Kennon Patricia Brunkenhoefer, 89, of Gonzales, passed away peacefully on Friday, September 19, 2025.
Kennon was born on February 2, 1936, in Gonzales to Willie Barnick and Nettie Frederick Barnick. On July 25, 1953, she married the love of her life, James Fred Brunkenhoefer, and together they built a home filled with devotion, faith, and family.
A magnificent seamstress, Kennon was known for her remarkable talent with needle and thread. She lovingly sewed uniforms for the Apache Cheerleaders and Dance Team, along with countless garments for friends, family, and anyone who needed her sewing magic. She could make a dress pattern simply by studying a photo, and her work was admired far and wide.
Kennon lived her faith daily as a devout Catholic and an active member of her church. She was a member of the Gonzales Memorial Hospital Ladies Auxiliary, the St. James Altar Society, and the Catholic Daughters of America. She volunteered generously, from tending to the church laundry to cooking her famous coconut cream pies, lemon meringue pies, decorated sugar cookies, homemade pickles, and more. Whether serving the bereaved at church or cheering on her grandchildren from a far, she gave of herself with joy. She often chaperoned the dance team on their travels, delighting in being part of their journey.
Affectionately known to many as “Mrs. B, Mama B and B, ” Kennon was a devoted and loving mother, grandmother, and friend. Her warmth, faith, and generous spirit left a lasting mark on all who knew her. She was dearly loved not only by her family but also by the staff and friends at The Heights of Gonzales, where her kind presence touched many lives.
Kennon is survived by her loving family: daughter, Patricia Denise Castellow of Hallettsville; son, Russell James Brunkenhoefer of Gonzales; grandchildren, Colton James Hermes (Sarah) and Carley Jo Hermes; and great-grandchildren, Harper Mae and Annie Lou Hermes. She was preceded in death by her husband of 58 years, James Fred Brunkenhoefer, and her son-in-law, Ron Castellow.
Friends and family will gather at St. James Catholic Church at 1 pm Wednesday, October 1, 2025. Prayers of the Holy Rosary will follow at 1:30 pm with a Memorial Mass at 2 pm with Fr. Jason Martini as celebrant. Inurnment will follow in St. James Catholic Cemetery.
Memorials may be made in Kennon’s name to the Gonzales Memorial Hospital Auxiliary, St. James Altar Society, Catholic Daughters, Heart to Heart Hospice, or to a charity of one’s choice. Friends may leave their condolences to the family by visiting www.seydlerhillfuneralhome.com
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