**In Loving Memory of Diana Newell**

Diana Lynn Newell, born on November 11, 1946, in Kenedy, Texas, left this world on August 3, 2026, at the age of 79. A remarkable woman, Diana was the cherished daughter of Glenn and Marie Newell, both of whom preceded her in death, as did her siblings, Barbara Scrimpsher and David Newell, and her beloved son, Michael Knight.  Diana is survived by her brother Bobby Newell and children: Kevin Knight (Mendy), Darrell Knight (Rodney), and Tammy Knight. She was a proud grandmother to Haley Eaves (Andrew), Colby Geistman, Ashley Nemes (Hayden), Taylor Knight (Valor), and Brayden Radford, and a devoted great-grandmother to Claire Eaves, Wyatt Eaves, Kate Eaves, Rhya Geistman, Maddox Nemes, and Scarlett Nemes.  Known for her love for fashion, Diana never met a sparkle, bright color, or bold accessory she didn’t love. Her hands were never idle, finding joy in knitting and crafting, where she saw the beauty in repurposing everyday items into something meaningful. Diana’s vibrant spirit was a beacon, turning strangers into friends with her warmth and kindness.  Whether she was carefully picking out her outfit or lining up her daubers on the bingo table, she brought immense joy and energy to everything she did.  Diana also had a special place in her heart for her beloved toy poodle, Little Boy. He was more than a pet; he was a cherished companion and a source of comfort, joy, and unconditional love. Their bond was a beautiful reflection of Diana’s tender and loving heart.  Diana’s family extends heartfelt gratitude to her friends who provided unwavering love and support. Though an era of love, grace, and wisdom has passed, Diana’s light continues to guide and inspire. No memorial service is planned at this time.

Faustino Jacques, Age 72 of Kenedy, TX went to be with his Lord and Savior on Wednesday, August 5, 2026.  Faustino was born on August 22, 1953 in Karnes City, TX to the late Trinidad and Francisca Garcia Jacques. He married Juanita Amaya on November 27, 1976 who precedes him in death, was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, retired from the First Baptist Church in Kenedy after 30 plus years of custodial service, enjoyed ranching, singing all his favorite Augustine Ramirez songs for his family and was of the Baptist Faith.  He is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Jaunita Ester Amaya Jacques, parents, Trinidad and Francisca Garcia, grandson, Nicholas Jacques, siblings, Mary Martinez, Trino Jacques and Lupe Jacques.  He is survived by his children, Pat Castillo and husband Jerry of Kenedy, Jackie Jacques and companion Eddie Hinojosa of Kenedy, John Jacques and wife Stacia of Kenedy, Terry Jacques and wife Martha of Kenedy, J.J. Jacques of Kenedy, grandchildren, Aaron Castillo and wife Miah, Brandon Castillo and wife Madison, Chris Castillo, Jestine Hinojosa, Autumn Hinojosa, Zeke Jacques and wife Victoria, Kaitlin Jacques, Timothy Jacques and wife Hannah, Julissa Jacques, Anthony Vasquez, 19 great-grandchildren and numerous extended family members and friends.

Family Visitation will be held Saturday, August 8, 2026 from 2PM to 7PM with a Prayer Service at 7PM in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel.  Inurnment will take place at a later date in the Kenedy Cemetery in Kenedy, TX.

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Consuelo “Connie/Chelo” Aguero, of Kenedy, Texas, entered into eternal life at the age of 76. She was born on May 8, 1950, to Gumesindo and Irinea Cruz in Karnes City, Texas.  She grew up on a farm in Coy City, Texas, with nine brothers and one sister. She attended school in Fashing, Texas, before going to high school in Karnes City. She married Manuel Aguero Sr. in 1970, and they spent many wonderful years together before his passing.  Connie, lovingly known as “Chelo,” found great joy in spending time with family and friends. She was always ready for a game of bingo or cards, where her laughter and friendly spirit made every gathering memorable. She will be remembered for her sweet nature, compassionate heart, and for treating others with kindness, warmth, and generosity. She loved making others laugh with her jokes and playful sense of humor, bringing joy and comfort to everyone fortunate enough to know her. She was an active member of her church and a woman of deep faith who trusted in our Heavenly Father’s love. Connie/Chelo was preceded in death by her parents, Gumesindo and Irinea Cruz; her husband, Manuel Aguero Sr.; her daughter, Dorine Denise Aguero-Cast; and her siblings, Crispen “Pinky” Perez, Eugene Perez, Rudy Cruz, Petra Rodriguez, Felipe Cruz, and Jesus Cruz.

She is survived by her children, Cynthia (Michael) Rosales, Manuel (Priscilla) Aguero Jr., and Henry (Elizabeth) Aguero; her grandchildren, Michael Rosales Jr., Mark Rosales, Manuel Aguero III, Amanda Rosales, Cyndi Reddic, Valerie Garcia, Stephanie Aguero, Monica Rosales, Marissa Aguero, Clarissa Aguero, Zoe Aguero, and Khloe Aguero; her step-grandchildren, Paul Perez, Christian Soto, Brandon Soto, and Ana Soto; her siblings, Jose (Isabelle) Cruz, Daniel (Ester) Cruz, Pablo (Janie) Cruz, Ricky (Mary) Cruz, and Gumesindo “Gumby” Cruz Jr.; 16 great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.

The Family will receive friends beginning at 1PM Tuesday, July 28, 2026 with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 7PM in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated Wednesday, July 29, 2026 at 10AM at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church with the Rev. Robert Ploch and Deacon Cantu officiating.  Interment will follow in the New Bremen Cemetery in Karnes City, TX.

Serving as Pallbearers will be: Manuel Aguero, III, Anthony Cruz, Michael Rosales, Jr., Monica Rosales, Mark Rosales and Juan Garcia.

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Michael “Mike” Rayfield Polasek, of Coy City, Texas, passed away on July 12, 2026, at the age of 90.  

Mike was born on March 9, 1936, in Coy City, Texas, to Alice and Tom Polasek. Except for the two years he served in the United States Army after being drafted, Mike lived his entire life in the Coy City area, where he built a life centered on family and friends, a strong work ethic, and a deep love for the land.

In May 1958, Mike married the love of his life, Ruby Lee Retzloff. Together they shared 68 years of marriage and raised two children, Deborah Anne Polasek, born in 1959, and Laddie Luis Polasek (deceased, born in 1962).

After completing his military service, Mike worked in the oil fields. Years later, that experience proved valuable during the oil and gas boom in Karnes County. Fascinated by how much the industry had changed over the years, he kept a close eye on the activity surrounding his property, making sure oil and gas companies honored their lease agreements and respected his land.

Mike’s greatest passion, however, was the outdoors and the land he loved so dearly. After his time in the oil fields, he devoted himself to learning everything he could about farming and ranching. Farming and ranching were more than a livelihood—they were his passion and his calling. He was happiest in a field, whether preparing the soil, planting, fertilizing, harvesting, or simply checking on a crop. Mike found purpose and satisfaction in every season of the farming cycle.

In addition to farming and ranching his own land, Mike operated a custom farming business, providing planting, harvesting, and hay baling services for area farmers. He took pride in doing the job right, and his strong work ethic earned him a reputation for dependable, quality work.

In his younger years, Mike enjoyed hunting. It was while hunting raccoons with his father-in-law that he first met Ruby, and later spent many seasons hunting deer. As wild hogs became a threat to his crops, he turned his attention to hunting them as well. Mike also loved freshwater fishing in his own tank and those of neighboring landowners, but he never cared much for fishing on the coast, preferring to avoid the saltwater, humidity, and what he called that “sticky” feeling.

Mike never met a stranger and always made time to visit with friends, neighbors, family, and those he had just met. He was always ready with a story, a joke, or a little good-natured teasing. He enjoyed the friendly competition of card games, dominoes, and tournaments and treasured every opportunity to spend time with the people he cared about.

A gifted mechanic and natural problem solver, Mike could repair just about anything—from household appliances and automobiles to pickup trucks and farm equipment. He was known for his intelligence, resourcefulness, honesty, and determination. Although he could be stubborn at times, he was always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone in need.

One of Mike’s favorite hobbies was restoring antique engines. He enjoyed attending antique engine and tractor shows, especially those in Indiana and Nebraska.  To him, the trips up and back were just as much fun as the shows themselves because he was in the company of those who shared his passion. At the shows, he proudly displayedengines he and his brothers had restored.  He enjoyed explaining their history and how they worked to anyone who stopped to visit.

Mike had a special affection for his dogs, and they adored him just as much. Together they looked forward to their daily evening rides, with the dogs happily riding in the bed of his pickup as he made his rounds checking on his properties. They were just as eager to join him on trips around town or to meet his friends for morning coffee or breakfast. Those breakfast outings were their favorite, because Mike often treated them to breakfast tacos. He took just as much pleasure in watching his dogs enjoy their tacos as they did in eating them.

Mike also had a great affection for naps.  Whenever he needed a little extra energy, he had a remarkable ability to fit in a short nap just anywhere he could. His ability to catch a quick nap almost anywhere became a running joke among family and friends.

Mike found happiness in the simple things—a good crop, a well-running tractor, a cup of coffee with friends, a loyal dog riding in the back of his pickup, and time spent with the people he loved. Those who knew him will remember a man who worked hard, laughed often, and always made time for others.

Mike was preceded in death by his son, Laddie Luis Polasek. He is survived by his wife, Ruby Lee Polasek, daughter, Deborah Anne Polasek, extended family members, friends, and neighbors who will cherish his memory.

The family is grateful for the many expressions of love and support during this difficult time as they celebrate the life of a man who will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

Visitation will be held Saturday, July 18, 2026 at 9AM with a Holy Rosary to be recited at 9:30AM followes by Funeral Services at 10AM in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in the New Bremen outside of Karnes City,TX.

Serving as Pallbearers:Thomas(Mike)Polasek, Josh T. Polasek, Hilmar Cowey, Jim Salge, Richard Swierc, Charlie Brzozowski.

Honorary Pallbearers: David Ryan and Robert Retzloff.

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Santos Patricia Garza Salais, of Kenedy, Texas, passed away peacefully in her home on July 10^th, 2026 surrounded by her loved ones. Patricia was born on March 17^th, 1941 in Rungee, Texas to Aurora Caballero and Diego L. Garza.

Throughout her life, Patricia was a devoted Catholic and faithful member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church. During her years there, she proudly served as president of the Guadalupanas for seven consecutive years. In recognition of her unwavering faith and dedication to serving Christ the Lord, she was awarded the Lumen Gentium Award by the Archdiocese of San Antonio.

When Patricia wasn’t serving her church, she devoted herself wholeheartedly to her family. She poured her love into her daughters Susie, Sara, and Sandra, and shared a loving marriage with her beloved husband Dan Salais for a wonderful 67 years.

Patricia had a remarkable gift for bringing people together and making people feel welcome. Her kindness, compassion, and gentle spirit touched the lives of countless family members, friends, and neighbors. She will always be remembered for her warm heart, dedication to her faith, and the love she shared so freely with others.

Patricia was preceded in death by her parents, Aurora Caballero Garza and Diego L. Garza and her brothers, Manuel Garza, Raul Garza, Fidencio Garza, Jimmy Garza, Elliberto Garza, and a sister Lydia Downey.

She is survived by her beloved husband Dan Salais of Kenedy, Texas; her daughters, Susie Aranda and husband Raul, Sara Salinas and husband Oscar, and Sandra Molina and husband Anthony. She was Nana and Nani to Vanessa Ibarra, Joseph Salinas, Dustin Aranda, Alex and Danielle Molina and her six great grandchildren. Her family and friends will continue to honor her legacy through the love and faith she instilled in each of them.

A Holy Rosary will be recited on Tuesday July 14^th at 9:30 am, followed by funeral mass at 10:00 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church with the Rev. Robert Ploch officiating. Inurnment in the Loma Alta Cemetery will be held at a later date. Pallbearers; Vanessa Ibarra, Joseph Salinas, Dustin Aranda, Danielle Molina, Nick Aranda, and Manuel Garza. Honorary pallbearers; Alex Molina, Ryan Garza.

Patricia was a devoted mother, wife, grandmother, sister and more to others. She will always be remembered in our hearts and her dedication to her loved ones and her faith will forever be cherished.

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Refugia De La Rosa Perez, Age 83 of Kenedy, TX passed away on July 2, 2026 in San Antonio, TX.  She was born on September 4, 1942 in Runge to the late Matias and Adela De La Rosa Perez.  She was a dietician for many of the Karnes County Nursing Homes before her retirement from Karnes Rehabilitation and Nursing Home, a loving mother, grandmother and of the Catholic Faith.  She is preceded in death by her parents, Matias and Adela De La Rosa Perez, sisters, Maria Jimenez, Otilia Perez, Santos Guzman, brothers, Gilbert Perez and Leonardo Perez.   She is survived by her children, Virginia Perez Serna and Husband Ricky of Pawnee, Jimmy De La Rosa Perez of Karnes City, brother, Jose Perez of Puerto Rico, 1 grandson and many dear friends who will greatly miss her.

A Holy Rosary will be recited Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 7PM in the Eckols Funeral Home Chapel.  Funeral Mass will be celebrated Friday, July 10, 2026 at Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church with the Rev. Robert Ploch officiating.  Interment will follow in the Sacred Heart Cemetery in Kenedy, TX.

He walked with the Duke through the dusty saloon; a man of the West, born a century too soon. With a finger of steel and a heart full of grit, he lived by the code where the old heroes sit. The walls of his room bore the iron and steel — a collection of history, heavy and real. He polished the bluing; he cherished the weight and watched every showdown that tempted his fate. In the glow of the screen where the wagons would roll, those classic old movies spoke deep to his soul. With John Wayne out front, riding steady and tall, Mark found peace in the frontier’s call.

Now the trail has grown quiet, the campfire burned low, and Mark has ridden where the best sunset glows. The collection is still, but his memory stays bright — a true gentle soul who has walked into the night.

Mark Edward Melvin passed away peacefully in his home on June 20, 2026. Mark was born October 1, 1959, to the late Lee and Mary Elizabeth (Hyatt) Melvin of Gillette, Texas. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Lee Melvin Jr.; his sister, Mary Melvin Williams; and his longtime partner, San Juanita Vela Rencurel.

Mark was a graduate of Coastal Bend College, earning a degree in Mechanics. He brought patience, skill, and heart to everything he touched. He worked at O’Reilly’s in Kenedy, Texas, for a time and spent many years at Superior Automotive, where his hands built a lifetime of honest work. After retiring, he settled into a peaceful life in Tuleta, Texas.

He lived a simple life, but a full life— with motorcycles that carried him toward the open road, old Westerns that reminded him of the values he held close, and a gun collection he cared for with the same devotion he showed his family.

Mark is survived by his sisters Jacqueline Melvin (Lynn) Broadway of Bastrop, Texas; Janie Melvin Reiley of Panna Maria, Texas; and Betty Melvin (Jesse) Montez of Tuleta, Texas. He leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews, as well as several great- and great-great-nieces and nephews who adored him.

To his family, Mark was more than a brother or an uncle — he was a gentle soul, a steady presence, and a man whose quiet kindness left a lasting mark on every life he touched. His memory will remain bright, carried forward in the stories told, the laughter remembered, and the love he gave so freely. Mark will forever be missed and forever loved by all who knew him.

A celebration of Mark’s life will be announced at a later date and will be held in Harmony Texas, where family and friends will gather to honor his memory.

Joy Nowlin age 95, passed away on June 8, 2026 at her home in Kenedy, Texas.

Born on December 12, 1930, in Cranfills Gap, Texas, Joy was the 4^th of the 5 Children of Ambrose Oglesby (1900-1958) and Emma Jane Oglesby (1900-1995).  The Oglesby family moved often and eventually made their home in Lubbock, Texas, where joy graduated from Lubbock High School.

After 2 years at Texas Tech University, Joy married and started a family, raising 3 children in San Antonio, Texas.  She returned to college in 1967 earning a BA and MA in speech Pathology and Communication Disorders in 1971 from Our Lady of the Lake University. She worked in the Judson ISD and then for Region 20 “Child Find” project while also earning her Ed.D. in educational Psychology from Bringham Young University in 1981. She went on to teach classes at Sul Ross State University in Uvalde, to work as a speech pathologist for the special education co-op in Uvalde and an educational diagnostician for the Gainesville State School and the Corsicana Residential Treatment Center, and to teach classes at Texas Woman’s University in Denton.  She retired from full-time employment in 1994 and moved to Kenedy, Texas where she remained professionally active in part time positions with TDCJ and Pettus ISD, retiring fully in 2008.

She is survived by her children Patricia White Hyde (Ronald) of Kenedy, Jack Anthony White, Jr. (Yvonne) of Allen, and Judith White Biedrzycki (Robert-deceased) of San Antonio; 7 grandchildren, Amanda Hyde Conine (Adam), Emily Hyde, Robert Moore Biedrzycki, Caitlyn Biedrzycki Klein (Kristen), Benjamin Kyle Biedrzycki, Vanessa White Kostroun (Josh), and Adam Spencer White; and 6 grandchildren, Caroline Conine, Eloise Conine, Camilla Conine, Camryn Klein, Reese Klein, and Emma Kostroun.

Joy was a member of First Baptist Church of Kenedy and served as a greeter at the McNay Art Museum in San Antonio for several years after her retirement.  She enjoyed line-dancing and browsing in local thrift stores.  She was an encourager and placed a great value on education, and although she never required it, she lived to see each of her children and grandchildren earn college degrees.

During the Last Decade of her Life, joy needed the help of caregivers.  We are so grateful for the wonderful care she received in her final days from Mary Lou Gonzales and Cookie Garcia, and from Di’Anna Bocanegra who has worked with her for the past 10 years and was able to be with her at the end.  These ladies along with the staff of New Century Hospice enabled Joy to experience her best quality of life in her final days.

Visitation with the family is scheduled for Friday, June 19, from 10:00 am to 11:00 am at Eckols Funeral Home.  A Memorial Service will follow at 11:00 am.