Guettler

Bernice Louise Guettler, a beacon of love and generosity, passed away peacefully on the 29th of April 2024, at St. David’s South inAustin, at the age of 96 years old. Born on Nov. 23, 1927, in Fayette County, Bernice was the cherished only child of John and Cecilia Horak. Her life was a testament to the power of kindness and the warmth of family, which she nurtured until her last days.

Bernice’s journey began in the La Grange/Kirtley area, where she was raised with a deep sense of community and faith. On September 5, 1949, she married the love of her life, Roland E. Guettler, Sr., and together they built a life filled with joy and purpose. Though she was preceded in death by her parents, her devoted husband, and her beloved granddaughter, Laurie Guettler, her legacy continues through her loving family.

She is survived by her son, Roland E. Guettler, Jr. (Betsy) of Warda; her grandchildren, Jamie Kirn (Sean) of Richmond, Erich Guettler (Kim) of Round Rock, and Jenna Graham (Chris) of Spring; and her great-grandchildren, Baylee Thompson (Jordan), Brent Wages, Asher Kirn, Aaron Guettler, Jacob Guettler, Wesley Graham, and Wyatt Graham. Each of them carries a piece of Bernice’s enduring spirit and love.

Bernice’s professional life was as vibrant as her personal one. After moving to Houston and then Pasadena following her marriage, she found her calling in the beauty industry. She taught cosmetology for many years at Mary Webb’s Beauty College in Pasadena and owned and operated several beauty salons in the South Houston and Pasadena area. Her work was more than a career; it was an extension of her care for others, helping them find confidence and joy in their own beauty.

Upon returning to La Grange, Bernice continued to serve her community with fervor. She was an active member of the Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court Annunciation No. 1962, and the Sacred Heart Altar Society in La Grange for over 17 years. She was also a member of the KJZT Society No. 31 in La Grange. She was a member of the Extension Education Association in Fayette County, for several years. Her involvement in these associations reflected her commitment to faith and fellowship.

Bernice’s interests were as sweet as her disposition. She loved to bake, and her home was always filled with the aroma of apple strudel, pies, and poppy seed cakes, ready to be shared with family and friends. Retirement brought her the joy of caring for and spoiling her grandchildren, whose presence would always light up her face. Her love for her family was the most profound of all her interests, and she took every opportunity to express it through her actions and her cooking.

Those who knew Bernice would describe her as loving, kind, and generous. She gave so much of herself to those around her. Her life was a beautiful example of selflessness and compassion, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her.

Bernice Louise Guettler will be remembered not only for her accomplishments and her service to the community but more so for the warmth and love she bestowed upon her family. Her spirit will live on in the memories of her loved ones and the many lives she touched with her grace and benevolence. Bernice’s journey through this world was a blessing to us all, and her legacy will continue to inspire kindness and generosity for generations to come.

Visitation was held on Thursday, May 2, 2024, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations. Family received friends from 5 to 7 p.m. A Rosary was recited at 7 p.m.

Funeral Services were held at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 539 E. Pearl St., La Grange, at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, May 3, 2024. Burial followed at La Grange City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Daughters of the Americas Court Annunciation No. 1962, Bernice Guettler Memorial Scholarship Fund, Sacred Heart Catholic Church memorial Fund or to a charity of ones’ choice.

Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals. com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Koenig-Belvill Funeral Home & Cremations La Grange.