska, Jensen Mikeska & Colton Spinks. Maxine was a 1947 graduate of Hempstead High school; she later went on to work for Southwestern Bell where she retired. In her spare time, she loved to go camping and fishing with family and friends. One of her great loves was music, whether it was in the spotlight singing on stage or supporting her sons in one of their many bands. She was Mom, Grandma, Mamaw and friend to so many. She was and is loved so very much and will be greatly missed by us all. We invite you all to join us in her final farewell Saturday, July 15, 2023, for a visitation from 9:00 am until noon and a funeral service at noon at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
James “Jim” Hight a beloved husband, father, and papa passed away on June 13th 2023, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories. Born in Hubbard, Texas on June 23rd 1950, Jim was the son of James “Bucky” Hight and Kathryn Louise Hight, eventually moving to Waller where he spent the last 30 years with his sweetie, Sylvia Hight. Jim’s journey through life was marked by remarkable experiences with a lasting impact. He was a graduate of Hubbard High School, where he lettered in football and a member of FFA all four years. He was also elected FFA Beau his senior year. Jim was not only a member of the football team but played basketball, baseball and ran track. He went to the regional meet in Kilgore in the Discus. His dynamic personality traits endeared him to everyone he met. Jim was known for his ability to bring laughter and love to whoever he was around. He had an honest and loving nature, combined with an infectious spirit of dreaming big. With a big-hearted and selfless demeanor, he was always there to support others and fight for what he believed in. Jim had a funny side and would light up a room with his sense of humor. He was reliable, dependable, and natural leader who never met a stranger. His willingness to extend generosity and love beyond his immediate family was no match. Jim began his career with the railroad in 1972. His Railroad career covered 36 years and took him to places like Tucumcari, Phoenix, El Paso, Houston, and every place in between. He started as a switchman with Southern Pacific and retired as the superintendent of PTRA. Upon retiring in 2008, he bought a motorhome and began traveling with the love of his life. Their travels took them across the country where he was able to enjoy his favorite hobby, fishing. His retirement also afforded him the time to devote to giving back to Free Masonry. Jim was raised a Master Mason in the Cade Rothwell No. 1151 Lodge on December 14, 1992. He attained the 32nd degree in The Scottish Rite and was a member of the Arabia Shrine Temple. Jim’s commitment to serving his community extended beyond his personal life. He dedicated his time and energy to the Monaville Volunteer Fire Department for many years. Jim was a member and a deacon of Monaville Baptist church where he served for over 30 years. He is survived by his loving wife Sylvia. His children and spouses, daughter Lezlie and son in law Kevin Venden, son Chad and daughter in law Melissa Hight, daughter Jamie Doo, and son Brian Fayle and daughter in law Barbara Fayle. His grandchildren Kelcie and Corey Stansell, Taylor Hight, Koleton Venden, Emilia Hight, Avery Doo, Abby Doo and great grandson Lachlan Stansell. Visitation is Saturday, June 17, 2023 from 9:00 am until 10:00 am with the funeral service beginning at 10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Burial following at Pilgrims Rest Cemetery, Bellville, Texas with Pastor Mike Garrett officiating.Pallbearers: Chad Hight, Kevin Venden, Koleton Venden, Bill David, Jim Bearden, and Jim Helton. Honorary Pallbearers: Brian Fayle, Bull Currie, and Kevin Graves.
Joseph “Joey” F. Bage (70), of Hempstead, TX passed away in his home on February 21, 2023. Joseph fondly known as “Joey” was born to Ewald and Julia Judy (Debartolo) Bage, on May 29, 1952, in Brenham, TX. He was a talented entrepreneur, well known for his Barbecue establishments thorough out Hempstead and his iconic “BBQ Baked Potato”. Joey was well-known & loved by many in the Waller County Community. Most will remember him from his younger years when he ran and operated the first Dairy Queen right here in Hempstead Tx or how he had a passion for fast cars, especially the Ford Thunderbird, riding motorcycles, and his great sense of humor. He also loved being outdoors and going to Matagorda beach. He is preceded in death by his mother Julia Judy (Debartolo) Bage and his father Ewald Willie Bage. He is survived by his loving brother, Fred Bage of Somerville Tx, and his former wife, Terri Martin “TJ.” of Round Rock Tx. He will also be deeply missed by his children, Haliee Dawn Bage of Round Rock TX, Joseph Willie Bage and his wife Melissa Bage of Austin TX and Julie Abke of Hempstead TX. Joseph “Joey” F. Bage was a proud grandfather to six grandchildren, Dustin Abke, Clayton Abke, Robert S. Mizell, Colton J. Bage, Mattie J. Bage, and Gunner W. Bage. Memorial Services will be held Saturday, June 3, 2023 at 2:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home.
Charles Russell Canter, 97, passed away Friday, May 19, 2023 in Trinity, Texas. He was born January 4, 1926 to Herbert B. Canter and Goldie Barnett Canter in Mount Alto, West Virginia. Charles is preceded in death by his parents and son Charles Russell Canter II and is survived by his daughter Jackie Alms and son in-law Michael Alms. Visitation: Tuesday, May 23, 2023 from 8:00 am until 10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Tuesday, May 23, 2023 at 10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home. Pallbearers: Mike Thomas, David Spreen, Rusty Brown, Darrell Gross, Anthony Stanley, and Nathan Matthews. Burial following at Hempstead Cemetery with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home.
Brandon Lindgren (Bubba) was born on October 26, 2006 and passed away on May 3, 2023 at the age of 16. Brandon enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking, and bee keeping. He also enjoyed riding his mini bike and go kart with his friends. He was working on getting his diploma early and was very excited about graduating in June and having a party. He was excited about getting his permit and was in the drivers seat every chance he got. He was looking forward to having his truck restored and being on the road. Brandon liked welding and was wanting to go into that field after graduating. He built a bbq pit for FFA and was the first to ask it we could bbq tonight. He became very good at cooking steaks which were his favorite. Brandon never met a stranger. He would know your life story and you would know his in the first five minutes of meeting you. He loved to talk and give hugs. Brandon is preceded in death by his Grandparents: J.D. and Ruby Loesch and his Grandfather: Bob Pitchford. Brandon is survived by his Loving Parents: Steven and Lacey Pitchford, Mother: Michelle Lindgren, Brothers: Steven Pitchford, Jr. (Brittany), Matthew Tennery, Blake Tennery (Brittany), Sister: Melody Lindgren, Grandmother: Mary Pitchford, Aunts: Tracy Meador and Trish Miller, Uncle: Bobby Pitchford (Sally), Niece: Aubrey Pitchford, Nephew: Steven Pitchford III, Cousins: Austin Jones, Wyatt Fenimore, Augustin Soliz, Ryan Pitchford, Garrett Pitchford, Girlfriend: Emma Abke, and numerous cousins and friends. Pallbearers: Austin Jones, Steven Pitchford, Jr., Matthew Tennery, Blake Tennery, Chaz Cook, and Neil Shaver. Honorary Pallbearers: Wyatt Fenimore and Steven Pitchford III. Visitation will be Saturday, May 13, 2023 from 9:00 am – 11:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home. Funeral Service will be Saturday, May 13, 2023 at 11:00 am with Bro. Johnny Arnall officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home in Hempstead. Burial will follow at Hempstead Cemetery.
Dederick Woodworth Elliott, Jr., 84, of Hockley, Texas passed away Sunday, January 22, 2023. He was born February 9, 1938, to Dederick W. Elliot, Sr. and Elsie Helen Dinkins Elliot in Corpus Christi, Texas. Dederick aka “Mike” graduated from the University of Houston with a BBA and MBA in Business and first worked in Houston, for Hempstead native Roland Sledge, in the Procurement Department of Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Company (Transco) where he was responsible for assisting in the purchase of tens of millions of dollars of tubulars, valves and other equipment for Transco’s natural gas transmission business, which extended from South Louisiana to New York State. He held similar positions with other companies throughout his career. Never caring for his first name, he has been known as “Mike” since college. Mike is preceded in death by his parents and survived by close friends. Graveside Service: Monday, April 17, 2023, at noon at Macedonia Cemetery, Hockley, Texas with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Charles Ray McPhate, 85, recently of Hempstead, Texas passed away Tuesday, April 4, 2023. He was born March 28, 1938 in Pasadena, TX and graduated Pasadena High School class of 56’. Charles lived in Spring Branch for most of his adult life, starting off as a locksmith which he and his then new wife Jerry Williamson King became founding members of The Greater Houston Locksmith Association (GHLA) which is still in existence today. It was then that member #1 wrote the constitution and bylaws for the organization. He then began working for Houston Grinding & Manufacturing and worked his way up from sweeping the floors, becoming a skilled machinist and then reaching retirement as lead shop foreman. Later in his 60’s, Charles became interested in Practical Shooting and spent his free time on the range in competitions. He was a member of the Houston Gun Collectors Club for many years. He also found joy at The Texas Renaissance Festival and thoroughly shocked his children when he made his debut in his festival costume by donning a kilt! The family extends their gratitude for the friends he made there, who continued to call and send cards when he could no longer attend this past season. He loved taking his children fishing on the Galveston Pier and continued this throughout his life. A staunch Republican and defender of the 2nd amendment, Charles was a man of fortitude with a strong work ethic and was an example to his children to not judge a book by its cover because once he let you in, he had so many layers of self to show and so many stories to tell. Our father was greeted in his passing by his wife of 34 years Joyce D Bass of MS, parents Raymond Aycock McPhate & Margaret Louise Brosemer of Porter, TX, sister Sandra J McPhate and step-daughter Melanie R Morris. He is survived by children; Douglas E McPhate of Waller, Rebecca D Timm of Hempstead and Daniel E McPhate of Montgomery, stepdaughters Yvette Lieberum of Houston and Lisa Keller of TN., Sister Sharon L Earley of Pasadena, TX., 10 grandchildren, 6 great grandchildren, two nephews and one niece. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Sally Lee Rivard – Born, 12/23/1941 – Passed, 2/19/2023Great Wife, Mother, Friend To Many – Woman of Faith Who Loved Simple Joys of Life Rivard, Sally Lee-of Hempstead, Tx, died of natural causes on Sunday, February 19th, 2023 at her residence. A funeral Mass, with celebrant Fr. Joseph Doran, will be celebrated on Saturday, March 11th, 2023 at 10:00 am, at St. Katherine Drexel, 800 FM 1488 Rd, Hempstead, TX 77445; and a Celebration of Sally’s Life will directly follow at Classic Events Cafe, 615 Business 290 N. Hempstead, TX 77445. There will also be a celebration of Sally’s life in Michigan at a future date. Sally was the daughter of James and Marjorie Wolfgang, born in Altoona, PA, December 23, 1941. She is preceded in death by her parents, her spouse of 19 years, Jon Rivard, her son in law Dave Shurtz, step daughter Jill Pringle and her sister and brother in laws, Dorothy and George Jorkasky. Sally is survived by her children, James Hebler, Jeffery and Kimberly Hebler, Kimberly and Steve Harrelson, and Kelly Baudat, her sister Gretchen and Bernard Randall, her beloved step children, Janet Shurtz, Dale Pringle, Joe and Leann Rivard, Jon and Kim Rivard, Joel Rivard, Jeff and Darlene Rivard, 28 Grandchildren, numerous Great Grandchildren, and her beloved nieces and nephews. Sally loved life! She was someone who loved fiercely, was passionate about her family, loved her friends and was faithfully committed to both. She was a woman of great faith and lived it every day in all that she did. She loved to dance, play games, exercise, take care of her home and had a knack for making the simple things in life worth celebrating. After raising her four children, Sally worked in several secretarial positions before retiring and moving from Michigan to Texas. She was never one to sit back and watch life pass her by, she was a woman of great strength and ambition, always seeking to improve the lives of those she loved. Her last job was serving as a hostess at Classic Events Cafe, which she truly enjoyed. Sally will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to know her. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
In lieu of flowers, please send a donation to one of her favorite charities: https://giving.parishsoft.com/app/giving/stk800165, https://firehelpingfire.org/donate/, or
James Edwon Bennatte, 83, went to be with the Lord on February 4, 2023. He was born January 21, 1940 to Laura Mavle Hardcastle and James A. Bennatte. He went to Hempstead schools while he worked at Exxon, Gulf, and Texaco gas stations. He also worked as a beer delivery driver when he met the love of his life Karen Alece Taylor. They married in April of 1968. He worked at National Steel Houston and Grants in Navasota while still working at gas stations part-time. He was a volunteer fireman for Hempstead for 45 years. Jimmie is preceded in death by his wife Karen of 46 years and 8 months, his parents Laura Hardcastle and James Bennatte, his in-laws Charles and Edna Taylor, brother in-laws Eddie Ortega, Dennis Taylor, and Curly Dozier, sister in-law Jeanette Taylor, and close cousins J.D. and Ruby Loesch. Jimmie and Karen had no children but treated their nephews Jason, Jeremy, Chris, Travis, C.J., Steven, Josh, and niece Katy like their own. Jimmie was kind at heart and giving. He would help anyone at any time. He is survived by sisters Linda (A.J.) Sassin, Wanda Dozier, Frankie (Jim) McCoslin, sister in-law Elyane Ortega, brother in-laws Gary Taylor and Keith Taylor, nephews Chris (Toni) Dimas, Jason (Marilyn) Kliem, Jeremy (Heather) McCoslin, Travis (Melissa) Morehead, and C.J. Ortega. He has a host of nieces and nephews, cousins, and friends. Graveside Services will be held at Salem Cemetery under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating. Service day and time are pending at this time. Thank you all for your kind words at this time. God Bless You All.
Louise Helen Spotts, 92, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Friday, February 10, 2023. She was born February 28, 1930 to Dewey Johnson and Florence Schimff Johnson in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania. Louise spent most of her adult life in upstate New York. She loved to sew, embroider, and quilt. She made many beautiful items which she gave to friends and family. She was an avid reader and enjoyed doing puzzles. Together with her husband Ron, Louise built and operated a quarter horse farm in Bradford, New York. They loved riding motorcycles and traveling together. After her husband passed in 2014, Louise moved to Texas to live with family. Louise is survived by her sons James Decker and wife Susan, and Harold Decker; daughters Sandra Vance and husband Michael, and Sylvia Merola and husband Michael; brother Fredrick Johnson; sisters Dorothy Feathers, Ruth Goodroe, and Beverly Johnson; 11 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great grandchildren. Arrangements were entrusted to McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead.
Helen Elizabeth Irvin, 75, of Hempstead, Texas, passed away Friday, January 27, 2023 at her home. She was born February 7, 1947, to Walter Moore and Leah Meyer Moore in Pasadena, Texas. Helen was a very strong woman who cared for her husband Charles Irvin, Sr. after he was diagnosed with a terminal illness. She loved arts and crafts and sharing with others. She was highly active in Boy Scouts of America. She achieved distinction as a Vigil Honor Member and received the district award of merit from the Davy Crocket district of Boy Scouts. She was a Silver Beaver recipient and a district advancement chairman. She was also a quartermaster for Camp Brosig. She had an avid interest in Native American culture and enjoyed sharing and spreading that interest. She also sang on The Texas Connection with a Native American drum group. Helen is preceded in death by her husband Charles Irvin, Sr. and her son Charles Irvin, Jr. She is survived by her son Landis Irvin, daughter Elizabeth Stravoski, brother Walter Vivian Moore, sister Eileen Moore, and three grandchildren. Visitation: Wednesday, February 1, 2023 from 9:00 am until 10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Wednesday, February 1, 2023 at 10:00 am at McWilliams Funeral Home with Brother Philip “Deke” McWilliams officiating. Burial following at Hempstead Cemetery.
Henry Mikolajewski, Jr., 67, of Hempstead, Texas passed away Sunday, January 8, 2023. He was born August 19, 1956 to Henry Mikolajewski, Sr. and Helen Kujawa Mikolajewski in Bellville, Texas. Henry was employed with Waller County Road and Bridge for thirty years. He is preceded in death by his parents Henry and Helen Mikolajewski and nephew Darrell Gross, Jr. Henry is survived by his sister Barbara Gross and her husband Darrell. Visitation: Saturday, January 14, 2023 from 9:00 am until 10:00 am at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Saturday, January 14, 2023 at 10:00 am at St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church. Burial following at Hempstead Cemetery under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to: St. Bartholomew’s Episcopal Church, 811 14th St, Hempstead, TX 77445.
America Avalos Salinas, 56, of Waller, Texas passed away Sunday, January 8, 2023. She was born October 12, 1966 in Ciudad Miguel Aleman, Mexico to Domingo Avalos and Maria Herrera Avalos. Mrs. Salinas is survived by her husband Sergio Salinas, son Adolfo Vazquez, daughter Chantal Malagon and husband Mario, brother Jose Avalos and wife Adelina, sisters: Maria Aleman and husband Fausto, Nora Guerra and husband Jose, Ruth Avila and husband Jose, Blanca Pedraza and husband Valentin, and grandchildren: Andres, Sergio, and Emilio. Visitation: Thursday, January 12, 2023 from 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm at McWilliams Funeral Home, Hempstead. Funeral Service: Friday, January 13, 2023 at 10:00 am at St. Katharine Drexel Church, Hempstead with Father Xavier Bilavendiran officiating. Burial following at St. Martin de Porres Catholic Cemetery, Waller, Texas under the direction of McWilliams Funeral Home.