Ovella Marie Stuchly

Ovella Marie Stuchly, 91, passed away Monday, June 3 at Schulenburg Regency Nursing Center.

Born in High Hill, Ovella was the daughter of Rudolph and Annie Hilscher. She attended Middle Creek School, and later, graduated from Schulenburg High School in 1951. While working in a bakery in Schulenburg, Ovella met Ermin Stuchly. They were married on April 21, 1953 at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, and for the next 30 years, Houston would be their home. After city life and raising four children, Ermin and Ovella moved back to Schulenburg to enjoy their retirement years.

Ovella lived a simple life. She enjoyed gardening, sewing, baking and dancing a good polka or waltz. Before her health declined, Ovella loved volunteering at Regency Nursing Center. It was spending time with her family that gave her the most joy.

Survivors include her four children, Kenneth Stuchly and wife Velma of Dickinson, Michael Stuchly and wife Gaye of Houston, Diana Markowski and husband John of Spring, and Patricia Stephens and husband, Lloyd of Pearland. Surviving grandchildren and great-grandchildren are Kevin Stephens and wife April and their son Trace; Daniel Markowski; Michael Stephens and wife Lindsey and their children, Jase and Everly; Crystal Markowski and husband John and their daughter, Josephine; Steven Markowski and wife Lindsey and their sons, Benny and Jacob; Michael Markowski and wife Brooke and their children, Margaux and Jude; Michael “Jamie” Stuchly; and Faith Stuchly. Also surviving is sister-in-law Vera Hilscher.

Preceding her in death were her husband, Ermin; her parents, Rudolph and Annie (Demel) Hilscher; brother, Winfred Hilscher; and sister, Helen Smolik.

Funeral Mass was held on Saturday, July 8, 2023 at 10:30 a.m. at St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, preceded by rosary at 10 a.m. Officiant was Fr. Luke Prihoda. Organist was Peggy Kalich and singer/guitarist was Bruce Lebeda. Readings were by granddaughters Crystal Markowski and Faith Stuchly, who also brought forward the offertory gifts. Pallbearers were Kevin Stephens, Daniel Markowski, Michael Stephens, Steven Markowski, Michael Markowski and Jamie Stuchly.

Schwenke-Baumgarten Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.