Cecil A. Radicke, affectionately known as Bubba, of Kenedy, Texas, passed away peacefully on November 21, 2024, at the age of 87, surrounded by his devoted family. He was born on March 14, 1937, in Gillett, Texas, to the late Arthur and Winnie Ridel Radicke. Cecil was a devoted son, brother, father, uncle, grandfather, great-grandfather, great-great-grandfather, and a cherished friend to many. Those who had the privilege of knowing him were truly blessed, and he held a strong Christian faith. Cecil was recognized for his compassionate and gentle nature. During his high school years, he was employed at Hubbard Grocery Store, earning $1.50 per hour after school and on weekends, where his father, Arthur, was also employed as the butcher. He completed his education at Kenedy High School in 1956, and shortly thereafter, he began working for General Mills. He subsequently enlisted in the United States Air Force, serving from 1959 to 1963. Following his military service, he returned to General Mills, where he held the position of Shift Supervisor for 36 years demonstrating his strong work ethic before retiring in 1990.  Cecil possessed an unparalleled passion for gardening, dedicating himself to the study of various plants as they transitioned through the seasons of spring, summer, fall, and winter. He also exhibited remarkable skill in woodworking, producing an array of stunning pieces from his workshop. Among his creations was a baby cradle for his first granddaughter, alongside countless unique items that showcased his artistry. He took great pleasure in crafting gifts for his family and friends during Christmas, each one distinct and infused with care. Additionally, he demonstrated proficiency in grafting different types of trees. His enthusiasm for bowling was exceptional; he would feel a sense of disappointment if he missed a week due to a doctor’s appointment or illness. Although he never achieved the elusive perfect score of 300, he was adept at converting spares. At the bowling alley, he found a second family who would check in on him regularly. In his earlier years, he enjoyed fishing in the river, setting lines, and traveling to Rockport for floundering, where he successfully gigged many fish. He also took pleasure in watching the Dallas Cowboys and the San Antonio Spurs.  Cecil is preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Otto Radicke and Winne Irene Riedel Radicke. Sisters, Gladys Irene Tenberg and Sybil Inez Atkins. Son, David T. Parker, Jr. Nephews, Daniel Tenberg, Mark Tenberg, Tim Tenberg, Jimmy Atkinson, and Bailey Ray Atkinson. Nieces, Amy Tenberg, Irene Cooksey, and Jerry Radicke.  Those who remain to honor Cecil’s memory include his daughter, GayeLynne Yanta, lovingly referred to as Sissie, along with her husband Paul from Runge. Additionally, his longtime friend Linda Parker from Kenedy.  Grandchildren, Tricia Taylor and husband Aaron of Port Lavaca, Krystan Koehler and husband Cory of Devine, Corey Parker and wife Shanda of Banquete, and Kelli Miller and fiancé Justin Stuart of San Antonio.  Step Grandchildren, Crystal Lemke and husband Brandon of Yorktown, Anthony Yanta and wife Stacie of Beeville, Matthew Yanta and fiancé Crislyn Frausto of Runge, Nathan Sturn and partner Nathan Poplin of San Antonio, and Marvin Yanta and wife Alixx of Yorktown.  Great Grandchildren, Paige McDearman, Maise Ondreas, RJ Taylor, Rylee Green, Hunter Taylor, Scott Yanta, McKenzie Medina, Kenzie Yanta, Easton Lemke, Emma Koehler, Caleb Miller, Corbyn Parker, Lainey Lemke, Caylynn Parker, Brixton Miller, Taylor Yanta, Korie Parker, Tanner Yanta, Mia Lemke, Austin Yanta, Kimber Yanta, and Casey Yanta. Great-great Grandchildren, Oaklynn and Dawson McDearman.  Cecil was truly unique; his birth marked the end of a mold that could never be replicated. He will be profoundly missed by numerous family members and friends, yet his memory will endure.

Visitation is scheduled for Monday, December 2, 2024, at Eckols Funeral Home, located at 420 W Live Oak Street, Kenedy, Texas 78119. The visitation will take place from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, followed by the service at 1:00 PM. Pastor Kenny Shelton will officiate the service.

Interment will take place in Gillett, Texas, at the Gillett/Riedelville Cemetery, situated at 486 County Road 283, Gillett, Texas 78116.

A gathering of family and friends will take place at the Panna Maria Dining Hall in Panna Maria, Texas. The venue is situated at 13912 North FM 81 Road, Karnes City, Texas 78118.

Serving as pallbearers will be Skip Spahn, Bruce Kitchen, Paul Tenberg, Justin Stuart, Matthew Yanta, and Scott Atkinson.

Memorial contributions may be directed to a charity of your preference in his honor.

Jerry Rodriguez, 75, of Orange, Texas, passed away on November 9, 2024, at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Beaumont.  Born in Beeville, Texas, on July 17, 1949, he was the son of Andres Rodriguez and Lina Villarreal. He was married to Odelia Rodriguez Hernandez, to this union there were two children, Lilly Ann Dove Rodriguez and Sue Ann Rodriguez. In the 1970’s, Jerry moved his family to Minnesota. He started his career for the Metro Transit Bus Company as a mechanic, where he retired after 35 years. Jerry proudly served in the United States Air Force. He loved his grandchildren as if they were his own. Jerry enjoyed watching Yellowstone and the Dallas Cowboys. You could find him watching pro wrestling, Stone Cold Steve Austin, or western movies, John Wayne, or the Wheel of Fortune. Jerry often loved doing home improvement projects and working on cars especially a 57” Chevy. Jerry loved visting family, traveling, and retirement. He was a loving brother, husband, father, uncle, and grandfather and will be deeply missed by all those who knew him.  Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, Andres Rodriguez and Lina Villarreal; and brothers-in-law, Larry Hunter and Leon Villarreal.  Jerry is survived by his loving wife, Odelia Rodriguez; daughters, Lilly Ann Dove Rodriguez and Sue Ann Rodriguez; grandchildren, Enriqué Robinson (Ricky), Myrcedez Dove, and Daunte Dove; siblings, Andres Rodriquez, Jr. and wife Lulu, Diana Rodriquez, Mary Alice Hall and husband Archie, John Rodriguez, Stella Villarreal.

Memorial Services will be held from 10:00 to 12:00 p.m., Saturday, November 16, 2024, at Eckols Funeral Home at 420 W. Live Oak St. Kenedy, Texas, 78119. Officiating will be Deacon Guadalupe Cantu.

Reda Jean Gonzalez Smothers, 79, was born April 27, 1945, to Albert and Evelyn Gonzalez.  She passed away on October 31, 2024. Reda is preceded in death by both of her parents, her brother, Joseph Gonzalez and her stepmother, Frances (Gussi) Gonzalez. Reda was survived by her children, Ryan Strohl (Joy Ramos) of Sugar Land, Texas, Shannon Clinard (Nathan Moy) of Karnes City, Texas and Shane Lipham (Courtney) of Pinehurst, Texas, as well as her grandchildren, Penelope Strohl, Artemisa Lipham, Caelum James (CJ) Lipham and Maverick Lipham.  She is also survived by special family Trenton, Luke and Leah Moy, as well as her many beloved, longtime friends. Reda was born in Lubbock, Texas, living in Graham, Texas but found her love for water and sunshine when the family moved to Florida when she was young.  After receiving her degree from Florida State University, Reda taught school and began her family.  She always loved Florida and her treasured friends there but found her way back to Texas around 1980 when she moved to Houston. When arriving in Houston, Reda continued teaching and embarked on a nearly 40-year career in the Cypress Fairbanks Independent School District, where she retired then returned to the classroom, as she missed her students and teaching associates. Reda loved her children and her grandchildren very much.  Her friendships were an extraordinary testament to her love for people, as they lasted her lifetime.  She will be remembered by many as a remarkable mother, grammy, friend and teacher who instilled wonderful life values.  She will forever be cherished and missed.  Her love was a blessing to many. Special thanks from our family goes to the dear people at Bedford Residence in Stafford, Texas, who cared for her as if she were their family.  Words cannot express how thankful we are for their dedication and service.

A visitation will be held on Monday, November 4, 2024, from 9-11am at Eckols Funeral Home in Kenedy, Texas.  A Burial Service will follow at the Karnes City Cemetery.

A Memorial Service to honor and remember Reda will be held on an upcoming date in Houston, Texas.

Pauline Adele (Karm) Graumann: December 16, 1930 – October 29, 2024
Pauline “Polly” Graumann, 93, of Kenedy, TX died from complications associated with heart failure at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, TX on October 29, 2024. She was born in Gonzales, TX to Arthur and Ida (Wilson) Karm. Polly was the third of six children. She graduated Valedictorian of her class from Refugio High School in 1948 before marrying Clarence Graumann in December of the same year. Polly spent decades working at the Seller’s Drug Store on Main Street in Kenedy while raising four active boys and welcoming her grandchildren. She spent countless hours taking care of family and friends, sewing and quilting up a storm. All who knew her vied for at least one of her quilt creations. Polly was preceded in death by her son Johnny, her husband Clarence, her sisters Evelyn Martin and Gladys Henson, and her brother Roland Karm. She is survived by her children, Bruce and his wife Jody, Stephen, and Clifford and his wife Rose, her sisters Helen Buckley and Wilma Parker, four grandchildren, five great grandchildren and three great, great grandchildren.
Service will be held on Saturday, November 2nd, 2:00 pm at Eckols Funeral Home, 420 W Live Oak St, Kenedy, TX 78119. Flowers welcome.