William Speckels

William "Bill" Ennis Speckels, 75 of El Campo died on June 14, 2018, at El Campo Memorial Hospital surrounded by his loving family and friends. He was born January 22, 1943 in Schulenburg, TX, to Bernard H. Speckels and Ruby A. Wyninegar Speckels. He graduated from Schulenburg High School in 1961. After graduation he enlisted in the United States Marine Corp and proudly served from 1961 to 1964. During this time he was part of Operation SHUFLY and stationed in DaNang, Vietnam. He then returned home and attended Victoria College. He married Ruth Elizabeth Swanson on August 13, 1966 at Trinity Lutheran Church in El Campo, TX and was married for 51 wonderful years.

His career was spent in Finance and Banking having worked at Associates, First National Bank and retiring from 1st State Bank of Louise. Bill was involved in numerous activities involving the community and his children. He was a member of the El Campo Jaycees, Jaycee of the Year 1976 -77, and also Citizen of the Year twice for the 100 Club. He coached his sons in Little League and flag football. He treasured hunting and fishing throughout the state of Texas with family and friends. His other passions were gardening, antiquing, genealogy, and cooking for family, friends, and organizations. He was currently a member of First Lutheran Church.

Bill is survived by his wife, Ruth, two sons; William Ennis Speckels II and wife Debra Decell Speckels, Wade Everett Speckels; grandchildren Braden and Brandi Speckels; brother Ben H. Speckels Jr.; sister Ruby Cubley and husband Dean; "Brothers" Franklin Roeder and Clinton Boriack. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins. Preceded in death by his parents; sister Frances Kucera and husband David; in-laws Wilbur and Della Pfluger Swanson; sister-in-law Esther Swanson; sister-in-law Sybil Speckels; niece Michele Mishcher Staats; and his loyal dog, Maker.

Pallbearers: Richard Manske, David Pratka, Andrew Alvarado, Tommy Bram, Marc Socha, Troy Coffman, Charles Mott, Johnny Wyninegar. Honorary Pallbearers: Braden Speckels, Brandi Speckels, John Stockton, Johnnie Chromcak, Mike Prasek, Bobby Roye, Charles Manske, Scott Clifton, William Hefner (Bubba) Appling Jr, David Hugel, Board of Directors and Employees of 1st State Bank , and the Schulenburg Class of 1961.

Family Visitation will be held from 5 PM - 7 PM, Tuesday, June 19 at Wheeler Funeral Home. The funeral service will be held at 2 PM, Wednesday, June 20 at First Lutheran Church, with Pastors Clyde Grier and Donna Zipp officiating. Burial will follow at Garden of Memories.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to First Lutheran Church or El Campo Memorial Hospital, Attn: Irma Rocha.