Above photos shows David attending the chapter's "2014 Great Kayak Races" event that was held at the Sternadel's
homestead in El Campo. David was an active member in VVA Chapter 1069 and was well liked by everyone. Use the link below to
view all pictures taken that day.
Above photos shows David attending and helping other chapter members serve lunch to El Campo National Guard members.
The event was hosted by local veteran supporter, Mike Ryan, at his place in the country, in 2016. Use the link below
to view all pictures taken that day.
With the draft activated for the Vietnam War, Calvin joined the United States Air Force on January 3, 1966.
He was assigned to Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines and completed one tour in Vietnam. See photos below.
Once stateside, he served with the 866th Radar Squadron in Tonopah, Nevada before being honorably discharged
in May of 1969.
Obituary for Calvin Charles Mahlmann
Services for Calvin Charles Mahlmann, 80, of Wharton will be held on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at 2pm at
the First Presbyterian Church in Wharton with the Reverends Debbie Cenko and Charles Teykl officiating.
Interment will follow at Davis Greenlawn in Rosenberg with military honors.
Calvin Charles Mahlmann was born August 16, 1941, in Richmond, Texas to John and Elsie Mahlmann.
Being the only son of four siblings, Calvin enjoyed working on the family cotton and milo farm in
Damon with his dad. In addition to farming, Calvin mastered many skills, including woodworking,
welding, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, equipment and engine repair that he would use throughout
his lifetime. He graduated from Needville High School in 1959 and then attended Wharton County Junior
College. It was during this time that he met his future bride, Mary Frances Starustka of Richmond,
on a blind date. After graduating from Sam Houston State University with an agronomy degree, his
dad gave them permission to marry once the cotton-picking season was complete. They married on
October 10, 1964, in the First Presbyterian Church in Rosenberg.
With the draft activated for the Vietnam War, Calvin joined the United States Air Force on January 3, 1966.
He was assigned to Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines and completed one tour in Vietnam. Once stateside,
he served with the 866th Radar Squadron in Tonopah, Nevada before being honorably discharged in May of 1969.
Returning to Fort Bend County, Calvin worked for 30 years at Houston Lighting & Power, W.A. Parish Plant as
an Instrument & Control Technician while also continuing to help his parents on the farm. Calvin was happiest
when he was outdoors. He was always in his shed, tinkering on his tractors or working on a new project. Often
saying that he was born with a hoe in his hand, he dearly loved tending to his vegetable gardens along with
his fruit and pecan trees. He would intentionally overplant so he would have the opportunity to share with
others. It was also not uncommon for him to collect and plant acorns, waiting patiently for them to grow over
the years. Also, during the spring and summer evenings, he enjoyed watching the purple martins take advantage
of the houses he put up.
For many years, Calvin enjoyed being a member of the Houston Classic Chevy Club. Being so proud of his 1957
Chevy Bel-Air, 2-door hardtop, he and Mary would join in on car cruises across the state as well as enter
various car shows. He was also a life-long member of the Vietnam Veterans Association, recently being a member
of the El Campo Chapter 1069.
Calvin’s faith was first and foremost, followed by his love of family. Being a member of the First Presbyterian
Church in Rosenberg, and then later a member of First in Wharton, he served in multiple capacities, including
Elder, Deacon and Trustee. Further, he would quietly tend to the needs of the church grounds, including mowing,
shredding, and general maintenance. At home, he led by example, attending church each Sunday as well as leading
the family in prayer before each meal.
Calvin passed away Saturday, April 2, 2022, in Houston. He led a full and long life as a devoted husband, father
and grandfather. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Mary Frances Starustka Mahlmann; sister, Delores Mahlmann
Bain of Needville; his daughters: Jennifer Lynn Jeffery and her husband, David of Garwood and Adriane Lynette
Vanzo and her husband, Michael of La Vernia. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Allen William Jeffery
ofubbock; Elizabeth Leigh Jeffery of Garwood; Anthony August Vanzo and Jonathan Michael Vanzo of La Vernia.
He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Elsie Mahlmann; his sisters, Carolyn Freeman and Vera Parcell;
brother-in-law Jimmy Bain; and nephew, Chris Parcell.
Pallbearers are Bob Riley, Bruce Dornak, David Jeffery, Allen Jeffery, Anthony Vanzo and Jonathan Vanzo.
Visitation & Funeral Information
Visitation will be 5:00 – 7:00 pm, Monday, April 11th at Davis Greenlawn Funeral Chapel, 3900 B.F. Terry Blvd., Rosenberg.
Services for Calvin Charles Mahlmann, 80, of Wharton will be held on Tuesday, April 12, 2022, at 2pm at
the First Presbyterian Church in Wharton with the Reverends Debbie Cenko and Charles Teykl officiating.
Interment will follow at Davis Greenlawn in Rosenberg with military honors.
Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home
Arrangements under the direction of Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home, 3900 B.F. Terry Blvd., Rosenberg, Texas 77471,
Phone: 281-341-8800.
To send flowers or a memorial gift to the family of Calvin Charles Mahlmann please visit our
Sympathy Store
Memorials may be given to First Presbyterian Church of Wharton, 1602 John Knox Street, Wharton, Texas, 77488
or Presbyterian Children’s Homes and Services, P.O. Box 140888, Austin, Texas, 78714-9981.
Tributes and words of condolence may be left for the family at
Davis-Greenlawn Funeral Home - Calvin's webpage
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Chapter member, Joe Krasucky, passed away 1-30-2022:
[posted on: 1-31-2022]
Chapter member, Joe V. Krasucky, was a lifetime member of VVA (Vietnam Veterans of America)
Chapter 1069, El Campo, Texas. The Chapter officers and membership are saddened by Joe's
passing, and want to extend their heartfelt condolences to his spouse Carol and to his family.
He will surely be missed by all.
Joe V. Krasucky, 73, of Louise, passed away January 30, 2022. He was born on September 26,
1948 in El Campo to the late Joe and Sophie Cernoch Krasucky. He was a U.S. Army veteran of
the Vietnam War.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years Carol Popp Krasucky of Louise, daughters Michelle Foster
and husband Thomas, Tammy Gonzalez and husband Sonny, son Bradley Krasucky and wife
Stacey, grandchildren Hannah Dreibrodt, Zachary and Conner Gonzalez, Bradyn and Ethan
Krasucky, sisters Barbara Socha and husband Albert, Diane Cerny and husband Lloyd, and
brother George Krasucky.
Visitation will begin at 9 AM on Wednesday, February 2, 2022, followed by a rosary at 9:30 AM
and Funeral Services at 10 AM at Triska Funeral Home with Deacon Larry Hoelscher officiating.
Burial will follow at St. Andrew’s Cemetery in Hillje with military honors under the auspices of
American Legion Post 251.
Memorials in memory of Joe may be made to Houston Hospice-El Campo.
Triska Funeral Home
612 Merchant Street
El Campo, TX 77437-3440
979-543-3681
triskafh@sbcglobal.net
Visitation
Feb 02. 9:00 AM (CT)
Triska Funeral Home
Rosary
Feb 02. 9:30 AM (CT)
Triska Funeral Home
Funeral Service
Feb 02. 10:00 AM (CT)
Triska Funeral Home
Cemetery Details
St. Andrews Catholic Cemetery
Hillje, TX
Use the link below to read Joe's complete obituary on the Triska Funeral home website.
Obituary - Triska Funeral Home website
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Chapter member, Ricardo Castillo, passed away in 2021:
[posted on: 2-15-2022]
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Chapter member, Ricardo Castillo, has passed away in the year 2021. Ricardo was a Vietnam Army Veteran.
Sadly, we have no details as to Ricardo's death, such as an obituary. Ricardo was a long time member of
the VVA and had joined the organization in March of 1997. He joined our chapter in 2012, at the time our
chapter was started in El Campo. His last know address is in Boling, Texas. If anyone has information
about Ricardo's passing, please contact one of our chapter officers, or send an email to our chapter
website administrator, Bob Supak - his contact information can be found at the bottom of this page.
May Ricardo rest in peace - he will not be forgotten.
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[back to top]
Chapter member, Paul Francoeur, passed away 10-25-2021:
[posted on: 11-1-2021]
Paul Francoeur, 83, of Wharton, Texas, (above photos) passed away on Tuesday, October 25, 2021.
Paul was a lifetime member of VVA (Vietnam Veterans of America) Chapter 1069, El Campo, Texas.
The Chapter officers and membership are saddened by Paul's passing, and want to extend their
heartfelt condolences to his spouse Denise and to his family. He will surely be missed by all.
MILITARY BACKGROUND:
Paul served 20 years in the Military with Army Special Forces, from January 12, 1955 to February
28, 1975. In 1975 he retired with 20 years of Military Service, with rank of Captain. During that
time, he received: 2 Bronze Stars, 1 Purple Heart, 2 Army Commendation medals, A National Defense
medal, Vietnam Campaign medal with 4 stars, Armed Forces Reserve medal, Presidential Unit Citation
award, Army Meritorious Unit Citation, Vietnam Civic Action Honor medal citation, Combat Infantryman
Badge, Paratrooper Wings (over a 100 jumps), Vietnam Paratrooper Wings, awarded the Special Forces
Tab. Paul also served two tours in Vietnam.
(1st Tour) Tien Phuc - Trabong - Danang, (2nd Tour) Ben Het - Pleiku.
OBITUARY:
Paul E. Francoeur, 83, of Wharton, passed away on Monday, Oct. 25, 2021 at St. Luke’s Hospital with his
loving wife by his side. He was born Jan. 9, 1938, in Fall River, Massachusetts to Theresa and Napoleon
Francoeur. Paul attended St. Roch’s Parochial School and church where he was baptized and confirmed.
Paul attended Diman Vocational High School and then entered the Army at the age of seventeen. In the
Army he attained his GED and two years of college.
Throughout his twenty-year military career Paul was stationed in Germany, France, Vietnam, Belgium and
the United States. He was awarded two Bronze Star Medals, the Purple Heart, two Commendation Medals for
the US Armed Forces, five Good Conduct Medals. Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry Unit Citation, Vietnamese
Civic Action Honor Medal Unit Citation, Meritorious Unit Citation, the Special Forces Tab, Master
Parachutist Wings and Combat Infantrymen Badge. Paul entered as an enlisted man and graduated from
Infantry OCS at Ft. Benning, Ga. in March 1966. Upon graduation he was sent to the 6th Special Forces
Group at Fort Bragg, NC. He served two one-year tours with the 5th Special Forces at Camp Trabong in
Vietnam. He helped procure elephants and logs to provide a saw mill for the village which was the basis
for the Walt Disney movie “Dumbo Drop”.
During his second tour in Vietnam, he was serving in Bet Het Camp in 1969, which was the site of the tank
battle between the US Army and the People’s Army of Vietnam, where he was wounded. The military channel
produced a one-hour program about this attack, one of the few such encounters in Vietnam, called Tank
Battle Vietnam. After Vietnam, Paul commanded Headquarters and Headquarter Company 18th Airborne Corps
at Fort Bragg, NC. Later he attended the Infantry Officers Career Course at Ft. Benning, Ga. His terminal
assignment was Shape Headquarters in Casteau, Belgium, after which he retired as Captain.
Upon retirement in February 1975, he moved to Marseille, France where he was an operations officer for a
security company and also worked for the American Consulate General. While there he met and married his
wife, Denise. In 1980 they moved to the United States where he began to work for Analysis and Computer
Systems, Inc. where they were responsible for the software for AWACS and the MIX missile.
In 1982, Denise and Paul moved to Wharton, which became their beloved lifelong home where they were
welcomed by many new friends. Paul was employed by the Egg Farm Healthfocus and Gulf Coast Medical Center.
He later joined Matagorda General Hospital in Bay City. Even after retiring in 2000, Paul continued to
provide some consulting work for local businesses and began a driving service. In 2006 Matagorda General
Hospital called him back to help out for a couple of months on a part time basis as a biomed tech and he
stayed for five years, fully retiring in 2011 at the age of 74. Upon retirement you could find Paul
enjoying rounds of golf at the Wharton Country Club golf course where he served on the board as well as
on the board at the Wharton Chamber of Commerce. Paul belonged to the Special Forces (Green Beret)
Association, Purple Heart Association and the Vietnam Veteran of America Association. Paul E. Francoeur
(Liberty of Congress).
Paul was predeceased by his daughter Laurence and is survived by his loving wife, Denise Francoeur,
daughter Corinne Kirschner of CA., son Christophe Francoeur and partner Penelope Babst of Portland, OR.,
granddaughter Christine and husband Kevin Simmons, grandsons, Daniel Kirschner and Dion Francoeur, two
great-grandchildren, sister Vivan Elliot of Temple, sister-in-law Jannine Donjou of France, sister of
the heart Ruby Hawes, nieces and nephews, family and friends.
VISITATION:
Visitation will be held at the Wharton Funeral Home on Monday, Nov. 1 from 5-8 p.m.
FUNERAL SERVICE:
There will be a service at the Wharton Funeral Home on Tuesday, Nov. 2 at 2 p.m.
GRAVESIDE SERVICE:
After the Funeral Service, there will be a Military Service at the Evergreen Cemetery.
Use the link below to read Paul's complete obituary on the Wharton Funeral Home website.
Obituary - Wheeler Funeral Home website
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Chapter member, Jimmy Ochoa, passed away 9-3-2021:
[posted on: 9-11-2021]
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Jimmy Ochoa, 73, of El Campo, Texas, (above photos) passed away on Tuesday, September 3, 2021.
Jimmy was a lifetime member of VVA (Vietnam Veterans of America) Chapter 1069, El Campo, Texas.
Jimmy served as a VVA Chapter 1069 Board of Directors Officer starting in 2021. The Chapter officers
and membership are saddened by Jimmy's passing, and want to extend their heartfelt condolences
to his spouse Elsie and to his family. He will surely be missed.
MILITARY BACKGROUND
Jimmy served in the Marine Corps for 4 years. He fought in the Vietnam War with multiple tours,
where he was awarded 2 purple hearts and the day before his passing he was finally awarded his
3rd purple heart. He also served in the National Guard as a tank commander.
OBITUARY
Jimmy R Ochoa of El Campo went to be with the Lord on Friday September 3, 2021 at the age of 73.
He was born on March 18, 1948 in Ganado, Texas to the late Ysidro and Josephine Ochoa.
He is survived by his wife of 50 years, Elsie Ochoa; his daughters, Cheryl Ochoa-Olivarez and
husband Jorge Olivarez, Jaimie Ochoa-Padilla and husband Ryan Padilla, Amanda Ochoa-Espinosa
and husband Augustine Espinosa; his son, Jimmy Ysidro Ochoa and wife Erica Ochoa; brothers,
Blas Ochoa, Richard Ochoa; sisters, Coni Ochoa, Anastasia Garcia Julie Rodriguez and Debbie
Torrez. Grandchildren; Adrian Jauregui, Isiah Villarreal, Aaron Espinosa, Dominique Tupin,
Nicholas Espinosa, Jonathan Espinosa, Matthew Ochoa, Anthony Ochoa, Amber Garza, Randy Solis,
John Ochoa, Skylynn Ochoa, Jesse Ochoa, Mercedes Medina and 15 great grandchildren. He is
preceded in death by his parents Ysidro and Josephine Ochoa and son Matthew Ochoa.
Jimmy served in the Marine Corps for 4 years. He fought in the Vietnam War with multiple tours,
where he was awarded 2 purple hearts and the day before his passing he was finally awarded his
3rd purple heart. He also served in the National Guard as a tank commander. Upon his time served
he worked at Dow Chemical Plant in Freeport and there he retired. He worked at Alamo Concrete for
a few years and then decided to settle down and enjoy his retirement. He loved to travel, dance,
listen to music, spend time with his family, friends, and his dog Khali, and of course he loved
his Bud Light. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather. He is one of
a kind and will truly be missed by all. Jimmy always had a smile on his face and would help anyone
out. May our hero finally rest in peace.
Visitation will begin at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 9 at Wheeler Funeral Home with rosary
being recited at 6:00 p.m. Funeral mass will begin at 9:00 a.m. at St. Robert's Catholic Church on
Friday, September 10. Burial will follow at Assumption Cemetery in Ganado at 2:00 p.m.
Serving as pallbearers will be Adrian Jauregui, Isiah Villarreal, Matthew Ochoa, Rodney Solis, Luis
Garcia and Aaron Espinosa.
Visitation: Thursday, September 9, 2021, 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM, Wheeler Funeral Home, 612 W Jackson, El Campo, Texas 77437
Recitation of the Rosary: Thursday, September 9, 2021, 6:00 PM, Wheeler Funeral Home, 612 W Jackson, El Campo, Texas 77437
Funeral Mass: Friday, September 10, 2021, 9:00 AM, St. Robert s Catholic Church,
Graveside Service: Friday, September 10, 2021, 2:00 PM, Assumption Cemetery, CR 251, Ganado, TX 77962
Use the link below to read Jimmy's complete obituary on the Wheeler Funeral Home website.
Obituary - Wheeler Funeral Home website
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Chapter member, Frank Laitkep, passed away 8-31-2021:
[posted on: 9-7-2021]
Frank Laitkep, 72, of Wharton, Texas, (above photos) passed away in a Richmond hospital on Tuesday,
August 31, 2021. Frank was a lifetime member of VVA (Vietnam Veterans of America) Chapter 1069, El
Campo, Texas. Frank served as VVA Chapter 1069 President from 2019 to 2021. The Chapter officers
and membership are saddened by Frank's passing, and want to extend their heartfelt condolences
to his spouse Gertrude and to his family. He will surely be missed.
MILITARY BACKGROUND
Frank served 2 years in the Army, including a one year tour in Vietnam in 1970.
He served with D Troop, 199th, Light Infantry Brigade, 1/10 Cavalry, in An Khe Vietnam.
He was wounded in action in Feburary of 1970 and received a Purple Heart award.
Note that you will find many pictures of Frank on this website, participating in many of the events
that our membership has either organized or participated in since our chapter's inception in 2012.
OBITUARY
He was born on June 26, 1949, in Wharton to the late John and Marie Mazoch Laitkep.
Frank was raised in the Hungerford area and attended East Bernard and graduated from
Hungerford High School in 1968. He later served our country honorably in the United
States Army, fighting in Vietnam. Frank married the love of his life Gertrude Leopold
on July 1, 1972, in Hillje, Texas. He worked as a machinist for a few years before
joining the United States Postal Service, where he worked for over 32 years. His last
job was for Shoppa’s where he always said he was the PR specialist; actually, he was
the parts runner. He enjoyed dancing, listening to music, visiting with his Army buddies,
traveling, and leading the 50’s and 60’s dance for over 27 years where he would dance
with Gertrude to their favorite song Unchained Melody by the Righteous Brothers. Frank
and Gertrude were always the go to couple if you needed Grand March leaders. He was a
member of the Knights of Columbus, the American Legion, and the Vietnam Veterans of
America. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Mary
Ann Pospisil, Ernest Laitkep, Charlie Laitkep, and Michael Laitkep, and his father and
mother-in-law Pius (Pete) and Martha Leopold.
Frank is survived by his wife of 49 years, Gertrude Laitkep; son Jason Laitkep and wife,
Kathy of East Bernard, daughter Bernadette Tydlacka and husband Sonny of Wharton, and son
James Laitkep and wife, Amanda of Elm Grove; brothers George Laitkep, Bernard Laitkep,
Johnnie Laitkep, Anthony Laitkep, and Patrick Laitkep; grandchildren Shelby Staten, Jake,
Luke, Blake and Karis Tydlacka, Kadence Hernandez, Tinley and Laramie Laitkep, and great
grandchildren Karson and Kenna Staten. He is also survived by his loving brothers-in-law
and sisters-in-law, numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Visitation will be held on Sunday, September 5th at Holy Family Catholic Church after 5pm,
rosary will be recited at 7pm. Funeral Mass and rite of Committal will be held on Monday,
September 6th at 10am at Holy Family Catholic Church. Burial will follow in St John Catholic
Cemetery in Hungerford with military honors provided by members of the American legion Post
87 and VFW Post 4474 of Wharton.
Serving as pallbearers are Jeff Svatek, Brian Leopold, Timothy Evanicky, Greg Leopold, Kenny
Pospisil, Kevin Laitkep, Russell Leopold, and Brian Laitkep
Honorary Pallbearers are Frank’s grandkids and great grandkids, Chris Laitkep, Steven Laitkep,
Members of the Vietnam Veterans of America’s Chapter 1069, and Vietnam Veterans Neil Cater,
Dennis Lietha, Jerry Beasley and Bob Heir (who proudly served next to Frank in Vietnam).
Services were under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home, 515 E. Boling Hwy, Wharton, TX 77488
Use the link below to read Frank's complete obituary on the Wharton Journal Spectator website.
Obituary - Wharton Journal Spectator website
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Chapter member, Tommy C. Staff, passed away 8-20-2021:
[posted on: 8-23-2021]
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Tommy C. Staff (photo left) of El Campo passed away August 20, 2021 at the age of 72. He was born
November 16, 1948 in El Campo to Anton and Adela Roznovsky Staff. He was an army veteran and retired
master electrician. He was a lifelong member of St. Philip Catholic Church, member of the Knights of
Columbus #2490 and a lifetime member of Vietnam Veterans of America, VVA Chapter #1069, in El Campo, TX.
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He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Liz Vanek Staff; daughter Brittni Nanson and husband Weldon; grandchildren
Caitlyn, Gage and Kendall Nanson, all of El Campo; brothers Lee Roy Staff, Bob Staff and wife Mary Ann, Albert Staff
and wife Pat, all of El Campo, Anton Staff Jr. and wife Barbara Ann, Johnnie Staff and wife Rachel, all of Bay City,
Larry Staff and wife Theresa of El Campo, Raymond Staff and wife Rhonda of San Leon, George Staff, and Paul and wife
Gay, all of El Campo; sisters Patsy Bubela and husband Frank, and Lillie Weid and husband Johnny, all of El Campo;
mother-in-law Elsie Vanek of Ganado, sisters-in-law Dorothy Byrne and husband Andy of Ganado, and Theresa Hermes and
husband Frank of Inez.
He was preceded in death by his parents, father-in-law William Vanek, son Thomas Staff, brother-in-law Albert Baklik,
and sister-in-law Norma Staff.
Interment was held at Holy Cross Memorial Park, US Hwy 59 and Mechanic St, El Campo, TX 77437.
Use the link below to read Robert's complete obituary on the Triska Funeral home website.
Obituary - Triska Funeral Home website
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Chapter member, Marcial Sorrel III, passed away 3-1-2021:
[posted on: 3-5-2021]
Marcial Sorrel III (see photos above) passed into the arms of the lord on Monday March 1, 2021 at his home
surrounded by his family, he was 91.
Marcial “Mike” Sorrel was a veteran and served his country in the U.S. Air Force for 23 years flying fighter jets.
Marcial earned many medals and rose to the rank of Lt. Colonel. Some of his many accomplishments include the Bronze
Star, Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal. He participated in countless military missions including the
Cuban alert crisis and several tours in Vietnam. He was stationed all over the world including the Philippines, Korea,
Vietnam as well as all over the United States. He Graduated from Texas A&M University where he served in the core (ROTC).
After his storied career, he retired from the Air Force in 1973 when he returned to his hometown of Wharton with his
“Precious Patricia” and his two children. He reinvented himself and took over the family farm and cattle business.
Marcial even built his own plane and was still flying it until he turned 82! He was extremely motivated and active
until the end. You could often see him working the land and cattle, spending time with his wife Maggie, enjoying his
children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. He was very active in the Episcopal church where he served as Senior
Warden and formed the famed Blue Aprons.
Mr. Sorrel is survived by his wife Maggie Sorrel, two children: Martha Sorrel and Marcial David Sorrel. He also leaves
behind four grandchildren: Tommy Sorrel (Monica), Chris Sorrel (Meagan), Andrew Sorrel and Katie Sieggreen. His great
grandchildren: Kaylie, Drake, Luke, Charlie and Lance.
Marcial was preceded in death by his first wife of 58 years, Patricia Scott Sorrel. Relatives and friends attended
his memorial service on Wednesday March 3rd, 11:00 A.M. at Wharton Funeral Home, 515 E. Boling Hwy. Interment will
be at a later date in the family plot at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Wharton.
Obituary - Wharton Funeral Home website
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Chapter member, Robert Lee Robinson, passed away 6-27-2019:
[posted on: 7-13-2019]
Robert Lee Robinson (photos above) passed away June 27, 2019. He was born to Evelyn and Lee Robinson of
Louise on March 21, 1938. He was 81 years old. Robert graduated from Louise High School with the class
of 1958 and then joined the U.S. Navy in June of 1958 and served 10 years doing two tours of duty in Vietnam.
Robert was a lifetime member of the VFW and VVA. Robert was a nature enthusiast. He liked beach life,
traveling with his wife, Evelyn, baking chocolate chip cookies, carousing with his grand dog, Lucy, and
generally having fun swapping tall tales. Use the link below to read Robert's complete obituary on the
Triska Funeral home website.
Obituary - Triska Funeral Home website
[back to top]
Chapter member, David Mata Sr., passed away 9-2-2018:
[posted on: 9-12-2018]
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David Mata, Sr., 70, of Wharton and formerly of Freeport, passed away on Sunday September 2, 2018 at
his home surrounded by his family. He was born on April 16, 1948 in Wharton to parents Joe L Mata and
Olivia Reyna Mata.
David was raised in the Wharton area and graduated from Wharton High School. He served our country
honorably in the US Army. He loved his family and enjoyed spending as much time with them as he could.
David enjoyed dancing, fishing, bar-b-que and charity BBQ cookoffs. In addition to his parents, he was
preceded in death by Henry Mata and Irene Esquivel.
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Mass was celebrated on Saturday, September 8, 2018, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Catholic Church in Wharton.
His entire obituary may be read on the Wharton Funeral Home website - link below:
Obituary - Wharton Funeral Home website
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Chapter member, David Haas, passed away 1-8-2018:
[posted on: 1-12-2018]
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David Warren Haas passed away at his home in Eagle Lake, Texas on January 8, 2018, surrounded by his loving family.
David was born in Staples, MN on September 4, 1932 - He was 86 years old. His parents were George and Juno Haas.
He grew up and was educated in Grand Rapids, MN.
He proudly served his country in the USAF, both in Korea and Vietnam (Dong Ha, 1962). He retired after twenty years of
dedicated service. He was an active member of the American Legion, VFW and Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA Chapter
1069, El Campo, Tx). His many interests were driving race cars, remote control ariplanes, bowling, and was a member
of numerous dance clubs.
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Survivors include his loving wife Jeanette, daughters Shirley Haas and Shawn Hedrick (Tom), sons Keith Haas, Kevin Haas
and Shane Torkelson (Shelly). Grandchildren Torri Hedrick, Jackson Torkelson, William Torkelson, Mandi Rolland (Michael),
Zack, Keagan, Jerry, Alex and Dallas Haas, as well as 3 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.
He was proceeded in death by his parents, George and Juno Hoss, brothers Danny Drinkwine and Stanley Drinkwine, sisters
Shirley Jensen, Vicki Little and Laura Lee Carrier.
May he rest in peace - he will not be forgotten.
Funeral services were held at
St. Paul Lutheran Church, Columbus, Tx
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Chapter member, Patrick Gwosdz, passed away 11-29-2017:
[posted on: 12-12-2017]
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Patrick William Gwosdz, Sr., 68, of El Campo, passed away November 29, 2017. He was born on April 2, 1949
in El Campo to the late Albert and Clarice Wendel Gwosdz. Patrick served in the U.S. Army, E-Troop, 1st Cavalry,
American Division, 23rd Infantry Division, 1968-1969. He was also the owner of Overall Plumbing in El Campo.
He is survived by his wife, Patricia Huslage Gwosdz of El Campo; sons, Patrick Gwosdz Jr. and wife Natalie of
El Campo and Mark Gwosdz and wife Cecilia of Cypress; grandchildren, Meredith, Ryan, Jake, Matthew and Alyssa
Gwosdz; sister, Linda Melancon and husband Robert of Thibodaux, LA and brother, Ronald Gwosdz and wife Renee of
El Campo. May he rest in peace - he will not be forgotten.
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Funeral services were held at
Triska Funeral Home
with Rev. Rick DuBroc officiating. Patrick was buried with military
honors at Garden of Memories Cemetery (US Business 59 and CR 358 El Campo, TX, 77437), under the auspices of
American Legion Post 251
, located in El Campo, Texas. Memorial donations may be made to
Houston Hospice – Wharton County, El Campo.
Obituary - Triska Funeral Home website
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Chapter member, James Kulcak, passed away 11-12-2016:
[posted on: 11-14-2016]
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James Eugene Kulcak, 74, of Louise, passed away November 12, 2016. He was born on May 2, 1942 in Louise to the late John
and Christine Merta Kulcak. James was a U.S. Air Force Veteran and the owner of Compression Specialties Machine and Repair
located in El Campo, Texas. He was also a lifetime member of VFW Post 2786, American Legion Post 251, DAV and VVA Chapter
1069 - all are located in Wharton County, Texas.
Obituary - Triska Funeral Home website
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He is survived by his wife, Margaret Dornak Kulcak; daughters, Linda Skow and husband Douglas of El Campo, Teresa Ott of
Port Lavaca; sons, David Kulcak and wife Dani of El Campo, Michael Kulcak of San Marcos; grandchildren, Wesley Kulcak and
wife Megan, Clayton Ott, Chelsey Ott, Reagan Skow, Allysa Kulcak and brothers, John Kulcak, Frank Kulcak and wife Charla,
Edwin Kulcak wife Tradinda and Alvin Kulcak and wife Janice. James was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Lorine Ermis.
In 1961, James Kulcak was only 18 years old. Tired of working on the farm, James enlisted into the US Air Force.
James took his Basic Training at Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas. Advanced Training was at Chanute AFB, Rantoul, Illinois.
After completing his training, James found himself initially assigned to the 5th Tactical Air Command Group based in the Philippines,
off the coast of Vietnam. Their mission, secret & covert, was to setup U.S. Radar installations in both Vietnam and Thailand.
He was later assigned to the 1st Mobile Communications Group, performing similar missions into both countries. Their basic mode of
operation was to load Radar equipment onto train or truck to some remote & secret site within the countryside. They would also deploy
supplies to South Vietnamese civilians out of the rear of C-123 aircraft while in flight. James was involved with two Missions into
Vietnam around DaNang, Saigon, Pleiku, and several Missions into Thailand. He spent a total of 2 1/2 years in the Air Force.
May he rest in peace - he will not be forgotten.
One final note – A respectful Thank-You should go out to Gerry and Nick Mikeska (of MIkeska's BBQ in El Campo, on Hwy 59) for
lowering their big flag to half-mast for James. Use the link below to view a photo of the flag.
Mikeska BBQ Flag at Half-Mast for James Kulcak
Below are the links to two of James' favorite Veteran-related music videos. We would show these videos at our monthly meetings. The first
one is called "Mansions Of The Lord", and the second one is called "Names On A Wall"
(Vietnam Wall Memorial).
Both are music videos available for viewing on Youtube.
Music Video on Youtube: Mansions Of The Lord
Music Video on Youtube: Names On A Wall
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Chapter member, John Bubela, passed away 10-28-2016:
[posted on: 10-31-2016]
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John Bubela, 82, of Louise, Texas passed away on October 28, 2016. He was born on December 10, 1933 in Wharton to the late
August and Mary Filip Bubela. John was a retired U.S. Army Vietnam Veteran. He was an honorary member of the Louise
Volunteer Fire Department and a member of the American Legion 251. He is survived by his sons, Ricky Bubela and wife Sherald
of Wharton, David Bubela and wife Johanna of El Campo and Glen Bubela and wife Trudy of El Campo; 10 grandchildren and 20
great-grandchildren. John was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Dorothea Marie Bubela; grandson, Benjamin Bell and
brother, Adolph Bubela and wife Delores.
Obituary - Triska Funeral Home website
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Above photo was taken in August of 2014, during a VVA Chapter 1069 monthly meeting.
John was drafted into the Army in December of 1956 and was ultimately assigned to HHC 15th Medical BN, 1st Cavalry Division, Airmobile.
He also served time with the 11th Air Assault Division. John served two 1-year tours in Vietnam:
His 1st Vietnam Tour started in September of 1965. He was stationed at AN KHE Airbase where he served as helicopter mechanic working on various
Military helicopters such as H-23 and H-13. There he assumed duties as a Technical Inspector for various model helicopters, including
the newer UH-1V Huey helicopter that was used for MEDIVAC missions. At that time, there were over 450 helicopter aircraft stationed on
that airbase.
His 2nd Vietnam tour started in February of 1968. He was stationed at TAN SON NHUT Airbase where he served as a Technical Inspector for various
Military Helicopter Aircraft (MOS 67W4H). There he again assumed duties as a Technical Inspector for Military Helicopters. He would fly
out of Tan Son Nhut airbase to different military units in the area, including those residing on fire bases, to inspect various
helicopter parts, to make sure they were suitable for use.
John also served two tours in Korea, where he was responsible and in charge of all Allied helicopter related workshops and inspection shops on base.
In all, John served 20 years and 20 days in the U.S. Army and retired from the Army on December 31, 1976, with rank of Sergeant First
Class (SFC, E-7). May he rest in peace - he will not be forgotten.
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Chapter member, James Sobitik, passed away 11-27-2014:
[posted on: 2-6-2015]
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James Douglas Sobotik, 68, of Alleyton, Texas passed away on November 27, 2014 at his home in Alleyton, TX
surrounded by his family. James was born on November 21, 1946 to Louis and Lillian (Goedrich) Sobotik in
Baytown, TX. He honorably served his country as a Staff Sergeant in the United States Air Force for 28
years until his retirement. On December 21, 1973 he married Frances Johnson. Burial had taken place in
Houston National Cemetery with US Airforce Military Honors on Thursday, December 4, 2014 at 2:30 pm.
May he rest in peace - he will not be forgotten.
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Chapter member, James Marek, passed away 6-30-2013:
[posted on: 7-31-2013]
[updated on: 5-18-2024]
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James John Marek, of Ganado Texas, passed away Sunday, June 30, 2013, at the age of 66. He was born
October 26, 1946, in Ganado, Texas and was a member of VVA Chapter #1069.
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James served in the U. S. Army while in Vietnam with the 1st Air Calvary Division Air Mobile. Upon discharge,
he received the honors shown in the list below. May he rest in peace - he will not be forgotten.
- National Defense Service Medal
- Republic of Vietnam Campaign Medal
- Vietnam Service Medal with three Bronze service stars
- Sharpshooter (Rifle)
- Purple Heart
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For the next 13 months, which was the normal military tour of duty in Vietnam for the Marines
at that time, the H-34 helicopter was Kenneth's home away from home. He was crew chief, door gunner and mechanic on
the H-34 helicopter, and flew missions daily. See photo below - Kenneth on the right.
His tour went as follows. He first arrived in Da Nang in 1967 and was stationed there approximately 6 months at
the Marble Mountain Marines helicopter base. While there, his crew would fly to-from Chu Lai, a sea port city,
supporting the Korean Marines, who Kenneth says, were tough fighting solders! Flying back & forth off the deck
of the USS Iwo Jima (stationed off the coast of Vietnam) into and out of the DMZ or as they called it, "The Zone",
for a 3 month troop deployment mission. He was then stationed at Hue/Phu Bai (Hue City). Various missions included;
Force Recon, troop Insertion and Extraction, troop re-supply, and 24-hr Medevac duty on every-4-day rotations.
Kenneth and his HMM-363 crew also flew numerous missions during the Tet Offensive in 1968. Kenneth and his H-34
helicopter (see above photo) crew were shot down and crashed multiple times during his 13 month tour. After one
so termed "soft crash", Kenneth and his crew counted over 50 bullet holes in their H-34 aircraft. Plus, one of
the 'jugs' on the H-34's radial engine was destroyed, but the helicopter still flew far enough to get them to safety.
After returning from Vietnam, Kenneth was sent to Marine Corp Air Station (MCAS), El Toro Field, located in Anaheim,
CA, where he was finally discharged from the Marines in 1969. It's very obvious that Kenneth did fly in the H-34 a
lot during his tour in Nam - he was awarded 10 Air Medals upon his discharge.
Above photo shows chapter members, Augie Limas (far right), and Harold Peikert (left), preparing to follow the
funeral herse to the cemetery.
Above photo shows the members of El Campo VVA (Vietnam Veterans of America) Chapter 1069.
Above photo shows the members of Ganado American Legion Post #346.
Farewell Kenneth, may you rest in peace.
