Born and raised in Cat Spring, Juanita was known by many. Juanita loved to visit with others which is why she thoroughly enjoyed working at places like Winns 5 & 10, John’s Oasis, Columbus High School Cafeteria and HEB. While working at Columbus High School, she became the supervisor over the cafeteria. It was her passion to make sure the students were well fed. This desire stemmed from her love of cooking for her family and friends. She was known for making her famous “dressing” for special occasions or simply because someone requested it. She also made the best Sweet Rice and Sweet Tea for miles around. Juanita liked spending time with her husband, especially riding to Bernardo in the evenings to enjoy the country. She was referred to as “Aunt J” by several of her nieces and “Meme” by others.

Juanita is preceded in death by her mother Louise Knippel and stepfather Arnold Knippel, her husband Werner, her brothers-in-law Kermit Luedecke, Lester Luedecke and sisters-in-law Lee Ester Wright & Bernice Rodgers.

She is survived by her son James Luedecke and wife Jane; daughter Mary Sablatura and husband Terry; grandchildren, Jacob Luedecke and wife Currie, Sydney Sablatura and fiancé Brandon Simons and Hali Sablatura; great grandchildren Jett James Luedecke and Leddi Lou Luedecke.

Visitation was held on Monday, Aug 21, 2023, from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Henneke Funeral Home in Columbus. Funeral service was at 10:00 AM with Pastor Alan Kethan officiating. A private graveside service followed.

Pallbearers were Jimmy Garcia, Smokey Leyendecker, Jacob Luedecke, Clinton Maertz, Kane Maertz, Danny Ostert, Sydney Sablatura, Hali Sablatura, & Everett Wright.

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and kind thoughts.

Memorials may be given to St. Paul Lutheran Church, P.O. Box 267, Columbus, TX 78934 or to Columbus ISD Food Services for children’s overdue lunch balances, 103 Cardinal Ln., Columbus, TX 78934.

Online condolences may be given at www.hennekefuneralhome. com.

Henneke Funeral Home Columbus, Texas