Cuero has lost a beloved member of its community with the passing of Eugene Edward Heidaker on December 26, 2023 due to heart complications.  He was born August 29, 1942 in Yoakum to Edward and Bessie Kurtz Heidaker.  He married Deloris Marie Kremling on October 7, 1961 and together they shared fifty-eight wonderful years of marriage until her passing in 2019.  Eugene began his career in the retail industry and found great success as a butcher and market manager for various grocery stores, including Boysens, H-E-B, Stanleys and Super S.  He also worked in the shipping department at Tandy Brands. With his keen eye for detail and passion for customer service, he gained the respect and admiration of colleagues and customers alike.

Outside of his professional life, Eugene found solace and joy in music. A talented musician, Eugene played in several country and western bands, including the renowned family band, Country Timers, Starlights, and the New Edition. His love for music allowed him to share his talent with others and brought joy to countless gatherings.

Devoted to his favorite sports teams, Eugene was an avid fan of the Dallas Cowboys and the Los Angeles Dodgers. He loved playing softball with his old Jaycee buddies.  He would often gather with family and friends to cheer on his beloved teams, adding a touch of excitement to each game day.

But above all, Eugene's greatest passion in life was his family. He cherished every moment spent with his daughter, Jackie (B.J.) Drehr of Cuero and sister, Mary Lou Heidaker Myers of Yoakum and took immense pride in being a doting father.  A family man through and through, Eugene's face would light up at the mention of his grandchildren, Bradley (Jacqui) Drehr of Nordheim and Katie (Ethan) Etlinger of San Antonio and great-grandchildren, Jilly and June DeAnn of Nordheim whom he endlessly bragged about.

Visitation will be held Friday, December 29, 2023, 5:00 – 7:00 PM with a rosary to begin at 7:00 P.M.  Funeral Mass will be held Saturday, December 30, 2023, 10:00 AM at St. Michael's Catholic Church with Father Richard Bediako officiating.  Interment will follow at Hillside Cemetery.

Pallbearers include John Paul Lorfing, Travis John Kremling, Arnie Filip, Roland Hernandez, Butch Prause, Ronnie Roecker, Loyd Hempel and David Kolacny.

The Honorary Pallbearers are his Sweet Home Dance Hall Friends.

Memorial Contributions may be made to St. Michaels Catholic Church or Pet Adoptions of Cuero.

You may sign the guestbook or send condolences at www.freundfuneralhome.com.

Freund Funeral Home, 361.275.2343.