Billie Warmke

Billie Warmke was born September 25, 1941 in the Welcome Community to Lee and Verlin Kramer Warmke. He was baptized November 9, 1941, and confirmed March 25, 1956 at Welcome Lutheran Church, where he continued his membership until his death. He attended school at Welcome and graduated from Bellville High School. On June 21, 1964 Billie was united in marriage to Joyce Rathke at Welcome Lutheran Church. They made their home in Bleiblerville.

Billie was a cattle rancher and raised hogs for many years. In his early years, he did custom cotton picking and hay baling. He also worked at various Livestock Auctions in the area as a Weigh Master. They included Port City Stockyards, Cattleman's Brenham LS, Cattleman's Columbus LS and Lexington LS.

He was a member of the Bleiblerville Volunteer Fire Department. His favorite pastime was playing cards and dominoes with friends and family. Straight, Skat and 42 were some of his favorites.

Survivors include his wife Joyce of 60 years; son, Bradley Warmke and wife Deanna of Bleiblerville; daughter, Cindy Pustka of New Braunfels; granddaughters, Skyler and Kaylee Pustka, Daelyn Warmke and grandson, Branson Warmke; sisters-in-law, Ona Faye Warmke, Verna Coufal and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. The first great-grandson is expected to make his arrival in July 2024.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his father and mother-in-law, Walter and Anita Rathke; brother, Lee O. Warmke and brother-in-law Alvin H. Coufal.

Pallbearers include Richard Poncik, Garrett Poncik, Wade Warmke, Justin Hold, Gary Shupak and Terry Shupak.

The funeral service will be 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 6, 2024 at Welcome Lutheran Church with Pastor John Sutton, Officiant. Visitation will begin at 9:00 a.m. until service time. Burial will follow in Welcome Lutheran Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made to Welcome Lutheran Church or Bleiblerville Volunteer Fire Dept.

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Memorial Oaks Chapel, 1306 West Main St., Brenham. To post a tribute to the family, please visit www.memorialoakschapel.com