Arthur Etzler, Sr., 102, of Hallettsville, was called home to his heavenly reward on September 17, 2022, again to be reunited with his loving wife of 74 years, RoseMary.  He was born July 2, 1920, in Hallettsville, Texas to Paul & 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 & Good Conduct Medal.  On October 31, 1945, he received his Honorable Discharge from the U.S. Army.  He then returned home to Hallettsville.

On September 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.

Funeral Mass Service: 1:30 pm, Sunday, September 25, 2022, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church of Hallettsville; with Visitation starting at 12:30 pm, and Rosary starting at 1 pm. Pallbearers: his grandsons. Honorary Pallbearers : his granddaughters. Officiant: Rev. John Affum. Burial: Sacred Heart Catholic Cemetery. Memorials: Sacred Heart Church Endowment Fund, the Sacred Heart School Operating Fund or donor's choice.