Obituary of Gertrude Crenek

Gertrude Crenek, 86, peacefully passed away on June 20, 2014. Gertrude was born on September 26, 1927, in Nada, Texas, to John and Emelie Popp. She is preceded in death by her parents; brother, Alfred Popp; son, Robert Crenek; and granddaughter, Lauren Crenek. She is survived by her best friend and loving husband of 64 years, Edgar L. Crenek; daughter, Judy Brandt; daughter-in-law Robin Albrecht; son Gary Crenek and wife Tammie; sisters, Bridget and Madeline Popp; grandchildren, Brock Crenek, Brooke Grammier, Vanessa Brandt, Beau Crenek, Natalie Turner, Emily Albino, Lindsay Crenek, Ashlyn Crenek; great grandchildren, Josh, Catherine, Braxton, Falyn, Jacob, Austin, and Audrey; and a host of other family and friends. Gertrude was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother, sister, aunt and friend. The centerpieces of her life were God and family. She was strong in her faith and an active member of St. Helen Catholic Church and the Catholic Daughters. Gertrude was happiest when involved with her family, whether it was providing a meal, playing dominoes or bingo, or simply engaged in lively conversation. She and Edgar enjoyed many years as members of Po.L.K.of A. dancing and socializing with good friends. Gertrude was an accomplished seamstress making many clothes for her family, including her daughter’s prom dresses and wedding dress. She was an excellent cook and baker, and always looked forward to meals with her family. Many a cake and kolache were baked for family occasions as well as for church bazaars. It’s those prized and highly anticipated homemade kolaches that will be particularly missed, along with the coveted homemade strawberry jelly! Gertrude was affectionately known as “MeMa” and “MeMaw” to her grandchildren and loved playing any type of card or board games with them. She loved growing flowers and took great joy in canning pickles, tomatoes, and green beans from the garden that she and Edgar lovingly cultivated. In fact, if there was any type of vegetable or fruit that could fit in a glass jar, she would accept the challenge and “can” it. She enjoyed her favorite television shows of Wheel of Fortune, Family Feud, Dancing with the Stars, and especially watching the Lawrence Welk Show with Edgar. Gertrude will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved her. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in memory of Gertrude Crenek to Saint Mary’s Catholic Church Fund, PO Box 97, Nada, Texas, 77460. A Visitation and Rosary for Gertrude will be held on Tuesday, June 24, 2014 at St. Helen Catholic Church, 2209 Old Alvin Rd., Pearland, Texas 77581. The visitation will be held from 6:00 until 8:00 pm with a Rosary recited at 7:00 pm with Deacon Darvin Bordelon officiating. The Funeral Mass will take place on Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at 1:00 pm at the church with Father Wayne Wilkerson officiating. Interment will follow at Forest Park East Cemetery in Webster, TX.