Charles Elstner "Poochie" Appelt

Charles Elstner Appelt, 91, of Hallettsville, known fondly as Poochie, gained his heavenly wings on August 13, 2026. While his name has always been synonymous with “cowboy”, Poochie had many other roles, including husband, father, grandfather, friend, and mentor. He was a hard-working man who loved and provided for his family.

Poochie was born on November 11, 1934, to Millie Elstner & Edgar Appelt in Hallettsville, Texas. He was the second child and the only boy. He spent his childhood in the country at Appelt’s Hill and attended Sacred Heart Catholic School. During high school in 1952, he became a local rodeo star when he won the High School State Championship in the tiedown division. He also won the National High School Rodeo the same year and went on to compete in Madison Square Garden. This was one of his fondest memories of his youth.

On June 30, 1954, Poochie married his first love, Delores Vana, and they were married for 56 years until her passing in 2011. They shared many beautiful moments raising their six children. In his younger years, he often traveled to rodeos and competed at the Houston Astrodome, the Cheyenne Rodeo in Calgary, San Antonio and many other places. While horses and rodeos were his passion, he delighted in spending time with his wife and children and working as a welder, inspector, and instructor with HB Zachary at the DuPont plant in Victoria, Texas, where he worked for 18 years. He then built a business and was a self-employed welder for over 20 years in Hallettsville and surrounding areas.

Later in life, Poochie found love again and married Clementine Schattel Schroeder. They were able to share many years, and she brought him much happiness. He could often be found at family events and holiday gatherings with his large family, whom he was very proud of. Throughout his life, he influenced many young people, fostering a love of the rodeo. He will remain a local legend and his memory will live on through the many stories to be told.

Poochie was preceded in death by his first wife Delores Vana Appelt, his parents, and his sister Donna Gail Coldewey.

Poochie is survived by: his second wife Clementine; his sister Nettie Cullen; his six children, Michael Appelt (Carla), Darrell Appelt (Jean), Roxanne Chapman (Steve), Lisa Pessara (John), Amy Appelt (Rich Truxell) and Eric Appelt (Tobi); nine grandchildren; 18 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren.

“A cowboy rides by faith, knowing God already knows where the trail leads”

Funeral Service: 10am, Wednesday, August 19, 2026, at First Baptist Church in Hallettsville. Visitation: 5 pm to 7 pm, Tuesday, at Kubena Funeral Home. Officiant: Pastor Nick Ferguson. Memorials: Alzheimer’s Association or Donor’s Choice. Burial: Hallettsville City Cemetery.