Emilie Winkenwerder
Emilie Anna Valis Winkenwerder, 99, of Shiner, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
She was born on August 26, 1926, in Sweet Home, to Joseph and Mary Lahodny Valis. Emilie lived a long and full life rooted in faith, family, and resilience.
Emilie attended Boundry Line School during her early years and went on to build a life defined by dedication and strength. She was a devoted member of SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church, where her deep commitment to her faith served as a guiding light for those around her. Her Catholic beliefs were central to her life, and she led her family with unwavering spiritual conviction.
She married Edgar P. Winkenwerder, with whom she shared many years of partnership until his passing. Together they raised a large family, and Emilie’s role as a mother and homemaker was one she embraced with determination and love. She was known for being strict but loving—her word was final—but always supportive of her family’s needs.
A woman of remarkable willpower and resourcefulness, Emilie ensured that her household was well cared for through hard work and traditional skills. She butchered chickens, rabbits, calves, and hogs to keep her family fed and maintained a thriving vegetable garden whose bounty she preserved through canning. Her home was not only nourished by the food she prepared but also by the values she instilled.
Emilie found joy in simple pleasures that kept her mind sharp and spirit lively. She loved playing dominoes and working crossword puzzles—activities that reflected both her competitive nature and intellectual curiosity. Emilie Anna Winkenwerder leaves behind a legacy of strength, devotion, and enduring love. May her memory bring comfort to all who knew her.
She is survived by her daughters Doris Koons and Rosalie Winkenwerder (Dino); sons John Winkenwerder (Carolyn), Paul Winkenwerder (Dorothy), and Robert Winkenwerder; brother Robert Valis (June); eleven grandchildren; and twenty-four great-grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband Edgar P. Winkenwerder; parents, daughter, Carol Long; sons, Edgar Winkenwerder and infant son Roland Winkenwerder; sisters, Mary Kotilik and Agnes Michalec; brothers, Joe Valis, Frank Valis, and Laddie Valis.
The family will receive friends from 4 pm to 6 pm Thursday, February 19, 2026 in Shiner Funeral Home with a Holy Rosary following at 6 pm.
A Funeral Liturgy Outside of Mass will be held 10 am Friday, February 20, 2026 in Shiner Funeral Home with Fr. Aaron Padilla officiating.
Interment will follow in the Shiner Catholic Cemetery.
Pallbearers: Jason Matula, Jim Winkenwerder, J.T. Winkenwerder, Steve Winkenwerder, Cole Patek and Tyler Patek.
Memorials may be made to SS Cyril and Methodius Catholic Church.
The family wishes to thank Dr. Tim Wagner for his years of loving care of Emilie and the staff of Yoakum Hospital for the magnificent care of their mother.
Friends may leave their condolences to the family by visiting www.shinerfuneralhome.com.
Services are under the care and direction of Shiner Funeral Home.