William Gertner

William George Gertner entered into his eternal rest on December 24, 2014 at the age of 84 due to his illness of pulmonary fibrosis. He was born on August 27, 1930 on the family farm in Baursville, Texas to William and Mary Gaertner. William worked on the family farm and went to school in Baursville until he enlisted in the United States Armed Forces at the age of 19 where he served as a Corporal. After his service in the Armed Forces he attended Blinn College and received his certificate in Business Administration. He worked in many fields but his true passion was working with the Fire Department. He worked for the West University Fire Department which led to his decision to join the Houston Fire Department where he served as Senior Fire Captain until his retirement in 1982. While working at the fire department, he was always beloved by his crew. When it came to dinner, he was always called upon to make the gravy. He married the love of his life, Helen Mary Provazek on April 7, 1956 in Moravia, Texas at the Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church. They were blessed with three children, Karen Marie, Andrew William and Stephanie Dawn. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, dancing, drinking a beer or two and playing dominoes. He also enjoyed spending time with family and friends, especially with his grandchildren. He is survived by his loving wife of 57 years Helen Marie of Moulton, Texas and their three children, Karen (Gertner) Pavlock and husband David of Orchard, Texas; Andrew Gertner and wife Mindy of Katy, Texas; Stephanie (Gertner) Foeh and husband Mike of Hallettsville, Texas; sisters Lillie Kruse and Louise Moore of Friendwood, Texas; Alice Zezula of LaGrange, Texas; and two loving grandchildren, Hillary Dawn Foeh of Hallettsville and Even William Gertner of Katy. He also leaves behind his beloved nephews Darrell and Aaron Gaertner and many other special nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his Mother and Father. His sister Edna Gracey and brother Edwin Gaertner. Bill was a loving and caring father who offered many words of encouragement and wisdom to all. He will be deeply missed but he has left his laughter and unconditional love upon us all so that we may cherish it in our hearts. He will be playing dominoes and dancing with the angels. Pallbearers are: Darrell Gaertner, Aaron Gaertner, Michael Zezula, Timothy Zezula, Matthew Zezula and Wayne Kruse. Honorary Pallbearers are: Dale Kruse, Carl Kruse and David Moore. Visitation will be held Monday December 29th at the Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church in Moravia, Texas from 5:00 to 7:00 pm with rosary following. Funeral service will be held Tuesday December 30th also at the Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church at 10:00 am. Arrangements are under the direction of Smith Funeral Home. www.smithfuneralhomemoulton.com
Visitation Monday, December 29, 2014

Rosary Service Monday, December 29, 2014

Funeral Service Tuesday, December 30, 2014