Herbert William Beerwinkel

Herbert William Beerwinkel, 81, of Brenham, Texas, passed away peacefully on August 1, 2026.

Born on February 1, 1945, in Brenham, Texas, Herbert was the son of Herbert Fritz Beerwinkel and Anna Wesolek Beerwinkel. He was a proud graduate of Brenham High School and remained deeply connected to the community he called home throughout his life.

On June 28, 1969, Herbert married the love of his life, Barbara Ann Derkowski. Together they built a life centered on faith, family, hard work, and simple joys for 47 years.

Herbert honorably served his country in the United States Army, where he worked as a cook during his military service. After returning home, he devoted many years to serving his community. He worked as the Maintenance Director at Brenham State School, where he took great pride in caring for the campus. One of his lasting legacies is the many trees he planted throughout the grounds, leaving a beautiful reminder of his dedication for generations to come. He later joined Texas Southeastern Gas Company for many years and then finished his work career with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), where he retired.

Herbert had a lifelong love of sports. He enjoyed playing church league slow-pitch softball and was an enthusiastic supporter of University of Texas athletics, especially football and softball. He treasured opportunities to attend games in person and cheer on the Longhorns.

In his free time, Herbert found happiness in the outdoors. He loved spending time at his farm, driving around on his four-wheeler, and caring for his cattle. His everlasting love of pets was shown daily, especially with his faithful dog, Bully, which held a special place in his heart. As a young man, Herbert enjoyed family fishing trips to Matagorda, Texas, creating memories that lasted a lifetime. He also appreciated life's quieter moments, especially watching classic cowboy television shows and never missing his favorite game show, The Price Is Right.

More than anything, Herbert will be remembered for his strong work ethic, his love for his family, his devotion to his community, and his appreciation for the simple pleasures in life. He leaves behind a legacy of kindness, dedication, and countless cherished memories that will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Herbert is survived by his children Holly Hahn and husband Neal and Bradley Beerwinkel and wife Taran; and granddaughter Sydney Hahn.

Proceeding him in death were his parents Herbert and Anna Beerwinkel; wife Barbara Ann Derkowski Beerwinkel; and sister Elizabeth Beerwinkel.

Pallbearers for Herbert’s service will be Vince Derkowski, Raymond Thomas, Jr., Floyd Stegent, Eric Stegent, Kenneth Henry, and Raymond Warmke. Honorary pallbearers will be Willie Vollert, Jr. and Jimmy Weber.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Brenham Animal Shelter or to the charity of one's choice.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 6, 2026 from 8:00am until 7:00pm at Brenham Memorial Chapel with family present from 5:00pm until 7:00pm. A Rosary will be recited at 7:00pm.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10:00am at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church with Father Thaddeus Tabak officiating. Burial will take place at St. Stanislaus Catholic Church Cemetery immediately following services.

Services are in the care of Brenham Memorial Chapel, 2300 Stringer St., Brenham, TX 77833. 979.836.3611 Condolences may be shared at www.brenhammemorialchapel.com