The 59th Appelt Family Reunion was held Sunday, June 4 at the historic Appelt’s Hill Hall in Hallettsville. There were 90 registered in attendance by Linda Ward.
The reunion started at noon with the posting of the colors, the Pledge of Allegiance, an opening prayer and grace. A meal of sausage, stew, sauerkraut, green beans and potatoes was prepared by Tommy Macha and members of the Rudolph Appelt family. Scrumptious desserts and a few other side dishes were provided by attending families along with beer, soda water and water.
At 1:30 p.m., President Kevin Br ight of f icially started the meeting with a prayer, the previous year’s minutes were accepted by members as written, and treasurer’s report given by Bettye Appelt, treasurer.
Theresa Voelkel, co-historian with Genealogist Gary Rektorik, commemorated the family members that passed away in 20222023: James Rother of Hallettsville died on July 29, 2022, at age 96. Margarete Emilie Appelt of Hallettsville died on Oct. 12, 2022, age 82. Donna Gail Appelt Coldewey of Hallettsville died on Dec. 5, 2022, at age 75. Shannon Buzek of Tomball died on Nov. 23, 2022, age 56.
There were also many recognitions. Just a few of them involved active/ retired military (10) and first responders (4). A special recognition to Hilmer and Margaret Appelt for their 13 years of running a successful raffle, generating funds for the reunion treasury. Hilmer Appelt for mowing around the hall, and to Ron Appelt and Otto “Buddy” Brogger for their generous donation toward the hall rental.
Door pr izes won by Frank Forestier, James Brogger, Easton Odom and Valerie Mertz.
Gift card awards were given in recognition of those in the following categories: oldest member present, Jean Appelt, 90, of Hallettsville. Youngest member present, Clyde Macha, 10 months old, son of Troy and Michelle Macha of Shiner, grandson of Tommy and Joan Macha of Sweet Home.
The couple married the longest: Paul and Theresa Voelkel, of Halletsville, 62 years. The couple married the shortest time: Suzette and Ron Appelt of Corpus Christi, 18 months. Longest distance traveled: Helga Appelt and her son Dietmar from Parker, CO. Largest family present: Howard Appelt, 14 members.
Bill Appelt moved by acclamation to keep the same slate of officers for 2023-2024. Kevin Bright transported the Port-ACool fans from Victoria and provided the sound system for the meeting.
Kevin and Kati Appelt also captured the special moments of the day on camera for the scrapbook. Next year’s reunion to be held on June 2, 2024. The meeting closed with a prayer at 2:10 p.m.
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