November 26, 2025
Salvation Army Kettle Campaign rings in the 2025 holiday season this Friday
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera and Darren Dunn
(Seguin) -- The familiar sound of bells will return to storefronts this Friday as the Salvation Army launches its annual Red Kettle Campaign — and this year, organizers say the need is greater than ever. The Seguin unit is hoping to surpass last year’s total of more than $46,000. The funds are used for emergency assistance for families across Guadalupe County.
Kettles will again be stationed outside Walmart, and for the first time, volunteers will also ring outside the new Hobby Lobby store in Seguin. The campaign will run daily through Christmas Eve.
Melissa Waters, office
coordinator for the Seguin unit, says the demand shows no signs of slowing.
“A little temporary assistance can go a long long way, and we see that and very often, Kettle, pg. 3
OLG to host its annual Thanksgiving meal today
(Seguin) – While most teens have been sleeping in late and resting on this holiday break, a group of 40 OLG confirmation students have been staying busy in the kitchen -putting together the final touches on a longtime community tradition. Today, the students -- many accompanied by their parents and grandparents –will be preparing to serve the 27th Annual Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Thanksgiving Meal.
The free meal will be served today
from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the OLG Parish Center.
Gloria Reyna, OLG director of religious education, says the event is a powerful lesson for the young people who volunteer. She says the community effort has become as much about teaching service as it is about feeding those in need.
“Our second-year confirmation students are required to make service hours during the second year. Meal, pg. 3
Cindy Aguirre-Herrera
Seguin’s Holiday Stroll Weekend: A Celebration of Community and Tradition
(Seguin) -- There is something magical about the first weekend of December in Seguin. Twinkling lights, familiar faces, and the warmth of community fill the streets during Holiday Stroll Weekend, December 4–7. For generations, families have gathered to celebrate the holidays in Seguin, and this year promises to continue that proud tradition with beloved favorites and meaningful new additions that make Seguin feel like home.
The festivities kick off Thursday, Dec. 4, at 6:30 p.m. with the Holiday Stroll Parade, featuring more than one hundred parade entries. This year’s parade holds special significance as former Mayor Betty Ann Matthies is honored posthumously as the 2025 Parade Marshal. Her family will lead the parade in tribute to her legacy of leadership and compassion for Seguin.
After the parade, families gather in Central Park for photos with Santa and to enjoy food booths hosted by local nonprofits, with proceeds supporting their charitable programs. The evening concludes with the official lighting of downtown, including the debut of the new Central Park tree, funded by the Downtown Business Alliance’s Sip N Stroll mug sales. Adding to the holiday magic, decorated trees from local businesses and organizations are on display throughout the park and will stay up for the rest of the holiday season.
On Friday, December 5, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Sip N Stroll invites visitors to enjoy hot cocoa samples from downtown merchants, live holiday entertainment, extended shopping hours, photos with Santa, and a variety of food vendors.
Saturday, December 6, begins with the Jingle Bell Run 5K at 8:30 a.m. followed by the North Pole Stroll from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Central Park. The event features children’s activities, vendors, holiday fun, photos with Santa, and the much-loved Shoebox Parade for children ages preschool through twelve.
This year, the Holiday Stroll Weekend also welcomes a brand-new tradition. A Stroll to the Stable will take place December 4–7 inside the historic Nolte Building, formerly Wells Fargo, at 101 East Nolte Street. The event is a community-wide celebration of faith, unity, and the true meaning of the season, featuring nativity displays, music, and peaceful moments of reflection.
The event is coordinated by many dedicated volunteers, including organizer Selina Medina, who shared the inspiration behind it.
The idea grew from a simple desire to bring the true spirit of Christmas back into focus,” said Medina.
After seeing similar nativity-themed community walks in other cities, we felt inspired to create a local version that reflected Seguin’s warmth, faith, and sense of togetherness. Even in its earliest stages, the vision was always to make this a community collective an event built with the people of Seguin, for the people of Seguin. That dream came one step closer when Mayor Donna Dodgen highlighted the possibility of using the historic Nolte building for our inaugural year, helping us establish a home for the very first Stroll,” said Medina. “Seguin has always been a place filled with service-minded hearts, and this year especially, there has been a noticeable longing for connection and uplifting experiences. With everything happening in the world, it felt like the perfect time to introduce something grounding an event that celebrates hope, family, and faith.”
She hopes the event becomes a cherished tradition. A Stroll to the Stable is entirely community- driven shaped by volunteers, supported through donations, and designed for families to enjoy at no cost,” said Medina. From beautiful nativity displays to interactive scenes, the experience is meant to be both reverent and joyful. We want the community to know that everyone is welcome: families, churches, clubs, neighbors, and visitors alike. This event is a gift from the community to the community, born from years of vision and made possible by people who believe in spreading light.”
The weekend concludes Sunday, December 7, with Yulefest hosted by the Seguin Art League at the Seguin Coliseum, where shoppers will find handmade gifts, holiday decor, and the creative work of local artists.
Seguin invites everyone near and far to experience Holiday Stroll. There is no better place to celebrate the holidays than right here in downtown Seguin.
For complete event details, visit visitseguin.com/ events/annual-events/holiday-stroll/
Special by Lindsay Hajek, assistant director of Main Street and Destination Seguin
Kettle, continued.
we’ve seen families that have not had any assistance before, and we are seeing more seniors than we have ever seen before. Prices are going up but their retirement check and their pension didn’t go up. Maybe they’ve saved a little, but that nest egg has dwindled right on down. It’s put on our hearts to help take care of one another,” said Waters.
Rev. Tom Jones, GRMC chaplain and Salvation Army board member, says the Red Kettle funds often become the lifeline that keeps households afloat.
“There’s a lot of households that are one paycheck away. It’s definitely unsettling in our entire nation but certainly in our community. It’s a stressful time and monetarily, it is a very stressful time. If you can’t make your car payment, how do you juggle the mortgage payment with the utility payment and the grocery bill and then the school activities – all those different things and there are a lot of families that are really struggling to juggle that and sometimes the Salvation Army can be that little gap to help somebody make the ends meet,” said Jones.
Board member and longtime Kettle Crew volunteer Liz Hilsdorf says the continuation and the strength of the campaign comes from everyday people.
“That is what the red kettle does in our community and this is 100 percent volunteer which is something we are really proud to say and then the companies come out and sign up for ringing the bell and then it makes a difference because people give from little kids, a parent and that unsuspecting person who drops in something extra in there like a bracelet -- like we got one time with a note that said ‘please feed the children Salvation Army’ and we were able to sell that and then put the money into the pot. It’s just all the volunteers who come out and make such a difference in the community and then all the people on the team for the Salvation Army -- it’s amazing that we have a kettle crew that takes it out and picks it up and counts the money and does all that and then the register to ring group and then the board – I mean it’s just such a team of people that help make it happen. I love this community,” said Hilsdorf.
Waters says emergency requests are not slowing down anytime soon – making it even more vital for people to
Meal, continued.
It’s one of the requirements they must complete. They will get confirmed this year in April 2026 but it also helps them see through the eyes of someone else – what their needs are and I believe that they themselves gain a rich reward by helping and by serving the community in a special way and seeing the faces of these people that are grateful to get this meal and I believe that it also helps them raise their spirit because eventually, they are going to get
give this holiday season.
“But to just give you a glance of what we are looking at here. We are only supposed to be able see four appointments a day because there’s an average amount which is $200 -- $200 toward rent or $200 toward utilities – not both. Well, if you do the math on that, that really adds up. We’ve been seeing on average 7-6 or even 8 in a day. So, does that give you an idea of where we are at? It’s like pulling a stopper out of the bottom of a bathtub in terms of money. So, if it wasn’t for the Kettle Campaign, we would be in a world of hurt. So, we are definitely asking this very generous community, remember the Salvation Army,” said Waters.
With the launch just days away, Waters says the Seguin unit is also encouraging more groups to take part as bell ringers.
“We still have about 12 – looks like maybe even 15 open slots yet for companies or large civic groups to fill. It could even be a large family that wants to fill some of these slots,” said Waters.
Kettle Bells at Walmart will ring through 5 p.m. Christmas Eve. Kettle bells can be found outside the store Mondays through Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Hobby Lobby bells will also be ringing Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The last day at Hobby Lobby will be 5 p.m. Dec. 21.
Residents can sign up for a volunteer shift at RegisterToRing.com.
confirmed and they’ll get the Holy Spirit but these experiences that they have in these different service projects helps them to understand how God works,” said Reyna.
Reyna says this personal connection to service spills over into the way the day operates. She says each plate served from the turkey to the sides is handled by the students themselves.
Reyna says the meal will again be offered as drive-thru or pickup only. There will be no dine-in. Plus, she says this year, the plates will be limited.
“Anyone who is coming in just the drive-thru or to pick up, we are limiting that to four because we want to have as many meals as we can to last us all the way to 1 o’clock because last year, we ran out by lunchtime and there were a lot of people who were disappointed because we ran out,” said Reyna.
Hundreds of homebound residents are also expected to receive plates thanks to the communitywide effort to meet Monday’s deliveryrequest deadline.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Church is located at 409 W. Krezdorn St.
Area high school teams play final games before Thanksgiving
(Victoria) -- The Seguin Lady Matadors close out their pre-Thanksgiving slate this afternoon at Victoria West. Tip at 12:30.
(San Antonio) -- The Seguin boys, fresh off a 68-46 win over La Vernia on Monday, head to San Antonio MacArthur this morning. Mikey Hernandez dropped 19 in the win. The Mats and Brahmas tip at 11:30.
(Devine) -- The Navarro Runnin’ Lady Panthers are at Devine this afternoon. Tip off is set 12:30.
(Geronimo) -- The Navarro boys dominated Luling 52-25 on Monday and host Young Men’s Leadership Academy today at 12:15.
(George West) -- The Marion boys look to bounce back from Monday’s 64-60 season-opening loss to Devine. They’re at George West this afternoon. Tip off is scheduled for 1:15.
(Marion) -- And the Marion girls host Rock Springs this morning with an 11 a.m. start at Marion High School.
Christ Austin
VITAL STATISTICS
Lorenz
Betty J. Lorenz, age 88 of Seguin, passed away on November 23, 2025. Betty was born in Seguin, Texas on October 22, 1937, to Olivia Gold Schlichting Lockstedt and Alvin Schlichting.
Betty was an active member of Cross Church in Seguin, where she taught Sunday School and was also a member of the family support committee. A graduate of Navarro High School in Geronimo, Betty was proud to be a member of the Basketball Team that went to the State Championship in 1955.
She will be remembered as a Cub Scout Leader and Webelos Scout Leader. For many years Betty served as a Guadalupe Regional Medical Center Volunteer.
Betty is preceded in death by her husband Leland H. Lorenz, her son, Richard Wayne “Rick” Merz, her parents, her stepfather, R. R. Lockstedt, and her brothers, Harvey Schlichting, Nolan Schlichting, and Donald Lockstedt.
Hall
June LaVerne Wille Hall, passed away peacefully in her sleep on Thursday, November 20, 2025. June was born on June 10, 1925, in Chicago, Illinois, to Vivian Gladiola Early Wille and Frederick Russell Wille during their trip relocating from Colorado to Detroit, Michigan.
One of June’s goals was to reach 100 years old, which she did this year and we celebrated with a party. She was always fashionable and went to the beauty parlor weekly for decades. Her last ‘haircut and do’ was on Wednesday. She would be happy with that! June was known for her wry wit, humorous retorts, quick quips, and a knack for telling it as it is. She attributed part of her health and long life to exercise and would recommend that everyone keep moving. She loved jigsaw puzzles, yellow roses and later in life - escaping the Texas summer heat in Ruidoso, New Mexico.
Growing up in Detroit, June lived next door to future husband, Joe Hall. Joe was drafted to the Army Air Force and before he was deployed, he and June married on February 13, 1944. While Joe was flying in a B-17, June started her lifelong volunteerism, donating blood to the Red Cross, serving as an air raid warden and assembling wings for fighter planes.
After 35 bombing missions with the Bloody 100th, Joe was deployed to Bergstrom Air Force Base in Austin, Texas and served there until WWII ended. The couple embraced Austin, the people, the culture, the weather, and the food. Well… June never embraced jalapenos or okra, but she loved everything else in Texas.
After the war ended, she and Joe returned to live and work in Detroit near family and friends. Randee and Ricky were born in Detroit. Both Joe and June wanted to return to Texas and made the move to Austin shortly after Ricky was born. Scott was born in Austin.
June worked for several Austin businesses performing accounting and payroll duties. She was a wizard with numbers, managing household finances, juggling budgets, and investing in rental property. June was a wickedly good cook and excelled at making pies. She participated in ten-pin bowling singles and mixed leagues, maintaining an impressive average. June was an astute contract bridge player, too.
Survivors include her grandchildren, Samuel “Sam” Merz and Olivia Merz; sister-in-law, Betty Jean Schlichting; brother-in-law, Roy Merz; goddaughter, Cynthia Bentley and husband Robert; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving family members and friends.
Visitation will begin on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at 9:30 a.m. at Cross Church followed by funeral service at 10:30 a.m. with the Reverend Jim Price officiating. Interment will follow in Guadalupe Valley Memorial Park. A reception will follow in the Cross Church Fellowship Hall.
Memorial contributions may be made to Cross Church, 814 N. Bauer, Seguin, Texas, 78155, Guadalupe Regional Medical Center Volunteer Service, 1215 E. Court, Seguin, Texas or Guadalupe County Humane Society, P. O. Box 1593, Seguin, Texas, 78155-1593.
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.
Throughout June’s life, she continued to volunteer and devoted her time to organizations that were committed to caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. When her children were young, she was a Cub Scout Den mother, the neighborhood Civil Defense leader, and a parental sponsor for many of her children’s community service programs. She was also a long-standing member and officer of the Benevolent Protective Order of Does. June volunteered at Seton Medical Center Austin where she was a Life Member, served as Gift Shop buyer, and 2nd Vice-President of the hospital’s auxiliary. Retiring to their home on Lake LBJ, June volunteered for the Sunrise Beach VFD Auxiliary, as well as the Kingsland Library.
After Joe’s death in 2001, June moved to Seguin, Texas. She quickly joined the ranks of the Guadalupe Regional Medical Center (GRMC) Auxiliary, volunteering in the Gift Shop and Nutritional Services. June also volunteered at the Seguin Area Chamber of Commerce, the Seguin Public Library, The Cranny, Pecan Fest, and the Seguin Sunrise Rotary Club.
In 2005, Texas Governor Rick Perry, awarded June a commission as a Yellow Rose of Texas which recognizes outstanding Texas women for significant contributions to their communities and to Texas through community service. June outlived many close friends and family including husband Joe Hall, son Ricky Hall, parents, and sisters - Cleotha Lobstein and Arlene Teller. June and Joe had many pets, but she greatly mourned the loss of her loyal and most loved dog, Beau Jangles, who once served as the Guadalupe County Canine Ambassador.
She is survived by daughter Randee and husband D.M “Mack” Malmsten; son Scott Hall and wife Jenny; grandson Cooper Hall and wife Megan; and granddaughter Georgia Malmsten and Ed Kennel. June has several nephews and nieces who she held close to her heart despite geographical distances.
No services are planned. June’s ashes will be buried, next to her Mom, at Lakeland Hills Memorial Park near Kingsland, Texas.
Please remember June in your own way. Memorial contributions may be made to a charity of your choice or Guadalupe County Humane Society where Beau Jangles was adopted. www.gchshumane.com P.O. Box 1593, Seguin, Texas 78155
You are invited to share a memory or sign the guest book at www.treshewell. com
Arrangements: Tres Hewell Mortuary, 830-549-5912.
VITAL STATISTICS
Stephenson
Anthony Brian “Tony” Stephenson, age 63 of Seguin, Texas, passed away on October 22, 2025.
Tony was born on July 30, 1962, in Stanthorpe, Queensland, Australia to Nancy (Garrett) and Brian George Stephenson. His life and career took him to many places. After graduating from Ipswich Grammar School in 1979, he began the journey to fulfill his lifelong dream in aviation. First flight school, then small charter planes, followed by airships. He flew airships in Australia, England, South Korea, Japan and finally in America where he met his wife Fran in 1990. Blimps continued to pilot his life’s path for the next few years, criss-crossing the country numerous times with the whole family in tow after the birth of Patrick in 1994.
In 1996, he was recruited by AirServices Australia and the family moved to Canberra, Australia. While there he completed his Masters in Business & Technology from the University of New South Wales. The family returned to the U.S., settling in San Antonio in 2002.
Tony had many jobs throughout his time in Texas from being a stay-at-home dad, owning and operating his own solar installation business to his most recent job as the Client Solutions Manager at Chromalloy Component Services, bringing his aviation career full circle.
He was the happiest person on earth and loved and respected everyone he met. Most of all, he always had a smile to give and a story to tell.
Tony is preceded in death by his father, Brian Stephenson, his father-in-law Michael Kenneley and nephew Riley Kenneley.
Survivors include his loving wife of 33 years, Fran Stephenson; son, Patrick Stephenson and wife Sydney; mother, Nancy Stephenson; siblings, Jennine Grady and Ellison Boles along with beloved relatives, Mark, Sophia, Josephine, Fergus, and Nicholas Grady; Paul and Lennox Boles; Amy Kenneley, Bob and Dana Kenneley, Tim and Peggy Kenneley, Mike and Irena Kenneley, John and Jenny Kenneley, Alex and Madison Zinni, Bryan Kenneley and Sophie Fallouh and Myles and Shane Kenneley.
His circle of friends knew no geographical limits. From friendships in British Columbia to Albuquerque, California, Australia, and Japan. Tony knew no strangers, only future friends.
A service celebrating Tony’s life will be held on Friday, December 5, 2025, at 11:00am at St. Andrews Episcopal Church, 201 E. Nolte St., Seguin, Texas, 78155, with the Reverend Stephen Shortess and the Reverend Christopher Robinson officiating. A reception will follow in McKeogh Hall.
Contributions in Tony’s honor may be made to any of the below organizations.
National Parks Foundation
San Antonio Food Bank
Would Works
You are invited to read the full obituary and 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
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.
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.
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
Grimm
Doris Babel Grimm, age 102, passed away peacefully into the arms of the Lord on November 19, 2025, just 24 days shy of her 103rd birthday.
Born on December 13, 1922, in Guadalupe County, Doris was the daughter of Elthor Babel and Clara (Jandt) Babel. Doris was the 3rd child of 7. She grew up in the Geronimo area, where she built a life rooted in family, love, and community.
On May 25, 1940, Doris married the love of her life, David Fritz Grimm, and together they raised two daughters, Arlene and Betty. She was preceded in death by her husband David, her daughter Arlene (Edward) Koepp, and her grandson Kenneth Caillouette.
Doris is survived by her daughter Betty (Eddie) Stoehr; grandchildren Danette (Don) Cook, David Fred Koepp, and Christine Koepp; along with 3
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.
great-grandchildren and 3 great-great-grandchildren. She leaves behind her adopted grandchild Jessica (Abdali) Fernandez and their children Nadya, Bradi Jo, Tristan, and Izabella, as well as her special love, Sara—each of whom held a cherished place in her heart. She is also survived by numerous special nieces, nephews and friends.
Doris lived a long and beautiful life, defined by laughter, kindness, and an unwavering devotion to her family. She will be remembered for her joyful spirit, her warm presence, and the way she cherished every moment with those she loved.
The Family would like to leave a special thanks to Mark & Lupe, who gave her the best care in her final years of life.
Services will be held on Wednesday, November 26, at Zoeller Funeral Home. Public visitation will take place from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., followed by the funeral service. Burial will immediately follow at Lone Oak Cemetery in Geronimo. Her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured, encouraged, and deeply loved.
VITAL STATISTICS
Schultz
Otto Henry Schultz Jr. was a man of many things, but above all, he was a master list-maker. He kept lists for everything—groceries, repairs, cleaning, goals he hoped to achieve. And, perhaps most notably, he even made a list of things to be done after his passing. In fact, he wrote his own obituary.
Otto Schultz Jr., 82, of Seguin, Texas, passed away on November 23, 2025, with his daughter Kat by his side. He is reunited with his beloved wife, Becky, and their son, Bradley.
Born on February 15, 1943, in Smithville, Texas, to Otto H. Schultz Sr. and Bertha Speck Reid Schultz, Otto is survived by daughters Stephanie Mcgree (Bradley) and Katharine Champion (Randal); grandchildren Lauren McGree, Autumn Champion, and Olivia Champion; his brother Larry (Sharon), sisters Pat Wood and Wilma Chapman, and numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends.
In his youth, Otto was artistic and active in drama, earning the lead in his senior play. He was involved in First Methodist Church, singing in the youth choir and maintaining perfect Sunday School attendance. (Church was next door.)
Otto spent 43 years with United Gas Corporation (now CenterPoint Energy), retiring as Division Marketing Manager for South Texas and the Texas
Byrd
John David “Pete” Byrd, age 88 of Seguin, Texas, passed away on November 15, 2025. Pete was born on April 12, 1937, in Beeville, Texas to Alta Bernice (Vickers) and John Howard Byrd.
Pete was raised on the farm fields of Sinton, Texas, which served as a foundation for a long, full life of adventure and true grit. He went on to be a collegiate athlete, serviceman, farmer, professional touring musician, horseman, and cattle rancher, before ultimately retiring as City Manager of Nixon, Texas.
Coast. He enjoyed his work and the people he worked with, along with the public they served.
He met the love of his life, Becky, on a blind date while he worked in San Marcos and she attended Southwest Texas College, and they enjoyed more than 50 years of marriage.
Community service was important to him—he participated in Kiwanis, the Jaycees, volunteered at Wurstfest, led Boy Scout groups, coached youth sports, and served on the Seguin ISD School Board, where he was proud to help bring air conditioning to the schools. Otto also served six years in the Army National Guard.
In his spare time, Otto could be seen with a Natural Light Beer in his hand while “Gardening”. He was known for his pristine yard and green thumb. He enjoyed traveling with his family, whether it was sleeping in tents on the way to Disney World, or looking out the window of the hotel in San Francisco. Otto made sure he and his family were going to experience it all. That way, he could have more stories to entertain others with.
A memorial visitation will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Memorial contributions may be made to Memorials Processing St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St Jude PL, Memphis, TN 38105-9959 or a 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.
Pete was a dedicated father, a devoted husband, a caring friend, and a faithful follower of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Pete is preceded in death by his parents.
Survivors include his loving wife, Fran Byrd; sons, Chris Byrd and wife Heidi, and Josh Byrd; grandchildren, Braydon, Blayne and Brielle Byrd.
A memorial visitation will be held on Thursday, December 4th, 2025, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Tres Hewell Mortuary Chapel.
Memorial contributions may be made to McQueeney Baptist Church, 201 Schumann Rd., McQueeney, Texas, 78123 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.
Doctors On High Alert With Flu Season Underway
(Undated) -- Health officials are raising concerns as the flu is spreading earlier than usual in some parts of the country. Some infectious disease specialists have already noted a sharp increase in flu cases over the past few weeks as a form of the virus, called H3N2 subclade K, has set off massive outbreaks in Canada and the U.K. According to the CDC, the majority of flu circulating so far this season in the U.S. is the H3N2 strain, which can cause more hospitalizations and deaths in older adults. The concerns come as millions of Americans prepare to travel and gather for Thanksgiving and other upcoming holidays.
COVID-19 Cases Climbing Or Likely To Climb In 19 States
(Atlanta, GA) -- COVID-19 cases are climbing or likely to climb in 19 states including Texas, Michigan, Massachusetts and Colorado. That’s according to the CDC which is recommending COVID shots for those six months and older, using a decision-making approach that weighs personal risk. Those most in danger of serious illness include seniors 65 and up, those with chronic conditions and people who are immuno-compromised. As we head into Thanksgiving gatherings, the CDC is advising hosts to consider celebrating outdoors or to open windows or use fans inside. It’s also reminding people to stay home if they’re sick.
Granddaughter Of JFK Discloses Terminal Leukemia Diagnosis
(New York, NY) -- The granddaughter of former President John F. Kennedy revealed she has less than a year to live following a cancer diagnosis. Tatiana Schlossberg shared the news in a personal essay published in the New Yorker on Saturday, writing she has acute myeloid [[ my-uh-loyd ]] leukemia with a rare mutation. The 35-year-old mother of two wrote in the essay, “maybe my brain is replaying my life now because I have a terminal diagnosis and all these memories will be lost.” Schlossberg said doctors found the cancer hours after she gave birth to her second child in May 2024. She has spent most of her time since in treatment, receiving bone-marrow transplant, chemotherapy and blood transfusions.
Donald
Glover
Reveals He Had Stroke
(Los Angeles, CA) -- Actor and musician Donald Glover has revealed a stroke is what caused him to cancel his world tour last year. He talked about his health issues during his Childish Gambino performance at the Camp Flog Gnaw festival in Los Angeles over the weekend. Glover told the crowd he find out he had a stroke when he went to the hospital in Houston after playing a show in Louisiana with a really bad pain his head. He also said not long after that doctors found a hole in his heart which led to him undergoing two surgeries. Glover went on to tell his fans, “They say everybody has two lives and the second life starts when you realize you have one.”
NOVEMBER
Library Holiday Closures
The Seguin Public Library will be hosting its Library Holiday Closures beginning Wednesday, November 26, 2025, when it will close early at 5 p.m., and will remain closed through Sunday, November 30, 2025, at the Seguin Public Library. Normal business hours will resume on Monday, December 1, 2025, at 9 a.m. Items may be renewed online or returned using the outdoor book return, and additional information is available at 830-401-2422 or library.seguintexas.gov.
Neighbors Helping Neighbors Canned Food Drive
The Seguin Public Library will be hosting the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Canned Food Drive during normal operating hours through December 31 at the Seguin Public Library, 313 W. Nolte Street, Seguin, TX, collecting unexpired canned and non-perishable food items for the Christian Cupboard and local food pantries at no cost to participate; for more information call 830-401-2422 or email schristy@seguintexas.gov.
Baby Time
The Seguin Public Library will have Baby Time on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at 10 a.m. Learn rhymes and bounces to do with babies, sing songs, and listen to 1 baby storybook. Song and rhyme time will last approximately 25 minutes, followed by baby playtime with scarves, egg shakers, and more. Baby Time is geared towards ages 0 to 18 months. Baby Time meets at 10 a.m. every Wednesday. This program is free and open to the public. Please call 830401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.
Family Storytime
The Seguin Public Library offers Family Storytime on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at 11
a.m. Family Storytime includes stories, rhymes, songs, and other fun early literacy activities for families with children ages 0 to 5. Family Storytime meets at 11 a.m. on Wednesdays. This program is free and open to the public. Please call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas. gov for additional information.
Adult Crafternoon
The Seguin Public Library will be hosting an adult crafternoon event on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at 2 p.m. Embrace the cozy fall season by hand crafting your own wreath using rope and a creative knot tying technique, perfect for adding a personal, handmade touch to your autumn décor! Register to attend, all supplies will be provided. This event is for adults only, and registration is required. This program is free and open to the public. Please call 830401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.
Kids Tech and Gaming
The Seguin Public Library will host a Kids Tech and Gaming event on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at 3 p.m. Join us for an afternoon exploring tech, coding and gaming. Participants can choose between gaming on the Nintendo Switch or exploring coding with Scratch and Cubelet Robot Blocks. This event is for kids ages 6 to 11 only, and registration is required. This program is free and open to the public. Please call 830-401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.
Library Holiday Closures
The Seguin Public Library will be close early on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at 5 p.m. and will remain closed through Sunday, November 30, 2025 for the Thanksgiving Holiday. Normal Business hours will resume on Saturday, December 1, 2025, at 9 a.m. Items may be renewed online, or returned
using outdoor book return. Please call 830401-2422 or visit library.seguintexas.gov for additional information.
No Dance at Silver Center Thanksgiving week
The Silver Center will not be hosting a dance on November 28th due to the holiday.
DAV & RecruitMilitary Virtual Veteran & Military Spouse Hiring Event
DAV and RecruitMilitary will be hosting a national virtual career fair for veterans on Tuesday, Nov. 25 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. online, connecting transitioning service members, veterans, Guard/Reserve, and military spouses with regional and national employers actively hiring for skilled civilian roles; the event is designed to translate military experience into opportunity by giving fast access to hiring decision-makers, and additional information is available at RecruitMilitary.com, with media inquiries directed to Shelby West at swest@ recruitmilitary.com or 757-769-2745.
Our Lady of Guadalupe 2nd-Year Confirmation Students – 27th Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner
Our Lady of Guadalupe 2nd-year Confirmation students will be hosting the 27th Annual Community Thanksgiving Dinner on Wednesday, Nov. 26 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the OLG Parish Center, offering a free drive-thru and pickup meal with a limit of four plates per car or family and providing homebound or elderly individuals with delivery by contacting the church office at 379-4338 by Monday, Nov. 24.
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.
