Dorothy Ann Gerngross

Dorothy Gerngross was chosen to celebrate Easter with her Savior. She passed away Tuesday, March 31, 2015 at Shannon Medical Center in San Angelo, Texas, surrounded by her family.

She was born October 18, 1929 to Theo and Emma (Hoelscher) Halfmann. Dorothy Halfmann married the love of her life, Ralph (Buddy) Gerngross, in Olfen, Texas, on February 4, 1948. Dorothy was born, raised, lived and worked in Olfen her whole life. Many school children remember her big smile as she served them in the school cafeteria. She was actively involved in church functions, such as Christian Mothers and Catholic Daughters, and was always willing to lend a helping hand. Her St. Boniface Parish friends and her extended family meant so much to her.

Often at Easter, she and Buddy would load up all the younger children to take them to her house to show them the new animals that were just born. There would be a new little calf or lamb to show off. It was an exciting time. Then she and Buddy would drive all the children back to the celebration at Theo and Emma Halfmann’s home. To the surprise of everyone, there would be Easter eggs everywhere!

Everyone was always welcome to visit Dorothy’s home. She would serve a fresh pie and coffee/tea to begin a good visit. Then she would show you her puppy or her flower garden. She had the best fig trees and tomato bushes. There would always be a handful on her table.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Theo and Emma Halfmann; husband, Buddy; sister, Ruby Dell Pelzel and husband, Wilburn; and brother, Victor Halfmann.

Dorothy will be missed by her sisters, Jeanie Looka and husband, Charles; Mary Ann Holtman and husband, Wilfred; brother, Werner Halfmann and wife, Kay; brother-in-law, Bill Pelzel; sister-in-law, Agnes St. Thomas; and many nieces and nephews.

The Wake Service will be at 6:00 pm on Sunday, April 5, at St. Boniface Church in Olfen. Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, April 6, at 10:00 am at. St. Boniface. Burial will follow in St. Boniface Cemetery, next to her dear husband, Ralph Gerngross.

Memorial donations may be made to the St. Boniface Cemetery Fund or to a favorite charity.