James Gerhard Knandel

James Gerhard Knandel, 86, of Cost, passed away Monday, Nov. 20. He was born August 13, 1931 in Cost, the son of Ernest and Hertha Behlen Knandel. He married Gloria White January 26, 1958 in Gonzales.

He was a longtime member of the First Lutheran Church. He was a lifelong dairyman and rancher. He was past president of the Texas Holstein Association; assisted area ranchers with breeding and calving. He was a charter member of the State Young Farmers Association. He loved working with youth in both FFA and 4H teaching the kids how to show animals especially Holstein cattle. He enjoyed raising cattle, grafting pecan trees and growing roses and flowers.

He was always there for his family and his many friends. James especially loved to hear his granddaughter sing and spending time with his cherished family.

James is survived by his daughters Liz Keyser and husband Steven of Cost and Carol Cienega and husband Jessie of College Station; grandchildren Katelyn Keyser and James Keyser both of Cost, Stephanie Fritz and husband Michael of New Braunfels, Jade Cienega of Los Angeles, California and Jace Cienega of College Station; brother in law Fred Horlen of Marble Falls; niece Elaine Smith and husband Larry of Marble Falls and nephew Joe Horlen and wife Becky of College Station. Also surviving is Robert Ramos, his right-hand man and cowboy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, wife of 55 years Gloria, daughter Janet Knandel, grandson Joshua Cienega and sister Evelyn Horlen.

Graveside services will be held 11 a.m. Friday, Nov. 24, at the Gonzales Memorial Park Cemetery with Pastor Ildiko Rigney officiating. Honorary pallbearers include James Keyser, Steven Keyser, Robert Ramos, Jessie Cienega, Jace Cienega, John Liford, the Nursing Staff of Gonzales Memorial Hospital and the Staff at Romberg House. Memorials may be made to The First Lutheran Church or The Gonzales Healthcare Systems Foundation. Arrangements under the care and direction of Seydler-Hill Funeral Home. Friends may sign the guest book at www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com.