Bernice Pauler

Bernice Kobza Pauler, age 76, of St. John, passed into eternal rest on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2020.

She was born on April 20, 1944 to Felix and Henrietta Staha Kobza and had two brothers, Gerald and Harlan Kobza. She grew up picking cotton on her family’s farm in Engle. As with many families in the area, Czech was her native language and she was extremely proud of her heritage. Her favorite activity growing up was softball, where she was the catcher for a local team. Bernice graduated from Schulenburg High School in 1962 and moved to Houston for work.

On Saturday, April 20, 1963, Bernice married Eugene Pauler at the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Catholic Church in Praha. After living in Houston for 10 years, they returned to Schulenburg with their young family. Bernice raised four children and helped run the family business, Pauler’s Auto Service. Bernice and Eugene loved to dance and were active members of the community. Bernice was a devoted wife, loving and supportive mother, and active member of St. John the Baptist Catholic Church. She will be greatly missed by many.

Bernice is survived by her children, Craig Pauler of Austin, Mihael and Donna Pauler Ankerst of Munich, Germany, Chad and Oksana Pauler of Fulshear, and Denise Pauler of Albuquerque, N.M.; grandchildren, Tanner Pauler, Antonia Ankerst, Jake Pauler and Jaxon Pauler; and brothers, Gerald and wife Estella Kobza of Katy, and Harlan and wife Joyce Kobza of Schulenburg, along with several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Eugene Pauler, and her parents, Felix and Henrietta Staha Kobza.

The parish rosary was recited by Elsie Farek prior to funeral services held by Rev. Msgr. John C. Peters on Monday, Aug. 10, 2020 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in St. John, and interment in the St. John Catholic Cemetery. Pallbearers were Cale Kobza, Harlan Kobza, Billie Powell, Daryl Gassmann, Gerald Kobza and Bobby Joe Kobza.

Memorials may be given to St. John the Baptist Catholic Church, PO Box H, Hallettsville, TX 77964 or a charity of one’s choice.