Vol. 123, No. 1
November 2019
Our best wishes for a happy and blessed Thanksgiving Day.
INSIDE Agents attend continuing ed workshop ➤ Pg. 3
Top producers for third quarter earn bonus money ➤ Pg. 4
Lodges strengthen community with donations, projects ➤ Pgs. 6-7
hermannsonslife.org
Changes made in Retirement Home admissions SAN ANTONIO – Changes have been approved in the eligibility requirements for living at the Retirement Home that will make it easier for members to qualify for residency. The Board of Directors approved the changes this summer. They went into effect on Oct. 1. Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly announced the changes in a letter to lodge officers and agents in September. Residents must still have
been a member in good standing for at least the past three consecutive years but the age at which they may apply has been dropped from 65 to 62. The life insurance requirement has also changed. Instead of having a paid-up whole life policy, residents now may enter with any current life insurance policy or an annuity (worth a minimum of $2,500). The life insurance policy must remain current (premiums and dues paid) for as long as the member lives at the Home. If
they choose to enter with an annuity, the annuity’s value must remain at least $2,500 while they are a resident.
In the past, residents had to sign over the first $1,000 of See HOME, Pg. 16
Camp announces new mini session for next year By IAN BRASSETT Executive Camp Director The summer of 2020 will see a few changes in the age eligibility for our camper-members. Most parents and campers are delighted that 14-year-olds will be allowed to attend Camp. For many of these campers it will mean they will be able to attend Camp for a sixth year now. Another change will be the addition of a mini-camp for members ages 8 and 9. This special session is planned for July 1-3. In my many conversations
with parents and grandparents there is often a reluctance to allow their child to attend Camp for a full week at a young age. In 30+ years of camping, I know that sending a child to camp for the first time is a big step for both the camper and parent. While first time campers at a younger age often do much better than campers starting a camp experience at an older age (12 and 13), we understand the concern. It is also very common that campers are ready for camp at least one year sooner than
parents are ready to send them. Our mini-camp was created for these first-time campers. Campers ages 8 and 9 who have not attended Camp before and maybe not even had a sleepover at a friend’s house are invited to this special session. This two-night summer camp experience will be designed to give these campers an easy step up on to the Hermann Sons Life Camp ladder. Guided by experienced camp leaders and See CAMP, Pg. 16
Page 2 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
HERMANN SONS LIFE USPS 242200 Periodicals Postage Paid at San Antonio, Texas Published Monthly by HERMANN SONS LIFE 515 S. St. Mary’s St. San Antonio, Texas 78205 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941 San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 DIRECTORS Sandra Jones, Chair Mike Beam Suzanne Hildebrand David Noak Stan Steiger David Wolf OFFICERS President and CEO Eugene Zollinger Vice President of Operations and COO Samantha Schulmeier Vice President of Finance and CFO Harry Werland Vice President of Marketing Timothy P. Kolbe Vice President of Member Benefits Cecily Kelly Vice President of Information Technology Matt Walker
LAWS COMMITTEE
Norma Bruns Tommy Daum Agnes Dreibrodt Lillian Franckowiak Debbie Gold Charles Knibbe David Lewis Jeanette Preuss
Robert Prewitt Tim Salge Steven Schellenberg Marlin Tanneberger Ronald Wiatrek Janet Zabransky Gerald Ziemnicki
MEMBER BENEFITS COMMITTEE
Frank Brandon Shirley Faske Tammy Kelley
Bradley Klein Ed Kurtz Laura Thigpen
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT COMMITTEE
Elizabeth Byron Tammy Haecker Marsha Kocurek
Sherry Rakowitz Lisa Rozacky Irene Schwertner
BUSINESS OPERATIONS COMMITTEE
Brad Dietrich Robert Herridge Tammy Jones Edward J. Muehlbrad
Doug Saathoff Laura Tiffin Lori Todd
President's Message Much to be grateful for this Thanksgiving In October I took part in the Continuing Education Workshop with the Marketing Team and our agents held at Hilltop Camp in Comfort . I had a great time . We had some fantastic presentations and were able to spend time learning together . I think it’s a great benefit we offer all of our agents on an annual basis . Also, as I mentioned last month, I am really excited about the Annual Statewide Event, “Moving Forward to a Brighter Future” coming up this Saturday, Oct . 26, in Seguin . It will be my first time to attend this and I look forward to meeting everyone there!
As the calendar turns to November, we always think about Thanksgiving and about the great time spent enjoying family, friends and food! Since we traditionally give thanks at this time, I want to talk about some of the many things for which I am grateful as the President and CEO of Hermann Sons Life I am grateful to be a part of an amazing organization that aligns with my values . I am grateful to work with a Board of Directors that has a tremendous amount of passion for our organization and give myself and the Executive Team the support we need to lead, grow
and develop our organization . I am grateful for all of my staff at the Home Office who work every day to support our members, the lodges, the agents and our organization overall . I am grateful for all of the special reps and field agents who focus on growing and expanding our organization by bringing in new members every day . And I am grateful for all of our members who love and support our organization and demonstrate that through their loyalty and commitment . I hope you and your families have a Happy Thanksgiving! – Eugene Zollinger President and CEO
Lodge Reports Anton Wenzel . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Austin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Bernardo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Boerne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Brenham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Cibolo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Columbia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Comfort . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28 Corpus Christi . . . . . . . . . . . .21 DaCosta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Dallas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Deanville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Dunlay . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Flatonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Fort Worth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Gay Hill . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Giddings . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Gulf . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Harmonia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Helotes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Hochheim-Prairie . . . . . . . . .25 Houston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Karnes City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27 Kerrville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Kirby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Kypfer-Salge . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Lockhart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Louise Schuetze . . . . . . . . . .20 McGregor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Mission-Alamo . . . . . . . . . . .28 New Bielau . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 New Braunfels . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Niederwald . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Old Glory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Paige . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Paul Vogt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Pershing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Plum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Poth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Prinz Solms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29 Rosenberg-Richmond . . . .24 Rutersville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 San Marcos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Schulenburg . . . . . . . . . . . . .30 Seguin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Siemering . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Spring Branch . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Stern . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Vineta . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 Womack . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25
Eugene Zollinger
Monthly Features 3 8-12 13 13 15 16
Calendar of Events Pioneer Members Retirement Home News Donations In Memoriam Memorial Donation Form
1 & 16 2 6-7 14 14 16 17
Home admission rules change Message from the President/CEO We Strengthen Community Veteran shares his story Petty Officer says thanks Raising money for food bank Hilltop Camp available to rent
3&5 4 4 4 5 5 31
Agents attend CE workshop Recommenders listed Welcome our new 100% Families Top producers earn bonus money Recommend an agent Annuities paying 1% bonus Listing of agents
1 & 16 16 32
Camp adds mini session for 2020 Answers to puzzles on Pg . 32 Shining Stars
New This Month
Marketing News
Youth in Action
Look for a complete report on the Oct. 26 statewide event in the November issue of Hermann Sons Life
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 3
Marketing
Agents gather at Hilltop for annual workshop By TIM KOLBE Vice President of Marketing Agents met at the Hermann Sons Life Hilltop Camp on Oct. 4-5 to attend the annual Continuing Education Workshop titled “Making a Difference – Achieving Success.” Hermann Sons Life sponsors this training event, where 12 hours of continuing education credits are offered each year, and agents are assessed a nominal fee to cover the costs of training and food. We enjoyed fellowship, a great learning experience, and fantastic hospitality provided by Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett and his staff. The Texas Department of Insurance reduced the CE requirements from 30 hours to 24 hours for every two-year training pe-
riod, which allows us to shorten instruction time. A later start time was instituted on Friday to give agents time to travel to Comfort, without having to stay an additional night. We began at 11 a.m. sharp Friday morning with the National Anthem and Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of our great country. Administrative Assistant Beth Williams led off with “Your Policy After Purchase,” followed by Vice President of Finance Harry Werland with “Understanding Annuities.” At the end of Friday’s session, we welcomed Chair of the Board Sandra Jones and President Eugene Zollinger who both spoke to those assembled Afterward, we enjoyed a social hour and a steak dinner. Fellowship and camaraderie were
Licensed agents attended the annual Continuing Education Workshop held at Hilltop Camp in early October. Agents earned 12 of the required hours of instruction they need to renew their state license. enjoyed by those visiting that evening. Saturday morning, we awakened to a hearty breakfast, fruit, coffee and juices. Did I mention that we eat well when we are at Hilltop? Something about that pure, clear Hill Country air stirs
the appetite. After breakfast, we hosted guest speaker and Underwriter Doni Powell, who presented “Underwriting for Today’s Agents.” I followed with “Maintaining Ethical Behavior During Your Insurance Career.”
This weekend would not be a success without the staff from Marketing and the Camp staff. The coordination and cooperation have been superb. My thanks to Ana Vasquez for creatSee AGENTS, Pg. 5
Events EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT
It’s Game Night every Thursday night at the Brenham Lodge Hall, 304 E. Germania, Brenham. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Games start at 7 p.m. Drinks and food available. Everyone is welcome. The phone number at the lodge hall is 979-836-2053.
EVERY THURSDAY – It’s Game Night every Thursday night at Turner Hall in Yoakum. Games start at 7:30 p.m. Everyone is welcome. For more information, call 361-293-5576 EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT
It’s Trivia Night at the Rathskeller Bar in the San Antonio Home Association Building, 525 S. St. Mary’s St., San Antonio. The fun runs from 7-9 p.m. and there are great prizes for the winners.
OCTOBER 25 – Brenham Lodge will host an Oktoberfest cel-
ebration at the lodge hall in Brenham. A meal will be served from 6-7 p.m. and will include sausage, German potatoes, saurkraut and black-eyed peas. There will be a dance from 7-10 p.m. with music by Charles and the Fabulous Four. Cost is $12 for the meal and dance. The event is open to the public. To make a reservation, call the hall at 979-836-2053 and leave a message.
27 –
The San Antonio Home Association’s Annual General Meeting will start at 2 p.m. in the Rathskellar of the San Antonio Home Association, 525 S. St Mary’s St., San Antonio. Members of all lodges that are headquartered in downtown San Antonio are welcome to attend.
NOVEMBER 30 – The Retirement Home residents will be selling
items from their Scholarship Store during Christmas in Comfort. The residents will have a booth in downtown Comfort where they will be selling the jewelry, hand towels and other items they have made. All proceeds will benefit the Retirement Home Scholarship Fund. Shoppers can buy a ticket for a chance to win a quilt. Christmas in Comfort runs from 10 a.m.-9 p.m.
DECEMBER 7 & 14 – The Retirement Home residents will open
their Scholarship Store from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on the first two Saturdays in December. Shoppers will be able to register to win a handmade quilt. The store features lots of jewelry and other items that the residents have made themselves. There are also unique and interesting household items that have been donated to the store by the residents.
If you would like to see your lodge’s event listed here and in the Events section of the Hermann Sons Life website, call Kathie Ninneman, 210-226-9261, ext. 273, or 1-800-234-4124, ext. 273, or email kathien@hermannsonslife.org.
Editor/Communications Director Kathie Ninneman 210-226-9261, ext. 273 email: kathien@hermannsonslife.org Assistant Editor/Assistant Communications Director Elaine Soto 210-226-9261, ext. 279 email: elaines@hermannsonslife.org Fax: 1-888-443-3377 or 210-892-0252 Website: www.hermannsonslife.org All news articles and photographs should be mailed to: Editor, Hermann Sons Life, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941 or emailed to: kathien@hermannsonslife.org Deadline for each monthly issue is the 10th of the month of publication. The Hermann Sons Life newspaper is an official publication of Hermann Sons Life. The management and editorial policy of the newspaper shall be in the hands of the President and CEO, and the President and CEO shall have the authority to appoint a member or members of Hermann Sons Life as editor and/or business manager thereof (Art. 38, Grand Lodge Laws).
Page 4 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Marketing
Recommendations earn two members gift cards The Marketing Department is recognizing 69 recommenders for the month of September. This brings the total to 384 members recommending 508 new members to Hermann Sons Life in 2019. The winners of the $50 gift cards for September are Patricia Hunt from Corpus Christi Lodge and Sadie Hecox from Nixon-Smiley Lodge. Congratulations to the following September recommenders: Recommender Agent Laura Adams, Mission Alamo Lodge (*) Judy Schulmeier Madelyn Maxine Angelica, Cibolo Lodge Roxy Pruski Raelyn Alyse Ashima, Rutersville Lodge Mary K. Seifert Kailynn Marie Babbitt, Bandera County Lodge Stephanie Brown Joi Barnes, Seguin Lodge Annette Roecker Nikki Melody Barrientos, Goliad Lodge Laura Thigpen Serenity Basco, Stockdale Lodge Diana Moreno Annabelle Lynn Basha, Marion Lodge Lorene Bielke Zachary Basha, Marion Lodge Lorene Bielke Emma Rayne Belzung, Lone Oak Lodge Roxy Pruski Barton Ward Borgens, Hondo Lodge (*) Darlene Irwin Alyssa Leigh Bowling, Lone Oak Lodge Roxy Pruski Margie Mae Bozarth, Lockhart Lodge Janice Kuhen Ava Grace Bunch, Nixon-Smiley Lodge Diana Moreno Theresa Fenner, Karnes City Lodge Abigail Fenner David Robert Fewkes, Prinz Solms Lodge (*) Teresa Saathoff Elsee Joy Fewkes, Prinz Solms Lodge (*) Teresa Saathoff Janet Gass, Twin Sisters Lodge Teresa Saathoff Suzanne Graska, Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge (*) Gary Falkenberg Mercedes Guevara, Poth Lodge Elizabeth Cutsinger Sadie Alison Hecox, Nixon-Smiley Lodge (&) Diana Moreno Sadie Alison Hecox, Nixon-Smiley Lodge (*) Diana Moreno Brynlee Faith Hill, Vineta Lodge (^) Roxy Pruski Patricia Lynn Hunt, Corpus Christi Lodge (^) Pearl Hunt Lexi Jacobus, Seguin Lodge Annette Roecker Haylee Faith Johnson, Weesatche Lodge Laura Thigpen Edward Jonas, Harmonia Lodge (*) Eulla Krueger Adalynn Denae Joseph, New Bielau Lodge Mary K. Seifert Megan Sharon Lee, Macdona Lodge Eulla Krueger Peyton Grace Lubianski, Mission-Alamo Lodge Roxy Pruski Celeste Lund, Spring Branch Lodge (*) Gloria Gass Mark Kevin Martinek, Columbia Lodge (*) Gilbert Shelby Mckenzie Martinez, Poth Lodge Elizabeth Cutsinger Lexie Sue Moeller, Schulenburg Lodge Mary K. Seifert Allen Mueller, La Vernia Lodge (*) Dennis Wigginton Lilliana Meilani Ojeda, Vineta Lodge Ruth Bailey Sawyer Rhodes, Fort Worth Lodge Sandra Jones Jonathan Schulz II, Karnes City Lodge Russell Swize Ty Christian Sechelski, Gulf Lodge Jennifer Garner Leola Stolte, New Braunfels Lodge Shirley Huebinger Elizabeth Alyce Suarez, Seguin Lodge Carol Krauss Robert Sullivan, Columbia Lodge (*) Helen Brown Frances Sultenfuss, Vineta Lodge Carol Krauss Ella Fay Tackitt, Poth Lodge Elizabeth Cutsinger Arabella Alma Tovar, Nixon-Smiley Lodge Diana Moreno Leeah Rae Uresti, Goliad Lodge Laura Thigpen Amy Vinklarek, Hochheim-Prairie Lodge Laura Tiffin Linda Wehmeyer, Bexar Lodge Lisa Rozacky Dorothy Marie Wiede, Pershing Lodge Janice Kuhen Bobby Wilbanks, Columbia Lodge Gilbert Shelby Violet Alexandria Zertuche, Castroville Lodge Glenford Boehme (*) Recommended 2 (^) Recommended 3 (&) Recommended 4
Sultenfiuss
Boehme
Fenner
Schulmeier
Bielke
S. Saathoff
Top producers earn bonus money SAN ANTONIO – The Marketing Department has announced the names of the top-producing agents for the third quarter of 2019. Agents must meet minimum requirements for number of applications written and amount of premium income generated to qualify for quarterly bonuses. In the Applications Written category, Cynthia Sultenfuss from Biry Lodge finished in first place statewide with 33. Glenford Boehme from Castroville Lodge finished in second place with 23 and Abigail Fenner from Karnes City Lodge and Judith Schulmeier from Kirby Lodge finished in a tie for third with 15. In Region 2, Lorene Bielke from Marion Lodge finished in first place with six applications. In Region 3, Cynthia Sultenfuss and Glenford Boehme finished first and second and Stacy Saathoff from Hondo Victory Lodge finished third with 12 applications.
Abigail Fenner was first in Region 4 followed by Bobbie Polasek from Gonzales Lodge in second with 10 applications. Judith Schulmeier finished first in Region 5. Darlene Irwin from Bexar Lodge finished second with seven applications. In the Premium Income category, Lorene Bielke finished first statewide with $8,124. She was followed in second place by Glenford Boehme with $7,964 and in third place by Stacy Saathoff with $7,379. In Region 2, Lorene Bielke finished first. The top three producers in Region 3 were Glenford Boehme, Stacy Saathoff and Cynthia Sultenfuss who generated $4,663. In Region 4, Bobbie Polasek was first with $4,494 and Abigail Fenner was second with $3,466. Judith Schulmeier finished in first place in Region 5 with $4,495. Darlene Irwin was second with $3,414.
Earning special recognition in the Applications Written category were Special Representative Teresa Saathoff, 48; Kathy Green, 18; Special Representative Eulla Krueger, 16; Roxy Pruski, 15; Diana Moreno, 14; Stephanie Brown, 12; Norma Bruns and Annette Roecker, 10; Special Representative Gary Falkenberg, 9; Becki Carley and Ron Wiatrek, 8; Liz Cutsinger, Carol Krauss, Clif Klabunde and Special Representative Dan Boenig, 7; Doreen Tissler, Elaine Franklin, Laura Tiffin and Judy Wolf, 6. Special recognition honors in the Premium Income category went to Special Representative Teresa Saathoff, $19,796; Special Representative Gary Falkenberg, $6,734; Janice Kuhen, $5,925; Special Representative Eulla Krueger, $5,399; Special Representative Dan Boenig, $3,694; and David Wolf, $3,184. Special representatives do not qualify for quarterly bonuses.
Hermann Sons Life welcomes 100% Families 100% Family Schulze Family Randall Barbara David Lance Aaron
City San Antonio
Lodge
100% Family Mims Family John Christine
City Bulverde
Lodge
Donahue Family Scott Devin Conner Westin Logan Sawyer
Spring Branch
Prinz Solms
Anton Wenzel Louise Schuetze Anton Wenzel Anton Wenzel Anton Wenzel
Helotes Prinz Solms
Agent Darlene Irwin
Agent Teresa Saathoff
Teresa Saathoff
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 5
RECOMMEND AN AGENT!
Recommend an agent prospect to us via phone, web form or email at marketing@hermannsonslife.org. Include your name, address, telephone number and the contact information of the person(s) you wish to recommend. Please ensure the prospective agent knows that they are being recommended as a Hermann Sons Life agent. If the agent produces 10 applications and $4,000 in annualized premium income in the first six months of appointment, we will pay the recommender $250. Help bring in new agents to Hermann Sons Life and be rewarded for your efforts. Help the new agent succeed by referring new clients for life insurance, annuities and membership growth.
Vice President of Finance Harry Werland leads a session on annuities during the Continuing Education Workshop held at Hilltop Camp in October.
Agents attend workshop Cont’d. from Pg 3 -ing and coordinating the course curriculum with the instructors; Gladys Rowley for helping with forms and applications; and the special representatives for set up and take down assistance. Thanks also go to Ian Brassett and his staff for the awesome accommodations and food. Thanks also to our instructors, Beth Williams, Harry Werland, Doni Powell and yours truly. A special shout out to Terry Haecker, who cut up and seasoned the steaks for our traditional Friday evening dinner. Terry does this for us every year and deserves recognition for his expert knife skills. It’s the fourth quarter folks! Time to get on the scoreboard! I want to refer to the words of John Brubaker, a nationally renowned performance consultant, speaker and award-winning author. “Coach Bru” writes: We are coming down to the finish line with October marking the start of the fourth quarter of the year. Anyone can get off to a great start, but what matters is how you finish. Do you finish strong? Regardless of whether it is a game, a race or a fiscal year; it’s not about how
you start, what matters most is how you finish. How strong are you at the end of the game (or year) when everything is on the line and the pressure to deliver mounts to an all-time high? I posed this question to our fine group of agents, but it really applies to all members of Hermann Sons Life. Your agents can work diligently to bring on new insurance members, but we cannot do it alone, and need your help. Without you, our members, referring new prospective members, we will not keep pace with deaths, lapses and surrenders of current certificate holders. We have a New Member Recruitment Guide available to all members who wish to help grow our organization. In this guide, you will find talking points, valuable facts and benefit information to help you speak confidently and positively about our organization and its mission of financial self-protection and community service. Contact the Marketing Department and we will be glad to send anyone copies and recommender cards for distribution. It is truly our collective responsibility to get the word out about Hermann Sons Life. Call 800234-4124 or visit hermannsonslife.org to find out more.
Page 6 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
We Strengthen Community
Kirby Lodge presented three Humanitarian Awards this year at the October meeting. One of them went to Tammy Haecker, right. Angela Netherton made the presentation. Tammy was recognized for her service to the lodge, her church and the elderly community.
Boerne Lodge made a donation to the Rainbow Senior Center at Kronkosky Place in observance of Make a Difference Day. Marilyn Vogt, left, and Barbara D’Spain, right, presented the donation to Emily Perry, development director at Kronkosky Place. The Rainbow Senior Center is dedicated to improving the quality of life for those 55 and better. The center offers a variety of social, educational, physical and leisure activities held Monday through Friday. Nutritional meals are offered at the center on weekdays and Meals on Wheels provides hundreds of meals to homebound seniors in various areas of Kendall County. Transportation is also available for a nominal fee. The Home Health Closet provides access to used and new durable medical equipment at no charge to everyone regardless of age or income.
In observance of Make a Difference Day, Boerne Lodge made a donation to SAM’S KIDS (Students Achieving Maximum Success), a local non-profit that provides support to students who need help overcoming economic obstacles. Barbara D’Spain, right, presented the donation to Norma Tyler. The program provides funds for student tutoring, band instruments, required class supplies and fees, uniforms and funds for extra-curricular activities.
Deanville Lodge held a successful Matching Funds event benefitting the Brazos Valley Hospice program. The drive-thru dinner netted $2,567.50 for the organization. That includes the $500 in Matching Funds from the Home Office. (TOP PHOTO) Lisa McNair, chief financial officer for Brazos Valley Hospice, was there and is pictured with lodge volunteers. (BOTTOM PHOTO) Morgan and Coy Becka were two of the volunteers who helped out by delivering meals to customers waiting in their cars.
Deanville Lodge presented a monetary donation to the Deanville Volunteer Fire Department at its Appreciation Dinner on Sept. 13 in gratitude of the fire department’s contribution to the community and the lodge. Lodge President Donnie Blinka, right, presented the donation to R.J. Smith.
Kirby Lodge presented the other two Humanitarian Awards to Norma Hemby and the Kirby Senior Center. The presentation was made at the October meeting by Angela Netherton and Andrea Fore, members of the Humanitarian Award Committee for the lodge. The awards were presented in recognition of their commitment to the seniors of the community and the community at large.
In observance of Make a Difference Day, Lockhart Lodge made donations of $100 each to Meals on Wheels and the Caldwell County Food Pantry. Pictured are Lil Pfefferkorn, Darrell Hess, Nancy Hess, Ray Pfefferkorn, Debbie Pfefferkorn, Carol Schuelke, Dickie Rutherford, Karen Buckner and Janet Schaefer.
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 7
We Strengthen Community
Spring Branch Lodge members chose to support the VA Fisher House in observance of Make a Difference Day. Members brought donations to a recent meeting and approved a $100 monetary donation from the lodge. The VA Fisher House was chosen by the Home Office as its Make a Difference Day project this year and lodges were encouraged to join their effort to raise money and make donations to the “home away from home” for veterans and their families receiving treatment at the San Antonio Veterans Hospital. Seguin Lodge presented its 2019 Humanitarian Award to Paul and Cheryl Gescheidle. The couple lives in Boerne, but travels to Seguin frequently to attend monthly meetings and volunteer. After Hurricane Harvey they organized a food and clothing drive for residents of Rockport. In 2017 the Gescheidles organized the first of the Food Truck Festivals held at the lodge that are now held semi-annually.
Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge took part in National Night Out on Oct. 1. The event was hosted by Bill and Barbie Benton at their home in Rosenberg. Bill, center in bottom photo, is a member of the lodge and serves as mayor of Rosenberg. The lodge joined hands with the Rosenberg Lions Club, Woodmen of the World, Jason’s Deli, Chick-Fil-A and Pepperoni’s Pizza to sponsor the event. The event attracted about 200 people including members of the city council, police, sheriff’s department and fire department personnel and state representatives.
Each year Brenham Lodge sponsors an American Legion Texas Boys’ State delegate. The program, held each summer in Austin, is among the most respected and selective educational programs of government instruction for high school students. It is a participatory program where each student becomes a part of the operation of his local, county and state government. Participants are exposed to the rights and privileges, the duties and the responsibilities, of a franchised citizen. This year’s delegate was Ethan Weatherby who spoke at the September lodge meeting. He thanked the lodge for sponsoring him and said he hoped they would continue to sponsor other boys in the future.
Members of the two lodges in Dallas – Columbia and Dallas – rode the Hermann Sons Life float when it appeared in the State Fair of Texas Parade in September. The parade marks the official kickoff for the month-long celebration of all things Texan. Riders included Mike Sheffield, Kim Horton, Dave Lewis, Bobby Wilbanks, Juliea Wilbanks, Glenn Marvin, Debra Hundley, Randell Fields, Stanley Whitehead, Ean Howe and Anni Howe from Columbia Lodge and Terri Holmes and Eva Day from Dallas Lodge.
Page 8 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
80 Years
CARL S. STRANGE Kerrville Lodge
75 Years
Knippa Lodge
LEONITA WIMBERLY Hochheim-Prairie Lodge DAVID LOUIS KOCH FRANCIS A. FALTIN Comfort Lodge
PATRICIA A. SMITH Louise Schuetze Lodge
ROLAND RIEDESEL Gruenau Lodge
RONALD P. GRENROOD Mission-Alamo Lodge
MILTON FUCHS Houston Lodge BALDWIN C. FEHLIS Niederwald Lodge
70 Years
MARVIN E. HASENAK DOLORES E. ROLLINS Abilene Lodge DAVID DEWITT Anton Wenzel Lodge JO ANN BECK RODNEY JAMES HABY FLORENCE M. MECHLER Castroville Lodge
FRANCES RANDALL Poth Lodge LEONA DOROTIK LULA M. MARECEK RONNIE J. MARECEK MARY RUTH STEVENSON Rowena Lodge PHILIP F. GUENTHER Schulenburg Lodge VERA M. SCHMIDT Spring Branch Lodge
MARK S. PIERATT Giddings Lodge ROSA M. HAASS Hondo Victory Lodge ARTHUR LEE KLOTH JR. Jourdanton Lodge WILLLIAM. A. HOLLMAN Karnes City Lodge
MARGARET KAY HAAS Cuero Family Lodge
DONNA D. MULLER New Bern Lodge
CARL ANTHONY KORTH LARRY E. PRIEVE JAMES W. SCHUMACHER Deanville Lodge
NANCY J. DUGGER DEBRA L. GOVIER EDITH MAE SOECHTING HARVEY C. SOECHTING New Braunfels Lodge
JOHN WILLIAM PLENGEMEYER Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge CONNIE R. JENSEN JAMES E. KAINER WALTER J. LILIE JR. El Campo Lodge BELINDA KAY BRUNNER Flatonia Lodge
60 Years RONALD G. GAMBLE Austin Lodge
LINDA FAYE BENTKE JEANETTE M. KIEKE WILBERT LEE RICHTER Gay Hill Lodge
JAMES KENNETH ALLERKAMP EYRLINE JANE BEHRENDS TINA MARIE HOLLIS Bellville Lodge Comfort Lodge
RUDOLPH A. OLFERS JR. LARKIN ROBERTSON Fredericksburg Lodge
VANESSA E. MCHARDY BETTY JO TIMBROOK MYRTLE G. WENZEL Louise Schuetze Lodge
EVELYN SCHAETTER Fredericksburg Lodge
JACK LEE TRENKELBACH Bandera County Lodge
KENNETH R. KOSSAETH D'Hanis Lodge
Pioneers DEBORAH L. KRAMER DAVIDSON DEBRA KAY KLINKSIEK IRENE DINA KLINKSIEK MYRA LEE KLINKSIEK SYLVIA KLINKSIEK WITTER Comfort Lodge
RONNEY DEAN FRANK Bernardo Lodge MAXINE B. JANICEK Bexar Lodge ISABELLA E. RESPONDEK Brazosport Lodge HERTA RAY Brunhilde Lodge BRADFORD A. BLEZINGER KEITH ALLEN FROEBEL Cat Spring Lodge
MARTHA ANN LEDWIG Goliad Lodge BETTY JEAN NOWOTNY Gonzales Lodge JAMES THOMAS BROJER GARY EARL MAULDEN GARY W. WEINHEIMER WILFRED W. WOHLFAHRT JR. Harmonia Lodge CRYSTAL L. SKOLAUT Helotes Lodge RICHARD H. MUENNINK Hondo Lodge JO ANN CLARK DOUGLAS P. GLOVER Houston Lodge
DANIEL CONSTANZO JR. Macdona Lodge
LAURL L. JONES Old Glory Lodge WALDYNE A. NESLONEY Orange Grove Lodge KENNETH W. PFEIFFER BRIAN H. SCHRAMM Pershing Lodge JESSE LEE GAERTNER CHERI ANN HERBRICH Plum Lodge JAMES G. STEENKEN Poth Lodge RANDY PAUL GEBERT PERRY C. MARSHALL Richland Lodge EL GENE WEYAND Rutersville Lodge ELIZABETH S. ASHFORD BEVERLY BUCEK BARBARA L. MOELLENBERNDT BILLIE J. RIGHTMER WILLIAM H. RIGHTMER Schulenburg Lodge JOYCE MARIE KING TENNY TAGGART SWONKE JAY TIMOTHY TAGGART TERRY TAGGART Schwertner Lodge DORRENE HENK Seguin Lodge NORWOOD W. HACKEMAK Shelby Lodge
DANIEL HARABIS MICHAEL A. TASLER Shiner Lodge VIOLA MAE DOEGE ROBERT ALLEN HARRIS Stern Lodge PAULINE PETERS JOAN POLASEK Taylor Lodge HOWARD RAY KOCH Twin Sisters Lodge ELLEN STACY ANGUISH ELIZABETH ANN BYRON PAULA ANN SPAHN Vineta Lodge ROBIN BLUME BATTERSHELL DENNIS GEORGE WHITE Waco-Robinson Lodge REBA CORLEY Washington Lodge CAROLYN ANN BARE LILLIE MAE METTING ARLENE SCHROEDER Yorktown Lodge
50 Years MICHAEL RAY GROSS Bellville Lodge AUGUST H. JONES JR. JOHN RAYMOND JONES SANDRA GAYLE JONES YVONNE ANN MASCHECK Bernardo Lodge ROSEMARY SEEWALD Bexar Lodge GARY W. MUMME Biry Lodge JEFFERY A. COLLINS SANDRA D. KELLEY AUDREY D. SCHNEIDER Boerne Lodge CONNIE L. GLAESMANN JO LYNN KRAMER LISA MARIE MCDADE RANDY ALLEN MELLMAN LINDA SUE SEEKER DONNA GENE SKRLA Brenham Lodge
CONTINUED ON PG. 9
Npvember 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 9
Pioneers 50 Years CONTINUED FROM PG. X CAROLYN R. WICKEL Burton Lodge PAUL W. HOLZHAUS Castroville Lodge JONATHAN D.E. HUDKINS VALEKSA I. HUDKINS Comfort Lodge KENNETH D. BRIEDEN Converse Lodge HELEN K. MCGUILL Corpus Christi Lodge E.J. BLANSFIELD III TIMOTHY D. HAVERLAND JULIE RENEE MAROSKO LISA KRIEG POTTLE WILLIAM N. WORLEY Coupland Lodge SHERYL ANN BIERSTEDT CAROLYN SUE KAHLICH SHERYL ANN MATTHEWS VERONICA L. PARR MARILYN R. TIEKEN Cuero Family Lodge ALYSA S. FRIER SUSAN G. JOHNSON KIRT WAYNE KARNEI RHONDA ANN KRUSE JOHNNY L. KUSAK DaCosta Lodge DAVID C. GILBERT SUZANNE RIOS D'Hanis Lodge DOUGLAS W. BRINKMAN Deanville Lodge ELLA L. BRIETEN TARA LYNN KATALINIC A.L. SLAUGHTER JR. Dunlay Lodge PHILLIP W. BURKE KEITH E. MATTHEWS JUNE E. NORTON Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge TERESA L. HAWORTH Ellinger Lodge
JULIE ANNA GROTE SCOTT H. HARTMANN EDWARD LEE KRAUSKOPF TRACY BETH MOLTER BRETT LEE OESTREICH TROY ELTON SEEWALD ARNETT C. STRAUBE Fredericksburg Lodge
JEFFREY TODD RICHTER Gay Hill Lodge WILLIAM E. BUDNIK SHELLY A. LANGEHENNIG RONNIE WAYNE NAMKEN Giddings Lodge TIMOTHY A. FOERSTER TRACEY L. FOERSTER TAMERA FAYE SCHULZE ROBERT GUY YOUNG Goliad Lodge KIMBERLY A. MOYER Gonzales Lodge STACY LYNN NEWKIRK GLENDA LEE SCOFELIA Gulf Lodge STANLEY J. BRONDER JR. GREGORY J. KANNING LARRY M. PAHL JAMES L. STANDISH CHARLES J. VANZANDT Harmonia Lodge STEVEN LOYD KLOSE Haskell Lodge GERALD E. LIECK MARILYN L. RODGERS BRADY RAY URBANEK Helotes Lodge JEFFREY ALLEN CAGLE FRED L. GRAFF ROBERT C. GRAFF GARY PAUL STANGA JERRY FRANK STANGA DAVID R. WINSHIP Hondo Lodge
RUSSELL W. ANGELL BETTY B. BERNHARD DAVID J. BERNHARD MARK W. BERNHARD TERRI ANN DANZ NANCY B. KALMBACH M. JOYCE MARBURGER MICHELLE MARBURGER Kerrville Lodge
KAREN M. HORTON Rowena Lodge
KIMBERLY E. PUTZ Kypfer-Salge Lodge
ELENORA J. JIMENEZ ROGER M. WARNKEN Schulenburg Lodge
JOREEN SCHAFER La Vernia Lodge MARY BETH W. JOHNSON JO LYNN P. MORGAN Louise Schuetze Lodge MARY NELL BOWMAN SHANNON LEE HENZLER Lubbock Lodge PAULINE O. JONES DOUGLAS QUINN PESAK ROBERT WAYNE PESAK New Bielau Lodge
RONNIE LYNN KEILERS JEFFERY DALE STUEBER Rutersville Lodge DONNA LYNN PERKINS San Marcos Lodge
PATRICK THOMAS SULTENFUSS JR. CHERYL ANN WALDEN Schwertner Lodge CHARLE R. BARNES DONNA MARIE HARTMAN JAMES E. LUENSMANN MARY ELIZABETH SMITH Seguin Lodge BARBARA KLOZIK RICHARD J. PFUHL Shiner Lodge
MARY AGNES JANECEK TRAVIS N. REYNOLDS Nordheim Lodge
KARL PATRICK PIPER RODNEY D. WIETERS Siemering Lodge
RONNIE F. TEICHELMAN Old Glory Lodge
KATHLEEN D. HAFLEY MARVALEE KUULEIALOHA MAY SCOTT A. SCHRIEWER Stern Lodge
MOLLY K. BROCK MALCOLM NESLONEY II Orange Grove Lodge KIMBERLY ANN AYRES NANCY TSCHIRHART BROOKS SHERRI LEE DURAN RANDY BEN FISHER W.E. PHILLIPS JR. JERRY WAYNE RUMPF LINDA TSCHIRHART-HEJL RANDALL WALDSCHMIDT Pershing Lodge LARRY RAY JOOST Plum Lodge
TINA RENE GRAFF Hondo Victory Lodge
CRAIG W. HOPPER Priddy Lodge
KENNETH M. FIELDS Houston Lodge
CYNTHIA ENGELMANN DARRYL WAYNE HODDE Richland Lodge
ROBERT J. NIESCHWIETZ RHONDA JEAN SCHMIDT Karnes City Lodge
ELIA L. BIGGS Round Rock Lodge
Cynthia Lynn Yeglic (Simar) has received her 60-year membership pin. Cynthia lives in Austin and is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She joined on Feb. 2, 1959.
EVELYN M. ASBELL CAROLYN B. KUBENA ILENE B. SAWEY VIVIAN L. SEILER KATHERINE E. STANDISH STACY DEANN STAUFFER Vineta Lodge
Jay Taggart of Belton has received his 60-year membership pin. Jay is a member of Schwertner Lodge. He joined on Nov. 6, 1959.
JAMES MARTIN EYHORN JEANETTE ANN LAZA Yorktown Lodge
Helen Usener of Fredericksburg has received her 60-year membership pin. Helen is a member of Fredericksburg Lodge. She joined on Jan. 15, 1959.
Page 10 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Pioneers Two members of Gulf Lodge received their 60-year membership pins recently. Lodge President Al Stryk, standing at left, and Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier presented the pins to Johnny Rost, standing in center, a member since Feb. 12, 1959; and David Falks, a member since May 20, 1959.
Gloria Lawrence received her 70-year membership pin from President Eugene Zollinger during the September Giddings Lodge meeting. Gloria has been a member since March 23, 1949.
Kathy Cuff Boyle of Conroe has received her 60-year membership pin. Kathy is pictured with her husband and two grandchildren. A member of Louise Schuetze Lodge, she joined on Aug. 12, 1959.
Barbara Heinen has received her 70-year membership pin. Barbara lives in Fredericksburg and is a member of Fredericksburg Lodge. She has been a member since March 17, 1949.
Betty Gail White of Sugar Land has received her 60-year membership pin. Betty is a member of Womack Lodge. She joined on Aug. 7, 1958.
Margaret Kay Haas of Seabrook has received her 60-year membership pin. Margaret is a member of Cuero Family Lodge. She joined on Nov. 1, 1959.
Kathryn (Penny) Strader of Augusta, Ga., has received her 70year membership pin. Kathryn is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She joined on May 30, 1949.
Susan Courtemanche of Tyler has received her 60-year membership pin. Susan is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She joined on Feb. 1, 1959.
Georgia Stieren of San Antonio has received her 60-year membership pin. Georgia is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She joined on Jan. 12, 1959.
Leroy Becker of Kingsland has received his 60-year membership pin. Leroy is a member of Fredericksburg Lodge. He joined on May 31, 1959.
Carl J. Weyrich Jr. of Pleasanton has received his 60-year membership pin. Carl is a member of Anton Wenzel Lodge. He joined on Aug. 4, 1959.
Mary Braun of San Antonio has received her 60-year membership pin. Mary is a member of Louise Schuetze Lodge. She joined on June 8, 1959.
Pioneers
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 11
Scherlyn Gleitz received her 50year membership pin at the Kirby Lodge anniversary celebration in October. Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe presented the pin. Scherlyn lives in Cibolo and has been a member since July 3, 1969. Leroy Schmidt received his 80-year membership pin from Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe at a recent meeting of Prinz Solms Lodge. Leroy has been a member since March 12, 1939. He lives in Bulverde.
Castroville Lodge member Jo Ann Beck received her 70-year membership pin from President Eugene Zollinger at the September meeting. Jo Ann has been a member since Nov. 8, 1949.
President Eugene Zollinger, right, presented a 60-year membership pin to Roger Bippert during the Castroville Lodge September meeting. Roger has been a member since Aug. 18, 1959.
Arthur Luensmann, left, received his 70-year membership pin at the Kirby Lodge anniversary celebration in October. Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe presented the pin. Arthur lives in San Antonio and has been a member since April 2, 1949.
Reagan Rawe, left, received his 60-year membership pin at the Kirby Lodge anniversary celebration in October. Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe presented the pin. Reagan lives in Schertz and has been a member since Feb. 2, 1959.
Page 12 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
President Eugene Zollinger presented a 70-year membership pin to Carol Swan during the MissionAlamo Lodge pioneer meeting. Carol has been a member since May 11, 1949.
Marlene Moczygemba received her 70-year membership pin from President Eugene Zollinger during the MissionAlamo Lodge pioneer meeting. Marlene has been a member since July 7, 1949.
Vernon Laskowski, left, received his 60-year membership pin from President Eugene Zollinger during the Mission-Alamo Lodge pioneer meeting. Vernon has been a member since Aug. 19, 1959.
Pioneers Judith Flores received her 60year membership pin from President Eugene Zollinger during the Mission-Alamo Lodge pioneer meeting. Judith has been a member since June 4, 1959.
Ronald Grenrood, left, received his 70year membership pin from President Eugene Zollinger during the Mission-Alamo Lodge pioneer meeting. Ronald has been a member since Nov. 8, 1949.
Louise Schuetze Lodge members received their membership pins during the lodge’s anniversary celebration in September. Pictured with President Eugene Zollinger are, from left, Lisa Robalin and Lori Todd, both members since April 1, 1969; Jennifer Oates, a member since Oct. 1, 1959; and Susan Andrade, a member since Feb. 10, 1959.
Retirement Home
Residents host wine and cheese party COMFORT – September guests at the Home were Cindy and Freddie Smith to visit Woody McClure; Ida Roberts and daughter from Boerne came to see the Home; Julie and Michelle Sheldon from Seguin visited Roland Naumann; and Alida Drewes and Christi Melloy from Magnolia visited. Residents hosted a wine and
cheese party on Sept. 2. Birthday cake and ice cream were served for dessert at the noon meal on Sept. 27 honoring Beverly Anderson, Gerry Peyronel and Cindy Preacher. Chapel service and Holy Communion were conducted by Anglican Priest David Guthrie on Sept. 30.
Resident Jane Haberman has spearheaded the latest project to raise funds for our Retirement Home Scholarship Fund. Just in time for Christmas! Hermann Sons Life jewelry with the new logo charm will be available soon. Watch for more details and an order form in the next issue. – Helen Widner
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 13
Donations
Donations to the Retirement Home in Memory of: PEGGY JOYCE PATTON STACIE L. PORTER NORTON LA VERNE I. OPPERMANN DAWN LEE COOPER SANDRA JOAN MULLINS Donor: Pershing Lodge BILLIE JO ROBERTS Donor: Lockhart Lodge VIRGIE A. KOTERAS Donor: Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge
EDWARD L. LORENZ Brenham Lodge WILFRED O. DIETRICH Burton Lodge FRANK M. MATIAS Donor: Betty R. Chrisman JOYCE KNOX ROBERT A. NIEMANN Donor: DaCosta Lodge
Donations to the Retirement Home Scholarship Fund in Memory of: FRANKIE JOE EHLER Donor: Cameron Lodge
Residents hosted a wine and cheese party on Sept. 2. They gathered in one of the common areas and enjoyed a chance to visit.
GLADYS SANDER Donor: New Bielau Lodge GENE PALMER OTTO STREY JR. Donor: La Vernia Lodge
FRANK MATIAS MARY HELEN KRACHALA O.B. GENTLE Donors: Jack & Dianne Larned MARY ANN MORRIS LORETTA PIERCE GRACE TERRY Donor: New Braunfels Lodge
Donations to the Camp in Memory of:
Gerry Peyronel was one of the birthday girls at the Home in September.
GLADYS M. DITTRICH Donor: Rutersville Lodge
DOROTHY MAE ZIESE Donor: Brenham Lodge
BERNICE R. SILVA Donor: Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge
KEVIN C. MOZISEK Donor: DaCosta Lodge
Donors to Grief Support Camp: MISSION-ALAMO LODGE McGREGOR LODGE SPRING BRANCH LODGE in memory of Elvira Weidner
Beverly Anderson celebrated her birthday in September.
Cindy Preacher celebrated her birthday in September.
Home Christmas Fund The following lodges had made donations to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund as of Oct. 10: Helotes Burton General Bee Macdona Paul Vogt New Bielau Niedwerald Castroville Coupland Austin Fort Worth Rowena Karnes City Corpus Christi Orange Grove Donations are used to buy a gift that all residents can enjoy.
Page 14 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
World War II veteran shares his story In observance of Veteran’s Day on Nov. 11, the Hermann Sons Life newspaper is proud to publish this story written by Edwin P. Conrad. Edwin is a member of Womack Lodge and recently received his 70-year membership pin. He served as a Hermann Sons Life agent for many years. His daughter, Janie Johnson, says he first wrote this in 2002. It has been 78 years since he joined the service and 74 years since his discharge on Oct. 9, 1945. This is Edwin Conrad’s story in his own words: This autobiography of my life in the service is dedicated to my wife, Mildred, my children, Jim and wife Paula, Janie and husband Ridge, and to my four grandchildren, Whitney Johnson and Bill, Austin and Jon Conrad. I turned 18 on March 17, 1941. On May 5, 1941, I enlisted in the Army Air Corps in Dallas and was sent to Goodfellow Field, San Angelo. I was helping to keep the PT-13s in the air. In June of 1941, I was sent to Chanute Field, Rantoul, Illinois, for Airplane Mechanics School. I graduated on Dec. 5, 1941. On Dec. 7, 1941, the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor. I was detained a few days and then sent to Big Spring Air Force Bombardier Training Base. There I worked on AT-11s (advanced trainers). On March 25, 1941, I was promoted to Corporal. On June 29, 1942, I was promoted to Sergeant. In Big Spring, it snowed about three inches. We built a sled that would hold five men. We had a “tug” to move aircraft. We used it to tow the sled on the tarmac. We had a blast. It was in Big Spring I met and made good friends with Jim Mitchell. He is one of the men on the sled with me in the picture. I stayed in Big Spring about two years. There was no appeal for men to go into pilot training. I signed up and went to be processed. They sent me to Lincoln, Neb. I did not qualify to be a cadet, so I signed up as a crew
Edwin P. Conrad served in the Army Air Corps during World War II. member on an aircraft. Somewhere about this time I was promoted to Staff Sergeant. From there I went to Tucson, Arizona, for gunnery training. We rode in the back of pickups with shotguns and fired at clay pigeons. Some of the instructors would shoot from the hip and never miss. We qualified on 30 and 50 caliber machine guns. They had bull’s eyes on a motorized vehicle that went up and around hills on a track. Each man’s bullets were a different color so they could tell how many times you hit the target. Of about 100 men, I and four others were the top gunners. After Tucson, we went to Las Vegas for crew member training. We had a good crew. I was the flight engineer. It was my first trip to Las Vegas. We were there for five months and had numerous occasions to go downtown. Because it was July 1944 there was hardly anyone in the casinos. I did win some money. I was 21 but no one bothered to check. We did practice runs in a B-24. On one of our night missions, our navigator got lost. The moon was bright. As we looked out, we thought we were flying over
Edwin P. Conrad is the second man from the right on this sled that was was used to move planes around the airfield. Note the snow on the ground in Big Spring in 1941.
clouds but it was snow-covered mountains. We were skimming the tops. We landed in Albuquerque and spent two nights there. From there we shipped off to England by boat from New York. I was the ranking non-commissioned officer so I was in charge of all the enlisted men at the Port of Embarkation. I had the flu but I knew if I said anything I might get left behind. I had sheepskin pants, a coat and boots so I put those on. One man asked, “Aren’t you hot?” I don’t remember what I said but I got on the boat and left with my crew. We were assigned to the 8th Air Force Bomb Group in Norwich, England, about 90 miles from London. We flew in B-24s. Gene and I and two others went to London two or three time while we were there. We saw Buckingham Palace, Westminster Abby and the changing of the guards among other things. Sometime while we were in England, I received my last promotion to Technical Sergeant. Our crew flew seven missions over Germany, France, Czechoslovakia and Austria. I was chosen to fly the 18th mission over Austria as engineer on another crew. I thought to myself, “This
is it. It is not my crew’s time to go so they sent me on another flight.” But I am still here. Most of the flights were scary. We had flack on about 75 percent of them. It was near the end of the war and Hitler was running out of gasoline so we only encountered enemy fighters on three flights. They did do damage. We always flew in formation. One day we were flying in the number three position. The lead plane and the one to our right were shot down. I saw it happen. I saw only three parachutes. After the war in Europe was over, we ferried a B-24 back to
the United States. We made a refueling stop in Greenland. While serving in Northern France, Rhineland and Central Europe I received the American Defense, European African Middle Eastern with three Bronze Battle Stars, the Air Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, the Distinguished Unit Badge and the Good Conduct Medal. I served four years, five months and three days and was discharged on Oct 9, 1945. I am grateful to have served my country. I have a lot of good memories and enjoyed it about 90 percent of the time.
Petty Officer says thanks YOAKUM – Hermann Sons Life has received a thank-you note from someone who received one of our “Hugs from Home” care packages while serving in Afghanistan. Justin K. Janak is a Petty Officer 1st Class in the United States Navy. He is the grandson of Wilburn and Mary Pargmann, longtime members of Hochheim-Prairie Lodge.
In his letter he said, “Your willingness and dedication to actively supporting soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines is a great credit to our organization’s (of which I am a member) commitment to freedom and support for us in our efforts to sustain and win the global war on terrorism. On behalf of all of us, thank you for helping us stay in the fight.”
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 15
In Memoriam of Our Deceased Members LEROY E. HARBICH Harmonia Lodge Died Dec. 28, 1995 • Age 57
ALBERT C. PAVLOCK Rosenberg-Richmond Lodge Died April 5, 2016 • Age 87
DOROTHY M. WILLMANN Kypfer-Salge Lodge Died May 16, 2019 • Age 97
VERNELL FOYT Houston Lodge Died Aug. 9, 2019 • Age 88
NADINE M. GELLERMANN Fredericksburg Lodge Died Aug. 21, 2019 • Age 90
ARTHUR V. MAY Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Feb. 24, 2003 • Age 79
DELORES L. OPPERMANN La Grange Lodge Died Sept. 1, 2017 • Age 74
BILLY RICHARD NYMAN Harmonia Lodge Died May 24, 2019 • Age 93
GERTRUDE GASTINGER Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Aug. 9, 2019 • Age 105
TOMMIE LEE BUTLER Columbia Lodge Died Aug. 23, 2019 • Age 90
MARVIN K. BARTEK Deanville Lodge Died Sept. 29, 2004 • Age 50
DEBRA YVONNE HAMMACK Columbus Lodge Died March 1, 2018 • Age 61
CRESTON L. FOERSTER Goliad Lodge Died June 20, 2019 • Age 86
EUGENE VERNON BORTH Pershing Lodge Died Aug. 10, 2019 • Age 82
ISABEL E. CHRISTIAN Mission-Alamo Lodge Died Aug. 25, 2019 • Age 94
JOYCE ANN SWAN-SWINDELL Louise Schuetze Lodge Died Dec. 6, 2005 • Age 41
HARLON A. HAERTIG Corpus Christi Lodge Died Sept. 11, 2018 • Age 93
NORMAN M. KNESCHK Fort Worth Lodge Died June 21, 2019 • Age 91
ARTHUR W. GRIMM Gay Hill Lodge Died Aug. 13, 2019 • Age 79
FREDDA M. HOGAN Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Aug. 27, 2019 • Age 93
MARY E. DARBY Corpus Christi Lodge Died Dec. 11, 2007 • Age 93
MARK G. SCHMERBECK Kerrville Lodge Died Sept. 14, 2018 • Age 62
BETH BECKER NOLEN Ellinger Lodge Died June 26, 2019 • Age 73
MADELINE PRIESMEYER Vineta Lodge Died Aug. 15, 2019 • Age 96
ROYCE E. HITZFELDER La Coste Lodge Died Aug. 27, 2019 • Age 76
ALFRED D. HAWLEY JR. Anton Wenzel Lodge Died April 26, 2013 • Age 91
VALETA JOY KRAUSE Yorktown Lodge Died Nov. 18, 2018 • Age 82
BRYAN JAY MORGAN San Marcos Lodge Died June 26, 2019 • Age 70
ETHEL B. SARVIS Pershing Lodge Died Aug. 15, 2019 • Age 93
P.J. HERMANN JR. El Campo Lodge Died Aug. 30, 2019 • Age 87
HELEN F. WHEAT Wichita Falls Lodge Died Dec. 31, 2014 • Age 103
ROBERT L. BUSSELMAN Karnes City Lodge Died Nov. 24, 2018 • Age 84
ROBERT H. BRETZ JR. Pershing Lodge Died July 6, 2019 • Age 64
MARGARET O. HINTON Gonzales Lodge Died Aug. 16, 2019 • Age 98
FRANKIE JOE EHLER Cameron Lodge Died Aug. 31, 2019 • Age 92
ALICE K. HUFFMAN Bryan Lodge Died Feb. 28, 2015 • Age 90
RAYMOND J. FICKEY Bryan Lodge Died Dec. 4, 2018 • Age 97
RUFINA E. HEEP Fredericksburg Lodge Died July 16, 2019 • Age 96
GERTRUDE C. BEUTEL Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Aug. 17, 2019 • Age 95
WILLIAM E. PHILLIPS Laubach Lodge Died Aug. 31, 2019 • Age 71
VIRGINIA KATHRYN COX Columbia Lodge Died June 15, 2015 • Age 68
GRACE H. TERRY New Braunfels Lodge Died Jan. 25, 2019 • Age 96
ROBERT A. NIEMANN DaCosta Lodge Died July 30, 2019 • Age 78
ROBERT L. ROSE Siemering Lodge Died Aug. 18, 2019 • Age 78
JOY A. BOYD Kirby Lodge Died Sept. 1, 2019 • Age 78
STANLEY JOE TWARDOWSKI Houston Lodge Died June 30, 2015 • Age 82
BLAIR D. DISMUKES Hondo Victory Lodge Died Feb. 21, 2019 • Age 38
JACKIE D. HARRIS Mission-Alamo Lodge Died Aug. 2, 2019 • Age 84
LARRY N. MCCRACKEN Edelweiss-Magnolia Lodge Died Aug. 18, 2019 • Age 76
RICHARD D. HILL Waco-Robinson Lodge Died Sept. 2, 2019 • Age 62
JOSEPH C. BURRELL Siemering Lodge Died Aug. 15, 2015 • Age 60
DENISE MARIE MILLER Louise Schuetze Lodge Died March 18, 2019 • Age 60
MARY JO SCHWEERS Hondo Victory Lodge Died Aug. 3, 2019 • Age 82
LANELLE E.S. KASPER Shiner Lodge Died Aug. 19, 2019 • Age 89
NATHAN O. WILDER Corpus Christi Lodge Died Sept. 8, 2019 • Age 91
LORENA RANDERMANN Brenham Lodge Died Oct. 18, 2015 • Age 94
MELVIN F. GOLLA Harmonia Lodge Died April 14, 2019 • Age 79
LILA R. YARBROUGH Vineta Lodge Died Aug. 7, 2019 • Age 87
WILLIAM. S. HOUSTON JR. Brenham Lodge Died Aug. 19, 2019 • Age 94
RICHARD D. GRIFFIN Castroville Lodge Died Sept. 13, 2019 • Age 97
MYRTLE M. GRABARSCHICK Brenham Lodge Died Jan. 1, 2016 • Age 93
MARY ROSE SEKULA Poth Lodge Died May 14, 2019 • Age 91
ISABEL F. PELLERIN Cibolo Lodge Died Aug. 8, 2019 • Age 89
DAWN LEE COOPER Pershing Lodge Died Aug. 20, 2019 • Age 66
MICHELLE ENTERLINE Cuero Family Lodge Died Sept. 16, 2019 • Age 40
WOODROW M. BOETHEL Cuero Family Lodge Died March 31, 2016 • Age 68
JAMES C. LAWHON Poth Lodge Died Aug. 9, 2019 • Age 72
The names of deceased members are listed on this page only after a death claim has been filed.
Page 16 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Mini-camp will be held at Hilltop Cont’d. from Pg 1 awesome camp counselors, our mini-campers will have a blast. Unlike our regular Camp program, the mini-camp program will be co-ed. The camp program will be held at Hilltop. The campers will obviously be in single gender dorms and will sit by dorm in the dining hall and many of the daily activities will also be single gender. The mini-camp daily program will also be dorm-structured. The campers will travel to and from their activities
with a counselor. They will be supervised 24/7. We will be offering our campers a wide variety of activities throughout the second day that will range from crafts to sports, recreational swimming to GaGa. Our goal is to provide the campers a sample of what a full-time Hermann Sons Life Camp is like with as many activities crammed into the program day as possible. During the mini-camp we will also have free-swim, capture the flag, campfire (with s’mores) and a dance/game night.
It will be an exciting and funfilled two-night adventure. The best news is that 9-year-old members, if space allows, will be able to enroll in a full-week Camp session later in the summer. Cost will be $120. More details on how to enroll will be made available in January. CIT NEWS I’m having a blast talking to all the potential Counselors-inTraining. It’s not too late to get your application sent in and your interview scheduled with me. Don’t delay. Do it today!
Home implements admission changes Cont’d. from Pg. 1 their life insurance policy to Hermann Sons Life. That is no longer the case. From now on, member residents will pay an annual fee of $2,000 to live at the Home. Residents are still responsible for their own phone, cable TV and Internet access. A non-refundable $500 application fee will be collected. Residents do not need to liquidate any of their assets in order to live at the Home. However,
residents must be able to care for themselves while they live at the Home. The Home is not a nursing home facility. Each applicant must be in good health in the professional opinion of the company physician when they apply. “These changes were made in an effort to encourage more members to move to the Home,” Cecily said. “The more people who live there, the more cost-efficient it is to operate the Home.” She continued, “For years we have heard people talk about
how the Home is a member benefit that is almost too good to be true. Nothing about these new requirements changes that. The Home is still an amazing benefit of membership. These changes make living there possible for even more members.” Anyone who has questions can call Cecily or Member Benefits Representative Jacqueline Klein at 210-226-9261 or 800-2344124. Tours of the Home are available by calling Manager Brenda Gunnink at 830-995-2724.
MEMORIAL DONATION FORM Name of Deceased:
Please print
Acknowledgement from Retirement Home Retirement Home Scholarship Fund
Camp Camp Scholarship Fund Grief Support Session at Camp
to go to: Name:
Please print
Address: City, State, Zip: Donor:
Please print
Address: City, State, Zip: Date:
Amount: $ Clip and mail with your memorial contribution to: Hermann Sons Life Home Office, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941.
Deadline to donate to relief fund is Nov. 1 SAN ANTONIO – The deadline to make a donation to the Tropical Storm Imelda Relief Fund is Nov. 1. The Home Office created this fund after the devastating flooding caused by the storm when it hit Southeast Texas in September. Lodges and individuals can make monetary donations that will be sent to the Southeast Texas Food Bank. This food bank is located in Beaumont and serves eight counties in the area where much of the flooding occurred. The Home Office will also make a donation. The Southeast Texas Food Bank began its relief effort by supporting a shelter at the Beaumont Civic Center with food and water totaling more than 9,000 pounds. Since then, the food bank
has been supporting affected communities by bringing products to a centralized location and having residents drive through to receive food. To date more than 50,000 pounds of food and water have been distributed throughout Southeast Texas. Donations are needed to replenish supplies so that the food bank and the food pantries and meal sites it works with can continue to meet everyday needs and respond to future disasters. Lodges and members can send donations to the Hermann Sons Life Home Office in care of Jacqueline Klein, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297-1941. Make checks payable to Hermann Sons Life and note in the memo line that the donation is for Disaster Relief.
Answers to puzzles on Pg. 32 Crossword Puzzle Across 2. Turkey 3. Indians 5. Cranberry 9. Plymouth 10. Corn 12. November Down. 1. Pumpkin 2. Thursday 4. Mayflower 6. Football 7. Stuffing 8. Bounty 11. Ham
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 17
Hermann Sons Life Camp Hilltop site available for rent Hermann Sons Life Camp’s Hilltop site is available for rent to groups looking for a place to hold their next weekend or overnight retreat. Hilltop Camp is located in the beautiful Texas Hill Country just outside Comfort. It takes just an hour to get there from San Antonio or two hours from Austin. The staff prides itself on friendly service, exciting activities and high-quality food served year-round. The Camp includes cabins and a Dining Hall that are all air-conditioned. There is a covered pavilion big enough for group activities and lots of shade trees and places to explore. There is a full-size swimming pool available for use at an extra charge. The Dining Hall also is available for wedding receptions and banquets.
The prices are based on a minimum of 25 guests. Exclusive use of the Camp begins at 120 guests. Please inquire about early check-in and late check-out fees. The Camp is not available from late May through mid-August when the summer camp program is under way. Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett welcomes the opportunity to create the perfect retreat for any size group. The Riverside Camp facility is also available parts of the year. Contact Ian for details. To discuss your specific needs, contact Ian at 830-9953223 or email ianb@hermannsonslife.org. All of the packages include the following complimentary activities: basketball, tennis, volleyball, field games, board games, horseshoes, corn hole games and Ga-Ga pit.
The cabins, left, and dining hall, right, at Hilltop Camp are surrounded by lots of shade trees. The cabins are arranged in a semi-circle pattern and are connected to one another and the dining hall by concrete sidewalks.
Each cabin will seat about 35 people. Most of the sleeping arrangements are bunk beds but there are single beds as well.
This room is located next to the main dining hall. It can be used for small meetings. It includes a counter with a sink.
The dining hall includes plenty of seating and can be arranged to suit the specific needs of the group that is using it. There is a full kitchen and restrooms.
The pool at Hilltop Camp is available for an extra charge to cover the cost of the lifeguards.
Page 18 – Hermann Sons Life –November 2019
Cibolo Lodge will hold Christmas party Dec. 8
CIBOLO – Welcome to the Halloween aka October news from Cibolo lodge. The regular meeting was held Thursday, Oct. 3, with two hunters and a baby doe in attendance, along with Bob who is a little on the thin side. What? Wait, why was a deer at a meeting you ask. Oh yeah, our newest soon to be member was dressed up as a baby deer for Halloween. The lodge held its rummage sale on Saturday, Oct. 12, to benefit TruLight 127 Ministries. This was the lodge’s annual Matching Funds event. New members welcomed were Rodney Dale Krebs who has transferred from Marion and the following new junior members, Kimber Ann Yancey, Colson Steel Poole, Evannia Nazareth Hernandez, Courtney
Megan Smith, Charlotte Ann Hicks, Zelda Storm Murphy, Maylee Ryan Angelica, Maci Denver Angelica, Madelyn Maxine Angelica, Maesan Josephine DeLoriea, Karlie Grace Moreno, Lila Joanita Cantu and Carolina DeHerrera. Attendance award winners were Cory Rakowitz and Jonny Brown. The junior winner was Brett Gray. Side dish winner was Gail Gray’s cucumbers and dessert winner was Ruth Schumann’s Graham Cracker Cool Whip Cake. The next meeting will be held Nov. 7. The main dish will be ham from Bill Miller Barbeque and everyone attending is asked to bring a favorite side dish or dessert. The Christmas party is set
Celebrating birthdays at the October meeting of Cibolo Lodge were, from left, Ruth Schumann, John Fey, “Bob” and Tiffany Kuhlman.
The winners of the costume contest held at the October meeting of Cibolo Lodge were hunters Sheri and Cory Rakowitz and their dear doe Emmaline.
for Sunday, Dec. 8, beginning at 3 p.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 600 S. Center St, Marion. Tickets will go on sale at the No-
night will be part of the festivities along with a 50/50 drawing, an ugly sweater contest and door prizes.
vember meeting for members and guests. Anyone interested in attending is asked to contact any of the officers. A casino
Poth Lodge welcomes new members POTH – Poth Lodge welcomed five new members at the Oct. 6 meeting. They are Alexis LaVerne Folley, Pearl Landrie Gomez, Marie Eloise Henderson, Adalyn Marie Tackitt and Genesis Aracely Munoz. The letter from the Home Office regarding the new requirements for living at the Retirement Home was read. Members
are encouraged to visit the Home and see its amenities for themselves. Colin Joseph Lane and Magda Moczygemba are the winners of this year’s Camp scholarships. They must attend the November meeting to receive their money. Members voted to cash in a certificate of deposit and use the money for hall improvements.
Betty Ortmann was chosen to receive the Humanitarian Award. She will be invited to the Christmas party to receive her award. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Elwood Heinsohn Jr. Door prize winners were Beth Cutsinger and Virginia Maha. The names of Miguel M. Guti-
errez, Willard Baumann and Diane Boening were drawn for the kitty but they were not in attendance to claim the cash. Two dollars will be added for the next drawing. After the meeting, members enjoyed barbecue sandwiches with chips and Mississippi Mud Cake and then played games. – Reporter
Lucille Novak celebrated her birthday in October. She is a member of Poth Lodge.
Houston will meet Nov. 11 HOUSTON – Houston Lodge will meet Monday, Nov. 11, at Sokol Hall, 1314 W. Patton St. The social hour begins at 6 p.m. and a catered Thanksgiving dinner will be served at 7 p.m. Fourteen members enjoyed a meal at Don Jose’s on Monday, Sept. 9. Members were informed that the Christmas dinner will be held at Logan’s Roadhouse on Sunday, Dec. 1, at 4 p.m. The meal for the Jan. 13 meeting will be barbecue sandwiches with all the trimmings. Members approved a $100 donation to the VA Fisher House in San Antonio as part of the Home Office Make a Difference Day proj-
ect. Special Representative Gary Falkenberg reported he had written up two new members. Doris Falkenberg reported sending a sympathy card to Vernell Foyt’s family. Members sang “Happy Birthday” to Doris Falkenberg who celebrated her special day in September. Doris and Gary Falkenberg celebrated 56 years of marriage in September. Winners in the monthly attendance drawing were Gary Falkenberg, Reuben Heldberg, Jackie Bushman, Diane Weikel and Jack Manchack. – Catherine Manchack
Gay Hill Lodge to meet Jan. 2 Gay Hill Lodge held its fall meeting on Oct. 3. A $200 donation was made to the VA Hospital in Temple by Brian Wostal of Rock Crushers of Burton in honor of the lodge. Members brought donations of food, socks and lap blankets for the needy. Celebrating birthdays were Paige Fischer, Charlie Schroder, Walline Lorenz, Bobby Lehde, Ruth Ganske and Stanley Klekar. Celebrating anniversaries were Bobby and Barbara Lehde and Walline and George Lorenz. The Cheer Committee reported sending a card to Bobby Mertz and family. The next meeting is set for Jan. 2, 2020, at 6 p.m. at Guadalajara Restaurant.
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 19
San Marcos Lodge will hold Christmas party Dec. 8 SAN MARCOS – San Marcos Lodge will meet Monday, Nov. 4, at 6:30 p.m. in the LaVista Community Room, located on Redwood Road. Ken and Lillian Cargil and Janet and Howard Magin will serve tamales. Members are encouraged to dress patriotically in honor of Veteran’s Day. Games will be played. The October meeting was also held in the La Vista Community Room. The lodge was observing German Heritage Month and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Some members wore Germanstyle clothing and some wore pink. Mary Lou Preuss and Buddy Preuss gave a presentation on the Preuss family’s German heritage.
President Agnes Dreibrodt thanked everyone who brought monetary donations for the Make a Difference Day contribution to the VA Fisher House and donations for the Tropical Storm Imelda Relief Fund. Serving on the Nominating Committee and 2020 Calendar Committee will be Lillian Cargil, Janice Kuhen, Janet Magin, Therese Velasquez and Agnes Dreibrodt. If you would like to volunteer to host any month or if you have ideas for activities, contact one of these people. Plans are being made to take a trip to Blanco in October or November to the Buggy Barn Museum. The lodge will pay the $6 admission fee. The Christmas party will be
Old Glory plans turkey dinner OLD GLORY – Old Glory Lodge will meet Sunday, Nov. 3. The lodge will provide the turkey and dressing. Members are asked to bring a vegetable and dessert. Officers for 2020 will be elected. The Nominating Committee includes Carm Letz, Terry Letz and Gladys Vahlenkamp. A public dance will be held at the hall on Nov. 23 with the Bobby Flores Band providing the music. A new member was welcomed at the October meeting. Brody James Bly from White Oak is the great-great-grandson of Verlene Corzine.
Members reported that all of the tickets for the Oct. 12 Sausage Supper had been sold. Discussion was held on buying more tables and chairs. Trustee Keith Corzine was going to check into that. Reported on the sick list were Marvin Vahlenkamp and Debbie Vahlenkamp. Terry Letz won the door prize. Dale Letz was the only member present with a birthday in October. Following the meeting the group enjoyed games and a meal of fried chicken and all the trimmings. – Reporter
Gulf Lodge presents pioneer pins LEAGUE CITY – Gulf Lodge held its third quarter meeting on Sunday, Sept. 22, at Spring Creek Barbecue in League City. Special guest for the meeting was Vice President of Operations Samantha Schulmeier from the Home Office. Samantha and Gulf Lodge President Al Stryk presented 60year membership pins to David Falks Jr. and Johnny Rost. David
has been a member since May 20, 1959. Johnny joined on Feb. 12, 1959. Both shared memories of the lodge. Samantha spoke about Hermann Sons Life and thanked the lodge for inviting her to the meeting where she had the chance to visit with about 40 members. – Reporter
held Sunday, Dec. 8, at the Zorn Bowling Club, located on Hwy. 123 south of San Marcos. Decorating and setup will begin at 1:30 p.m. The party will start at 2 p.m. The Grain Bin will cater the turkey meal at about 5 p.m. Cost for adults is $5 with children 12 years and under eating for $3. Non-members will pay $10. Each family is asked to bring a dessert. E-mail or mail your reservations no later than Monday, Dec. 2, to Janice Kuhen at jmkuhen@ austin.rr.com, P.O. Box 683, San Marcos, 78667. An adult gift exchange will be held with gifts ranging in price from $8-$10. Parents are asked to bring gifts for their children. Games will be played. A new
game is being planned. Members are asked to bring a photo of themselves from their early years – wedding or school, for example - to the November meeting. At the party, everyone will have a chance to guess who is in each picture. The winner will receive a neat prize. A letter was read concerning the changes in the requirements for living at the Retirement Home. Members mourned the passing of Bryan Jay Morgan, age 69, of College Station on June 26. He had been a member since Sept. 6, 1961. Esther Schmidt and Janet Boehringer won the monthly attendance awards. – Reporter
Janet Boehringer celebrated her birthday in October. She is a member of San Marcos Lodge.
Flatonia Lodge elects 2020 officers FLATONIA – Flatonia Lodge elected its 2020 officers at the Oct. 9 quarterly meeting held at Robert’s Steakh ouse. All of the officers were reelected except for one. David Zapalac will replace Mary Taylor as a trustee. Members also welcomed a new member. David Zapalac reported sending a sympathy card to the family of deceased member Julie Stryk. Agent Mary K. Seifert reported that dance enrollment is down. Tumbling has been
added to the curriculum. She also reported that the Hermann Sons Life float appeared in the Schulenburg Parade. David Zapalac is making arrangements for the float to appear in the Czhilispiel Parade. A thank you letter was read from Alyssa Otto for the scholarship she received from the lodge. A letter from the Home Office was read thanking the lodge for sponsoring a table at the Casino Night event that benefitted Grief Camp and for
taking part in the Join Hands Day program. Members were informed of the changes being made to the requirements for living at the Retirement Home in Comfort. David Zapalac and Helen Steinhauser will be celebrating birthdays. Beverly and Kenneth Ponder will be celebrating an anniversary. The Christmas party will be held at Robert’s Steakhouse on Dec. 4 at 6 p.m. – Helen Steinhauser
Columbia participates in State Fair DALLAS – Columbia Lodge members turned out for the parade that marks the beginning of the State Fair of Texas. This year’s parade was held Sept. 27. Mike Sheffield, Kim Horton, Dave Lewis, Bobby Wilbanks, Juliea Wilbanks, Glenn Marvin, Debra Hundley, Randell Fields, Stanley Whitehead, Ean Howe and Anni Howe from Columbia Lodge, along with Terri Holmes and Eva Day from Dallas Lodge,
rode the Hermann Sons Life float and spread the word about the Sons of Hermann Hall in Deep Ellum. Thanks go to Bob and Donna Scheel for bringing the sparkling float to Dallas and for driving it through the fairgrounds. The next meeting will be held Sunday, Nov. 3. The 2020 officer elections will be held. Members are encouraged to come out and cast their votes. There will
be a Thanksgiving potluck after the meeting. The Randy Broadnax Art Show will be held Dec. 6-8 at the Hall. This is always a lot of fun so don’t miss it. The holiday season brings lots of festivities to the Hall and extra volunteers are needed to help with these events, so lend a hand and get involved. It’s so much more fun that way. – Anni Howe
Read the newspaper online at hermannsonslife.org
Page 20 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Louise Schuetze to celebrate Thanksgiving Nov. 11 SAN ANTONIO – Louise Schuetze Lodge will meet Nov. 11 beginning at 7 p.m. in the Rathskeller. The lodge will celebrate Thanksgiving with a turkey dinner. The lodge will provide the turkey, dressing and gravy. Members are asked to bring side dishes. The 2020 officers will be elected. The lodge celebrated its 123rd Anniversary on Sept. 9. President Eugene Zollinger and wife Alison were in attendance. Four members received their membership pins. Susan Andrade, a member since Feb. 10, 1959, and Jennifer Oates, a member since Oct. 1, 1959, received
their 60-year pins. President Lisa Robalin and Vice President Lori Todd received their 50-year pins. Both have been members since April 1, 1969. Other members received their pins by mail. Lisa presented the pin recipients with mini roses. Thanks go to members of all the lodges who were present as guests and joined the lodge for dinner and cake in the Rathskeller. Mini roses were given as door prizes. At the October meeting, members celebrated German Heritage Month with a meal prepared by JoAnn Massengale and Donald O’Connor.
Welcomed as a new member was Siena Garcia, the niece of Lisa Robalin. Alice Naughton won the attendance award. She was accompanied by her grandson, Chris Naughton who is a member of Siemering Lodge. The lodge is making a donation to Haven for Hope in observance of Make a Difference Day. The annual Christmas Party will be Dec. 9. Members are asked to bring their favorite appetizer or dessert. A gift exchange will be held for those who wish to participate. Gift value should be about $10. – Reporter
Janet Abel, left, from Louise Schuetze Lodge celebrates her birthday in October. She received a birthday card from lodge Vice President Lori Todd.
Alice Naughton brought her grandson, Chris Naughton, to the October meeting of Louise Schuetze Lodge.
Harmonia plans turkey dinner for Nov. 14 meeting SAN ANTONIO – Harmonia Lodge will hold its Thanksgiving meeting on Thursday, Nov. 14, in the Home Association Ballroom. Snoga’s will cater the traditional turkey dinner. Call 210-386-2029 and leave a message if you plan to attend. Members are asked to bring a dessert. Spaghetti and meat sauce along with side dishes and desserts were served at the September meeting.
Past presidents were honored. Those in attendance were Matt Kraus, Mike Beam, Bill Richard, John Hoog, Stan Steiger, Roger Buley, Harry Werland, Jim McNeel, Albert Ranzau, Brad Dietrich and Mike Gumpp. J.W. White, John Bradley and Jake White could not attend. Brad Dietrich reminded everyone that the Blue Santa Program was created to help bring holiday smiles to families and children in San Antonio. The
program is an effort to help families make ends meet during the holiday season. The San Antonio Police Officers Association (SAPOA) sponsors the program. Members are asked to bring an unwrapped gift or monetary donation to the November and/or December meetings. Brad also noted that the cancellation of the Tee It Up for a Cause Golf Tournament was due to time constraints. Plans
for a future event with the same goals will be in the works soon. Members mourned the passing of Billy Richard Nyman on May 24 at the age of 93. He had been a member since 1951. Joe H. Glawson passed away June 26 at the age of 97. He had been a member since 1962. Members were also informed of the passing of Jami Lynn Johnson. Jami was a volunteer for Camp Discovery who also volunteered at the Tee It Up for
a Cause Golf Tournament that benefitted Camp Discovery. She died Sept. 1 at the age of 37. Emily and Ron Roberts, Karen and Stan Steiger and Dena and Mike Warneke celebrated their anniversaries in September. Emily also celebrated her birthday in September The attendance prizes were won by Roger Buley and John Hoog, and the split-the-pot was won by Bill Bernhard. – John Hoog
Spring Branch Lodge juniors share camp experience SPRING BRANCH – Spring Branch Lodge will meet Sunday, Nov. 17, at 2:30 in the Bulverde Community Center. Two members who attended Hermann Sons Life Camp attended the Sept. 15 meeting and reported on their experiences. Ty Schaeferkoeter was a counselor-in-training and Claire Schaeferkoeter was a fifth-year camper. Three donations were approved. A $50 donation will be made to the Hermann Sons Life Camp Grief Session Session in memory of Elvira Weidner. A $100 donation will be made to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund. A $100 donation will be made
Celebrating birthdays at the September meeting of Spring Branch Lodge were, from left, Ben Havens, Darryl Woody, Jane Wanke, Mary Penshorn, Jerry Penshorn and Sandra Duncan. to the VA Fisher House in observance of Make A Difference Day. Attendance prize winners were Karen Woody. Mildred Bartels, Ty Schaeferkoeter, Jane Wanke, Jerry Penshorn, Darryl Woody, Alverne Halloran, Ben
Havens, Sandra Duncan, Mary Woody and Sharon Knibbe. After the meeting, a meal of sauerkraut and brats was served by Jane Wanke and Ben and Phyllis Havens. – Reporter
Darryl and Karen Woody celebrated 39 years of marriage at the September meeting of Spring Branch Lodge.
Ty and Claire Schaeferkoeter talked about their Camp experiences at the September meeting of Spring Branch Lodge.
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 21
Vineta plans Thanksgiving dinner
Corpus Christi Lodge will meet on Nov. 4
SAN ANTONIO – Vineta Lodge will celebrate Thanksgiving with a turkey dinner on Nov 7. Call Ruth Bailey at 210-602-5147 for reservations. At the social on Nov. 20 members will play bunco. Cecilia Padalecki will provide the surprise meal. In October, members enjoyed a covered dish and sausage
Andrew Rosas was the 50/50 winner at the October meeting of Corpus Christi Lodge. The lodge’s next meeting will be Nov. 4. The 2020 officers will be elected.
meal furnished by the lodge. Ruth Bailey furnished a cake for those celebrating October birthdays. Thanks go to Beth Byron and Emily Roberts for conducting the memorial service. Welcomed as a new junior member was Ella Juliette Despres. Attendance award winners
Conducting the memorial service for Vineta Lodge members in October were Emily Roberts, left, and Beth Byron, right.
were Emily Roberts, Beth Byron, Frances Bara and Cecilia Padalecki. Split-the-pot winner was Emily Roberts. Ruth Bailey and Frances Bara were elected as the Home Association representatives from Vineta Lodge. – Reporter
Ruth Bailey, left, receives a birthday gift from Vineta Lodge President Debbie Jordan during the October meeting.
Austin Lodge to elect officers on Nov. 3 Corpus Christi Lodge members gathered for a potluck dinner and games at Hilltop Community Center on Oct. 7. The door prize winners were, from left, Kerry Ginn, Darlette Brandon and Frank Brandon.
Dunlay party set for Dec. 17 DUNLAY – Dunlay Lodge members are reminded of the upcoming Christmas party. It is set for Tuesday, Dec. 17, at 6 p.m. Food will be provided and a special evening is planned. The lodge met Sept. 16 and members observed a moment of silence in memory of Necey Schulte who passed away Aug. Stanley and Dolly Meyer celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 12 with a family trip to Cancun, Mexico. Stanley and Dolly have been members of Dunlay Lodge since Nov. 4, 2003. Stanley was also celebrating his 80th birthday.
30. Necey had been an active member of the lodge since Sept. 8, 2003. Clyde Muennink was thanked for the great work he did in repairing windows and replacing the water pump at the lodge hall. – Reporter
AUSTIN – Austin Lodge will meet Nov. 3. The meeting will include the election of the 2020 officers. Anyone wanting to hold an office is asked to attend the meeting. Members are asked to bring their favorite pot of chili or beans and a dessert. At the Oct. 6 meeting, President Ed Kurtz read correspondence from the Home Office regarding changes to the requirements for living at the Retirement Home. Members approved a $100 donation to the Southeast Texas Food Bank that serves the area hit hard by the flooding caused by Tropical Storm Imelda. Get well cards were sent to Pat Spradling and Marty Stanfield. Congratulations were extended to two couples celebrating
Leona and Buster Schaefer celebrated 65 years of marriage in October. They are members of Austin Lodge.
Howard Anderson celebrated his birthday in October. He is a member of Austin Lodge.
anniversaries. Buster and Leona Schaefer have been married 65 years and Billy and Kimberly Lindsey have been married 16 years. Billie Harris received the kitty
and Margaret Hankins won the attendance award. The afternoon meal included sandwiches, chips, dips and desserts. – Reporter
Plum donates to Retirement Home Fund PLUM – Plum Lodge met Sept. 9 with members approving a $100 donation to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund. The meal included Subway sandwiches along with the chips, dips and desserts provided by members. Thanks go to Secretary Jackie Wessels for picking up the sandwiches.
Verlene Hobratschk expressed her thanks to the lodge for the get-well card she received. “Happy Birthday” was sung to Gene Wessels and Linda Poncik. Gene turned 91 on Sept. 3 and has been a member of the lodge for 73 years. Linda celebrated her birthday on Sept. 25 and has been a member for
53 years. President Wilbert Hoffmann and wife Bonnie celebrated their 47th wedding anniversary in September. Door prize winners were Verlene Hobratschk, Wallace Hobratschk, Linda Poncik and Gene Wessels. – Reporter
Page 22 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Lockhart Lodge welcomes new members in October LOCKHART – Lockhart Lodge met Oct. 6 at Chisholm Trail BBQ with members handling an assortment of business. Welcomed as new members were Mason Ray Rocha and Dylan Matthew Hartman, Tyler Daniel Hartman and Cody Alexander Hartman, all of Tomball. Agent Janice Kuchen reported she had just returned from the Continuing Education Workshop in Comfort. She noted that plans are already being made for the summer of 2020 at Camp and that the facilities are available to rent to groups. In observance of Make a Difference Day, Community Coordinator Nancy Hess suggested donations of $100 each be made to Meals on Wheels and the Caldwell County Food Pantry. Members agreed. Treasurer Ray Pfefferkorn read a thank you note from
Celebrating October and November birthdays from Lockhart Lodge are, from left, Billy Ray Buckner, Darrell Hess, Debbie Pfefferkorn, Rudy Schroeder, Ann Schroder, Margie Bozarth and Dickie Rutherford.
Door prize winners at the October meeting of Lockhart Lodge were, from left, Janice Kuhen, Dickie Rutherford and Debbie Pfefferkorn.
Celebrating an October anniversary from Lockhart Lodge were Darrell and Nancy Hess. Not pictured are Craig and Nicky Duewall.
Plans were made for the Christmas party. It will be held at Smitty’s from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Those wanting to take part in the gift exchange need to bring a wrapped gift worth no more than $10. Members also are asked to bring desserts.
The current officers were reelected and will serve again in 2020. President Nicky Duewall was awarded the 2019 Humanitarian Award. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Johnny
Siemering who passed away Aug. 23, Norene Sewell who passed away in August, and Billie Jo Roberts, who passed away in September. Sympathy cards were sent to the families of the deceased. – Reporter
the Home Office for the lodge’s gift to the Retirement Home in memory of Johnny Siemering and Billie Jo Roberts. He also read a letter from the about the changes that are being made to the requirements to live at the Retirement home.
Boerne Lodge to present Humanitarian Award Nov. 1 BOERNE – Boerne Lodge will meet Friday, Nov. 1, at 12 noon at Kronkosky Place. Lunch reservations must be made in advance by calling the Rainbow Senior Center at 830-249-2114 by 9 a.m. the day of the meeting. There will be a guest speaker and an honorary guest from the Home Office to present the Humanitarian Award to Erna Vogt. Agent Marilyn Vogt attended the Continuing Education Workshop for agents held Oct. 4-5 at Hilltop Camp. She reported learning a lot of new information. The lodge met Sept. 6 and welcomed three new junior members. They are Evelyn Cook, Gemma Pechacek and Taylor Lewis. Belated birthday wishes are extended to Judy Beauford, Marilyn Vogt and Kathy Kunz who all celebrated their special days in September. All members present at the Sept. 6 meeting received a free meal ticket for future use at the Rainbow Senior Center. Congratulations to Mike Solarczyk who celebrated his birth-
day Oct. 17. The lodge’s Christmas party will be held Dec. 6 at Kronkosky Place. The party will start at 5 p.m. with a social hour. Members are asked to bring a light snack or beverage to share before the 6 p.m. dinner and dance. In observance of Make A Difference Day, the lodge chose to make donations to two local area non-profits. One was to SAM’S KID’S and the other was to the Rainbow Senior Center at Kronkosky Place. In 2002, SAM’S KIDS (Students Achieving Maximum Success) was created by former Boerne High School principal and educator, Samuel V. Champion. Mr. Champion realized that many at-risk children were in need of extra help to overcome economic and social obstacles in order to achieve academic success. He knew that many at-risk children were struggling with maintaining their grades and were at higher risk of dropping out of school. He also realized that if children were able to participate in school activities that
they were more likely to remain in school. However, since most children and their families were economically disadvantaged they weren’t able to pay the activity fees for many school related activities. Mr. Champion wanted every child to have the opportunity to participate in activities that would help promote self-confidence and help them to become successful. The SAM’S KIDS program began to address the needs of the economically disadvantaged children by providing funds for student tutoring, band instruments, required class supplies and fees, uniforms and funds for extra-curricular activities. Mr. Champion passed away in 2007 but his legacy continued with the SAM’S KIDS Foundation. The program is unique to Boerne and relies completely on charitable funding. All donations are tax deductible. The Rainbow Senior Center at Kronkosy Place (RSC) in Boerne is dedicated to improving the quality of life for those 55 and better. Since the founding of the RSC in 1983, the center has
encouraged area residents to remain mentally and physically active; to improve their nutritional health and to maintain an independent lifestyle. The center offers a variety of social, educational, physical and leisure activities held Monday through Friday. Nutritional meals are offered at the center on weekdays and Meals on Wheels provides hundreds of meals to homebound seniors in various areas of Kendall County. Transportation is available to bring seniors to the center as well as trips to the grocery store, to pick up prescriptions or go to doctor’s ap-
pointments in Boerne for a nominal fee. Other services offered includes a Home Health Closet that provides access for all members of the community regardless of age or income to both used and new durable medical equipment at no charge. Funding for the RSC comes primarily from the donations of individuals, foundations, corporations, fundraisers and facility rentals. Since the Rainbow Senior Center is a non-profit organization all donations are tax deductible. – Barbara D’Spain
Kerrville party set for Dec. 6 KERRVILLE – Kerrville Lodge will hold its Christmas party on Friday, Dec. 6, at Buzzies BBQ in Kerrville. Anyone with ideas for door prizes for the party is asked to call Juanice Grona at 830-792-7827. The tentative schedule for 2020 includes meetings on Feb. 5, April 1, June 3, Aug. 5 and
Oct. 7. The 2020 Christmas party will be held Dec. 4. All meetings will be held in the board room at Wells Fargo Bank, 301 Junction Highway, Kerrville, unless otherwise noted. Check the monthly newspaper articles for any changes to this schedule. – Juanice Grona
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 23
Siemering will celebrate Thanksgiving on Nov. 10 SAN ANTONIO – Siemering Lodge will celebrate Thanksgiving at the meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 10. The lodge will provide the turkey and dressing. Members are asked to bring their favorite side dish or dessert. Members of the Warrior Cry Music Project will be providing guitar music before and during the meal and explaining how they are able to help veterans with PTSD. Officers for 2020 also will be elected. In October, Paul and Katherine Hess treated members to a German sausage dinner with lots of trimmings. Chris Naughton and Ed Shadrock were elected to represent the lodge in the Home Association. In the spirit of Halloween, “Flatsy” was a special guest. Longtime friend Willie Mae Shaw used to tell everyone this was a picture of her in her favorite costume. The Lee fam-
The Lee family attended the October meeting of Siemering Lodge dressed in costumes from Cherry’s Costumes Shop.
Carl Hafer, left, visits with Siemering Lodge President Donald O’Connor during the October meeting. Carl drove in from New Braunfels to attend the gathering.
ily came in the most wonderful costumes from Cherry’s Costumes Shop. In observance of Make A Difference Day, the lodge will be delivering 100 hand-sized stuffed animals to the Converse
will be held will be made at the November meeting. Members are encouraged to attend all the meetings. They are held the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. – Augusta Perales
Fire Department for use with traumatized children and making a $50 donation to the VA Fisher House project. Plans are still up in the air for December’s meeting. A decision about where the meeting
Sally Hertzberg visits with “Flatsy” during the Siemering Lodge meeting in October.
Ron Bara receives an anniversary gift from Paul Hess and “Flatsy” during the October meeting of Siemering Lodge.
Kirby Lodge plan Christmas celebration for Dec. 1 KIRBY – Kirby Lodge will meet Monday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. The lodge will provide the turkey. Members are asked to provide side dishes and desserts. The Christmas party and meeting will be held on Sunday, Dec. 1. Fellowship begins at 1 p.m. with a catered pork steak meal to be served at 2 p.m. Games will follow. Reservations are required. Contact Tammy Haecker or Andra Fore if you plan to attend. Agents remind members to contact them if they need help reviewing their policy, updating it or making changes. The lodge celebrated its anniversary at the October meeting. Angela Netherton reported that Executive Camp Director Ian Brassett is already hiring for next summer. Contact him at Camp if you are interested or know someone who is. Ian is also planning a two-night mini-camp for 8- and 9-year-olds next year. A letter from the Home Office was read explaining the changes to the requirements for living at the Retirement Home.
In observance of Make a Difference Day, members brought donations for Boysville that will be delivered at Christmas. Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe presented pin to Arthur Luensmann, 70 years; Reagan Rawe, 60 years; and Scherlyn Gleitz, 50 years. The lodge also congratulates those who received pins but could not attend the meeting including Gloria Smith, 75 years; Harold Haecker, Leroy Markmann, Dorothy Stevens and Carol Martin, 70 years; and Edwin Rossow, Randolph Rennert and Kathrine Rossow, 60 years. The Humanitarian Awards were presented to Norma Hamby and the Kirby Senior Center and Tammy Haecker. The lodge recognized Norma Hamby and the Kirby Senior Center for their commitment to the seniors of the community as well as to the Kirby community itself. Norma Hamby and volunteers from the Senior Center attended the meeting and accepted the award. Tammy was recognized for her
service to the lodge, her church and the elderly community. Welcomed as new members were Jayla Lynette Cross, McKenna Faith Dean and Bailey Grace Dean Condolences are extended to the family of Joe Boyd. The lodge donated to its scholarship fund in memory of Dennis Ray Baumann, Dorothy M. Bonewell, Joe A. Boyd, Patsy A. Kleene, Robert W. Atkinson, Alice M. Hale, Rebecca A. Ibarra, Stella E. Jenke, Ervin “Sonny” Real and Michael S. Seguin. If you are interested in serving as an officer in 2020, contact one of the current officers. The lodge’s agents are working hard to help the lodge meet its new member goal for the year. If you know of someone who would appreciate the services provided by Hermann Sons Life let them know who the agents are and how to contact them. Celebrating September birthdays were Sandy Bundick, Arthur Luensmann, Henrietta Lowak and B.J. Voight. Happy Anniversary wishes
were extended to Candace and Jimmy Scheibe who celebrated 41 years of marriage in September. The attendance prize winner was Linda Gloor. The split-the-pot winners were Janie Leonhardt, Reagan Rawe,
Henrietta Lowak, Samuel Romens, Nelson Holder and Candace Scheibe. Door prize winners were Linda Lambrecht, Tim Kolbe, Abby Netherton, James McQuatters and Nelson Holder. – Reporter
DaCosta elects 2020 officers DaCOSTA - DaCosta Lodge welcomed nine new members and elected the 2020 officers at the Oct. 8 meeting. The new members are Lilah Stovall, Abigail Cobble, Jude White, Claire Petrisky, Ella Petrisky, Bryce Petrisky, George Pratt Jr. and Gracyln Halepeska. Sayra Martinka is the new lodge president. Other officers include Melissa Parks, vice president; and Laura Thigpen, who will complete Sayra’s term as corresponding secretary. Laura also was elected to a three-year term as trustee. The Youth Christmas Party is scheduled for Dec. 19 at 6:30 p.m. All members are welcome to attend. The dancers will perform,
cookies and punch will be served and Santa will make an appearance. All youth members will receive a $5 gift. Katie Kurtz and Diane Stastny won door prizes. New hall managers are still needed. Contact Laura Thigpen, Pam Elkins or Melissa Parks if you are interested. The job description is posted on the DaCosta Lodge Facebook page. Send a friend request and follow the page. A Western Dance open to the public will be held Nov. 9 from 8 p.m. to midnight. The next lodge meeting is scheduled for Jan. 14, 2020. – Reporter
Page 24 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Rosenberg-Richmond collecting for Helping Hands
ROSENBERG – RosenbergRichmond Lodge will meet Dec. 9. Turkey and dressing will be served. Dessert will be furnished. Members are asked to bring non-perishable food for Helping Hands. Games will be played. Sausage, sauerkraut and mashed potatoes was served at the Oct. 14 meeting held at the Rosenberg Civic Center. Members provided the desserts. Lynette Atkins, Jerome and Patsy Kubes, W. Lee Hedt, Fred and Margaret Maynard and John and Shirley Pavlock helped serve. Margie Krenek gave the blessing. Membership Coordinator Rosalie Byrd reported that sympathy cards were sent to the family of Virgie Koteras, Melvin and Gaynell Blahuta and the family of Bernice Sliva. Get well cards were sent to Margie Krenek, Malcolm Krause, Frank Pryor, Isabel Medina and Calvin Lamensky. A
Celebrating September and October anniversaries at the RosenbergRichmond Lodge meeting were, from left, Melvin and Gaynell Blahuta, Raymond and Evelyn Schmidt, Fred and Margaret Maynard and W. Lee Hedt. thinking of you card was sent to Tom Atkins. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Virgie Koteras and Bernice Sliva. Community Coordinator William Benton spoke about the local food drive that will be held
Dec. 6. The lodge will donate $200 to buy food. Members will help collect food. Members approved a donation of $100 to the VA Fisher House. The 2020 officers were elected and will include Calvin Lamensky, president; Fred Maynard,
Celebrating September and October birthdays at the RosenbergRichmond Lodge meeting were, from left, Otto Tiemann, Evelyn Kassey, John Pavlock, Marjorie Engelhardt, Fred Maynard, Evelyn Schmidt and W. Lee Schmidt. vice president; Loyce Anderson, secretary/treasurer; W. Lee Hedt, three-year trustee; and Kevin Engelhardt, three-year Finance Committee member. Agent Chris Stoeltje asked that members recommend new members.
Door prizes were donated by Raymond and Evelyn Schmidt and William and Barbie Benton. Attendance prizes were won by Marjorie Engelhardt, Jane Maynard, Jerome Kubes, Eleanor Pavlock and Dub Schmidt. – Reporter
Stern will celebrate McGregor Lodge will meet Nov. 6 Thanksgiving Nov. 3
Thanksgiving meal planned McGREGOR – McGregor Lodge will meet Nov. 6 at 6 p.m. at the Charlie Griffith Center. A Thanksgiving meal will be served. Officers will be elected. The Dec. 4 meeting will also be held at the Charlie Griffith Center beginning at 7 p.m. A Christmas meal will be served and gifts will be provided. The Humanitarian Award will be
presented to Kevin Houchin. Members are asked to make plans to attend both of these holiday gatherings. Doris Mooney, Betty Johnson and Leona Hendrickson prepared the meal for the Oct. 2 meeting held at the Charlie Griffith Center Condolences are extended to the family of Geneva Quebe Barse family following her
passing on Aug. 31. Members approved a donation to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund. Members planned to observe Make a Difference Day at Westview Manor. They planned to play games with the residents and serve refreshments. Door prize winners were Regenia and Kerry Arseneaux. – Reporter
Giddings welcomes new members GIDDINGS – Giddings Lodge welcomes four new members. They are Liam Miller, Levi Akin, Dolores Flores and Maritza Rubalcava. These members and their families are invited to attend meetings at the Silos on 77. Meetings are held the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. The lodge thanks President Eugene Zollinger for attending the September meeting and presenting a 70-year member-
ship pin to Gloria Lawrence. Gloria has been a member since March 23, 1949. Birthday cards were sent to Waldine Ebner, Carmen Ebner, Debbie Beisert, Kenneth Pampell, Arthur Urban and Damian DeLaRosa. Thank-you and getwell cards were sent to Loretta Chilek. The Make a Difference Day project was scheduled for Oct. 24 at the First Presbyterian Church. Members served sandwiches,
chips, cookies and drinks at the afternoon program offered to children in Lee County. The $5 prize winners were Julian DeLaRosa, Olivia Mize and Cecilia Martinez. Don Lawrence, Gloria Lawrence and Belle DeLaRosa each won kitchen towels. The meeting closed with a prayer and then members enjoyed a casserole provided by Cecilia Martinez. – Reporter
STERN – Stern Lodge will host a Thanksgiving Day celebration meal at the Sunday, Nov. 3, meeting. At the Oct. 6 meeting, the lodge welcomed two new members. They are Leila Kalani May and Leland Kamaki May, both grandchildren of President Rick May. Rick’s granddaughter, Briell May, has started dance at the Seguin School of Dance. Members discussed numerous organizations that would benefit from a donation from the lodge. Further discussion
was planned for the November meeting. Members celebrating October birthdays were Debbie Engelke, Kevin May and Bobbie Wesch. Barbara and Donald Morawietz celebrated a wedding anniversary in October. Door prize winners were Reno Reiley, Brandi May and Ricky Engelke. Members enjoyed a meal of Mexican casserole, rice, salad and bread. Cakes and pies were served for dessert. – Debbie Engelke
New Bielau meets Nov. 25 WEIMAR – New Bielau Lodge will hold its next meeting Nov. 25. At the Sept. 23 meeting held at the New Bielau Community Center, the lodge welcomed new member Kylie Alaiya Jean-Batista.
The lodge made a donation to the Retirement Home and discussion was held on the Make a Difference Day project. Birthday celebrants included Jean Trefny, Franklin Addicks and Harlene Novak. – Reporter
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 25
Kypfer Salge Lodge to celebrate Christmas Dec. 6 CLEAR SPRINGS – Kypfer-Salge Lodge will not meet in November because of Wurstfest. The next meeting is set for Dec. 6. Members are asked to bring sandwiches, snacks or desserts. The hall will be decorated for Christmas. The Christmas party will be held Sunday, Dec. 8, starting at 12 noon with a social hour. The catered meal will be served at 1 p.m. Members are asked to bring desserts and a game prize. Santa Claus will be stopping by to visit with the children. Call Nelrose Koepp at 830-6255617 to make a reservation. Sausage was the entrée for the October meeting meal. Mem-
bers provided the sides and desserts. President Tim Salge read a letter from the Home Office concerning changes to the requirements for living at the Retirement Home. The $50 monthly donation will go to the Humane Society. Members observed a moment of silence in memory of longtime member Curt Saur. He was 96. Contact Nelrose Koepp if someone is sick or has passed away so a card can be sent. Attendance prizes went to Tammy Seiter, Charles Seiter, Molly Koepp, Celeste Salge and Darline Preiss. – Reporter
Celebrating October and November anniversaries from Kypfer-Salge Lodge were, from left, Danny Lammert, Helen Lammert, James Boos, Kathy Noble, Tim Salge, Tammy Seiter and Dennis Koepp.
Beverly and James Boos celebrated their 45th wedding anniversary recently. They are members of Kypfer-Salge Lodge.
Paul Vogt to present pins during party Hochheim-Prairie Lodge welcomes new members VAN RAUB – Paul Vogt Lodge is making plans for its Christmas party. It will be held Dec. 14 at the lodge hall, 8793 Dietz Elkhorn Road, Van Raub (Fair Oaks Ranch). Doors will open at 5 p.m. for fellowship and snacks. Members are asked to bring desserts. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. A Home Office representative
will be there to present membership pins. Executive Camp Director Ian “Gunner” Brassett will give a brief overview of summer camp and talk about changes for 2020. A representative from Easter Seals will attend and accept the sweaters and coats donated in celebration of their Holiday Cheer Program as part of the
lodge’s Make a Difference Day. Santa will be there with gifts for the children. The evening will end with drawings for gifts and prizes. Each person in attendance needs to sign on a single line. Members also are asked to bring canned goods for the Food Pantry/Daily Bread Ministries. – Pamela Poulk
Deanville Lodge raises funds for Hospice DEANVILLE – Deanville Lodge would like to thank everyone who supported its drive-thru dinner to benefit the Brazos Valley Hospice program. Thanks to the $500 in Matching Funds from the Home Office, a total of $2567.50 is being donated to Brazos Valley Hospice. In observance of Make a Difference Day, the lodge will make donations to Caldwell Christian Care, the VA Fisher Home and St.
Joseph’s Manor Activity Fund. Members were saddened by the passing of Lillian Faust. A moment of silence was observed in her memory at the Sept. 29 meeting. Lillian was an active member of the lodge for 39 years. She was known for her delicious kolaches. Sympathy is extended to her son, Glenn. The lodge presented a monetary donation to the Deanville Volunteer Fire Department at its Appreciation Dinner on Sept. 13
in gratitude of the fire department’s contribution to the community and the lodge. With the recent refinishing of the lodge hall floor, the chairs were in need of a make-over. The lodge no longer has mismatched chairs as all the chairs have been painted to match. The next meeting was set for Sunday, Oct. 27, at 2 p.m. Membership pins were to be presented. – Reporter
Womack Lodge will elect officers on Nov. 3 WOMACK – Womack Lodge will meet Nov. 3 at 5 p.m. The election of officers will be held. At the Oct. 6 meeting, Sandra Jones, Chair of the Board of Directors, was in attendance with husband Sam. She presented 70-year membership pins to sisters Evelyn
Humphreys and Gladys Anz. The sisters joined on April 7, 1949. A 70-year pin also was presented to Edwin Conrad at the Clifton Lutheran Sunset Home where he is a resident. Edwin has been a member since March 6, 1949. Joe Crawson was the lucky win-
ner of both the attendance prize and the 50/50 drawing. Gladys Anz and Evelyn Humphreys won koozies and Beverly Rueter won a set of dominoes. John and Beverly Rueter hosted the evening meeting. – Nadine Rueter
YOAKUM – Three new members were welcomed at the Oct. 6 meeting of HochheimPrairie Lodge held at Turner Hall. They are Lila Koenig, James Carlson and Baylor Jones. Roberta Wenzel reported sending get well cards to Rita Pargmann, Susan Blashke and Marie Schumacher. A thank you card was read from the local food pantry for the donation the lodge made. President Janet Zabransky read correspondence from the Home Office regarding the new qualifications for
residency at the Retirement Home. Members voted to make a $100 donation to the Retirement Home Christmas Fund. A Nominating Committee of Wilburn Pargmann, Tommy Wenzel and Charlie Hoepfl was appointed by President Zabransky. The committee will present their report at the November meeting. Anniversary honorees were John and Kathy Langhoff. Next meeting is set for Nov. 3. – Reporter
Helotes Lodge will hold Christmas dinner Dec. 10 HELOTES – Helotes Lodge will hold its final meeting of the year on Tuesday, Dec. 10. Dinner will be served at 6:45 p.m. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. and will include the election of the 2020 officers. Al and Susie Michalczak will host the Christmas dinner. Members are asked to bring a side dish to share. Members of Bexar Lodge have been invited to the party. Call or text Rebecca Henley at
210-723-8939 or Letty Fragoso at 210-218-9423 if you plan to attend. Reservations need to be made no later than Dec. 6. There will be several chances to win door prizes at the end of meeting and to take home a picture with a surprise guest. Members send their condolences to the Michalczak family. Past Lodge President Shirley Mae Michalczak passed away Oct. 14. – Reporter
Page 26 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Seguin presents Humanitarian Award
Seguin Lodge President Allen Gescheidle, left, and Marketing Manager Paul Gescheidle show off the new Hermann Sons Life sign that will be hung at the lodge hall.
Rutersville Lodge will meet Nov. 6 Rutersville Lodge will meet Nov. 6. A potluck meal will be served. Members are invited to bring a dish or dessert. Members enjoyed a meal of fried fish, various side dishes and desserts at the October meeting. Brian Mueller, left, was celebrating an anniversary. James and Margie Svrcek, right, were celebrating an anniversary. James Svrcek, Darlene Weyand, Chip Citzler, Bob Schmitt and Delores Bayer took home the attendance door prizes.
Door prize winners at the September meeting of Seguin Lodge were, from left, Cheryl Kolbe, Edith Lange, Velma Huebner, Roy Merz, Annette Roecker, Tom Allison and Tammy Beutnagel.
SEGUIN – A memorial service was held during the September meeting of Seguin Lodge to honor members of the lodge who passed away from Sept. 1, 2018, to Aug. 31, 2019. Paul and Cheryl Gescheidle were recognized as the Humanitarians of the Year. Although the Gescheidles live in Boerne, this husband and wife team continuously travels to Seguin to attend monthly meetings but mostly to volunteer. After Hurricane Harvey the Gescheidles organized a food and clothing drive for residents of Rockport. But they received so much more including computers, furniture and household items that were all transported to Rockport by the Gescheidles, their family members and volunteer lodge members. In 2017 the Gescheidles organized the first of the Food Truck Festivals at the lodge that are now held semi-annually. – Reporter
Bernardo Christmas party set for Dec. 11
Niederwald Lodge to elect officers Nov. 12 Niederwald Lodge will meet Nov. 12. The 2020 officers will be elected. Members wore fall colors to the October meeting. Door prize winners were Don Dailey and Edward Smith.
BERNARDO – Bernardo Lodge will hold its Christmas party Dec. 11. The social hour will begin at 6 p.m. followed by a meal at 7 p.m. The lodge will provide the turkey, ham and dressing. Members are asked to bring two side dishes. Members are asked to make monetary donations to the local food pantry. Poinsettias will be delivered to members living in the nursing
that also begins at 12:30 p.m. The lodge will again provide the meat for the lunch and members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts. The meeting will follow and then the “Rob Your Neighbor” gift exchange game will be played. Bring a wrapped $15 gift if you want to participate. – Sandy Botkin
Anderson and Robin and Terrel Maertz. Agent Mary K. Seifert from Weimar also rode the float. Robin and Terrel Maertz attending the Continuing Education Workshop for agents held in Comfort the weekend of Oct. 4-5. Members are encouraged to attend all meetings and activities and refer a friend to Hermann Sons Life. – Reporter
Pershing plans Thanksgiving meal for Nov. 6
Paige plans holidays festivities PAIGE – Paige Lodge members will celebrate Thanksgiving with a lunch on Nov. 10 starting at 12:30 p.m. A meeting will follow and will include the election of officers. The lodge will provide the meat and members are asked to bring side dishes and desserts. Mark your calendars for the Dec. 8 Christmas celebration
home facility in Columbus. At the September meeting, Agent Robin Maertz noted that Bernardo Lodge and Columbus Lodge recently participated in the Colorado County Fair Parade held Sept 7 in Columbus. Members riding the Hermann Sons Life float from Columbus Lodge were Elena and John Holub. Members from Bernardo Lodge riding were Arlene and Joe Trojacek, Grayson
Carolyn Valek, left, and Carolyn Worsham were celebrating birthays at the October meeting of Pershing Lodge. Both went home with some birthday cash.
SAN ANTONIO – Pershing Lodge will meet Nov. 6 in the Home Association meeting room at 7 p.m. A traditional Thanksgiving meal of turkey, dressing and all the trimmings will be catered. Members are asked to bring a dessert. Officers will be elected. Positions to be filled include president, vice president, financial secretary and one financial trustee. At the October meeting, Emily Wallace and Ron Plouch were both re-elected to serve as the
lodge’s Home Association representatives. Chaplain Tony Valek reported on the passing of Dawn Lee Cooper, Sandra Joan Mullins, Stacie L. Porter-Norton, La Verne I. Oppermann, Peggy Joyce Patton and Mary Helen Krachala. Carolyn Valek reported prayers are needed for Shirley Griffin. Dorothy Pawlik won the $35 attendance prize and Carolyn Worsham won the split-the-pot drawing. – Reporter
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 27
Karnes City Lodge will elect officers on Nov. 12 KARNES – Karnes City Lodge will meet Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. at the lodge hall, 120 S. Market St., Karnes City. The election of officers will be held. Members are reminded to attend this important meeting. Everyone is asked to bring a covered dish or dessert. Drinks will be provided. The lodge presented the annual camper awards at the Sept. 17 meeting. Two campers were randomly chosen from the total list of campers who attended Camp this summer. McKenzie Gonzales and Loucasey Fenner were the lucky winners of a monetary gift and certificate presented by President Abigail Fenner. The two campers shared their favorite activity while at Camp and each said they definitely plan to attend again next summer.
President Abigail Fenner, from left, presented a Karnes City Lodge Camper Award to McKenzie Gonzales, pictured with her mother Jean Gonzales, at the September meeting. Eligible juniors can now attend two weeks of Camp. Campers, their parents and
members enjoyed pizza, chips and desserts. – Reporter
Camper Loucasey Fenner accepts a Camper Award from Karnes City Lodge President Abigail Fenner during the September meeting.
Anton Wenzel plans dinner for Nov. 5 SAN ANTONIO – Anton Wenzel Lodge members will enjoy a Thanksgiving dinner at the Nov. 5 meeting. Members are asked to bring a side dish and/or dessert. After the meal, games will be played. Thanks go to everyone who supported the Crispy Taco Dinner. That includes the volunteers who helped prepare and serve the food and everyone who bought a plate. Special thanks go to Alice Arredondo for her display at the front door and Henry Arredondo for the flavorful chicken that he cooked for the tacos. Lodge members will not be taking a barge ride in December. Several things have changed that will make it inconvenient for members to ride. At the October meeting, the name of James Ray Williams was pulled from the barrel but he was not there to claim the prize of $130. – Elizabeth Dorrell
Anton Wenzel Lodge held its annual Crispy Taco Dinner in September. Members manned the kitchen to prepare the tacos. These volunteers were manning the ticket table at the Crispy Taco Dinner sponsored by Anton Wenzel Lodge in September.
Eugene Kellner was the split-the-pot winner at the October meeting of Anton Wenzel Lodge. Salina Barrientes presented him with his winnings.
Joe Jaramillo, right, celebrated his October birthday at the Anton Wenzel Lodge meeting. President Edward Elizondo presented him with a birthday card from the lodge.
Page 28 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Mission-Alamo to hold holiday celebration
SAN ANTONIO – Mission-Alamo Lodge will hold its annual Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s celebration on Sunday, Nov. 24, from 2-6 p.m. in the Home Association Rathskeller, 525 S. St. Mary’s St. Lots of volunteers are needed to help make the afternoon a success. Each member is asked to bring a child’s toy that will be donated to the local Children’s Shelter. Members also are asked to bring a vegetable or salad and a dessert. Turkey, ham, dressing, potatoes and refreshments will be provided by the lodge. Children’s activities are planned from 2-3:30 p.m. and will be followed by the meal and Santa’s visit. Reservations need to be made no later than Nov. 19 by calling Bernice Vogel at 210-494-2012. A count is needed for adults and children. She needs to know the age and gender of each child up to the age of 13 for Santa’s gifts. The lodge honored its pioneer members at the September meeting. President Eugene Zollinger presented pins to five members and then all pioneers present were honored. The five who received their pins were Carol Swan, Ronald Grenrood and Marlene Moczygemba, 70-years; and Vernon Laskowski and Judith Flores, 60 years. A catered meal of Chicken Di-
President Eugene Zollinger presented Mission-Alamo Lodge pioneers with a gift card from the lodge. Present were, standing from left, Georgia Hall, 62 years; Arthur Alexander Porter, 74 years; Thomas Pruski, 71 years; Carol Swan, 70 years; Ronald Grenrood, 70 years; Beverly Maze, 62 years; Karen Posey, 66 years; seated, from left, Marlene Moczygemba, 70 years; Jackalyn Oertel, 68 years; and Kathy Wilson, 64 years.
President Eugene Zollinger presented Mission-Alamo Lodge pioneers with a gift card from the lodge. Present were, standing from left, Sandra Moeller, 55 years; Lee Vogel, 57 years; Vernon Laskowski, 60 years; Don Schulmeier, 55 years; Erhard Kneupper, 59 years; seated, from left, Judith Flores, 60 years; Bernice Vogel, 55 years; and Joyce Kneupper, 58 years.
Celebrating birthdays at the Mission-Alamo Lodge meeting in September were, from left, Monica Porter, Kathy Smith, Jackie Ramirez and Georgia and John Hall.
President and CEO Eugene Zollinger presented Mission-Alamo Lodge pioneers with a gift card from the lodge. Present were, standing from left, Lambert Titzman, 53 years; Shannon Swan, 51 years; Gene Jones, 51 years; Monica Porter, 53 years; Dorothy Breezee, 53 years; Jackie Ramirez, 53 years; Linda Jones, 52 years; seated, from left, Ira Moczygemba, 53 years; Kathy Smith, 53 years; and Mary Lynn Hejjaj, 52 years.
van, potatoes, vegetables and salad was served. The attendance award winner
was Diane Cline. She went home with $105. – Georgia Hall
Comfort Lodge plans Christmas party for Dec. 8 COMFORT – Comfort Lodge will hold its Christmas party on Sunday, Dec. 8, at Hilltop Camp. The celebration will include pin presentations and the Humanitarian of the Year Award presentation. The social will begin at 3 p.m. The Comfort School of Dance students will perform at 5 p.m. and a fried turkey meal will follow. Members should make reservations with Norma Bruns by calling 830-995-3980 or call or text 210912-7511. Some tiny trick-or-treaters attended the October meeting. Junior members came dressed
in their Halloween costumes and members brought small treats and candy for them to enjoy. Members also enjoyed a tamale and chili dinner prior to the business meeting. The 2020 officers were elected and will be President Jennifer Cernosek, Vice President Hunter Miller, Secretary Kristen Vineyard, Financial Secretary Katie Miller and Trustee C.B. Chenault. The 2020 meeting dates will be Feb. 10, April 13, May 11 (social at the Retirement Home), Aug. 10, Oct. 12 and Dec. 13 (Christmas party at Hilltop Camp). – Reporter
Several members of Comfort Lodge were celebrating a birthday during the month of October. They include, from left, Buddy Preuss, Hudson Ranney, Katie Miller, Myrtle Kirchhoff, Brandon Cernosek, Jennifer Cernosek and C.B. Chenault.
Junior members enjoyed trick-or-treating with lodge members at the October Comfort Lodge meeting. Pictured, from left, are Bailey Preuss, Kendall Preuss, Hudson Ranney and Aiden Ranney.
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 29
Prinz Solms Lodge exceeds membership goal BULVERDE – Prinz Solms Lodge will meet Sunday, Nov. 10, at 5 p.m. at the Bulverde Community Center. Membership Coordinator Doug Klabunde has contacted Bat Conservation International about making a presentation. A barbeque meal with the trimmings and desserts of pineapple upside down cake, chocolate chip cookies and German chocolate cake was served at the Oct. 13 meeting. Brenda Lindemann, local Bulverde historian, gave an interesting presentation on the history of the area schools. Many of the local schools had histories dating to the 1840s. When a new school opened many times the wood and material from a
prior school was used for the newer school. The Comal school system went from 30 schools to fewer and fewer until the high schools were instituted. Mrs. Lindemann has published a book on the history of the Bulverde Spring Branch area titled “Bridging Spring Branch.” Community Coordinator Jackie Oldfield updated members on upcoming events in the community. The Air Force Band of the West will be performing Tuesday, Dec. 10, at the New Braunfels Civic Center. Tickets are not required, so be there early for the performance. The band will perform from 7-8:30 p.m. Nominations for the Humanitarian Award have been request-
ed. The Humanitarian Award will be presented at the Christmas meeting on Dec. 8 at 1 p.m. Tom Pardue announced that the lodge has exceeded its new member goal for the year. Thanks go to agents Cliff Klabunde and Teresa Saathoff for all their hard work. Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe presented an 80year membership pin to Leroy Schmidt. Leroy is 96 and attends lodge meetings regularly. Leroy shared some of his memories of meetings he attended when he was growing up. Game winners were Charles Georg, Audrey Klabunde, Tim Kolbe, Kate Gourley and Ava Gourley. – Reporter
Celebrating October birthdays at the Prinz Solms Lodge meeting were, from left, Will Laubach and Tom Pardue.
Brenham Lodge to hold Christmas dinner Dec. 7 BRENHAM – Brenham Lodge hosted Ethan Weatherby at the Sept. 13 meeting. Ethan was sponsored by the lodge to attend American Legion Boys State. He shared about his experience, said he had a great time and hoped the lodge will continue to sponsor boys for this program. A moment of silence was observed in memory of Wm. S. Houston Jr. The Cheer Committee mailed sympathy cards to Shirley Ganske following the passing of her daughter-in-law, Cammie Ganske; to Lennis Richardson and family and Duane Houston and family following the passing of their father and grandfather; to Jaime Slade and family following the passing of grandfather, Wm. S. Houston Jr.; to Elwood Jaster following the passing of his sister-in-law, Pauline Jaster; and to Howard Grebe following the passing of his wife, Harrietta Grebe. Sympathy also was extended to James Hyvl following the passing of his brotherin-law, Otis Lane. A get-well card was sent to Clarence Muegge. An Octoberfest celebration was scheduled for Oct. 25. A sausage meal was served fol-
Celebrating anniversaries at the Brenham Lodge meeting in September were, from left, Wm. and Ora Nell Kuretsch and Doris and Gary Falkenberg. lowed by a dance. The Christmas dinner and dance has been scheduled for Dec. 7. The New Year’s Eve dance is Dec. 31. More details will be announced at the next meeting. A meal of chicken fried steak, vegetables and desserts provided by members was served. President James Hyvl thanked Wm. and Ora Nell Kuretsch and Gary and Doris Falkenberg for providing the drinks before the meal in honor of their anniversaries and Doris’ birthday. – Lena Mae Goessler
Celebrating birthdays at the September Brenham Lodge meeting were, from left, Jeffrey Stoelke, Willie Brown, Bill Rowan, Mary Kelm, Minnie Mae Nitsche, Doris Falkenberg, Charlie Schroeder and Judy Rudloff.
Dallas to elect officers Nov. 17 DALLAS – Dallas Lodge will meet Sunday, Nov. 17, at the lodge hall. Lunch will be served at 1 pm. The 2020 officer elections will be held. Members are encouraged to serve as an officer and are asked to attend and vote. No meeting was held in October. At the Sunday, Sept. 22, meeting Eva Day shared in-
formation on the Make a Difference Day project. Members were scheduled to stock the food pantry at City Square on Saturday, Oct. 26, beginning at 9:30 a.m. Members also approved a donation to support this non-profit organization. Terri Holmes suggested some future lodge fund-raising events. The location for the lodge Christmas luncheon on Dec. 15
is pending. The location and details will be provided in the next news article. Members thank Eva Day and Terri Holmes for the lunch they provided. Steve Schellenberg won the attendance prize. Members are encouraged to check the Hall calendar and support the activities and event held there. – Reporter
Page 30 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Schulenburg Lodge welcomes two new members SCHULENBURG – Schulenburg Lodge will meet Nov. 13 at the Schulenburg Community Center. Refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m. followed by the meal and meeting at 7 p.m. The meal will include sausage, potatoes, sauerkraut and dessert. Twenty-eight members enjoyed a meal of hamburgers and desserts at the October meeting. Welcomed as new members were Allie Ann Neiser and Haylee Lynn Stary. Agent Mary K. Seifert reported that this year there will be tumbling and cheer routines as part of the Schulenburg School of Dance recital. She also reported that Flatonia Lodge has entered the Hermann Sons Life float in the Flatonia Czhilispiel Parade. Officers for 2020 were elected and include president, Ed Moeller; vice president, Mary K.
Celebrating October anniversaries from Schulenburg Lodge were, from left, Elmer and Arline Ulrich and Shirley and Donnie (not pictured) Machicek. Seifert; treasurer/financial secretary, Chelsea Moeller; recording/corresponding secretary, Junette Rodecap; and financial trustees, Frank Bohlmann, Elmer Ulrich and Kitty Dittrich. Coordinators include communications and community, Ju-
nette Rodecap; youth, Mary K. Seifert; and membership, Mary Schroeder. Other appointed committee chairmen include Humanitarian, Emma Nitschke; scholarship, Mary K. Seifert; Flag Day. Curtis Baca; and nursing home,
Celebrating birthdays at the October meeting of Schulenburg Lodge were, from left, Delores Michalke, Mary K. Seifert and Becky Bohlmann. Arline Ulrich. Sympathy cards were sent to the families of Alice Jochen, Milton Haas Jr. and Albert Muras. A thank you card from Junette Rodecap was read. A letter from the Home Office was read acknowledging
the lodge’s donation to the VA Fisher House in observance of Make a Difference Day. Bill and Delores Michalke made a donation to the lodge’s scholarship fund in memory of Leonard Bartos. – Reporter
New Braunfels plans catered meal in December NEW BRAUNFELS – New Braunfels Lodge will meet Nov. 3. Jerome and Virginia Vetter will host the meal. Members are reminded that the December meeting will include a catered meal. Reservations should be made at the November meeting or by calling Sandra Guenther at 625-5709. Ghosts and goblins decorated the hall for the Halloween meeting on Oct. 6. Twelve new members were welcomed. Agent Shirley Huebinger re-
ported that she had attended a continuing education workshop at Hilltop Camp that weekend. Agents were informed of new programs to be offered at the Camp next year and that the facilities are available to rent to outside groups. The new sign from the Home Office was displayed. Attendance prizes went to Ethan and Dorella Colbert, James Stolte, Lenora Mueller, Cindy Crowell, Dennis Schwab, Karen Harborth, Michael and Shirley Huebinger, Janice Neff, Jolene
Meuret and Sharon Suchy. A sausage supper was hosted by Shirley and Michael Huebinger after games and refreshments. The hall was decorated for fall for the Sept. 1 meeting. Fall foliage, baskets and pumpkins decorated the tables. Twelve new members were welcomed. Members were encouraged to donate to a charity of their choice in observance of Make a Difference Day. A planning meeting
to celebrate the lodge’s 130th anniversary was scheduled. Attendance prizes were won by Dennis Schwab, Shirley and Michael Huebinger, Lenora Mueller, Janice Neff, Leola Stolte, Tommy Daum, Ethan Colbert, Sharon Suchy, Sandra Guenther, Harvey Heidemann and Jolene Meuret. A barbecue supper, hosted by Violet and Delbert Tanneberger, was served after games and refreshments. – Reporter
Celebrating recent birthdays from New Braunfels Lodge were Karen Harborth, October, and James Stolte, September.
Fort Worth Lodge will elect 2020 officers at Dec. 1 meeting FORT WORTH – Fort Worth Lodge was excited to have 22 of its junior members attend Camp this year. There are many exciting changes being planned for next year so be sure to watch the Hermann Sons Life newspaper for information. If your child enjoyed Camp, encourage them to talk to their friends and parents about this great benefit Hermann Sons Life
offers. Summer has come to an end and finally the weather has cooled down. So, there is no excuse for not getting out and finding new members. There are people you know that don’t have any life insurance or do not have enough to take care of their family in the event of their death. Talk to everyone you know and
ask them if they need insurance and then tell them you have the company for them. If you have someone who needs to talk to an agent, have them call Sandra Jones at 817-781-7155 or the Home Office at 800-234-4124. Don’t forget the lodge is close to meeting its membership goal for 2019. Let’s do it! The next meeting is set for Dec. 1 at 3 p.m. at Spring Creek
BBQ at 6701 Lake Worth Boulevard. Officers will be elected followed by the meal. Visitors are welcome. Membership milestones include Russell Kunkel, a 60-year member. He joined the lodge on Oct. 31, 1959. Those reaching 50-year milestones were Linda Edmundson, Chad Clark and Kelly Clark. Happy Anniversary wishes go
to Scott and Shannon Jones. Happy Birthday wishes to Janice Brackin, Adelaide Childs, Carter Childs, Jackson Childs, Micah Clanton, Michelle Hampton, Carol Hilcher, Kamden Hazelwood, Gracie Kneschk, Vicki Lewallen, Linda Miller, Payton Mitchell, Cutter Stephenson, Chance Voss and Vanesa Winters. – Reporter
November 2019 – Hermann Sons Life – Page 31
Agents Directory (alphabetized by area) Adkins Roxy Pruski 210-218-6204
Corpus Christi Becki Carley 361-550-9358
Georgetown Brad Klein, FIC 512-497-0678
Austin Shirley Kuhen Faske 512-789-3975
Pearl Hunt 361-960-0276
Giddings Loretta Chilek, FIC 979-542-2806
Bandera Stephanie Brown 210-621-3891
Troylyn SisnerosGonzalez 361-232-7413
La Vernia Sharon Tanneberger, FIC 210-827-0526 Marlin Tanneberger, FIC 210-827-7229
Gonzales Bobbie Polasek 830-672-6317
Lubbock April Behnke 806-797-3585
Graham/Wichita Falls David Wolf 940-550-5202
Marion Lorene Bielke, FIC 830-420-2380
Bellville Robert Herridge 979-865-3222
Cuero Laura Tiffin Wayne Tiffin 361-275-8421
Bernardo/Columbus Robin Maertz 979-732-1687
Dallas Helen Tyson Brown 214-796-0668
Hondo Richard Muennink 210-827-0053
New Braunfels Becki Carley 361-550-9358
Terrel Maertz 979-732-1727
Cecilia Phillips 214-982-8905
Stacy Saathoff 830-444-9160
Kathryn Green 830-463-9455
Blanco Joni Kirkwood Moore 512-922-8283
Gilbert Shelby 214-289-1815
Houston Jennifer Stryk Garner 832-596-9425
Shirley Huebinger 830-629-1196
Boerne/San Antonio Pamela Poulk 210-753-2626 Boerne Lisa Rozacky 210-838-3306
Del Rio Pat Fritz, FIC 432-292-4483 Devine Cynthia Sultenfuss 210-219-6409
Marilyn Vogt, FICF 210-630-9874
El Campo Dennis Wigginton 832-278-9636
Caldwell Donnie Blinka 979-596-1309
Floresville/Poth Beth Cutsinger 210-325-6667
Castroville Glenford Boehme, FIC 210-219-9792
Floresville Lynn Wiede 830-393-4660
Cibolo/Schertz Tracy Campos 210-388-2779
Fort Worth Sandra Jones, FIC 817-295-2666
Ashley Pfeil 830-534-2571
Fredericksburg Todd Bierschwale 830-997-2130
Judith Schulmeier, FIC 210-667-1938 Doreen Tissler 210-519-7859 Comfort Norma Bruns, FIC 830-995-3980
George West Tracy Caron 361-449-0348
Al Stryk, FICF, LUTCF 281-485-4095 Gerald Ziemnicki 713-622-9001 Jourdanton Valerie M. Vick 210-748-5598 Katrina Wiatrek 210-326-9505 Karnes City Abigail Fenner 830-534-6982 Russell Swize 830-780-4053
Tim Salge 830-625-4816 Laura Ann Timmermann 830-556-7527 Nixon-Smiley Diana P. Moreno 830-379-2244 (office) 830-534-4989 (cell) Orange Grove Paula Gebert 361-384-2375 Pflugerville Julius Dubcak 512-272-8393
Marketing Department Staff
210-527-9113 • 877-437-6266 • 888-839-7667 Vice President of Marketing Tim Kolbe timk@hermannsonslife.org Marketing Analyst Ana Vasquez, FLMI, AIRC, FIC anav@hermannsonslife.org Administrative Assistant Gladys Rowley gladysr@hermannsonslife.org Special Representatives: Dan Boenig - 210-705-1815 danb@hermannsonslife.org Gary Falkenberg, FICF - 713-466-6069 • 713-899-4138 gfalken908@aol.com Eulla May Krueger - 210-863-0546 • 830-985-3643 eullak@hermannsonslife.org Teresa Saathoff - 210-422-6996 teresaasaathoff@gmail.com
San Antonio Philip A. Abell 210-771-1213
Seguin Annette D. Roecker 830-832-0724
Ruth Bailey 210-602-5147
Tina B. Ynfante 210-859-1973
Darlene Irwin 210-392-2649
Diane Terp 830-305-3564
Rayna Sue Irwin 210-710-7038
Spring Branch Gloria Gass 830-885-4405
Clif Klabunde, FIC 210-219-6142 Lauren Brehm-Long 210-643-9836
Stockdale Ronald Wiatrek 210-771-4354
Jim McNeel 210-601-2097
Victoria Jason Hybner 361-652-6924
San Marcos/Lockhart Janice Kuhen 512-393-1431
Victoria Laura Thigpen 361-676-8307
Schulenburg/Weimar Mary K. Seifert 979-743-0312
Yorktown Judy Wolf 361-564-2452
Kirby Angela Netherton 210-831-1293
Port Lavaca Nancy Annette Walraven 361-552-9403
La Coste Elaine “Lainey” Franklin 210-789-1649
Needville /Rosenberg Chris Stoeltje 979-559-6127
Schwertner Irene Schwertner 254-527-4470
La Grange Linda Mattocks 512-736-9988
Round Top/Rutersville Linda Mattocks 512-736-9988
Seguin/San Antonio Carol Krauss, FIC 210-725-4106
Page 32 – Hermann Sons Life – November 2019
Shining Stars Fall Word Search
Maze Fun!
Shining Star Registration Form Become a Shining Star! Just send us a photo of yourself (that we can keep) and fill out this form and send to: Tammi Sutherland, P.O. Box 1941, San Antonio, TX 78297. The form is also available online at hermannsonslife.org. Photos of our Shining Stars also are featured online.
Acorn Apple Autumn Chestnuts
Hayride Leaves Maize November
Chilly Cider Cobweb Fall Football
Nuts October Pumpkin Quilt Rake
Gourd Halloween Harvest Hay Bale
Scarecrow September Sleet Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Day Crossword
Name: Birthday: Home Phone: Daytime Phone: Address: City:
Zip:
E-mail Address: Grade in school: Favorite food: Pets: Favorite TV show: Activities: It is OK with my parents that I am featured as a “Shining Star” in the Hermann Sons Life newspaper, website and any other advertising publications. Parent’s Signature: I am a member of
Lodge
Certificate No._______________________________________________________
ACROSS 2. Thanksgiving bird 3. They shared a feast with the pilgrims. 5. Red berry 9. Pilgrim landing rock 10. Maize 12. Month of Thanksgiving.
DOWN 1. Orange vegetable used in a pie. 2. Day of the week Thanksgiving is celebrated. 4. Pilgrims sailed on this ship 6. Sport commonly watched on Thanksgiving Day. 7. Filling used in the turkey. 8. Another word for plenty. 11. Some serve this instead of turkey. Puzzle answers on Pg. 16