Ernest Henry Seelhorst

Ernest Henry Seelhorst, 79 of Brenham, passed away Friday, April 4, 2008 in Trinity Medical Center.

Ernest Henry was born October 3, 1928 to Ernest William Seelhorst and Gertrude Wehmeyer Seelhorst. He was so beloved as their only child and the only grandchild of Johanna Tesch Wehmeyer and the late Henry F. Wehmeyer. Ernest continued throughout his life as a true blessing to everyone with his kind and devoted ways and loyalty to family. He became an inspiration to all because of his many talents, his determination to excel, and his passion to enjoy and share his knowledge of classical music, opera, Shakespeare, history and the arts with others.

Ernest was the salutatorian of his Brenham High School graduating Class of 1946, where he contributed much time and artistic talent to the yearbook publication. He continued that service at Blinn College and in 1948 graduated with his Associate in Arts Degree. He was a co-valedictorian and a member of Phi Theta Kappa honorary fraternity.

In 1951 Ernest earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Architectural Engineering from the University of Texas. He was a member of the Tau Beta Pi honorary Engineering fraternity and the honorary Civil Engineering Society Chi Episilon.

During his career in structural engineering in Houston and Dallas, Ernest worked for Anderson Greenwood, Dresser Industries, The Fluor Corporation and Chance-Voght. His mathematics expertise led to his selection for projects such as the guided missile program, F-1 fighter jets, jungle landing shelters for equipment during the Vietnam War and petrochemical plants along the Gulf Coast.

In retirement, after returning to Brenham he became interested in the development of the Brenham Heritage Museum. He is also a former director of the Star of the Republic Museum in Old Washington, Texas. He was a lifetime member of the Texas Exes. He was also a proud member of “The Friends of Alec,” a University of Texas Engineering Society. He delighted in being a member of the Metropolitan Opera Guild since the age of 11, when Saturday afternoon radio broadcasts introduced him to the world of opera. An avid chess player, he was at one time a nationally ranked computer competitor. From childhood he was a meticulous model ship builder and cherished his collection for each ship’s unique significance in history. He was a member of numerous numismatic and philatelic societies. He has participated in programs sponsored by the Friends of London Symphony in New York City and London and the Sam Houston Society in Texas. During the past 12 years his greatest joy has been traveling with his wife to the places so fascinating to him, because of his lifelong study of history. He also was a lifetime fan of the Texas Longhorns and Houston Astros.

Ernest was preceded in death by his parents, his aunt Hildegarde Hohlt (Mrs. Edwin) and his uncles E. C. (Poe) Wehmeyer and Henry Wehmeyer, Jr. He was always proud of his Washington County heritage and being descended from pioneer families which included F. F. Sprain of Independence. He was proud of the accomplishments of his grandfather Adolph Seelhorst and great-grandfather Louis Tesch. He sought to preserve family memories and possessions with reverence.

Survivors include his loving wife Lenoir Seelhorst of Brenham; her daughters Elisa McCrimmon, Wendy Leishman, and Roslyn Bradford and their families. He will live on in their hearts and souls forever and inspire their lives. His sense of humor, impish smile, hearty laughter and trusting optimism will continue to brighten the spirits of all who loved him.

With the family present, visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 pm., Sunday, April 6, 2008 in Brenham Memorial Chapel.

Funeral services will be held Monday, April 7, 2008 at the Brenham Presbyterian Church with Rev. Jim McLeod officiating. Interment will follow in the Prairie Lea Cemetery.

Pallbearers are Mark McCrimmon, Charles Bradford, Michael Leishman, Michael Leishman, Jr., Dave Franks, James B. Kershaw and Douglas Vander Ploeg.

Memorials may be given to Brenham Heritage Museum, Brenham Hospice and Brenham Presbyterian Church.

Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, Texas 77833. 979.836.3611 www.brenham-memorial-chapel.com