Hogwood, Martinez Jr, Sikes
Dorothy Helen Hogwood
March 14, 1936 – September 25, 2025
Dorothy Helen Hogwood, affectionately known as Helen, left this world on September 25, 2025, at the age of 89, in Belton, Texas. Her services will take place on October 2 at 10:00 a.m. at Immanuel Lutheran Church in Temple. A meal with the family will follow directly after the service. They want to invite everyone to attend and bring a hearty appetite to celebrate their mother in the most honorable way by serving everyone and sharing stories about her memories. Burial will take place at 12:45 p.m. at Temple Garden of Memories.
Helen was born on March 14, 1936, in Walburg, Texas, to Oswald Ray Neitsch and Anita Louise (Morkisch) Neitsch. She was one of 17 siblings and attended Zion Lutheran Church with her family, where she was confirmed in 1950.
She later became a devoted wife of “nearly 45 years” to Curtis Hogwood, whom she married on April 22, 1961. Helen was the proud mother of four. She was not just a mother but a source of strength and inspiration. Her devotion and support for her children were always evident as she never missed an event they were involved in. It is still a mystery how she was able to appear at multiple events and locations for each of them on a single day.
Throughout her life, Helen demonstrated a genuine commitment to serving others. Her memory is fondly marked by her talent for cooking, particularly her famous chicken spaghetti, as she often prepared enough to feed an army, even when cooking for just herself. She later found joy in serving the other residents at Park Place Manor, where she has lived for the past eight years. She has always dedicated her time and love to those who needed assistance. Her kindness and giving heart knew no bounds; she was always there, ensuring that everyone around her felt cared for and loved. She mostly communicated her love by sharing her prepared meals, snacks, and candy. Even in her final days, if you went to see her, she was giving you a cookie, candy, or a soda that she had obtained as winnings from one of her residential games at Park Place. No grandchild or great-grandchild ever left her presence empty-handed.
Helen held her faith close to her heart, deeply loving the Lord. Her devotion guided her actions and shaped her connections with those around her. Known for her loving personality, she maintained her Lutheran faith after marriage at Immanuel in Temple until Prince of Peace Lutheran Church opened in Belton. Proud to be a charter member, Helen dedicated over 40 years to her church, serving in the choir and performing in every Christmas cantata. Her passion for singing was clear to all who knew her, as she poured her heart into every note for her Lord.
She leaves behind a vibrant family that includes her children: Mike Hogwood and his wife Catherine of Waco; Keith Hogwood and his wife Jennifer of Belton; Doug Hogwood and his lifelong partner Lois of Killeen; and Susan Kolodziejczyk and her husband Chris of Belton. She is also survived by her sister Margie Nell Faltesek of Taylor; her grandchildren: Meaghan Wheelis and her husband Matt; Angela Bacon and her husband RJ; Lauren Bates and her husband Scott; Eric Hogwood and his wife Samantha; Lorna Fritz and her husband Bryce; Misty Johnson and her husband Jeremy; Wendy Hogwood; Cooper Kolodziejczyk; and Grace Kolodziejczyk; along with 18 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews, and two cherished daughters, Charmaine Hogwood and Jacqueline Peters.
Helen also leaves behind her Park Place Manor family, who have loved and cared for her over the past eight years.
She is now reunited in peace with her beloved husband, Curtis, her parents, and her siblings: Ruth Domel, Johann Neitsch, Adolph Neitsch, Bernhard “Ben” Neitsch, Johanna Alford, Nelda Hamilton, Ernest “Buddy” Neitsch, Emma Hardin, Maybelline Kattner, Josephine Louise Neitsch, Marie Neitsch, Louise “Gertie” Barber, Robert Neitsch, Gustav “Gus” Neitsch, and Oswald Ray “Nickey” Neitsch.
In remembering Helen Hogwood, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with service, love, and an enduring commitment to family and faith. “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Matthew 25:21
Visitation was held on Wednesday, October 1, from 6-8 p.m. at Dossman Funeral Home in Belton. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Helen’s honor to a charity of your choice or to Our Hospice House at 5235 Tollbridge Rd, Belton, TX 76513, or online at ourhospicehouse.org.
Leandro Louie Martinez, Jr.
July 26, 1941 – September 7, 2025
Leandro Louie Martinez, Jr., born on July 26, 1941, to Leandro Luz Martinez Sr. and Susan B. (Armbeck) but was partnered by his Great Aunt Albina and her husband Jimmy Bright in Denver, Colorado, passed away suddenly at the local hospital on Sunday, September 7, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend whose life was characterized by his humility, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.
Louie, as he was affectionately known, led a fulfilling and industrious life. He attended Highlanders Boys Military School during his formative years, and served many years as an altar boy at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Denver, Colorado. His faith was further exemplified by his membership at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Houston. He graduated from East High School, where he was actively involved in swimming and gymnastics, before furthering his studies at the University of Colorado. While active in this life, he was a coach for a Little League Basketball team in Denver as he led them to the playoffs. He worked as a Dairy Truck driver for Cambridge Dairy in Denver, Colorado, then as a meat cutter and boner commercial worker for Safeway Stores, Inc. His early years were filled with a zest for life, as he enjoyed horseback riding, swimming, football, and boxing—having been trained under the renowned Corky Gonzalez as a Golden Glove boxer. His interests remained diverse throughout his life, including a passionate following of the Denver Broncos, Houston Astros, Houston Rockets, Baylor, and Colorado Buffaloes. He met the love of his life in a restaurant bar where he was playing pool in 1980, and married in 1982, Ms. Janie Gutierrez. Together they blended their families where he parented the upbringing of their children.
Professionally, Louie dedicated 48 years to the grocery industry, beginning his career as a lumper for a local meat warehouse and moving into his apprenticeship, leveling up as a meat cutter, and then advancing to the level of Boner at Safeway Stores Incorporated. He later transitioned to the Grocer’s Supply in Houston as a night shift shipping and receiving manager. Then he worked for Mim’s Meat Company in Houston as a supervisor in the ground beef department, retiring in 2002. His reputation in the community was one of respect and admiration; he was very organized and showed exemplary management skills as he carried out his work with dedication and integrity.
Beyond his career, Louie was a man of deep conviction and strong character. His calm demeanor and ability to see the good in people made him a cherished friend to many. He was known for his generous spirit, objective nature, and his privacy, often choosing to listen rather than speak ill of others. His heart’s passion was participating in pool—a member of the “Mis Shots” league at Future Cue’s in Temple—and bowling, along with his love for the great outdoors through hunting big game such as elk, moose, and bear. He was a valued member of the Harris County Grand Jury.
He is survived by his beautiful loving wife of 44 years, Janie (Gutierrez) Martinez; three sons, Anthony R. Martinez, G. Anthony Ramos and his wife Elvia Reyes Ramos, and Steven C. Ramos and wife Corina M. Ramos; and three daughters, Charlene Sue (Martinez) Streno, Tonya Lynn (Martinez) Streno, Mónica Gisselle (Ramos) “Rab” Hartsfield; five sisters-in-law, Lupe, Frances, Belinda, Ana, and Angie formerly Gutierrez and their spouses; his niece, Kathy Hughes, and husband Bill; two nieces, Samantha and Audrey; along with ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, one great-great niece, Meadow, and two great-grandchildren, Novalee and Micaiah Maldonado. Along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Louie is preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Leandro Luz Martinez, Sr., and Susan B. (Armbeck) Pappenheim, along with one brother, Jerry Armbeck; one sister-in-law, Elsa formerly Gutierrez; and one brother-in-law, Joe Gutierrez.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a memorial donation to Ronald McDonald House in Temple.
A Celebration of Life in honor of Louie was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center in Temple, Texas. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects, share memories, and celebrate a life well-lived. Louie’s legacy of kindness, commitment, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center.Leandro Louie Martinez, Jr., born on July 26, 1941, to Leandro Luz Martinez Sr. and Susan B. (Armbeck) but was partnered by his Great Aunt Albina and her husband Jimmy Bright in Denver, Colorado, passed away suddenly at the local hospital on Sunday, September 7, 2025. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend whose life was characterized by his humility, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to those he loved.
Louie, as he was affectionately known, led a fulfilling and industrious life. He attended Highlanders Boys Military School during his formative years, and served many years as an altar boy at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Denver, Colorado. His faith was further exemplified by his membership at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Houston. He graduated from East High School, where he was actively involved in swimming and gymnastics, before furthering his studies at the University of Colorado. While active in this life, he was a coach for a Little League Basketball team in Denver as he led them to the playoffs. He worked as a Dairy Truck driver for Cambridge Dairy in Denver, Colorado, then as a meat cutter and boner commercial worker for Safeway Stores, Inc. His early years were filled with a zest for life, as he enjoyed horseback riding, swimming, football, and boxing—having been trained under the renowned Corky Gonzalez as a Golden Glove boxer. His interests remained diverse throughout his life, including a passionate following of the Denver Broncos, Houston Astros, Houston Rockets, Baylor, and Colorado Buffaloes. He met the love of his life in a restaurant bar where he was playing pool in 1980, and married in 1982, Ms. Janie Gutierrez. Together they blended their families where he parented the upbringing of their children.
Professionally, Louie dedicated 48 years to the grocery industry, beginning his career as a lumper for a local meat warehouse and moving into his apprenticeship, leveling up as a meat cutter, and then advancing to the level of Boner at Safeway Stores Incorporated. He later transitioned to the Grocer’s Supply in Houston as a night shift shipping and receiving manager. Then he worked for Mim’s Meat Company in Houston as a supervisor in the ground beef department, retiring in 2002. His reputation in the community was one of respect and admiration; he was very organized and showed exemplary management skills as he carried out his work with dedication and integrity.
Beyond his career, Louie was a man of deep conviction and strong character. His calm demeanor and ability to see the good in people made him a cherished friend to many. He was known for his generous spirit, objective nature, and his privacy, often choosing to listen rather than speak ill of others. His heart’s passion was participating in pool—a member of the “Mis Shots” league at Future Cue’s in Temple—and bowling, along with his love for the great outdoors through hunting big game such as elk, moose, and bear. He was a valued member of the Harris County Grand Jury.
He is survived by his beautiful loving wife of 44 years, Janie (Gutierrez) Martinez; three sons, Anthony R. Martinez, G. Anthony Ramos and his wife Elvia Reyes Ramos, and Steven C. Ramos and wife Corina M. Ramos; and three daughters, Charlene Sue (Martinez) Streno, Tonya Lynn (Martinez) Streno, Mónica Gisselle (Ramos) “Rab” Hartsfield; five sisters-in-law, Lupe, Frances, Belinda, Ana, and Angie formerly Gutierrez and their spouses; his niece, Kathy Hughes, and husband Bill; two nieces, Samantha and Audrey; along with ten grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, one great-great niece, Meadow, and two great-grandchildren, Novalee and Micaiah Maldonado. Along with numerous nieces and nephews.
Louie is preceded in death by his parents, Mr. Leandro Luz Martinez, Sr., and Susan B. (Armbeck) Pappenheim, along with one brother, Jerry Armbeck; one sister-in-law, Elsa formerly Gutierrez; and one brother-in-law, Joe Gutierrez.
In lieu of flowers please consider making a memorial donation to Ronald McDonald House in Temple.
A Celebration of Life in honor of Louie was held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, October 4, 2025, at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home & Bereavement Center in Temple, Texas. Friends and family are invited to pay their respects, share memories, and celebrate a life well-lived. Louie’s legacy of kindness, commitment, and love will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew him.
Arrangements are under the direction of Sabrina Young at Young’s Daughters Funeral Home and Bereavement Center.
Sammy Ray Sikes
October 14, 1946 – September 3, 2025
Sammy Ray Sikes, age 78, was a husband, father and grandfather. He went home to meet his Lord and Savior on September 3, 2025 due to cancer from Agent Orange. He was born on October 14, 1946 in Brenham, Washington County, Texas. He was the son of Oscar R. Sikes and Gloria M. (Bolsins) Sikes. He married Kimberly S. (Vernlund) (Johnson) on May 18, 2002 at Pioneer Park in Bell County, Texas.
Sammy grew up in Temple and attended Temple High School. He and his family were charter members of Meadow Oaks Baptist Church in Temple. Sammy was in the U.S. Army 101st Airborne Division as a paratrooper, where he served two tours in Vietnam. He received several honors and medals while in the Army. Sammy was self-employed as the owner of Southwest Masonry. He learned his masonry skills at a young age from his uncle, Shelley Bolsins. Sammy used to love to go sailing in his sailboat. He loved to ride his Harley motorcycle. He was a member of the elite Bell County Red Rag Motorcycle Society, where he served as Road Captain. He planned all of the blood drives, Toys for Tots drives, fund-raisers and group road trips. Sammy was always helping others and was very independent, not ever asking others for help. When his father became ill, Sammy moved in with him and became his primary caregiver, while still working and running his business. Sammy also loved to spend time fishing at the coast. He loved to cook, especially for the holidays. The turkey and dressing, ham, potato salad, mashed potatoes, deviled eggs, desserts and "Sikes' Tea" had to be perfect. He loved his pet dogs, especially Red and Zorro. His nieces and nephews referred to him as "the cool uncle." He loved to joke and tell stories.
Sammy was preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Bobby Wiley, Sr. He is survived by his wife, Kimberly S. (Vernlund) (Johnson) Sikes; son, Michael Ray Sikes (Vanessa) in Temple; stepson, Jeremiah Johnson (LeeAnne) in Killeen; grandchildren: Parker Sikes, Lauren Sikes, Austin Jackson; step-grandchildren: Michaella Johnson and Angelica Johnson; brother, Freddy Sikes (Tonie) in Huntsville; sisters, Mellicent (Sikes) Wiley in Huntsville and Shelley (Sikes) Wilde (Dave) in Temple; sister-in-law, Caroline Hawley (Rick) in Austin; Caryn Ryan in Tempe, Arizona; Mike Vernlund in Seattle, Washington; nieces and nephews: Christy (Sikes) Atkins (Wade), Kerri (Sikes) Thompson (Joel), Travis Sikes (Rian), Bobby Wiley II (Michelle), Heather (Wiley) Christian (Jason), Heath Wiley, Justin Wiley (Joanna), Joey Mraz (Krissy), Chad Mraz, Brian Mraz (Jennifer), several great-nieces and nephews; aunt Vanny Bolsins in Temple; and numerous cousins and friends.
The family cannot thank enough the pastors, medical staff, honor guards, neighbors and friends for their prayers and thoughtfulness during this time.
There will be a "Celebration of Life" service in the main auditorium at Meadow Oaks Baptist Church, 3001 Meadow Oaks Drive, Temple, Texas 76502 on Friday, October 3, 2025 at 9 a.m.
After the Celebration of Life service, there will be a family and friend visitation in the fellowship hall at the church. Refreshments will be served from 10-11:30 a.m.
Procession from the church to the graveside service will start at 11:30 a.m. The graveside service will be at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery, at 11463 State Highway 195, Killeen, TX 76542 on Friday, October 3, 2025 at precisely 1 p.m. with military rites. Please allow for the busy Friday afternoon traffic.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Sammy Sikes' memory can be mailed to The Sikes Family Scholarship Endowment, Attention: Office of University Advancement, SHSU, Box 2537, Huntsville, Texas 77341-2537 or to Meadow Oaks Baptist Church Building Fund, 3001 Meadow Oaks Drive, Temple, Texas 76502.
Please keep the family in your prayers during this time. You may leave a message for the family on the Crawford Bowers Funeral Home's website in Temple.
The memorial service will be videotaped and available on the church YouTube channel after the service @meadowoaks9482.