Bellville Times

Bessie Florence Sommer Knolle was born October 10, 1925 in Agua Dulce, the
daughter of William Conrad and Gladys M. Grabow Sommer. She grew up in Union
Grove in Washington County and attended school in Brenham. After graduating
from Brenham High School, she attended Blinn College.
On March 25, 1944, she was united in marriage with William C. "Bubba" Knolle
in Temple. They lived in Industry before making their home in Bellville
where they were members of St. Mary's Episcopal Church. A member of St.
Mary's Ladies Auxiliary, Bessie helped found St. Mary's Day School. She
enjoyed volunteering her time and services for various civic organizations,
and tutored numerous high school and college students. An avid golfer, she
was also a member of the Bellville Golf and Recreation Club.
Bessie passed away Wednesday, May 26, 2004 in Brenham at the age of 78.
She is survived by her husband of 60 years, Bubba Knolle of Bellville; son,
William M. Bill Knolle and his wife, Janie, of Austin; grandchildren,
Heather Ruth Whitehouse of Florida, Mark H. Knolle of Austin, Brad d. Knolle
and his wife, Sunshine, of San Antonio; brother William Tony Sommer and his
wife, Janice of Rosenberg; numerous other relatives and many friends. Bess
was preceded in death by her parents and her daughter, Kathleen Kay
Whitehouse.
Funeral service was held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 29, 2004 at the Schmidt
Funeral Home Chapel in Bellville with Father Bob Gribble officiating. Burial
followed in the Pilgrims Rest Cemetery. Pallbearers were Billy Steck, Bill
Bogar, Jimmie Buenger, Dan Boren, Charlie Machemehl and William Blum. In
lieu of usual remembrances, friends who wish may make memorial gifts to the
Alzheimer's Association, 11251 Northwest Freeway, Suite 300, Houston , TX
77092, or to the charity of their choice.
Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Schmidt Funeral Home,
Bellville.

Posted by Joy Neely