Beken, Annie [Anna] Maria Wilhelmine (Havemann)Mrs. Beken, 81, Succumbs to Long IllnessFuneral services were held Friday afternoon, Feb. 24, at Weimar United Church of Christ for Mrs. Henry Beken Sr., 81, with burial in Masonic Cemetery, Rev. Frank Horak officiated. Mrs. Beken died Thursday, Feb. 23, in Columbus Convalescent Home after a year’s illness. She was a lifelong resident of the Weimar area. The former Miss Anna Maria Wilhelmine Havemann, she was born January 2, 1886, at Content, a daughter of Theodor and Louise Strehbeck Havemann. She was married to Mr. Beken at New Bielau on Dec. 6, 1906, and they settled there to spend the rest of their lives. Mrs. Beken was a member of Weimar United Church of Christ and the Women’s Guild. Surviving are three sons, Arthur, Edgar and Henry Beken Jr., all of Weimar; two daughters, Mrs. Bill (Louise) Hoegemeyer of Weimar and Mrs. Anton (Esther Mae) Hilscher of Austin; 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren; one sister, Mrs. Max Lindegger of Houston; and three brothers, Otto Havemann of Oakland and Hugo and Eric Havemann of Houston. Pallbearers were Henry L. Beken, John Beken, Arthur Ray Beken, Howard Hoegemeyer, Wm. Henry Hoegemeyer, Mike Hilscher, Bobby Skeete and Donald Ray Dunn. Weimar Mercury, March 2, 1967
Beken, August D.Funeral services for August Beken, 82, were held Tuesday, June 29, at Weimar United Church of Christ with burial in Masonic Cemetery. Rev. D. L. R. McDougle officiated. Mr. Beken died June 27 at Youens Memorial Hospital after suffering a stroke ten days earlier at Parkview Manor. He had lived at the Manor since January. Born August 15, 1893 at New Bielau, he was a son of J. F. (Fritz) and Louise (Ehlers) Beken. He married Clara Rahlwes at her parents' home at Content on January 30, 1919; she preceded him in death in February, 1957. A retired rancher and lifelong resident of this area, Mr. Beken served in the Army in World War I. He served on the county school board many years, retiring in April this year. He was a member of Weimar United Church of Christ, where he had served on the church council a number of times, and a member of the local American Legion post. He is survived by two sons, Walton and Milton both of Weimar; one daughter, Mrs. Albert (Maxine) Janak of Weimar; nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild; and two sisters, Mrs. Ella Michalek and Mrs. Ernest Hasse, both of Weimar. Pallbearers were Al Curtis Janak, Mack Janak, Kelly Janak, Walt Beken, Dean Kahlich, Ford Beken and Werner Boeer Jr. Weimar Mercury, July 8, 1976
Beken, Baby GirlA little baby girl was born to Mr. and Mrs. August Beken the first of the week, but the little treasure lived only one day. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to the bereaved parents in the loss of their little darling. [Place in interment unknown] Weimar Mercury, December 21, 1928, page 1
Beken, Clara (Rahlwes)Funeral Services For Mrs. A. Beken, 59, Set FridayFuneral services for Mrs. Clara Beken, 59, wife of August Beken of he New Bielau area, will be held at Weimar Evangelical and Reformed Church tomorrow (Friday) at 2:30 p.m. with Rev. F. H. Horak Jr. officiating. Interment will be in the Masonic Cemetery here. Mrs. Beken died at 9:50 Wednesday night in Youens Hospital, after an illness of about three months. Born November 27, 1897, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Rahlwes. she was a lifelong resident of this area. She was married to Mr. Beken here Jan. 30, 1919. She was a member of he Evangelical and Reformed Church and Women’s Guild here and the Ladies’ Aid at New Bielau. Surviving in addition to her husband are one daughter Mrs. Albert (Maxine) Janak, two sons, Walton and Milton Beken and 9 grandchildren, all of the Weimar area; two brothers, Charles and Willie Rahlwes of Weimar; and two sisters, Mrs. Emil (Emma) Beken of Weimar and Mrs. Augusta Trojan of Rosebud. Weimar Mercury, February 8, 1957, page 1
Beken, ClarenceClarence Beken, 37, Succumbs to Heart DiseaseThe many friends of Clarence Beken, 37-year-old New Bielau dairyman and farmer, were shocked and saddened Tuesday morning by the news that he had died at Youens Hospital after a heart attack. He had entered the hospital six days earlier for an emergency operation to correct an intestinal block. He had stood the operation well and was due to be released from the hospital about Tuesday or Wednesday. Tuesday morning, sometime between 6:15 and 6:30, he died in his sleep. An autopsy revealed the heart disease. His family and friends were totally unprepared for the turn of events. Sadly they recalled that Clarence’s younger brother, Wilfred, only other son of the Emil Beken, had died 14 years ago at the age of 17, after one day of illness. Born Nov. 26, 1918, at New Bielau, he continued to live on the home place after his marriage, Aug. 1, 1953, to Miss Lornette Stech, and was successfully engaged in dairying, farming and ranching. He was a member of Evangelical and Reformed Church of Weimar. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 3, at the church, with Rev. F. H. Horak Jr. officiating. Burial was in Weimar Masonic Cemetery. Pallbearers were Fred Froehlich, Herman Paweleck, Davis Gindler, Ed Rabel, Milroy Christen, Ernest Scott, Billy Strunk and Wilburn Leppin. Mr. Beken’s survivors are his wife, Mrs. Lornette Beken; two daughters, Kay Dawn and La Dot; his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Emil Beken of New Bielau; and two sisters, Mrs. Wm. Ratliff of Weimar and Mrs. Howell Pogue of San Antonio. The Weimar Mercury October 5, 1956
Beken, EdgarEdgar Beken Funeral Held April 12Funeral services for Edgar Beken, 82, were held April 12 at Weimar United Church of Christ with Rev. Norman “Skip” Sirnic officiating. Burial was in Weimar Masonic Cemetery. Beken, a lifelong resident of the Weimar area and a well-known cattle buyer and rancher, died at his home in Weimar on April 11. He was born July 14, 1910 to Henry and Annie (Havemann) Beken in the New Bielau area. He attended the New Bielau-Content School. He married Wilhelmina Klare on Dec. 27, 1934 at La Grange His wife survives him, along with two daughters, Will Ann and husband Clem Nava of Edna and Brooksie and husband Delbert Fuchs of Weimar; a sister, Louise Hoegemeyer of Weimar; a brother, Henry “Heine” Beken of Weimar; five grandchildren, Sharon Kaye Beken Davis, Todd Beken Nava, Klare Louise Nava, Sarah Jane Fuchs and David Wayne Fuchs; and one great-grandchild, Samantha Kaye Davis. Preceding him in death were a son, Maurice Edgar Beken; a brother, Arthur Beken; and a sister, Esther Mae Hilscher. Beken was a charter member of Weimar Lions Club, constable of Weimar Precinct for 30 years, an honorary member of the Weimar FFA, and on the church board of Weimar United Church of Christ. Pallbearers were Arthur Ray Beken, Henry L. Beken, William Henry Hoegemeyer, Todd Beken Nava, Freddy Hilscher, Jimmy Hilscher, Howard Hoegemeyer and Doyle Colwell. Honorary pallbearers were David Wayne Fuchs, Sloan Williams, David Hoffpauir, Elaine Hoffpauir, Mike Hilscher, Clay Hoffpauir and James C. Davis. The Weimar Mercury April 15, 1993
Beken, EmilEmil Beken, 69, Dies; Services Held Here SundayFuneral services for Emil Beken, 69, lifetime rancher, dairyman and farmer of the New Bielau community, were held Sunday afternoon, Jan. 22, at Weimar United Church of Christ (E&R), with Rev. F. H. Horak Jr., officiating. Interment was in the Masonic Cemetery. Although his health had been failing for some time, Mr. Beken had been ill only 2 days when he succumbed Friday, Jan. 9, in Renger Hospital at Hallettsville. Born June 5, 1889, on the Beken homestead farm at New Bielau, now the Dick Beken residence, he was a son of Frederich (Fritz) and Louise Beken. He married Miss Emma C. Rahlwes Dec. 14, 1915, at the home of her parents in the Content community. She survives, along with two daughters, Mrs. Wm. (Florine) Ratliff of Weimar and Mrs. Howell (Elma) Pogue of San Antonio; 3 grandchildren, Billye Lynn Ratliff, and Kay Down and La Dot Beken, all of Weimar; 4 brothers, Fritz of Houston, Henry, August and Dick of Weimar; and two sisters, Mrs. Ella Michalck nd Mrs. Sophie Hasse of here. Two sons, Clarence and Wilfred, and 3 brothers, Otto, Willie and Ernst, preceded him in death. Weimar Mercury, January 16, 1959, page 1
Beken, Emma C. (Rahlwes)Funeral for Mrs. E. Beken Held SaturdayFuneral services for Mrs. Emma Beken, 90, of Weimar were held Saturday, May 1, from Weimar United Church of Christ, with Rev. Ernest Dean officiating. Burial was in Masonic Cemetery. Mrs. Beken died Thursday, April 29, at Chandler Nursing Home in San Antonio. Born at Weimar on April 17, 1892, she was a daughter, of William and Marie (Schwede) Rahlwes. She was, married here to Emil Beken on December 14, 1915. He died on January 9, 1959. The Bekens operated a dairy farm in the New. Bielau community for many years She moved to Weimar after his death, and later to the nursing home. Two sons preceded Mrs. Beken in death: Wilfred on January 21, 1942, and Clarence on October 2, 1956. Four brothers, three sisters, and , a son-in-law, William Ratliff, also died before her. She is survived by a daughter here, Mrs. Florine Ratliff; a daughter and son-in-law in San Antonio, Elma and Howell Pogue; a daughter-in-law, Mrs. Lornette Beken of Weimar; four grandchildren, Billye Lynn Ratliff, Kay Dawn Marburger, La Dot Schoeneberg and James Lewis; and three great-grandchildren, Kristen Kay and Mark Ryan Schoeneberg and Adam Lewis. Serving as pallbearers were Henry Beken Jr., Ernest Hasse Jr., Hilmer Hasse, Milton Beken, Walton Beken, Melvin Albright, Otto Rahlwes and C E. Wood. Honorary pallbearers were Owen Beken, Edgar Beken, Fred Beken, Clarence Bullock, Gus Trojan Jr., Wilbert Trojan, Arthur Boehm, Albert Janak, Anton Hilscher, James Piwetz and Sem Kegley. Weimar Mercury, May 6, 1982, page 13
Beken, ErnstThere were two deaths in this section Tuesday morning, both from diphtheria. A 10-year-old daughter of Henry Stahl and wife, who live on route 2, near Dubina, and Ernest, the 10-year-son of Fritz Beken, Sr., and wife who live a few miles southeast of town, were the victims. To the grief-stricken familes the heartfelt sympathy of everybody goes out, in the loss of their bright and beloved children. May the good Father above comfort and console them in their bereavement, is our sincere wish. Weimar Mercury, March 21, 1913, page 1 News Frpm New BielauThe unexpected sad news which was heralded here this (Tuesday) morning telling of the death of Master Ernst Beken youngest son of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Beken of Content was a shock to this entire community. Interment of the deceased ttook place this (Tuesday) afternoon at the New Bielau cemetery. Rev.Paul Piepenbrok conducted the funeral services. Our heartfelt sympathy is extended the bereaved. Weimar Mercury, March 21, 1913, page 8 |
Beken, HenryHenry Beken Dies at WeimarLast rites for Henry Beken, 80, were held at the United Church of Christ in Weimar Monday, Rev. Frank Horak officiating. Burial was in the Masonic Cemetery of Weimar. Mr. Beken died Sunday morning. He was born and spent his entire life in the New Bielau community. He is survived by his widow, the former Annie Havemann; 3 sons, Arthur, Edgar and Henry, Jr. of Weimar and 2 daughters, Mrs. Bill Hoegemeyer of Weimar and Mrs. Anton Hilscher of Austin, also 14 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren; 2 sisters, Mrs. Ernest Hasse and Mrs. Ella Mahalek of Weimar, and 2 brothers, August and Dick Beken of Weimar. Several brothers died earlier. The Colorado County Citizen, November 25, 1965
Beken Henry “Heine”Henry Beken Funeral Services Held Oct. 6Henry (Heine) Beken, 92, of Weimar died Oct. 5 in Weimar. Funeral services were held Thursday, Oct. 6 at the Weimar UCC Church with Rev. Glen Schoeneberg officiating. Interment followed at St. Michael Cemetery. Henry was born on Nov. 26, 1912 in New Bielau to Henry and Anna (Havemann) Beken. He married Earlyne (Cranek) Beken on April 1, 1942 in Schulenburg. Mr. Beken lived 92 years in the Weimar area. Henry enjoyed working as a rancher. He served in World War II in the Military Police. He also was a member of the Cowboy Turtle Association, Rodeo Cowboy Association, San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo founding member of the Calf Scramble Committee, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Calf Scramble Committee, Tejas Vaqueros, founder and member of the Texas Trailriders, Director of the Texas State Championship High School Rodeo, and member of the Texas and Southwest Cattleraiser’s Association. He is survived by his wife Earlyne; son, Henry L. and wife Beth; daughter, Julia Hollek; granddaughter, Jessica Beken; grandsons, Stuart Beken and wife Heather, Ryan Hollek, Justin Hollek and wife Lori, and Wyatt Hollek; and great-grandsons, Harrison Beken and Grant Hollek. He was preceded in death by his son, John Beken; brothers, Arthur and Edgar Beken; sisters, Louise Hoegemeyer and Esther Mae Hilscher. Pallbearers were Arthur Ray Beken, William Henry Hoegemeyer, James “Cotton” Cranek, Frank Cranek, John Stuckley, Dennis Knebel, Gerald Kosler and Donnie Dittrich. Memorial contributions may be made to the Weimar FFA, Hospice of South Texas 12098 N. Texana Ste. A. Hallettsville, Tx, 77964 or charity of your choice. Weimar Mercury, October 13, 2005
Beken, Herman OttoMr. H. Otto Beken, 55, Buried Here Friday, Feb. 14Funeral services for Mr. Herman Otto Beken, 55, lifetime citizen and prominent farmer of the New Bielau vicinity, were held from the Hubbard Funeral Home here Friday, Feb. 14, the Rev. C. Emigholz officiating. Interment was in the New Bielau Cemetery. Born April 3, 1891, at New Bielau, he was the son of Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Beken, Sr., one of he pioneer families of that area. He married Miss Edith Hoegemeyer at Weimar Nov. 1, 1916. Mr. Beken died suddenly Wednesday, Feb. 12, at Temple, where he was preparing to enter the clinic. His death came as a sad shock to his many friends here. He was a member of the Lutheran Church. Surviving are his widow, Mrs. Edith Beken of Weimar; one son, Leroy of Weimar; five brothers, Fritz B, Jr., Henry, Emil, August, and Dick, all of he New Bielau area; two sisters, Mrs. Adolf Michalek of Edna and Mrs. Ernst Hasse of New Bielau. Two brothers preceded him in death. Pallbearers at the funeral were Clarence Beken, Walton Beken, Fred Beken, Wilfred Hoegemeyer, Cecil Hoegemeyer, and Hilmer Hasse. Weimar Mercury, February 21, 1947, page 1
Beken, J. F. “Fritz:”Pioneer citizen of This community Passes Unto His RewardIn the passing of Mr. J. F. Beken, Sr., unto his eternal reward, which took place at the family residence a short distance south of town last Friday, Sept. 14, after a comparatively brief illness, our section lost one of its noblest and best citizens, a man whose word was in truth “as good as his bond," a man loved and respected by everyone irrespective or[sic] race or creed. Mr. Beken's health had not been very good for several years, but up to within a short time ago he continued his activities. Always a man of energy and thrift, he could not sit down and take life easy, as many of his friends advised him to do. He felt that an idler had no place on this earth, and feeling that way it irked him to be unemployed. From the time he was taken ill and forced to go to bed, it was realized his condition was serious and although physicians and' family and friends did all in their power to stay the hand of Death, it was of no avail. After a few days of high fever and suffering, his poor, tired spirit succumbed, and our good friend had gone on to join his beloved ones in the other and better world above. Funeral arrangements were made and the body taken to the New Bielau Cemetery Sunday afternoon at 3 o'clock for its final resting place. Touching funeral services were held at the residence and also at the grave by the family pastor, Rev. Paul Piepenbrok, Lutheran minister. Active pall bearers were Messrs. Henry J. Laas, Geo. Herder, Jr., D. Schroeder, Fritz Wendt, Fred Froehlich and J. F. W. Koehn. Honorary pall bearers named by the family were as follows: F. E. Brandes, Aug. Brandes, H. W. Laging of Nordheim, Wm. Rahlwes, Chas. F. Hoegemeyer, Albin Stirl, Henry Harmes and Fred Behlen of Shiner, Aug. Dahse, John Juergens, Gerh. Kuck and Adolf Michalek. J. F. Beken was born July 27, 1854, in Westerstede, Province of Oldenburg, Germany. He came to this country in company with Henry Harmes (now a resident of Shiner) in the fall of 1879, when he was 23 years of age. He and Mr. Harmes located with a farmer on what is known as the Polk farm a short distance southeast of Weimar, and took up the carpenter trade. This they followed for a number of years. On March 21. 1883, Mr. Beken was united in marriage to Miss Louise Ehlers, the ceremony taking place at Content. Here the couple lived for awhile then moved to their present home, where they have resided ever since. Of Mr. Beken’s early life in Germany as a boy and as a youth, much could be said. His was a continuous struggle with hardships, and as he grew older and read of America and its opportunities, he was fired with an ambition to come here and settle, hence the momentous voyage of Mr. Beken and Mr. Harmes as young men to the new land. Early in life Mr. Beken was seized with a desire to possess a farm, and the first $500 he owned he Invested in same. Later as he prospered he made other purchases of real estate until he became one of the largest land owner; in the west end of the county. He also loved stock raising and at times was possessor of quite large herds of cattle. Through indomitable energy, honesty and thrift he has left to his loved ones an estate of no means proportions. In 1905 Mr. Beken, in company with old time friends. H. W. Laging, F. E. Brandes and Fritz Ehlers, visited their former homes In Germany, and the trip proved a. momentous and happy one to all, as with some of the party it was their first visit home In many years. Ten children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Beken, two of whom died. Surviving him are the widow, Mrs. Louise Beken, and the following children: Fritz Beken of Ganado, Henry, Emil, Otto, August and Dietrich Beken, all of New Bielau, Mrs. Ella Michalek of Edna and Mrs. Sophie Hasse of New Bielau; also 22 grandchildren, and two sisters. Mrs. Johanna Koehler of near Weimar and Mrs. Louise Beken residing in Germany. Mr. Beken was a member of the Evang. Luth. Trinity Church in New Bielau. For many years he was trustee and president of said congregation. His age at time of death was 74 years. I month and 18 days. If Fritz Beken had an enemy on earth, no one knew of It. Always kindly and forgiving, always ready to extend a helping hand to those less fortunate than himself, an upright, honorable man under any and all circumstances. "none knew him but to praise.' In his passing all of us feel that we have in deed and truth lost one of the best and dearest friend that we ever possessed. May God be merciful to his bereaved ones and extend to them the comfort that He alone can. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to them. Weimar Mercury, September 21, 1827, page 1
Beken, John CharlesFinal Rites for Wreck Victims Held TuesdayShock and gloom pervaded Weimar Tuesday as funeral services for two young victims of Sunday morning’s tragedy were held. [See Fuchs, Byron Dale for other obit] Services for John Beken, 16, were held in the morning at Hubbard Funeral Home and St. Michael’s Catholic Church, with Rev. Albert Hubertus officiating. Burial was in St. Michael’s Cemetery. Pallbearers were Louis Cranek, Lester Cranek Jr., Lynn Cranek, James Louis Cranek, Howard Wayne Hoegemeyer, Arthur Ray Beken, Michael Hilscher, all cousins and Billy Bob Strunk and Freddie Garrett. Honorary pallbearers were his school classmates. John Charles Beken was born August 25, 1950, the son of Henry and Earline Cranek Beken, and would have been a senior at Weimar High School this fall. 4-H, Rodeo WinnerHe was last year’s Gold Star 4-H Boy of the county and a member of the executive committee of the Colorado County 4-H Horse Club. In his seven years as a 4-H member he was a frequent winner at livestock shows with his beef cattle. He was to be one of the mainstays of the football team this year at Weimar High, but probably the sport he was most fond of was rodeoing, in which he also excelled. Just two weeks ago he won the sportsmanship trophy at the Yoakum Youth Rodeo. He had been working for his father this summer, in his cattle business and at the feed store. John is survived by his parents, a brother, Henry Louis, 19, a sophomore at Texas Tech this fall; a sister, Julia Ann, 9, at home; and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. L. V. Cranek of Garwood. His other grandparents were the late Mr. and Mrs. Henry Beken Sr. Weimar Mercury, August 10, 1967, pages 1 and 4
Beken, John F.Mr. John Beken Dead--Funeral SundayMr. John Beken, well known resident of this section, died in a hospital at La Grange Saturday last, after an illness covering many months. The remains were brought home and on Sunday afternoon were laid to rest in the cemetery at New Bielau, Rev. Paul Piepenbrok officiating in the presence of a large assemblage of mourning relatives and friends. Mr. John Beken was born in Germany, but came to this country at the age of 11 years. He lived in this part of Texas up to the time of his death. Part of the time he made his home with his brother, J. F. Beken, and at other times with his sister, Mrs. Hy. Koehler. He was 54 years of age at the time of death. He had been in ill health for a number of months. Besides the brother and sister living near Weimar, he has a sister living in Germany. Mr. Beken was an honest, upright, quiet and unobtrusive, good citizen, possessing the friendship and esteem of all who knew him. Many friends deeply and sincerely regret his passing. Our heartfelt sympathy goes out to his bereaved ones. Weimar Mercury, September 9, 1927, page 1
Beken, Joy MarieFuneral for Joy Beken, 16, Held ThursdayFuneral services for Joy Marie Beken, 16, who died Tuesday, Sept. 19, of a brain hemorrhage after a short illness, were held Thursday, Sept. 21, in Weimar United Church of Christ, with Rev. Robert N. Crawford officiating. She was buried in Masonic Cemetery. Joy became ill Friday and was taken to a specialist in Houston after examination here. She succumbed at 4:10 p.m. Tuesday in Methodist Hospital. A junior at Weimar High School, Joy was born here March 24, 1956, the daughter of Leroy C. and Wilma Glancy Beken. She was a member of the United Church of Christ. Surviving her in addition to her parents are two brothers, Roy E. Beken of Houston and Lee F. Beken of Weimar, a sister, Sue Beth Beken of Richmond; and her grandmothers, Mrs. Edith (Otto) Beken and Mrs. Clara (Alfred) Glancy. Pallbearers were Freddy Schwegmann, Royce Smathers, Kenenth Oeltjendiers, Neal Schoeneberg, Kelly Janak, and Roy Christen. The Weimar Mercury, September 28, 1972
Beken, Leroy C.Leroy Beken Dies at 54 In MontanaFuneral services for Leroy Beken, 54, were held Thursday afternoon, Sept. 23 at Hubbard Funeral Home here, with burial in Masonic Cemetery. Rev. Walter Simpson of Schulenburg officiated. Mr. Beken died Monday Sept. 25, in Chinook, Montana, where he was doing pipeline construction work. He was a lifelong resident of Weimar. Born August 5, 1918, he was a son of Otto and Edith Hoegemeyer Beken. He attended Live Oak and New Bielau schools and served in a cavalry division of the Army in World War II. He married Miss Wilma Glancy here July 19, 1947. She survives, along with two sons, Roy of Houston and Lee of Weimar; a daughter, Sue, of Richmond; and his mother, Mrs. Edith Beken, a resident of Parkview Manor here. Mr. Beken’s death was just six days after that of his 16-year old daughter, Joy. His father preceded him in death in 1947. Pallbearers were Gus Kuehn, Ervin Kuehn, Joe Moore, George Struck, Jr., Merle Sin, and F. C. (Buddy) Seifert. The Weimar Mercury, October 5, 1972
Beken, LouisaMuchly Beloved Lady Passes Unto RewardAs mentioned briefly in last issue of the Mercury, Mrs. Louisa, Beken, widow of the late Mr. Fritz Beken, Sr., and one of our most beloved ladies, passed away Tuesday of last week. and the remains were laid to rest in the New Bielau Cemetery at 2 o'clock p. m. Wednesday in the presence of a large gathering of mourning relatives and friends, Rev. Paul Piepenbrok, her pastor for many years, officiating in a touching burial service. The active pall bearers were as follows: Messrs. Ed Rabel, Wm. Wienken, D. Schroeder. Otto Havemann, Wm. Stech, Emil Raabe. Gus Dahse and J. F. W. Koehn. Honorary pall bearers named by the family are as follows: Messrs. Ernst Brandes, Henry Hoelscher, Adolf Michalek, Sr., Albin Stirl, Chas. F. Hoegemeyer, Sr., Otto Leppin, Aug. Brandes, Aug. Dahse, Wm. Rahlwes. Geo. Herder, Sr., Henry J. Laas, John H. Brooks, Fred Froehlich, Edmund Otto, Adolf Engels. Henry Hattermann, Sr., Gust. Berger, Henry Oncken, Emil Brandt, Louis Pawelek[sic] and Gerhard Oncken. Mrs. Louisa Beken was born In the year 1860, at Westerstade, Provinz of Oldenberg. Germany, and was 69 years of age at the time of her death. With several members of her family she cause to America In 1881, the party landing at Galveston. From Galveston they came to the Weimar section, and practically all of Mrs. Beken's life from that time on was spent in this vicinity. On March 31, 1883, she was united in marriage to Mr. J. F. Beken, and to this union ten children were born--eight sons and two daughters. Of this number eight are still living, two sons having died earlier in life. The living children are as follows: Mr. Fritz Beken, Jr., of Ganado, Messrs. Henry, Emit, Otto and August Beken of Weimar, Mrs. Adolf Michalek, Jr., of Edna. Mr. Dick Beken of Weimar and Mrs. Sophie Hasse of the New Bielau section. All were present at the bedside of their beloved mother when the end came. In the death of Mrs. Beken our section has lost one of its most valued and popular lady residents. Mrs. Beken was an exceptional wife, mother, neighbor and friend, one whose presence lent cheer to every gathering she attended, and it was a pleasure indeed to visit in her home. Bereft of husband and life compassion not so many months ago, she bore up bravely and "carried on," as the soldier boys are wont to say, but the struggle proved futile. Her health failed, and she gradually grew weaker. Everything possible was done for her welfare and comfort, but it was In vain. God called her, and she answered the summons, there to meet her loved one, gone on before. And, Oh, what a joyful reunion it must have been! Many hearts throughout this section are saddened over the death of this truly good woman, but it was God's will that she should go, and all bow in humble submission to "Him who doeth all things well". May God bless and comfort her bereaved ones in our sincere, heartfelt wish. Weimar Mercury, November 15, 1929, page 1
Beken, Maurice EdgarMaurice Beken, 26, is Killed As Truck Hits Hwy. 90 BridgeMaurice Beken, 26, Weimar cattleman, was killed at 1:30 a.m. Sunday when his pickup truck veered across Highway 90 near Borden and hit a concrete bridge head-on. Apparently he died instantly. The truck flipped over on its top in the shallow drainage bed, and Beken, who was driving alone, was partly thrown out. Highway Patrolman Alton Adcock, returning to Columbus from Weimar, came upon the wrekage[sic] at 1:45. He saw what he thought was smoke (it was steam) coming from the south side of the bridge and thought perhaps a tramp had started a fire. As he got to the bridge he saw the wooden guard posts had been knocked down. Swinging his lights around then, he saw the overturned pickup. Beken was coming toward Weimar when the accident occurred. The small bridge, 7 miles east of here, is the first one on Hwy. 90 this side of where Interstate 10 joins that highway, about 500 feet from the point where they merge. Beken’s truck drifted across to the left side and hit a 4-inch sign post first, about 100 feet from the bridge, then clipped of[sic] the two 6-inch guard posts and hit the bridge with such force that the radiator of the truck was driven back about 30 inches. It is believe the steering column caused the driver’s fatal injury. Apparently he had fallen asleep, for there were no skid marks to indicate he had touched the brakes at all. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon, Dec. 19, at Weimar United Church of Christ, with Rev. Frank Horak officiating. Burial was in Masonic Cemetery. Maurice Edgar Beken was born Dec. 7, 1940, the son of Edgar and Wilhelmina Klare Beken, and was a lifelong resident of Weimar. Baptized and confirmed in the Weimar United Church of Christ, he was graduated from Weimar High School in 1959 and from Sam Houston State Teachers College in 1964 and since that time had been associated with Beken Brothers, cattle buyers. He married Miss Elaine McCroskey of Bay City on August 2, 1963. In addition to his wife he is survived by a two-year-old daughter, Sharon Kaye Beken; his parents; two sisters, Miss Will Ann Beken, a teacher at Iago, and Miss Brooksie Beken, student at Texas A&I College; and his grandmothers, Mrs. Henry Beken Sr. and Mrs. Minnie Klare, residents of Columbus Convalescent Home. Pallbearers were Wm. Henry Hoegemeyer, Donald R. Dunn, Henry L. Beken, Bill Banker, Sloan Williams, John Voss McCroskey, Hubert Johnson, and Guy Chamblee. Weimar Mercury, December 22, 1966, page 1
Beken, Sue BethSue Beth Beken Funeral Services Held Feb. 14Sue Beth Beken of Richmond died Feb. 12. Funeral services were held Feb. 14 at the Hubbard Funeral Home with Pastor Ralph Ludwig. Interment followed in the Masonic Cemetery. Sue was born Dec. 29, 1959 in Weimar and spent the last 32 years as a special child in Richmond State School. Her loving survivors include her mother Wilma Beken; brothers Lee of Weimar and Roy and wife Melba of Rosharon. Other survivors include aunts, an uncle and numerous cousins. She was preceded in death by her father Leroy and one sister, Joy. Serving as pallbearers were Arthur Ray Beken, Charles Bittner, John Bittner, Dickie Muehr, Roger Albright and Kelly Janak. Memorial contributions may be made to Richmond State School, Richmond, in her name or any charity of your choice. The Weimar Mercury February 17, 2000 |
Beken, Walt OttoWalt Beken Dies As Tractor FlipsA tragic tractor accident last Saturday morning claimed the life of 27-year-old Walt Beken of Weimar, son of the Walton Bekens. He was driving a Case 1175 tractor up the loading ramp of a transport truck when the tractor flipped over backward, crushing him underneath. The accident occurred at the Beken cattle pens, five miles northeast of Weimar, at 7:35 a.m. The transport truck, belonging to a Giddings company, had been hired to haul the tractor to Bastrop, where it was to be used in some plowing. An employee of the transport company, Joseph A. Shackleford, 31, of La Grange, was a witness to the accident. Apparently this is what happened: Beken had driven the tractor to the top of the ramp, but the big rear wheels hadn’t cleared the incline. For some reason, probably to get a better position, he began backing the machine down, going very slowly, keeping the clutch in and braking steadily. That is considered proper procedure, but it is believed his foot slipped off the clutch while the tractor was still in forward gear, causing the lighter front end to rear up. Funeral services were held Monday afternoon from Weimar United Church of Christ, with burial in Masonic Cemetery. Rev. Ernest Dean officiated. Pallbearers, all cousins, were Al Curtis Janak, Mack Janak, Kelly Janak, Ford Beken, Hal Leppin, Scott Leppin and Todd Leppin. Walt Otto Beken was born, at Weimar on August 1 1955, the son of Walton and Doris (Leppin) Beken. He graduated from Weimar High School, attended Texas Tech University, and graduated from Texas A&M University in 1977 with a degree in agricultural economics. A gas and oil right-of-way agent, he was a member of Weimar United Church of Christ, Theta Chi Fraternity, Texas A&M Former Students, A&M 100 Club, and lifetime member of the Houston Livestock Show. Surviving in addition to his parents are a sister and brother-in-law, Jan and William Klingsporn of Burton; and his grandparents, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar Leppin of Weimar. Weimar Mercury, September 30, 1982
Beken, Walton AugustLongtime Cattleman Walton Beken DiesWalton Beken, well known livestock order buyer and partner in Beken Cattle Co., died at 4:45 p.m. Monday, April 6, in Columbus Community Hospital, after several months of illness. He was 64. Funeral services were held Wednesday afternoon from Weimar United Church of Christi, with Rev. Ernest Dean officiating. Burial was in Masonic Cemetery. He was a member of Weimar UCC [United Church of Christ], where he had just completed a term as president of the church-council. He had also served in numerous other capacities at his church, including as a member of the adult choir. He was a member of Masonic Lodge No. 423, the Colorado Masonic Lodge No. 423, the Colorado Valley Shrine Club and Arabian Temple of the Scottish Rite. A longtime supporter of the Weimar FFA and volunteer worker in its livestock shows, he was elected an honorary chapter member several years ago. Born April 16, 1922, in the New Bielau community, Walton August Beken was a son of August and Clara (Rahlwes) Beken. He graduated from Weimar High School in 1939 and from Nov. 10, 1942, until Jan. 16, 1946, served in the U. S. Army, including duty in the Philippines. He married Doris Leppin on Dec. 20, 1947. She survives him, along with: a daughter and son-in-law, Jan and William Klingsporn of Burton; a granddaughter, Meredith Kay Klingsporn; a sister, Maxine Beken Janak and a brother, Milton Beken, both of Weimar. A son, Walt O. Beken, preceded him in death in 1982. Pallbearers in the funeral were Arthur Ray Beken, Hilbert Nitschmann, Ernest Scott, Walter Scott, E. J. (Blackie) Seifert, Jim Stech, Leonard Stech, Billy Strunk and Gene Vacek. Weimar Mercury, April 9, 1987
Beken, Wilfred Emil “Buddy”Funeral of "Buddy" Beken Held At New Bielau FridayHundreds of friends gathered at the Emil Beken home last Friday to pay final tribute to 17-year-old Wilfred Emil (Buddy) Beken, whose sudden death early Thursday morning stunned and saddened this community. His remains were laid to rest in the New Bielau Cemetery, with the Rev. W. A. Flachmeier officiating. "Buddy" had been ill only a day and a night when death name to him at 5:50 o'clock Thursday morning. After running a little temperature all day Wednesday. he seemed to be worse that sight, and his parents sent for the doctor at about 11 o'clock. It was found that he had pneumonia. "Buddy" was disappointed when the doctor told him he could not attend the FFA banquet the next night, but later he felt better, and told his dad he believed he would get well in time. The next morning, at 5:30, "Buddy" asked his dad to get him some water, and insisted an sitting up and holding the glass himself. "I'm not all that sick'. he told his dad. Twenty minutes later he died, seconds before the doctor arrived, from a blood clot on his brain. "Buddy" was born at New Bielau May 11, 1924, and baptized August 17 of that year. He was confirmed August 20, 1937 in the New Bielau Trinity Lutheran Church. After graduation in 1940 from the New Bielau School, he completed his education at Weimar High School with the 1941 graduating class. His interest, in school and at home, was FFA work and agriculture. Quiet, friendly and more serious-minded than most boys his age, he was most happy while tending to one of his calves, or looking after his capons. The Saturday before he had spent several hours with his Vocational Agriculture instructor, Mr. Gus Cage, filling out slips that were to enter his capons In the forthcoming Houston show. The evening before he died, he reminded his dad to pick up some feed in town. "Buddy" was a member of the Trinity Lutheran Church in New Bielau. and only the week-end before his death had been elected by his fellow members to serve as president of the Luther League, a young people's organization Surviving besides his parents are his sisters. Florine and Elma, and one brother, Clarence. To the grief stricken family, the Mercury extends sincere sympathy. Acting as pallbearers were Gus T. Cage, Henry Beken, Leroy Beken, Hilmer Hasse, Otto Rahlwes. Freddie Beken, Wilbert Trojan and Walton Beken. Hubbard Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements for the funeral. Among the many relatives and friends attending from out of town were Mr. and Mrs. Adolf Michalek and Mrs. Oscar Bigot and children of Edna; Mr. and Mrs. Fritz Beken and sons of Pasadena; Mr. and Mrs. Gus Trojan and son of Rosebud; Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Jennings of Bastrop; and Mr. and Mrs. Pete Havard and Mr. and Mrs. Elbert Adams and son of Houston; Mr. and Mrs. John Katau and children of Yoakum; Mr. and Mrs. Fred Dhse[sic] of Schulenburg; Mrs. John Kunetka, Mr. Emil Rabel and Miss Earlyne Krenek, all of Columbus. Weimar Mercury, January 30, 1942, page 1
Beken, WilhelmThe 14-year-old son of Mr. and Mrs. Fritz Beken, residing a few miles south of town, died Tuesday after a brief illness and was buried [New Bielau Cemetery] the following day. He was a bright young man, a source of pride and comfort to his parents, and a great help tothem. Our sincere sypathy is extended them in their misforturne. Weimar Mercury, February 2, 1901,page 4
Beken, Wilhelmina Emma (Klare)Wilhelmina Beken Funeral Services Held April 9Wilhelmina Emma Beken, 90, of Weimar died April 7 in Weimar. Funeral services were held April 9 at Weimar United Church of Christ with Revs. Ralph Ludwig and Glenn Schoeneberg officiating. Interment followed in Weimar Masonic Cemetery. She was born Oct. 18, 1909 to Louis Klare and Minnie Buske in Mixon Creek in Lavaca County. She married Edgar Beken on Dec. 27, 1934 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in La Grange. She was a charter member of the Literary Guild; numerous Canasta clubs, two sewing circles, domino club, past president of Women’s Guild; Naomi-Ruth Circle; past president of PTA and member of Weimar Garden Club. She was a homemaker living in this area for 76 years. Survivors include: daughters, Will Ann Nava and husband Clem of Edna and Brooksie Fuchs of Weimar; daughter-in-law, Elaine Beken Hoffpauir and husband David of New Waverly; sister, Christine Dahse of Weimar; brother-in-law, Heine Beken and wife, Earlyne of Weimar; sisters-in-law, Louise Hoegemeyer of Schulenburg, Tilla Klare of Weimar and Irene Klare of Houston. Also surviving are six grandchildren: Sharon Beken Meeks and husband Leonard of New Waverly, Todd Beken Nava of San Marcos, Klare Nava of Durango, Colorado, Clay Hoffpauir and wife Anna of Houston, Sarah Fuchs Wanjura and husband Greg of Weimar and David Fuchs of Weimar; and two great-grandchildren, Samantha and Jordan Davis of New Waverly. She was preceded in death by: her husband; a son, Maurice Beken; brothers, Oscar, Emil, Henry Louis Jr., and William Klare; and sisters, Pauline Henneke, Hilda Eilert and Helen Russek. The Weimar Mercury, April 13, 2000
Beken, Wilma (Gerstenberg)Wilma Beken Funeral Held Here May 7Funeral services for Wilma Beken, 83, were held May 7 at United Church of Christ in Weimar with Rev. Norman “Skip” Sirnic officiating. Burial was in Weimar Masonic Cemetery. Mrs. Beken, a lifelong resident of Weimar, died May 5 at her home of heart failure. She was born Feb. 1, 1910 in Weimar to Charles and Pauline (Engels) Gerstenberg. She graduated from Weimar High School. She married Arthur Beken on May 22, 1935, in Weimar. He preceded her in death in April 1985. A homemaker, she was a member of Weimar United Church of Christ; was on the parsonage planning committee of Weimar UCC; a member of Naomi-Ruth Women’s Circle at UCC; was a member and past matron of Columbus Chapter No. 324 of the Order of Eastern Star; and was a past employee of Gindlers. Mrs. Beken is survived by a son, Arthur Ray Beken and wife Karen of Weimar; two daughters, Willyne Dunn of Weimar, and Aurra Dee Skeete and husband Bob of Victoria; seven grandchildren, Jed Skeete, Brad Beken, Valerie Dunn Harmon, Melissa Dunn, Debbie Skeete Soderholtz, Kristen Beken Baumbach and Kimberly Beken; and four great-grandchildren, Andrea Soderholtz, Tyler Baumbach, Bryanna Soderholtz and Cade Skeete. Preceding her in death, in addition to her husband, were a brother, Dewey Gerstenberg, and two sisters, Olga Alsup and Norma Chambless. Pallbearers were Henry Louis Beken, Wilfred Fuchs, Howard Hoegemeyer, William Hoegemeyer, Jimmy Hilscher, Fred Hilscher, Mike Hilscher and Cecil Ellison. Honorary pallbearers were Billy Strunk, Walter Scott, Ernest Scott, Ed Rabel, Billy Allen, Anton Hilscher, Delbert Fuchs and Henry Beken, Jr. The Weimar Mercury, May 13, 1993
Beken, Wilma L (Glancy)Wilma L. Beken Funeral Services Held March 2.Wilma L. beken, 84, of Weimar died Feb 27. Funeral services were held, Wednesday, Mar 2 at Weimar United church of Christ with Pastor Jerry Carpenter officiating. Interment was in Weimar Masonic Cemetery. Wilma L. Glancy Beken was born Sept. 12, 1920, the second daughter of Alfred Glancy and Clara Raabe Glancy. She graduated from Weimar High School in 1939. She went to Eagle Lake after finishing cosmetology school and became a beauty operator. Later she returned to Weimar and became a nurse. When she came to Weimar she also worked as an emergency nurse. When her children were old enough, she began working for Youens Eye Clinic in columbus. She retired, enjoyed her friends, cared for her community and loved roses. Wilma married her schoolmate from the little old country school of Live Oak School. She married Leroy Beken and had four children. She is survived by two sons, Roy and Lee Beken, along with her sisters Lillian Glancy, Doris Stowe, and Eunice Bittner and her brother William Glancy. She was preceded in death by daughters Joy and Sue. Pallbearers were Allen Koehn, Howard Raabe, David Raabe, Henry O. “Butch” Strunk, Billy Bob Strunk, Robert Poppe and Charles Bittner. Weimar Mercury, March 2, 2005 God’s Own “Rose Rustler”Wilma L. Beken became a “Rose Rustler” after she retired from nursing, she probably always was one. If you had a beautiful rose bush aside your house or fence; and if you let her visit, view or inspect it; your rose got rustled. A small twig got snipped (“rustled”) and planted in one of Wilma’s many pots around her old farmhouse. For the last two years the Rose Rustler has been laid up with broken legs and other ailments so the rustling had slowed down. The pots around the house now only number about 50 with numerous species per pot. Sunday morning, she got a new job offer and moved on to tend a higher garden. Wilma L. Glancy Beken was a simple country girl. She was born September 1, 1920, the second daughter to Alfred Glancy (a Scots-Irish immigrant from Chicago) and Clara Raabe Glancy. She walked to school. She graduated from Weimar High School in 1939. She went to Eagle Lake after finishing cosmetology school and became a beauty operator. Later she returned to Weimar and became a nurse. Wilma married her schoolmate from the little old country school of Live Oak School (about 6 miles southeast of Weimar). They were raised about 3 miles from each other. She married Leroy Beken and had four children. Her two daughters--Joy and Sue--died several years ago. One of her most traumatic times of her life was when her oldest daughter--Joy, a teenager due to go on her first date--passed. Her two sons--Roy and Lee--along with her sisters--Lillian, Doris, and Eunice and her brother--William--are left to carry on. Joyce Terrell was her caregiver for the last two years and made Wilma’s life much more enjoyable. Wilma was a nurse. She cared to help. She showed compassion in troubled times. She helped many souls cross over and helped everyone else deal with their grief. She was the calmness in the eye of the storm. When she came to Weimar she also worked as an emergency room nurse When her children were old enough, she began working for Youens Eye Clinic in Columbus. She retired, enjoyed her friends, cared for her community and became Weimar’s own Rose Rustler. Wilma began slowing down about 6 months ago. On January 18th, she was admitted to the hospital too weak to move. With life support and care in Austin Heart Hospital and St. David’s Hospital, she managed to gain back some of her strength. At Cornerstone Rehabilitation, at approximately 3 A.M., Sunday, February 27, 2005, she went to sleep and didn’t wake. Her heart and soul remain in Weimar with all her friends and companions and the Lord received his Rose Rustler. Weimar Mercury, March 2, 2005 |
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