December 12, 2025
KWED Christmas Angel contest deadline arrives
(Seguin) -- Time is running out for families hoping to receive a little extra help this holiday season. Today at 5 p.m. is the final deadline to enter the annual KWED Christmas Angel contest.
Residents are encouraged to submit a letter explaining why their own family—or a Guadalupe County family they know—is deserving of $500 in Christmas cash. Angel, pg. 3
Barn doors open this weekend for Country Christmas
Public invited for two nights of holiday magic
(Seguin) – A tradition rooted in community returns this holiday season to the Texas Agricultural Education & Heritage Center best known in these parts as The Big Red Barn.
The center is set to open its barn doors for its two-night Country Christmas celebration. Families are
invited this Friday and Saturday for an evening of music, lights, food, and festivities.
Ron Heinemeyer, treasurer and founding partner, says the event is a tradition that started 20 years ago. He says over that time, the heart of the tradition remains unchanged. Country, pg. 4
WEEKEND EDITION
James Avery to celebrate grand opening this Saturday
(Seguin) -- James Avery Artisan
Jewelry may have already opened its doors in Seguin this week, but this Saturday marks its official grand opening celebration. The national retailer is the latest store edition to be added to the Seguin Crossing shopping center located near the corner of Interstate 10 and State Hwy. 123.
The brand, which crafts most of
its jewelry in Texas, continues its 70year tradition of offering meaningful, finely made pieces that help customers mark life’s special moments.
Store Manager Gabby Ramirez says the enthusiasm Seguin has shown since opening day proves just how excited the community has been to finally have a James Avery of its own.
“Our team has been waiting for it. Avery, pg. 4
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Accident shuts down highway following fiery accident
(Seguin) -- After nearly 16 hours of being closed, the westbound lanes of Interstate 10 near the Niagara Bottling plant were finally reopened following an overnight 18-wheeler fire that shut down the highway early Wednesday morning.
The single-vehicle crash occurred just before 2:30 a.m. Reports indicate that an 18-wheeler hauling corrosive materials erupted into flames along the westbound main lanes of I-10.
Officials say the fire triggered “a massive emergency response,” that included Seguin firefighters, law enforcement, and hazmat crews. Although the driver was able to escape without injury, officials say one Seguin firefighter sustained minor injuries and was transported to the hospital for treatment.
The accident forced officials to completely shut down westbound I-10 bringing morning and afternoon traffic to “a crawl.”
The eastbound lanes were reopened by 6:50 a.m. The westbound lanes, however, remained closed until 6:45 p.m.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
New interim elections administrator inherits two December runoffs
(Seguin) -- Newly appointed Interim Elections Administrator
Michelle Shields is wasting no time stepping into her new responsibilities. Just days after assuming the role on December 8, Shields is already overseeing two runoff elections taking place this month for the cities of Cibolo and Schertz.
Shields was selected by the Guadalupe County Elections Commission to serve as interim administrator. The appointment came after former Elections Administrator Lisa Hayes stepped down to take a new position at the state level.
Shields says her first week on the job already included a busy schedule.
“We have the December 13th Election coming up for the city of Cibolo runoff. That will be this Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Our voting location for that is going to
be at the Cibolo Fire Station #2 in Cibolo and then, we also have the city of Schertz Special Election with early voting going on right now and early voting for that will end on the 16th and then from there, we will have the election day on Dec. 20th from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Early voting hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.,” said Shields.
The December 13 Cibolo runoff includes races for Council Place 3 and Council Place 7. The December 20
Schertz special election features Place 7, a race she says Guadalupe County is conducting on behalf of both Bexar and Comal counties.
Despite the busy month, Shields says she feels prepared and is ready to tackle her new duties.
“I was already the assistant elections administrator so I kind of already knew of everything going on with the elections but I’m glad to help during this transitional period. I know it’s an important time, but I just want to keep things running smoothly and make the process easy for everyone. I’m just here to try to support the community and keep things moving in the right direction,” said Shields.
In addition to leading operations at the Guadalupe County Elections Office, Shields will also oversee the satellite office located in the Schertz Annex Building.
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Tickets on sale for Holiday Heritage Tour of Homes
(Seguin) – Seguin is again giving residents and visitors a rare chance to step inside some of the community’s most historic homes and properties.
The Seguin Conservation Society this Saturday will be hosting its 32nd Annual Holiday Heritage Tour of Homes.
Marty Keil. of the Seguin Conservation Society, says this year’s event features a unique lineup of historic homes and decorated spaces.
“On this tour, we have eight. We always include the First Church down at the Heritage Village. That’s where you can stop by for refreshments. Besides that, we have seven other sites. We have three homes where people are living and then we have the Weinert House, the Abbott House, the Texas Theatre and the Sebastopol,” said Keil.
She says during the tour, individuals will have an opportunity to wander through each of these homes and visit with property owners. She says it’s been a creative way to also learn more about Seguin’s history.
Angel, continued.
The long-running contest aims to spotlight the true spirit of giving by sharing heartfelt stories from the community.
The winning letter will be read live on KWED just days before Christmas, and the story—along with photos of the selected family—will appear in the holiday edition of the Seguin Daily News.
Entries must include
“The idea of the event was to let people see some of the history of Seguin through the homes that we have had here for some many years – some of those that were built back in the 1800s. Then we come up to the craftsman bungalows. We’ve even had some very contemporary houses on the tour, but people just love to get a glimpse into Seguin’s history and the best way to see that is really through the structures and architectural features that have been built into some of these houses,” said Keil.
The Holiday Heritage Tour of Homes will be held on Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m.
Advance tickets are available now for $20, or $25 at the door. Presale tickets can be purchased at Gift and Gourmet, the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce, and Keepers Interiors.
Payment with Venmo will be accepted at all locations on the day of the tour. Individuals may start the tour at any property but are encouraged to end at the First Church located 213 E. Live Oak St. for refreshments.
the writer’s name, address, and phone number. Letters missing contact information will not be considered. An anonymous panel of judges, unaffiliated with KWED or the Seguin Daily News, will select the winner.
Letters must be dropped off by 5 p.m. today, Dec. 12, at the KWED studios at 609
E. Court St. After 3 p.m., entries may be placed in the secure letter slot next to the front door.
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Avery, continued.
We have been so excited. We’ve actually had the pleasure to have our CEO also visit and he saw the excitement himself of what the community looks like – the excitement. I mean it’s been nonstop since we’ve opened on Saturday. So, we are just ready to be there,” said Ramirez.
Inside the new shop, customers will find the complete James Avery experience. Ramirez says the store offers everything guests have come to love about the brand -- including charm bracelets, sterling silver and gold pieces, personalized engraving, jewelry cleaning services, and access to the latest holiday and archival collections.
Ramirez hopes shoppers will stop by for Saturday’s grand opening celebration -- and she encourages them to bring along the $20-off coupon that many residents received in the mail.
“Saturday, the 13th is actually when we start our holiday hours so at 9
Country, continued.
He explains that each year, volunteers, choirs, churches, and community groups come together to recreate a warm, old-fashioned Christmas.
As more families move into Guadalupe County, organizers see the event expanding in both attendance and recognition. That’s according to David Reiley, president of the board of directors.
“It seems to be an event that continues to grow the last couple of years and we enjoy making new friends out there with all of the subdivisions coming into Seguin. There are a lot of people that are not necessarily in tuned with what the Red Barn does but it gives us an opportunity to introduce not only our facilities but the events that we have out there so we are constantly growing that event and trying to bring new members --new citizens of Seguin into the fold out at the Red Barn and let them see what our mission is all about out there,” said Reiley.
Perhaps the most popular attraction is the holiday décor and lighting displayed across the grounds. Kay Willman of the Big Red Barn, says each year, things get brighter.
“We had a meeting this morning of our
o’clock, we will open up our doors and we will be doing a giveaway. The first 100 guests with a purchase will receive a cute James Avery gift. We won’t have any other additional sales going on just the ($20 off) coupons – those who received the coupons can apply that and of course, we always offer military discounts, first responder discounts with valid ID but there will be a giveaway so anybody who were to enter for a chance for the giveaway will enter for a chance to win up to a $500 gift card. I believe the winner will be chosen on the 14th and they can use that gift card at any Avery,” said Ramirez.
James Avery’s arrival comes just in time for holiday shopping, and store officials say they’re proud to become part of Seguin’s ongoing growth. Also just in time for the holidays, the new Seguin store will showcase James Avery’s new 2025 Holiday Collection, featuring current customer favorites like the Bow Charm and Delicate Bow and Heart Lariat Necklace and seasonal pieces, such as the Enamel Christmas Cowboy Boot charm.
The new James Avery store is located at 1310 IH-10 East Ste. 100.
group that planned this and who helps to put it all together and I commented that we had our Heinemeyer store lit up so bright that it looks like
Chevy Chase’s Christmas and so that’s one area of the grounds that is kind of dark and so I thought
okay, we are going to light this up this year a little bit better and I had a young man do that for me. I just turned him loose and said I want it bright and it’s bright,” said Willmann.
Both evenings feature a full lineup of musical performances. On Friday, the event will feature music by The Brushy Creek Boys, the Seguin High School Choir, New Braunfels Gemischter Chor Harmonie and the McQueeney Baptist Church Choir and Band.
Saturday’s entertainment will feature Faith, Hope, and the New Normal plus a Sing Along with Norm (Housley), the Cross Church Choir and the McDevitt Sisters.
Among the activities will be visits with Santa Claus; children’s arts & crafts; cookie decorating; demonstrations in the Ag Education Wing and Smoke House; a live nativity, hayrides, a marshmallow roasting station, jingle bell necklace making and a visit by the HEB Buddy.
Country Christmas will be held Friday and Saturday from 5 to 8 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for children, or $25 for a family. Cash or check is preferred. The Big Red Barn is located at the corner of Cordova Road and State Hwy. 123 North.
Bulldogs Have Big Second Half to Claim Victory Over UMHB
Bryce HayesTLU Sports Information
SEGUIN, Texas -- #RV Texas Lutheran women’s basketball (5-4) claimed victory over Mary HardinBaylor (4-6) as a second half surge carried the Bulldogs to a comfortable 68-52 win Wednesday night at Memorial Gymnasium.
The 52 points are the second fewest points the Crusaders have scored this season. The win is just the second for the Bulldogs against UMHB in the last decade as the two teams have split the season series the past two seasons.
Senior Lauren Sansano (San Antonio/FEAST) led the way for TLU, finishing with 13 points, nine rebounds, six assists, and two steals. Redshirt junior Davi’Yanna Jones (San Antonio/Stevens) (12 points, 4-for-6 FG) and sophomore Zaria Solis (Burnet/ Burnet) (11 points, 4-for-6 FG) joined Sansano in double figures.
While the Bulldogs held just a 39-38 advantage over the Cru in rebounds, TLU forced 22 UMHB turnovers that led to 22 points to their 14 turnovers.
The Bulldogs took advantage of their opportunities at the free throw line, shooting 85.7 percent (18-of-21) as a team Friday night.
Both teams struggled mightily out of the gate offensively as the two teams combined to shoot just 22.6 percent from the field. The teams finished the period tied at 12 with five points from Sansano leading the way.
The Crusaders found an offensive rhythm in the second quarter while the Bulldogs continued to struggle from the field. TLU was able to overcome their offensive struggles by shooting 7-of-9 from the free throw line to outscore the Crusaders 18-15 to take a three point, 30-27 lead into halftime.
The Bulldogs limited the Crusaders to eight points in the third quarter, stretching their lead to as many as 11 points.
Back-to-back threes from Noelani Ajel (Cibolo/ Steele) and Davi’Yanna Jones set the tone for the Bulldogs to close strong in the fourth as TLU had
their best offensive performance of the night in the fourth, shooting 53.3 percent from the field. Jones took over in the fourth scoring ten of her 12 points in the final quarter. The Bulldogs coasted through the fourth, leading by double digits throughout, with the lead stretching to as many as 16 points.
Texas Lutheran concluded its non-conference slate on Friday and will now turn its attention to SCAC play as they travel to Austin for the conference opener against Concordia (TX) on Friday, December 19. Tip-off is set for 1 PM. The game will be streamed on FloCollege. All streaming and live stats links will be available on tlubulldogs.com.Fans can receive updates by following @tluathletics & @tluwbb on X (Twitter) and catch up with the latest news and notes on the team by clicking LIKE on the TLU Athletics Facebook page at @tlubulldogs or by visiting the team’s Instagram page at @tluwbb and as always follow TLU athletics on all of our social channels for updates on all things TLU Athletics.
VITAL STATISTICS
Mondin
Sidney Allen Mondin was born January 18, 1967, in Seguin, Texas, to Hazel Elaine Bode and Kenneth “Tiny” Wayne Mondin. Sidney was the fourth and final baby born of the family. He passed away on December 8, 2025 in Conroe, Texas, at the age of 58.
Sidney grew up as the baby of the family, naturally entertaining everyone around him with infectious energy and getting away with more than his older siblings. He whizzed through elementary school, spelling and writing better than other kids his age due to his love of reading… the dictionary. In middle school, he made his debut as the MC for the talent show, where he graced the audience with a performance of Rhinestone Cowboy, complete with a fringe shirt and sequin pants, hand-sewn by his mom and sister Alison. In high school, Sidney played football, won class favorite awards, and was the teacher’s favorite – likely because of his sweet-talking. He was everyone’s best friend and would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need of anything. From the age of 9, Sidney was an active member of the 4-H organization, showing several species of animals and participating on grass-judging and livestock-judging teams through high school. He was part of the Guadalupe County 4-H Team, placing third in the Livestock Judging Contest at the 1982 State 4-H Roundup at Texas A&M University, going on to the National Finals in Denver, Colorado.
After high school graduation, he moved to College Station, Texas and attended Texas A&M to obtain a bachelor’s degree in animal science, setting himself up for a career in agriculture. While pursuing his love of agriculture, he met the love of his life, Mona Hewitt. They married in June 1989, beginning a 36-year unforgettable adventure.
After college graduation in December 1989, Sidney and Mona moved to La Grange, Texas, where he worked as the Fayette County Extension Agent. In May of 1990, their first daughter, Lauren, was born. Two years later, in April of 1992, their second daughter, Kori, was born. In 1992, he was offered a position with Tyson Foods as a Production Manager in Holdenville, Oklahoma, where he and Mona built a life together, bought some land, remodeled a house, bought more land, built a red barn house from the ground up, and raised their two daughters.
In 2006, a change of career from agriculture to the oil and gas industry moved the family to Bloomfield, New Mexico, where he worked as a Branch Manager for PECOFacet. The next stop on the adventure began with a move to Spring, Texas, in 2008, where he worked as an Outside Sales Representative with Waco Filters; a Drilling Fluids Engineer with Halliburton; a District Sales Manager with Pall Filter Specialists; an Area Sales Manager with Parker Hannifin; and finally a Regional Manager with Filter Resources.
Sidney was a man with many talents and many hobbies. He loved his cows and had them so spoiled that he jokingly called them “his bunch of Democrats looking for a handout.” He decided that wine making would be fun, so he started experimenting with all kinds of fruity flavors, which then led him to plant a
Svatek
Margarett Svatek, age 79 of Seguin, passed away on November 23, 2025.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2026, from 2 to 5 p.m. with remarks at 3 p.m.
vineyard so he could use his very own grapes. He was extremely proud of his ponds, which he stocked with various species of fish – for the grandkids, of course. His morning ritual was to head to each pond and throw out handfuls of fish food so he could watch them boil to the top.
He sure spent a lot of time setting up game cameras and deer feeders for the amount of time he actually hunted. He loved the challenge of trapping hogs and had his game camera set up where he could see them from Spring and knew the exact moment to drop his trap’s wireless gate. It didn’t matter if it was 2:00 pm or 2:00 am – if he dropped the gate, he immediately would drive the hour and a half to the farm to load them up and haul them off.
The farm was his happy place. He spent his weekends fixing fences, burning brush piles, cooking breakfast and dinner on the blackstone, and perfectly toasting (never burning) marshmallows over a campfire, ending each day with a coke-n-Kraken…. BOOYAH! He was a builder, an electrician, a plumber, and an expert redneck DIY-er – able to figure out anything with enough time to just think it through with his “I can do anything” attitude. Sidney was every person’s handyman and every man’s best friend.
His latest adventure began in July 2025. He, along with Mona; his brotherin-law, Paul; and sister-in-law, Michelle, started a caulkless RV roof company called TuffTop RV Roof in Willis, TX. He helped build the business from the ground up, and his boisterous, friends-with-everyone, down-to-earth personality helped the business thrive more than expected from day one. He put his heart and soul into starting a business that would lead him into retirement, working only for himself and with his family.
Sidney is preceded in death by his mother, Hazel Mondin; father, Kenneth Mondin; brother, Scott Mondin; father-in-law, Armon Hewitt Jr.; and sister-inlaw, Vicky Hewitt.
Sidney is survived by his wife, Mona Mondin; daughters, Lauren Mudd (Jacob) and Kori Gould (Thomas); grandchildren, Paisley, Rowan, Lane, Asher, and Liam; brother, Bradley Mondin (Darla); niece, Brandy Sandersen (Cliff), and great-nieces Bella and Baylynn; nephew, Brandon Mondin; sister Alison Moore (Stan), and nephew Zachary Moore. Survived also by his mother-in-law Nancy Hewitt; brother-in-law, Armon Hewitt III; nephew, Armon Hewitt IV (Cara); niece Reva Harvatt (Joe), and great-nieces MayCynn and MeKenna; brother-in-law, Paul Hewitt (Michelle); niece, Haley King (Trey), and greatnephew Ford; nephew Logan Hewitt (Bri); and many other beloved family and friends.
Visitation will be held Saturday evening at Waller-Thorton Funeral Home in Trinity, Texas from 5 P.M. till 7 P.M. Funeral Service will be held Sunday, December 14 at 1:30 P.M. at First Methodist Church of Trinity. Interment will take place at Cedar Grove Cemetery. A Fellowship Meal will be provided immediately after the service in the church fellowship hall.
WALLER-THORNTON FUNERAL HOME
A more complete obituary will follow when all arrangements are completed. In lieu of flowers the family humbly asks for memorial contributions to be made to the Guadalupe County Humane Society, P. O. Box 1593, Seguin, Texas, 78155.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
VITAL STATISTICS Kessler
Leroy James Kessler, age 59, of Seguin, passed away on December 9, 2025. Leroy was born on November 28, 1966, in San Antonio, Texas, to Emma Jo (Martin) and Melvin Julius Kessler Jr.
Born with a congenital heart defect, Leroy was one of the early pediatric open-heart surgery patients, and he beat every odd put in front of him. He never allowed his physical limitations to define him. He lived each day fully, loved deeply, and met life with a stubborn, joyful determination.
As a young man, Leroy learned to operate heavy machinery while working in the family business. He went on to build a career as a heavy-equipment operator in the pipeline industry, traveling across the country, making friends wherever he went, and enjoying the people and places he encountered along the way.
In 2010, Leroy graduated from the Oblate School of Theology in San Antonio. He was a devoted member of St. James Catholic Church in Seguin and was actively involved in prison ministry and parish outreach. His faith was central to his life, and he shared it quietly but powerfully through service, kindness, and presence.
Leroy grew up on Lake McQueeney and, in later years, made his home in Lakehills, Texas. He always loved the outdoors. He especially enjoyed deer hunting and bass fishing, and he cherished time spent with family and friends on the water and in the woods.
Leroy is preceded in death by his father, Melvin Julius Kessler Jr.; his mother, Emma Jo (Martin) Kessler; his niece, Kelly Jean Kessler; his treasured uncles,
Moltz
Janine Ann Moltz, age 53, of Geronimo, passed away after a four-year battle with cancer, on December 5, 2025. Janine was born on February 29, 1972, in Seguin, Texas to Charlene J. (Knutson) and Allan Ray Moltz.
Janine was a 1990 graduate of Navarro High School. She taught elementary school at Navarro and obtained her bachelor’s degree from Texas Lutheran University and her master’s in education degree from Texas State University. When she had time Janine enjoyed crafting with family and friends.
Janine is preceded in death by her father, and her grandparents, Rosa Lee and Lyle Knutson, and Testa and William Moltz.
Survivors include her mother Charlene “Sherry” Moltz; brother, Todd Moltz and wife, Veronica; niece and nephew, Alexis Moltz and Hunter Moltz;
Habermann
Linnette Habermann, age 88 of Seguin, passed away on December 6, 2025. Linnette was born on December 10, 1936, in Seguin Texas to Linda Emma (Dietert) and Gilbert Robert Habermann. She was a lifelong member of Cross Church. Linnette worked for the City of Seguin for over 34 years serving as City Secretary. Upon retirement Linnette loved nothing more than being out in
Leroy C. Kessler, James Kessler Sr., Herbert Kessler Sr., and Daniel Kessler Sr., and Bertin Brandon.
Survivors include his son, U.S. Army Master Sergeant (MSG) Scott J. Kessler and wife Andrea; grandchildren, U.S. Army Specialist (SPC) Brooklyn J. Kessler and her husband, U.S. Army Specialist (SPC) Konnor Kim, and Kensley E. Kessler; siblings, John P. Kessler and partner Beverly Bendele, Ralph E. Kessler Sr. And partner Barbara Blair, Kathy Schwerdtfeger and husband Jeff, and Barbara Kessler and partner Brian Milsted; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, other loving family members, and a host of friends.
Visitation will begin on Monday, December 15, 2025, at 10 a.m. at St. James Catholic Church in Seguin, followed by the recitation of the Holy Rosary at 10:30 a.m. and the Mass of Christian Burial at 11 a.m. with the Reverend Monsignor Dennis Darilek officiating. Interment will follow in the Blumberg Cemetery, 588 Happy Haven Rd., McQueeney, Texas 78123. A reception will follow in the Parish Hall.
Serving as pallbearers will be Daniel William Kessler Jr., James L. Kessler Jr., Jose Pantoja Jr., Joe Neely, U.S. Army Reserve SFC Justin A. Kessler, Ralph E. Kessler Jr., Glenn Braden, Stacy Hetchler and Greg Braden.
For those who desire, memorial contributions may be made to Texas Children’s Heart Center in his honor at give.texaschildrens.org.
The family would like to extend a special thank-you to the cardiology team at the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio for their lifelong dedication to Leroy’s health and well-being and to All Season Hospice of Texas for making his last moments peaceful.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
other loving family members and many friends.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary. Funeral services will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Emanuel’s Lutheran Church with the Reverend Marcus Bigott officiating. Interment will follow in Lone Oak Cemetery. A reception will follow at Emanuel’s Lutheran Women’s Ministry Hall.
Serving as pallbearers will be Greg Lehmann, Johnny Rochester, Ellis Wright, Lee Rochester, Emilio Velasquez, and Anthony Head.
Janine had a heart bigger than Texas and will be remembered and missed as a very loving person to all she encountered.
Memorial contributions may be made to Emanuel’s Lutheran Church, 206 N. Travis, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to Texas Lutheran University, Development Office, 1000 W. Court St., Seguin, Texas, 78155.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155.
nature tending to her cattle.
Linnette is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Sonny Habermann. Survivors include cousins and friends.
Private graveside services will be held in San Geronimo Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the Guadalupe County Humane Society, P. O. Box 1593, Seguin, Texas, 78155 or to the charity of one’s choice.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
VITAL STATISTICS
Brietzke
Eugene Edward Brietzke, age 90 of Seguin, passed away on December 2, 2025. Eugene was born in Guadalupe County, Texas, on February 26, 1935, to Annie Marie (Salge) and Eugene Louis Brietzke.
Eugene grew up in Guadalupe County and was a member of the Seguin High School Graduating Class of 1953. He proudly served his country in the United States Army during peacetime for the American Soldier. In 1963 he began working as a welder for City Public Service in San Antonio, retiring after 35 years of service.
He and his family were part of the Founding members of Evangelists’ Lutheran Church in Kingsbury of which they were active members. Eugene had many favorite pastimes, including working cattle, welding, fishing, dancing, and bowling. He was a lifetime member of the Bexar Bowling Alley.
Eugene is preceded in death by his parents, his brothers, LeRoy Brietzke, Marvin Brietzke, and Freddie Lee Brietzke, Sr., and his brothers-in-law, Jerry Baese, and Jack Mayo.
Survivors include his loving wife of 62 years, Edith Materanek Brietzke; children, Donna Kayter and husband Martin, Donald Brietzke and wife
Bothe
Wayne Bothe, age 75 of Seguin, Texas, passed away on November 23, 2025, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. He was born and raised in Seguin and was a proud 1968 graduate of Seguin High School.
He lived his life with grit, humor, and stubborn determination. Those who knew him will forever remember his ever-ready smart-ass comments, sharp wit, and the sound of his laughter echoing through the house - and the garage.
Though officially retired, Wayne could never sit still - unless he received the text, “Football and ‘seegars’ at Skip’s,” or it was time for the Thursday night “Holy Smokes” group. He greatly enjoyed sharing a cigar, swapping stories, catching up on neighborhood news, and talking sports with his tight-knit circle of friends.
He worked hard his entire life and took pride in his career as a truck driver. He spent more than 30 years driving everyday to Miller Brewing Company in Fort Worth. At home, he was a talented mechanic, always working on his own projects or helping friends with cars and tractors. Whether on the road or in the garage, his work reflected the same determination, and pride that defined him. No matter how long it took him to complete a project, he made sure it was
Michelle, and Raymond Welch and wife Deanna; grandchildren, Travis Caddell and wife Shelbie, Shelby Muller and partner Joshua Steelman, Kaden Head and wife Erica, Victoria Welch and partner Dayne Bellard, Mason Kayter, Michael Brietzke and partner Faith Saylor, Ronnie Peeler and partner Gina Vigliotti, and Douglas Pond; eight great-grandchildren; sisters, Jennie Faye Baese, and Helen Mayo; sisters-in-law, June Brietzke, and Carol Brietzke; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and a host of friends.
Visitation will begin on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 1 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel followed by a memorial service at 2 p.m. with the Reverend David Truenow officiating. Interment with military honors will follow in the Kingsbury Cemetery. A reception will follow in the fellowship hall at Evangelists’ Lutheran Church.
Serving as honorary pallbearers will be his nephews, Bryan Baese, Bradley Baese, Mark Brietzke, Kevin Brietzke, Karl Brietzke, Paul Brietzke, Freddie Lee Brietzke Jr., and Gregory Mayo.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Evangelists’ Lutheran Church, 7745 Kingsbury Road, Kingsbury, Texas, 78638.
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
always done right.
Despite a life full of hard work, Wayne’s greatest joy came from the people and companions he loved most - his family and the four-legged friends who followed him everywhere. The garage is quieter now, and the house a little too still, but we take comfort knowing he is finally at peace. His voice, his humor, and his generous heart will live on in our memories. We loved him deeply, and we will miss him beyond measure.
Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Martha Ann Bothe. He is survived by the people he cherished most in this world: his wife, Lynn Bothe; his daughter, Alexandrea Bothe, and her husband, Scott Brown; his sons, Colton Bothe and his fiancée, Megan Younker; and Matthew Bothe.
Wayne’s family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to Hope Hospice, and especially to his primary nurse, Karra, whose compassion, humor, and ability to match his quick wit brought him comfort and reassurance during his final weeks. The family is also deeply grateful for the support and kindness shown by friends and neighbors during this time. Every thoughtful gesture has meant more than words can express.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hope Hospice of New Braunfels. Donations can be made at: https://www.hopehospice.net/donate
You are invited to sign the guest book at www.treshewell.com. Arrangements are under the direction of Tres Hewell Mortuary, 165 Tor Dr., Seguin, Texas, 78155, 830-549-5912.
Senate Vote On Health Care Thurs
(Washington, DC) -- Congress is reaching a critical juncture in the health care battle. Today the Senate will vote on dueling partisan proposals with the Affordable Care Act subsidies set to expire at the end of the year, leading to a spike in premiums for about 22-million Americans. One from the GOP would replace expiring ACA subsidies with “direct payments” to individuals, and one from the Democrats would extend the ACA subsidies for three years. Neither is expected to pass. Meanwhile, House GOP leaders are moving forward with a health care package that excludes ACA subsidy extensions.
Getting Less Sleep Is Bad For You
(Undated) -- Getting less than seven hours of sleep a night is a strong predictor of a shorter life expectancy. That’s according to a new study published Tuesday in the journal SLEEP Advances. Researchers found that sleep was more effective in predicting a shorter life expectancy than any factor except smoking.
’Winter Vomiting Disease’ Cases Surging
(Undated) -- Cases of the “winter vomiting disease” are surging across the U.S. The CDC’s wastewater surveillance testing has indicated the norovirus is spreading earlier and faster than usual. Each year there are about two-thousand-500 reported outbreaks of the virus in the U.S., and this year cases have been on the rise particularly in Louisiana, Michigan and Indiana. Health experts have encouraged vigilance through proper hand washing, frequently disinfecting surfaces and avoiding direct contact with those infected.
New Study Shows Greater Heart Disease Risk With Uterine Fibroids Present
(Undated) -- A new study shows the risk of women getting long term heart disease was 80 percent higher in people with uterine fibroids. Fibroids are benign growths that form from the muscle tissue of the uterus. Nearly 26 million pre-menopausal women in the U.S. are impacted by uterine fibroids. The study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association went on for a decade and involved more than two and a half million U.S. women.
DECEMBER
We the People Food Drive extended
We the People-Central Texas is hosting a food drive through Dec. 22 to benefit the Christian Cupboard. Donations of non-perishable food and personal hygiene items may be dropped off at 1916 Bar & Bistro, Austin Street Market (Saturdays-only), Agave Coffee, Seguin Schoolyard, The Gathering Place, Keepers Interiors, Moyesway Shooting Sports, Pecantown Books & Brews, Seguin Art League, You’re So Crafty and Wal-Mart. Needed items include canned goods, cereal, pasta, and toiletries. Visit wethepeoplecentraltx.com for details.
KWED Christmas Angel Contest
KWED Radio will be hosting its annual Christmas Angel Contest, accepting letters now through 5 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 12, at the KWED studios at 609 E. Court St., offering families in Guadalupe County the chance to nominate themselves or someone they know to receive $500 cash this Christmas. The contest invites residents to submit a letter explaining why a family could use the assistance, with all entries required to include the nominator’s name, address, and phone number; the winning letter will be read live on air before Christmas and featured along with photos in the Seguin Daily News, and entries may also be submitted anytime through the studio’s front-door drop slot.
Byron Zipp at Silver Center
The Silver Center will be hosting Byron Zipp at 7:30 p.m. on December 12th at the Crystal Chandelier Ballroom. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Presale tickets are $10 by calling 830-303-6612. Tickets are $15 at the door.
Snowflake Class
Seguin Art League will be hosting its Snowflake Class from 1 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, 2025, at the Seguin Art League Gallery located at 104 S. Austin St. in Seguin. Instructor Ellen Craine will teach participants how to create intricate paper snowflakes using fine paper and advanced cutting techniques. Supplies are included, the class is limited to 10 adults, and an SAL instructor can provide a kid-friendly version at no extra charge with advance notice from a paying attendee. For more information, contact Seguin Art League President Sara Rosales.
32nd Annual Holiday Home Tour
The Seguin Conservation Society will be hosting the 32nd Annual Holiday Home Tour from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 13, at eight historic sites across Seguin. The self-guided tour features grand homes from the late 1800s, craftsman bungalows, the Sebastopol House limecrete structure, and the restored Texas Theatre. Tickets are $20 in advance at Gift & Gourmet, Keepers Interiors, and the Seguin Chamber Office, or $25 at each site on the day of the tour. For more information call 830-560-0949.
Third Thursday in Downtown Seguin
The Downtown Business Alliance (DBA) of Seguin invites the community to it for Third Thursday. Enjoy food, music, and shopping during the event, which runs Thursday evening, December 18 in downtown Seguin. Businesses will be open late until 8 p.m. and offering great deals and fun. There will also be several shopping and dining options available that night.
Drive
Through Living Nativity
The Faith Lutheran Church will be hosting a Drive Through Living Nativity at 5:30 p.m. on December 20 at 1326 E. Cedar St. The event will feature live music, live animals, and actors portraying scenes depicting the events leading up to the birth of Jesus Christ. This is a free community event open to all.
No Dance at Silver Center Christmas week
The Silver Center will not be hosting a dance on December 26th due to the holiday.
JANUARY
Geronimo Lions Club First Friday Feast\
The Geronimo Lions Club will not host its First Friday Feast in December. The event will return on January 2, 2026, with NAMI (National Alliance for Mental Illness) as the beneficiary and entertainment provided by the Wyatt & Bill Show.
2026 Beef Cattle Short Course
Texas A&M AgriLife will be hosting the 2026 Beef Cattle Short Course at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at Palo Alto College’s Ozuna Library. The program includes 2 CEUs (1 General and 1 Laws & Regulations), concurrent educational sessions, a meal, door prizes, and industry updates. To RSVP, email or call Kennedy Green at kennedy.green@ ag.tamu.edu or 210-631-0400.
To ensure non-profit organization’s meetings and events appear in this calendar, send information to: communitycalendar@ kwed1580.com, or drop off the information at the Seguin Daily News/KWED offices located at 609 E. Court St. in Seguin. For best results, submit information at least two weeks prior to the event.
