Arthur Etzler Sr.
Arthur Etzler Sr., 102, of Hallettsville, was called home to his heavenly reward on Sept. 17, 2022 again to be reunited with his loving wife of 74 years, RoseMary.
He was born July 2, 1920, in Hallettsville to Paul and Hedwig Leopold Etzler and attended Sacred Heart School in Hallettsville.
A veteran of World War II, Arthur served in the 88th Infantry Division, 349 (Blue Devils) Infantry Division H, Italy. While serving in Italy he was severely injured and recuperated in a hospital in Rome. He was a recipient of the American Theater Ribbon, EAME Ribbon with three Bronze Stars and Good Conduct Medal. On Oct. 31, 1945, he received his Honorable Discharge from the U.S. Army. He then returned home to Hallettsville.
On Sept. 9, 1947, he married the love of his life, RoseMary Bludau at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. They were married by the Rev. Robert Schmidt.
After his military service he was first employed by Nolen Produce and then by J. Weingarten’s, Inc. for many years until it closed. He then worked at Hoffer Trucking Company. Finally, he worked at Kubena Funeral Home for many years.
Arthur was a lifelong member of Sacred Heart Church in Hallettsville and the parish’s oldest parishioner. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion, the V.F.W. and Catholic Life. He truly treasured his membership in these organizations. He was recently recognized for 75 years as a member of the American Legion.
Arthur loved life and especially loved spending time with his family.
Arthur was preceded in death by his parents; wife, RoseMary; brother, Hubert (Margaret); sisters, Regina Pagel (Don), Helen Kresta (Bennie), Adela Grahmann (Alvin), Lillie Sitka (Leon), and Evelyn Ahlgrim (Lawrence).
He is survived by his three sons, Arthur Etzler, Jr.; Ronald (Allison), and Marcus (Barbara); three daughters, LaNelle Blahuta (Glenn); Nancy Homeyer (Don), and Roseann Mikes (Jimmy); 15 grandchildren, Travis Etzler, Shaun Etzler, Amanda Fink, Jeffrey Etzler, Eric Etzler, Davis Blahuta, Natalie Cooper, Kirk Blahuta, Kimberly Pruitt, Lindsey Lafferty, Wes Homeyer, Wade Homeyer, Clayton Mikes, Colby Mikes and Cullen Mikes; 16 great-grandchildren, and sister-in-law, Margaret Bludau.
The family wishes to offer a special thanks to Dr. Maurice Wilkinson for her excellent medical care of Dad over the years. Also, a special thank you to Dad’s caregivers, Cheryl Barnes, Lakisha Roberson, Janice Calahan, Pam Wade, Bobbie Burly, Brenda Bacon, Sharon Foley and Elrose Ehler.
Visitation began at 12:30 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 25 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Hallettsville. Rosary was recited at 1 p.m.
Funeral Mass was celebrated at 1:30 p.m. at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Rev. John Affum officiated.
Burial followed at Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery.
Pallbearers were his grandsons.
Honorary pallbearers were his granddaughters.
Memorials may be made to Sacred Heart Church Endowment Fund, the Sacred Heart School Operating Fund or charity of donor’s choice.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.kubenafuneralhome.com