MARIE WICK

Weimar Mercury
December 13, 1912

Schulenburg Sticker:
Mrs. Marie Wick beloved, wife of Mr. John Wick of High Hill, died Friday, Nov. 29th and her remains were laid to rest in the Catholic cemetery, Rev. Gerlach officiating, Sunday Dec. 1st.

Mrs. Wick was born July 4,1850, at Petersdorf, Austria, Selicia. Came to America in 1874 and was married to Mr. John Wick in 1878. Thirteen children blessed this union, two of whom died in infancy. Her husband and eleven children survive her. The daughters are: Mrs. Albert Hollas, Mrs. Ferd. Kainer, Mrs. John Bednarz, Mrs. Emil Heinrich, Mrs. Franz Demil, Mrs. Adolf Kainer. The sons are, Edward, Anton, Karl, Rudolf and John Jr. She also leaves one brother, Jos. Schindler of Palo Pinto, and three sisters, Mrs. Jos. Teichmann of Palo Pinto, Mrs. Francis Stanzel of Halletsville and Mrs. Falke of Houston.

Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

MR. WIEDEMANN

La Grange Journal
February 22, 1934

DEATH OF MR. WIEDEMANN

Mr. Wiedmann died a t the home of his daughter, Mrs. H. F. Siebel, last Saturday morning.  Interment took place at the Carmine Cemetery with Rev. Brunotte officiating, Sunday afternoon.  Many relatives and friends mourn his departure.

Transcribed by Connie F. Sneed

EDWARD WIEDERANDERS

La Grange Journal
Thursday, March 25, 1943

Edward Wiederanders

Edward Wiederanders of Round Top, aged 81 years, 2 months and 7 days, died at LaGrange, Sunday, March 21; funeral services were held at the family home of the deceased at Round Top, Monday, March 22, at 3:00 p.m., and also at the Round Top Lutheran church, Rev. W. Kralik officiating.  Interment was in the churchyard cemetery. 

Deceased was a native of Fayette County and had lived his entire life in the county; he was the son of Carl Wiederanders, immigrant from Germany and was a devout member of the Bethlehem Lutheran Church of Round Top. He was bereft of his wife several years ago

Surviving are his sons, Ben Wiederanders of Laporte and A. G. Wiederanders of Seguin, the latter an instructor in the Seguin Lutheran college; four daughters, Mrs. Elfrieda Franke of Uvalde, Mrs. Elsie Kroll of San Diego, California, and Mrs. W. P. (Nettie) Jacobs of La Grange. 

Contributed by Rob Brown

EDNA WIEMKEN

Fayette County Record
March 2, 2004

Wiemken

Funeral services for Edna Wiemken, 87, of La Grange are set for 2 pm Tuesday, March 2 at Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church in La Grange with Rev. Dennis Bragdon officiating. Interment will follow in the Mt. Calvary Lutheran Cemetery in La Grange.

She died Saturday, Feb. 28 at Care Inn of La Grange.

Wiemken was born Sept. 15, 1916, in La Grange, the daughter of Gerhard Oeltjen, Jr. and Emma (Anders) Oeltjen. She married William Hermann Wiemken on Nov. 26, 1939 in La Grange. She was a member of Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and was a member of the Mary Martha Guild. She was also a member of the Trinity Hill Home Demonstration Club for many years. She owned and operated the Wiemken Bakery for over 25 years. She was an active league bowler for many years.

Survivors include two daughters, Elaine Johnson and husband Herman of Round Rock and Patricia Michael and husband Leroy of La Grange; one son, Lee Allen Wiemken and wife Dorothy of Montgomery; 11 grandchildren; 21 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; one sister, Gladys Valenkamp and husband Herbert of Old Glory; one brother, Walter Oeltjen and wife Sarah of La Grange; and one aunt, Nelda Anders of La Grange.

She was preceded in death by her parents and her husband on Feb. 7, 1977.

Memorials are suggested to Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church Parking Lot Fund.

Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Gene L. Freudenberg

GERHARD WIETING

The La Grange Journal
Thursday, August 17, 1905

Gerhard Wieting, a farmer who resided a few miles west of town, died Sunday.  The Journal extends to his surviving family its sincere sympathy in this hour of sorrow.

Contributed by Rob Brown

HEDWIG RIEHMAN WIETING

Mrs. Hedwig Wieting

Mrs. Hedwig Wieting, aged 88 years, 2 months and 3 days, died at the home of her son-in-law and daughter, Mr. and Mrs. Hy. Francke, Saturday, January 15, after a very brief illness.  Stricken with a heart attack that morning, she rallied and later received the second attack, dying within a few minutes.  Funeral services were held by Rev. R. Heise in the chapel of the Koenig Funeral Home in this city, Monday afternoon at 3:00 o’clock; interment was made in the Cedar cemetery, Koenig Funeral Home in charge.

Mrs. Wieting, widow of the late Gerhard Wieting, was born in Fayette county and had lived her entire life in and near to La Grange; she was a member of the Lutheran church; she was born November 12, 1855.

Surviving are her daughter , Mrs. Hy. (Mary) Francke, her sons, Gerhard of La Grange and Henry Wieting of Harper; there are 9 grand-children and 11 great-grandchildren.

Contributed by Rob Brown

LOUISE WILDER WIETING

Funeral Services Held For La Grange Native Monday

Mrs. Louise T. Wieting, a La Grange native, died in Georgetown Sept. 10.  Funeral services were held for her from the Koenig Funeral Home Chapel Monday, Sept. 12, at 10 AM.  Burial was in the Cedar Cemetery and the Rev. H. T. Flachmeier officiated.

Born on July 31, 1877, she was the former Louise Wilder and the daughter of the late Joseph and Bertha Zovisch Wilder.  She was married to Hans Wieting on March 28, 1802 in La Grange.  Mr. Wieting preceded his wife in death on Aug. 21, 1939.

Surviving are one daughter, Mrs. August (Delta) Spacek of La Grange; one sister, Miss Helen Wilder of La Grange; one brother, Max Wilder of La Grange; two grandchildren and two great grandchildren.

Contributed by Rob Brown

CHARLES WILD

The Schulenburg Sticker
Friday, March 6, 1936

Former Schulenburg Resident Expires

Charles Wild, a former resident of Schulenburg, passed away Wednesday morning, March 4, at his home in Austin.

Funeral services were held from the family residence Thursday afternoon, March 5, at 2 o’clock.

Surviving are four daughters and one son and a host of relatives in this section.

Mr. Wild lived for a number of years on a farm east of this city and is well known to many of the old settlers in this section of the country.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ALFRED WILDNER

Suicide at Bluff

Alfred Wildner, a young farmer, (about twenty-nine years old) who resided with his mother and two sisters upon a farm near Bluff, suicided last Thursday morning by shooting himself through the head with a 32-calibre pistol.  The news created much excitement here, as the suicide was in town the day before and made several purchases, chatted very pleasantly with his acquaintances and no one who knew him would have believed he could entertain such an idea as self destruction.

It is now stated – and the belief is well founded – that the rash act was committed while temporarily insane.  The fact that Mr. Wildner should have slept all night and then at 5:30 o’clock in the morning put a bullet through his head corroborates the statement.  The JOURNAL learns that on several different occasions he left the house, shotgun in hand and hid in the brush near-by, stating that he knew some one intended robbing the premises and that he intended killing the intruder.  Mr. Wildner always placed a table near his bed, and upon the table placed his pistol.  All these facts have been reported, and go to show that the suicide was evidently temporarily insane.

‘Squire Ledbetter held the inquest Thursday morning and his verdict was in accordance with the facts, that the deceased met his death by the discharge of a pistol, discharged by himself.  The remains were interred in the Cedar cemetery Friday morning, friends in the neighborhood and in this city being in attendance.  The local singing society, of which Mr. [Wildner] was a member, attended and officiated at the grave.  The surviving relatives have THE JOURNAL’S sympathy.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ESTELLE WILKINS

Weimar Mercury, 21 Mar 1891, page 1

Died, in this city, Wednesday, March 11, 1891, of consumption, Miss Estelle Wilkins. Miss Wilkins was born near Hackberry, Lavaca county in 1865. She was a daughter of Mrs. P. E. Edmondson, of this city, and sister to Mr. Shirley Wilkins of the firm of Brady & Wilkins, and Bush Wilkins, now residing in Wyoming Territory, but who has been here for some little time. Miss Wilkins was very popular in the circle of her acquaintance and many kind friends ministered to her wants during her lingering illness. The sympathy of the Democrat, profound and sincere, goes forth to sorrowing relatives.—[La Grange] Democrat.

STEVE WILLARD

Weimar Mercury
7 Oct 1893, page 2

LaGrange Democrat: We regret being called on to record the fact that Steve Willard, esq., of Winchester had the terrible misfortune to lose an arm in a gin last Saturday. We have not heard the particulars. Mr. Willard is an old and honored citizen of this county and was a brave soldier during the war in Green's brigade. His old comrades will give him their heartfelt sympathy in this hour of his suffering and will join in hoping that he may soon recover from the effeects fo the accident.

Later news from Winchester, is that Mr. [Williard] died from the effects of his accident. Another good, upright, honest citizen and brave soldier has crossed over the river.

E. C. WILLENBERG

La Grange Journal
August 6, 1936 pg. 1

E. C. Willenberg Is Claimed After Long Illness, Monday

E. C. Willenberg, eldest son of Mrs. Emma Willenberg of La Grange, died at his mother’s home on South Jefferson Street, Monday at noon. Seriously ill for the past four months, all agencies of help and medical advice was sought; his condition grew worse gradually, and death mercifully stepped in. He was 55 years, 9 months, and 24 days old.

Born in La Grange, October 9, 1880, to Bruno and Mrs. Emma Willenberg, he grew to manhood in La Grange. Ever industrious and energetic he held for many years after reaching early manhood, clerical positions in mercantile establishments in LA Grange, and on December 31, 1910, he was united in marriage with Miss Alma Moehring, at Coupland. The couple made Coupland their home and then came to La Grange, remaining until the year 1924.

In 1924, they removed to Ingleside where he had accepted a position with a mercantile firm, later engaging in grape culture and truck farming. Although suffering from a constitutional ailment he continued to antagonize its influence until unable so to do. Coming back to La Grange he submitted to surgical operations which, despite his determination to get well, brought only temporary relief. Monday morning he drifted rapidly to the close of earth’s pilgrimage.

Surviving are, his widow, his mother, one nephew and several relatives, and numerous friends. Eulogy brings not back those we love; in passing to his eternal reward, the Journal prints this, a fitting tribute; “He was honest, fearless, faithful and sincere”- at all times.

The body was taken to the St. Paul Lutheran church, Tuesday; at 4:00 o’clock in the afternoon services were held by Rev. R. Heise, pastor, and interment was had at the new cemetery. May the rest be peaceful; he was ready and had asked for it. Mr. Willenberg’s father died when his son was four years old.

Transcribed by Stacy N. Sneed

ANDERSON WILLIAMS

Weimar Mercury, 9 Aug 1890

HOMICIDE.—From Mr. C. T. Zapp who was in town Monday, the Journal learns that on Wednesday the 23rd inst., about two miles from Zapp postoffice, Peter Davis, colored, shot and killed Anderson Williams and Freeman Fears, also colored, with a winchester rifle. It seems that Williams, who has a family, and is represented as being a preacher, has made an unenviable reputation in that neighborhood among his class, by devoting much of his time and attention to the wives of his neighbors; that he made it a rule, as soon as any of the young men married a girl, to set to work to alienate her affections, and in one instance actually succeeded in inducing a newly married wife to go off with him, and was gone some three or four weeks before they returned. The cause of the recent killing was the result of his meddling with Davis' wife, in which he was assisted by Freeman Fears, brother of the woman. It also seems that Williams had also threatened to kill Davis for trying to prevent him from invading his home and disturbing his marital relations, claiming that he had as much right to the woman as Davis had. It seems that after doing the killing Davis foolishly left for parts unknown, but it has since been reported that he went to Brenham and surrendered.—La Grange Journal

Contributed by Debbie Hanson

ESSIE MAE JEFFERSON WILLIAMS

La Grange Journal, 17 Dec 1942

Husband Stabbed Wife and Gunned for Invader

Deputy Will Rightmer went to Fayetteville Saturday night to take charge of Norris Williams, negro, charged with having stabbed his wife to death on 12 December 1942, at age 21.

The old story of invasion, never sanctioned; Norris had the line on the invader, in fact, had the act proof. After stabbing his wife, the wound causing death, and which Norris did not know until later, he went gunning for the invader. Constable Arnold Knippel got him before the invader was found. Norris was brought to La Grange by Deputy Rightmer and placed in the county jail.

Essie Mae Williams was buried in the Spring Hill Baptist Cemetery. Transcribed by Norman C. Krischke

JACK WILLIAMS

Weimar Mercury, 3 Jul 1897, page 8

News Specials: Flatonia, Texas. June 27.—A cutting scrape occurred last night at a supper and deance given in the suburgs of the town by the colored people, as a result of which Jack Williams les at the point of death with a stab over the heart, and face badly gashed; and John sutton has his throat cut. Several arrests have been made.

Weimar Mercury, 24 Jul 1897, page 7

Flatonia, Tex., Jul 19.—The negro Jack Wiliams, who was cut and stabbed in the side at a colored dance three weeks ago, as detailed in the News at the time, died here last nght.

John Sutton, the negro who has been in jail at LaGrange, charged with teh cutting, is also in a precarious condition from the wounds received at the same time.

MARJORIE ANN LOGAN WILLIAMS

Marjorie Ann (Logan) Williams Marjorie Ann (Logan) Williams, long time citizen of the world, loving mother, grand-mother and great- grandmother and bon vivant passed from this world to the next on March 24, 2007 after a long battle with emphysema (acquired from smoking). Born September 1, 1924 to Juanita Robson and John A Logan of LaGrange, Texas she was a hard driving and stubborn lady from the start. She graduated from LaGrange High School in 1941 as Valedictorian and went on to the University of Texas; receiving her B.A. in 1945 with not one, but four majors: government, history (both life-long interests), economics and Spanish. She graduated Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta Kappa and was a member of the Orange Jackets, Mortar Board and other honorary, music and literary societies. Life in Austin being too pedantic, she went on to take a job with Eastern Airlines and worked as a stewardess (the old name for a Flight Attendant) before deciding that while traveling was exciting, it was not mentally fulfilling. She saw an ad for a stock broker training school while working at the Statler Hotel in Washington, D.C. and applied. She was accepted but noticed that at that time, women were not allowed on the floor of the NYSE. She went straight to managing partner, Winthrop Smith (of Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner and Beane) who took it to the board and after the completion of her six-month training course, she lead the first 9 women out onto the floor of the NYSE during trading hours (a first in the exchanges 150 year history). She went to work in Detroit for Merrill Lynch and her first child, Philip Cyrus Simpson, was born there in 1954 following her marriage to her first husband, Sydney E Simpson. Philip would be adopted by her second husband and renamed John Phillip Williams following her return to Texas in 1955. She married her second husband, Dr. Edward T Williams, II, in 1957 and they had two children together: Lucia Leigh Williams in 1957 and Bruce Gilman Williams in 1959. She was also the step-mother of Dr. Williams' first son, Edward (Bill) T Williams, III (born 1943). Ted preceded her in death in 1970. Not content with the homemaker's role she began teaching in the LaGrange Independent School District in 1964. Initially Marge taught fifth grade but for the majority of her teaching career she was in High School where she taught economics, history and government. She was a life-long learner and returned to the University of Texas and obtained her M.A. in 1970. She fought for and successfully established the first academic lettering program at the High School. She taught for 16 years resigning in protest in 1980 over unfair labor practices. She was continually active in publishing and editing numerous articles in "Texana", "American Heritage" and the "Southwest Historical Quarterly" as well as being co-author of the textbook, "Texas: The Land and the People". She was perhaps most proud of her High School students however, who published "Fayette County, Past & Present" which she edited. She was also honored for these contributions as well as numerous activities in the community (secretary of the advisory council at Winedale, president of the board of directors of the Fayette Heritage Museum and Archives, secretary-treasurer and president of the LaGrange Cemetery Association, establishing the first chapter of the DAR in Fayette County, establishing and becoming president of the Hospital Auxiliary, co-chairman of the Fayette County Historical Commission among many others) with the title: Woman of the Year for 1978. Regionally she was program chair for the Texas State Historical Association in that same year and was inducted into the international honor society of Delta Kappa Gamma. Her retirement from teaching was a great turning point in her career as rather than sit and retire in the archives in LaGrange she decide to travel the world and did so in 1980 completing a circumnavigation in a little over 80 days. This perspective allowed her to see the next horizon however: Law School. Ignoring all nay-sayers, she applied to and was accepted at all 7 schools in the State and entered the University of Texas in 1982, graduating in 1985. 1985 was a momentous year for Marjorie as she would not only pass the Bar Exam but would do so with a major head injury acquired during a taxi accident in Austin! She would recover however and went to work for the Texas Legislative Council in 1986 leaving to work for a State Legislator in 1988. She retired again in 1994 and moved to Laguna Hills, CA to Leisure World. She was not going to a sleepy retirement however, she immediately became part of numerous clubs and activities at Leisure World including the: DAR (secretary and Regent), AAUW (American Association of University Women (historian and Parliamentarian), Community Association, College Club, Mac-Users Group, UDC (United Daughters of the Confederacy), Colonial Dames, DRT (Daughters of the Republic of Texas) and Historical Society (serving as Archivist). For her service to these committees and Leisure World she was named "Leisure Worlder of the Month" for October of 1999. Her service to the Archives were recognized not only by the society (Life Achievement Award, 2000) but also by an article on her activity from the LA Times Orange County edition (12-12-00). Finally in 1999 she ran for and was elected to the California Senior Legislature (a shadow group composed entirely of seniors that proposes legislation of importance to seniors). She introduced two bills, one added seniors to the targeted populations for environmental impact of new state programs and policies and the second required that the consumer guide to Funeral and Cemetery purchases be available by telephone, internet, computer and any other form of electronic requests. The latter was enacted! She also served on the Orange County Senior Citizens Advisory Council and was a member of the Legislative Committee. As her health gradually deteriorated, she returned first to her native Texas and finally to Pennsylvania to a retirement home, St. Barnabus Villages where she was living at the time of her death. Not surprisingly, she was organizing an archives for St. Barnabus when she died! Margie is survived by her brother, Rev. Canon John A. Logan of Houston, TX; her four children, Edward (Bill) T. Williams, III, MD and his wife Janice of Tampa, FL, John P. Williams, MD and his wife Valerie of Pittsburgh, PA, Lucia L. Williams, MD of Jacksonville, TX and Bruce G. Williams of Colorado Springs, CO; nine grandchildren, Ian Williams of Tampa, FL, Allison Shamblin and her husband Keith of Tampa, FL, Colin Williams and his wife Maureen of Orlando, FL, Lauren Signorino of Jacksonville, TX, Brynna M Williams of Houston, TX, Alex Williams of Jacksonville, TX, Connor Trott of Gibsonia, PA, Eleanor Williams of Jacksonville, TX, and Victoria Trott of Gibsonia, PA; and two great-grandchildren, Kate C. and Reid Shamblin of Tampa FL. Flowers may be sent to Koenig-Strickland Funeral Home in LaGrange, TX, 208 W. Pearl St. 78945 and donations will be accepted at a later date for an educational fund to be set up in Marjorie's name. If you wish to donate please send your name and contact information to Dr. John P Williams, MD at 5004 W Grove Ln, Gibsonia, PA, 15044. Viewing and funeral were held Saturday, March 31st with internment in La Grange City Cemetery.

PAUL WILLIAMS

Weimar Mercury, 16 Oct 1897, page 3

Flatonia, Texas, October 3.—On the Slack Wells road, ten miles west of this place, a difficulty occurred this morning between Thomas Adair, ex-city marshal of Flatonia, and Paul Williams, in which the latter was fatally wounded. They both exchanged pistol shots at [very] close range. Mr. Adair was not wounded, but has two bullet holes through his coat. Williams lives on one of Adair's farms and the trouble arose over a settlement of the rent. Adair came immediately to Flatonia and surrendered to the officers and claims the deed was committed in self-defence. He will remain here until the arrival of his lawyer, Hon. Jonathan Lane of LaGrange, and County Attorney Percy Faison. Williams was a nephew of Justice of the Peace W. A. Beckham, who left at once for the scene of the tragedy.

LAURA L. WILLIFORD
JEROME R. WILLIFORD
WALLACE E. WILLIFORD

Colorado Citizen
September 23, 1886

Weimar Local Matters
Mrs. A. Reynolds, who has been absent near Waelder for the last two weeks, returned last Monday with a heavy heart burdened with affliction. During her absence she buried a daughter, Mrs. Willerford[sic], and one grand child, and left two grandchildren very low.

Colorado Citizen
September 30, 1886

SAD NEWS.—Our kindliest sympathies are extended our former townsman, Mr. W. L. Williford in the recent sorrowful ordeal through which he has passed. On the 7th of September he lost by death his son Jerome Reynolds, aged two years and six months—the joy of the household. Next, his wife Laura L.—an estimable lady, with many good qualities of head and heart—died on the 19th September, aged 38 years. And on the 22d his 9 year old son, Wallace E. Williford, was taken from him. They all died of the same disease, flux and a complication of malaria at their home in Fayette county, near Waelder Mr. Williford asks us to extend his grateful thanks to all—and especially to Dr. M. W. Henry—for tender care and kindly ministrations to loved one while in sore distress. He can never forget their kindly offers.

Transcribed by Dorothy Albrecht

ADELINE A. HELLMANN WILLMANN

Colorado County Citizen, 1 Sep 1959, page 8

Mrs. Willmann, 65, Mother of Local Woman, Succumbs

Last rites for Mrs. H. C. Willman [sic.] of La Grange, mother of Mrs. Fred Wallace of Columbus, were held in the St. Paul's Lutheran church there last Saturday with Rev. H. T. Flachmeier officiating.

Mrs. Willmann, 65, died in the La Grange hospital last Thursday following a heart attack.

She and Mr. Willmann had operated a jewelry store in La Grange the past 40 years. She was a native of Seguin.

Survivors include her husband; the daughter; a son, Clinton Willmann of Jackson, Miss.; a sister Mrs. Elsie Simmons of Seguin; 2 brothers, Edwin Hellmann of San Antonio and Irvin Hellmann of Seguin.

Burial was in the La Grange City Cemetery.

FRANK WILLMANN

F. J. Willmann, 87, Passes Away Friday

Funeral services for Frank J. Willmann, 87, of La Grange were held Sunday, February 8, at 2:00 P.M. at the Travis Street United Methodist Church with Rev. Joe Scott officiating.  Graveside services, under the auspices of the Masonic Lodge, were held at the La Grange City Cemetery.

Mr. Willmann, a retired school tax assessor-collector, died last Friday at his home.

Born March 21, 1888, in Mason, Texas, he was a son of William A. and Christina Leifeste Willmann.  He was united in marriage to Miss Marguerite Schroeder on May 24, 1931, in Schulenburg.

Mr. Willmann, a World War I veteran, was a member of the American Legion Post No. 102 and V.F.W. Post No. 5254, was also a member of the AF & AM No. 34 in La Grange.  He had resided here since 1931.

Surviving are his wife, Marguerite of La Grange; two sisters, Mrs. Hulda Shearer and Mrs. Alma Grosse, both of Mason; and a brother, Walter Willmann of Mason.

Contributed by Rob Brown

MARGUERITE SCHROEDER WILLMANN

The Fayette County Record
Friday, April 29, 1988

Services Held for Lifelong La Grange Community Leader

Mrs. Marguerite Willmann, 84, La Grange businesswoman, and civic and church leader, passed away Tuesday at Fayette Memorial Hospital.

Funeral services were held this Thursday at 10 a.m. at the Travis Street United Methodist Church with the Rev. Larry Robbins officiating.  Burial was in the La Grange City Cemetery.

Mrs. Willmann, owner of the Fayette County Abstract Co. for many years, was active in civic and church organizations.  She was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star, life member of Fayette Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, VFW Auxiliary, Friends of Winedale, American Legion Auxiliary, La Grange Garden Club, the Historical Society – particularly in the effort of preserving the old jail, and the Travis Street United Methodist Church and its organizations.

A lifetime resident of La Grange, she was born here Jan. 18, 1904, the daughter of the late John H. and Pauline (Melcher) Schroeder.  She was united in marriage with Frank J. Willmann in 1931 in Schulenburg.  Mr. Willmann preceded her in death in 1976.

Only immediate survivors are friends and cousins.

Koenig-Peel Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.

Contributed by Rob Brown

AGNES BOWMAN WILLRICH

The La Grange Journal, Thursday, July 13, 1911

Mrs. C. T. Willrich

At the home of her daughter, Mrs. E. L. McKinnon, near Schulenburg, with whom she had lived since the death of her husband, Mrs. C. T. Willrich died Friday, July 7, after an illness of several weeks.  She was the widow of the late Justice Willrich, for many years a resident of Schulenburg, where she enjoyed the esteem, friendship and love of all.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ANNA KLOSS WILLRICH

La Grange Journal
February 2, 1922

Mrs. Otto Willrich, Sr.

Another of Fayette County’s Older Citizens Journeys Hence

Late Thursday evening of last week death claimed another of the early settlers of the Bluff section, Mrs. Anna Willrich, Sr., passing to her reward after an illness that had lasted only two days.  At the time of her demise she was in her seventy-fifth year.

Mrs. Willrich was born in Mecklenburg, Germany, and came to America when she was a small girl.  Upon reaching her majority she became the wife of Otto Willrich, Sr., and to them were born ten children, three of whom preceded the mother in death.  ------- children, are as follows: Mesdames V. C. Sladczyk and Geo. C. Schaefer, Otto Willrich, Jr., La Grange; George Willrich, Jr., of Bluff, Louis and H. A. Willrich of Houston and Miss Rita at the old home.

Of Mrs. Willrich it may be truly said she was a good wife and mother, possessing the ever laudable hostess spirit and kindly consideration that made the Willrich home the meeting place of relatives and friends.  Her earthly remains were carried to the Cedar cemetery Saturday afternoon and placed to their last rest.  Rev. Heise officiating.  Her maiden name was Miss Anna Kloss and she was the last member of her family.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ANNA WIETING WILLRICH

The La Grange Journal
Thursday, October 22, 1914

A Sad Death

Friday night Mrs. Anna, wife of George Willrich, Jr., of Bluff, died at the farm home, after an illness that had lasted about ten days.  When first stricken, she was not believed to be seriously ill, but it was soon noticed that a surgical operation for appendicitis was absolutely necessary.  Drs. Hoch and Schulze, after consultation decided to have the operation performed, and secured the services of Dr. Thomas of Taylor.  The doctor arrived on the belated Katy, Thursday night, accompanied by a nurse, and the operation was successfully performed, but the patient never rallied, and peacefully passed away the next morning.

The home, which had been such a happy one was broken, the mother of two little boys, aged four and two years, and one baby boy of seven months, has joined the great majority.  Six years ago she stood by the side of her now mourning husband and blushingly replied in the affirmative to the officiating official.  She was a good wife and mother and her departure has left a bleeding wound, one which will ache and pain for many days.  May the Creator comfort the grieving husband, her brothers and sisters and protect the little motherless boys.

Mrs. Willrich, whose maiden name was Witting, was born near Plum, January 30, 1888, and was the possessor of a legion of friends.   Our sincerest sympathy is offered to the mourning relatives.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ANNIE VON MINDEN WILLRICH

Annie Willrich, 80 Passes Away Monday

Funeral services for Mrs. Annie Willrich, 80, were held Wednesday, August 7, at 2:00 P.M. at the St. Paul Lutheran Church with Rev. Clarence Oestreich officiating.  Burial was in the La Grange City Cemetery.

Mrs. Willrich passed away Monday at her residence.

She was born in Rutersville on December 5, 1887, a daughter of Henry and Minna Copperschmidt Von Minden, and was married to Otto T. Willrich, who passed away on May 18, 1933.  She had resided in the community most of her life.

Surviving are three sisters, Mrs. Marie Liebscher of Rutersville, Mrs. Fritz (Emma) Koopman of La Grange, and Miss Meta Von Minden of Austin; two grandchildren, Frank M. Addicks of Knoxville, Tenn., and Gilbert R. Addicks, Jr., of Atlanta, Ga.; and two great-grandchildren.

Mrs. Willrich remained at Koenig Funeral Home until noon Wednesday.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ANTONIA KORENEK WILLRICH

Mrs. Willrich Dies, Buried Tuesday

Funeral services for Mrs. Werner G. Willrich, 51, were held at 8:45 Tuesday morning at the Koenig Funeral Home with continued services at Sacred Heart Catholic church.  Msgr. S. A. Zientek and Rev. Harry Mazurkiewicz officiated.  Burial was in the La Grange City cemetery.

Mrs. Willrich passed away Saturday afternoon at the Fayette Memorial hospital.

She was the former Antonia Korenek daughter of  J. and Anna Siller Korenek of Plum and was born on Nov. 7, 1913 she was married to Mr. Wilrich [Willrich] on Jan. 16, 1939.  For the past 30 years she had been employed as saleslady at the New York store.

Surviving is her husband and parents, one son Werner Lee Willrich of La Grange; one sister, Mrs. Albina Zajicek of Plum; and one brother, Arnold Koenek [Korenek] of Plum.

Contributed by Rob Brown

CHARLES T. WILLRICH

La Grange Journal
May 10, 1906

Contributed by Rob Brown

ELISE WILLRICH

La Grange Journal
July 12, 1906

A Sad Death.

The citizens of our little city were much shocked Monday morning to learn of the sad death of Miss Elise Willrich which occured at the residence of her brother-in-law, George Schaefer. Miss Willrich was but twenty years of age, a lady for whom every one entertained a high regard and for whom a bright future had often been predicted. She was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Willrich, born at Bluff in December 1886, and possessed a charming disposition, which endeared her to all. Her sudden demise, although not entirely unexpected, was a shock to her friends, and the sympathy of the entire community is extended to the surviving relatives.

On June 19th, last, she came to LaGrange to attend the Summer Normal.  She attended the first day but as she was ill remained absent the second day, and suffered from swollen tonsils.  Although medical aid was solicited and loving hands administered to her every want, the approach of death was apparent and as the illness finally  culminated in blood poison, she passed away Monday morning at 4 o'clock.  The remains of the beloved young lady were conveyed to the Lewis cemetery at Cedar and there interred. The cortege was very large. Peace be with her.

Contributed by Rob Brown

ELISE KUKUK WILLRICH

MRS. ELISE WILLRICH

The subject of this sketch who died at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Emil Koehler, last Wednesday night, 16 October 1907, was one of the old landmarks of Fayette County. For several years the good old lady was blind, and an invalid, during which time her devoted daughter, Mrs. Koehler, administered to her every want and comfort. Death came to her peacefully, and amid the pleasant surroundings of a cheerful home. Her last years were one continual reign of darkness, through which only one ray of light crept the kind devotion of her relatives and the hope that the allwise Creator would soon call her home. The summons came Wednesday and she responded cheerfully. She had attained the ripe old age of ninety-nine years, 5 months and 19 days.

Mrs. Willrich, who was the only daughter of Major Kukuk of the English Army, Hanovarian Division, was born at Hanover, Germany on April 27, 1808. She was married to Judge Georg K. Wilirich and had four children, two sons and two daughters, viz: Prof. Julius Willrich who resides at Bluff; Mrs. Gustav Groos of San Antonio, Otto Willrich and Mrs. Emil Koehler of Bluff, were the fruits of this union. The family came to Texas in 1847 and located in Fayette County when the whole county was still in its infancy. Not only were her cares confined to the raising of her own children, but also to the raising of six children of her husband by a former marriage. Of these all have died except Mrs. Keuffel, who lives in Germany, and Mrs. John Vogt of O'Quinn. Beside her children, themselves grandparents, she leaves to mourn her loss twenty-three grandchildren and fifteen great grandchildren. The funeral took place Friday afternoon at 3 o'clock from the home of Emil Koehler, and the remains were followed to the Lewis Cemetery [Cedar Cemetery] by a very large number of relatives and friends who loved and honored her. May her rest be peaceful.

OTTO WILLRICH, SR.

La Grange Journal
February 14, 1929

THE OLD OAK WITHERS AND DIES

"As sturdy as the oak" - until the heavy hand falls and response is inevitable.  So "Come unto Me all ye who are weary, and heavy laden, and I will give thee rest."

Otto Willrich, Sr.

Born in Elsen, Hanover, Ger.    February 19, 1845
Died at La Grange, Texas February 13, 1929
Aged 83 yrs, 11 mos, 24 dys

In paying a tribute to this good citizen I seek not to worm my way into the good graces of those who were his dependents, as children, I refer to the man whom I have known since my early youth; I use the honorable name "man" because, in the circle in which he lived he had the respect of every one who knew him, and never hesitated to extend to me the right hand of fellowship.  To have known him is one of the precious assets of mine.   He belonged to that class of citizens who have made the world a better place in which to live; the legacy he leaves to his children is not measured according to his holdings, but in the standard of worth, which prompts those who knew him well, to say: "This was a man." He scorned to do a dishonest act, and was a living example of the son who believed it a valuable privilege to uphold, without stain - by act or speech - the name of his ancestors.  From his home, established when he took unto himself a mate, there was sent out a family of children who looked upon the father as an example to emulate. Otto Willrich was a citizen who craved no honors; in his retiring manner of living, not alone or unto himself; the doors were opened by the magic word of welcome to all who cared to enter. And with endowment the Creator gives to the sturdy oak of the forest, to withstand the ravages of time and the vicissitudes of life, he bore, with fortitude, whatever affliction there was visited upon him, realizing that the lot of all men, like the cross to the Savior, must be borne.  He accepted these edicts as they were tendered. And when the Great Reader, of the Chart of Life, wrote the edict, January 26, 1922, that a companionship of 52 years should cease, he bowed in acquescence, and saw Mama Anna, his wife, start on her celestial journey. All partings are painful, he lived on, patiently awaiting the hour when his name would be announced; yet he manifested his usual interest in all things, and stood ready, like the soldier of honor, to obey a command.  The world will not stop moving because he is gone; the world will not be changed, because of his going; there are too many of us still here, but this vacancy his going has caused, will be sacred to those who bear his descendency, and it will be an inspiration to them, because, Otto Willrich, Sr., was a worthy trustee, a guardian of the name entrusted to him.  He has passed to his sons and daughters, the sword of his father, of his grand-sires, and  thereon is no tarnish. He was a credit to his family name.  The loving prefix of father, following that of a son and grandson, remains as a memory in the circle in which he lived, and in the minds of relative and friend. I sincerely regret that my enfeebled condition prevented my attendance upon the hour when they carried him to his resting place.  I am glad it was my privilege to have known him, I would have been happier to have been more closely associated with him.  The sympathy, at the loss of a father and brother, is expressed to his sisters, and to his children.  B.F. HARIGEL

Otto Willrich was brought to America by his parents when still an infant - only one year old.  His parents settled in the old Bluff section and took up farming.  When Otto reached his fourteenth year, he was taken back to Germany, in order that he might receive the advantage of the tutelage of earned educations at his birthplace, and for four years he remained in Germany.  Returning to Fayette County as a young man, and to the parental home, he entered as a farmer and in the year 1870, was united in marriage with Miss Anna Kloss who made him a good wife, became the mother of his children and helped to rear a very interesting family.  Eleven children blessed this union; the living children are: Mrs. V.C. Sladczyk, Otto Willrich, Jr., and Mrs. Augusta, wife of Geo. Schaefer - La Grange; Geo.  Willrich, farmer near La Grange, H. A. and Louis Willrich of Houston, and Miss Rita, who nursed him in his declining years, and lived at the family home near the city. The children who preceded him were: Mrs. E. Lueders, Miss Elise, also grown, and Fritz, aged 2 years.  Mrs. Willrich died, as stated January 26, 1922.  Two sisters and one half-sister also survive. These are: Mrs. Franziska Vogt, La Grange; Mrs. Anna Gross, San Antonio; Mrs. Louise Koehler, La Grange.  Mr. and Mrs. Otto Willrich, Sr., with their living children and grandchildren present, and other relatives, celebrated the golden anniversary of their wedding, in the year 1920; there are 18 grandchildren and one great grandchild who survive him.  In attendance upon the funeral, held with religious services by Rev. R. Heise, first at the home of his son-in-law, V.C. Sladczyk, Wednesday afternoon at 2:30, and the body taken to the Cedar Cemetery and placed by the side of his wife, were many, relatives and friends - and the following from afar: Dr. Geo. Sladczyk of Port Arthur; Mr. and Mrs. S.S. Sengelmann of Houston; H.A. Willrich and family; Arthur Sladczyk and Louis Willrich of Houston and Gus Gross of San Antonio.  Requiescat in Pace.

Contributed by Rob Brown

OTTO T. WILLRICH

The La Grange Journal
Thursday, May 25, 1933

Otto T. Willrich Failed To Return Home

When relatives who had visited with him at the Brenham Hospital last Wednesday afternoon, returned to La Grange, they gave out the unfriendly report that while his condition was considered favorable, O. T. Willrich, injured in the automobile accident the Sunday previous, was far from being able to return, and in the event he did return, he would have to wear braces.  Which, unwilling as were his relatives and friends to accept the inevitable, denoted nothing less.  That the invasion of death should occur, as fast as it did, was to everyone a painful shock.  Mr. Willrich died at about 3:00 o’clock Thursday morning.

Sunday, May 14 – Mother’s Day

O. T. Willrich, Mrs. Willrich and son O. T., Jr., and niece, Miss Lorine Kruse, and Mr. and Mrs. C. H. Steinmann, in the Willrich family automobile, were en route to College Station to attend the program arranged for the entertainment of fathers and mothers for Mother’s Day, and met with a very deplorable accident.  In that accident Mrs. Steinmann was fatally injured and died within a few minutes after the automobile ceased to run; Mr. Willrich was taken to the Brenham Hospital, a dislocated vertabrae being his chief injury.  From Sunday morning until Thursday morning he lingered, and at 3:00 o’clock, without a struggle, he passed to his reward.

The body was brought to La Grange and prepared for burial; at the family home in the western end of the city, funeral services were held, and from the home the body was taken to the St. Paul Lutheran church, where Rev. R. Heise spoke in eulogy of the departed and the choir and Sunday school sang appropriate hymns.  The place of worship was filled with sympathizing friends, on the church yard were equally as many, who came to mingle their tears with those of the relatives and to pay respect to one who was ever regarded as a worthy citizen, a good father and husband, a friend to those who desired his friendship.  Interment was made at the new cemetery, with flowers banked high and over much space at the newly acquired plot.  The pall bearers were:  O. E. Stolz, Alex. E. von Rosenburg, O. E. Hagemann, Fred Wolters, Milton Schmidt and B. F. Harigel.

Biographical and Reference

Otto T. Willrich was born on what is generally known as Bluff, to the south of La Grange, and was the third child of Mr. and Mrs. Otto Willrich, who lived in that part of the county for more than fifty years.  He was reared on a farm, and was instructed in the events of life yet to transpire, to be honest, frugal, and above all, gentlemanly in his demeanor to his fellow man.  His parents were of that high type of citizenry who merited the good will and respect of their neighbors, and the children born to this union upheld that regard; Otto T. Willrich being a living example for many years.  Otto was born November 29, 1877; after leaving the farm he became associated with the local firm, The von Rosenberg Company; his strict attention to business, his loyalty, and his genial approach to custom, merited his continuance in the employ; that firm has lost a valuable man.

Unpretentious, believing in that principle that the best friends are those who are friends because their friendship is merited, he lived in peace and contentment with everyone.  Fourteen years ago, late in years of manhood, he was united in marriage with Mrs. Annie Addicks, and that union was blessed with one child, O. T. Jr.  The widow and son survive.  He is also survived by two brothers in Houston, Louis and Hans, and one brother of near La Grange, George Willrich.  Three sisters, Mesdames V. C. Sladczyk and George Schaefer, and Miss Rita Willrich also survive.  There are a number of nieces, cousins and nephews who will miss this good old boy, who always had the right hand extended in welcome.

The little widow, injured in the same accident, her face still discolored and her limbs aching from the effects of that injury, bore up bravely; she will miss him as all loving wives shall miss their chosen companion, but, in her firm belief she accepts the verdict of the Master, and looks forward to that day when the reunion shall occur.  “It is God’s will, and I shall not complain.”  What more beautiful can be the words of one who leaned upon the staff of her husband, and with him found peaceful happiness in their church membership.  Her older son, Gilbert O. Addicks, to whom Otto was ever an advisor and companion, upheld the arms of his mother and with equal fortitude bore up well under the affliction, both in the same faith and hope, looking forward to that Great Day when events of this sad nature shall cease.

Flowers are brought to the bier of one whom the community loved; in the passing of a citizen, that touch of Nature that makes the whole world kin, is exemplified by deed, and words of sympathy expressed.  When the sad news came, there was manifested an interest and sincere sympathy that would bring to the confession of appreciation, grateful words from the most indifferent.  The little widow, abed still from her injuries, welcomed her friends, they came constantly and with that open-hearted feeling of kinship created by the severing of the threads of life, sought to allay the pain that this parting had created.

The Journal believed in the man all knew as plain, good and kind Otto Willrich, the friendship of long standing suffered the blow to be inflicted and questioned not; yet, as the editor looked upon the calm, placid face, and in the next room saw the little woman who had, hand in hand gone down the pathway of life in real happiness, carrying on with him in every reversal as well as gladsome event, witnessed their sincere devotion and unflinching faith in their religious demeanor, it brought the usual query: “Why this separation?”

May Time deal gently with all who are feeling the pang of a temporary parting, and may the eventide, when the joy was experienced ever, at the home-coming, be robbed of its cruel sting, and that absence which is so keenly felt,  become less effective, to the end that even she who believed and still believes, may find comfort at the knowledge that temporary absence is but a meagre part of that course of human experience that ends in blissful communion, when loved ones shall gather together again, for all time.

Contributed by Rob Brown

2nd LT. OTTO T. WILLRICH

La Grange Journal, Thursday, September 7, 1944

Lieut. Otto Willrich Killed In France

Terse was the message received by Mrs. Annie Willrich, Monday afternoon at 5:00 o’clock:

“The Secretary of War desires me express his deep regret that your son, 2^nd Lieut. Otto T. Willrich, was killed in action on the 17^th of August in France.  Letter follows.”

SignedL J. H. ULIO,
The Adt. General

Contributed by Rob Brown

Fayette County Record, Friday, September 8, 1944

Second Lieut. O. T. Willrich, 21, of La Grange was killed in action in France on August, 17, according to a message received by his mother, Mrs. Annie Willrich, late Monday afternoon from the war department.

Lieut. Willrich was with the 35th Infantry Division, a part of Lieut. Gen. George S. Patton's Third Army, which at that time was headed for Luxembourg.

He was the first army officer from La Grange to lose his life in World War II, and was a high school mate of Ensign Alton W. Hanisch, who perished in a plane crash off the West Coast August 26.

Lieut. Willrich was born at La Grange on January 12, 1923, and graduated from high school here in 1940. He entered Texas A. and M. college, and lacked only seven semester hours (six weeks of work) of graduating when he was called by the army on Mary 21, 1943. After being stationed for a time at Fort Sam Houston, he was sent to officers' candidate school at Fort Benning, Georgia, where he received his commission on January 21 this year. His next station was Fort Jackson, South Carolina, until early June, when he was sent to England and then to France on July 7.

His last letter to his mother was written on August 13. Over four days . . . He told of a hard battle.

Beside his mother, he leaves a half-brother, Capt. Gilbert Addicks of Knoxville, Tennessee, who is stationed in the state of Georgia.