George Louis Brucks

George Louis Brucks

September 1, 1942 – October 17, 2025

George Brucks, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and lifelong resident of Hondo, Texas, passed away surrounded by family on October 17, 2025.

Born September 1, 1942, to George Julius and Thelma (Schlentz) Brucks, George grew up in Hondo, where he was affectionately known as "Boy" by many of the old timers.

A standout athlete, George played football and baseball at Hondo High School and was scouted by the University of Texas at Austin, where he went on to play football all four years, starting both ways. George was a fierce competitor and a key member of the 1963 Longhorn team that won the National Championship in the Cotton Bowl Classic against Navy, a memory he cherished throughout his life. More importantly than victories, he and his teammates developed lifelong friendships that have stood the test of time.

On May 30, 1964, George married his high school sweetheart and the love of his life, Evelyn Amberson Brucks. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, raised a family grounded in love, and supported each other through every joy and challenge.

Following graduation, George began his career selling life insurance in Austin, where their first son, Lance, was born. In 1968, George and Evelyn returned home to Hondo, where he purchased an insurance agency that he successfully ran for 57 years. That same year, they welcomed their second son, Cory, followed by their daughters Julie and Rachel. George was an active member of the community. He had an entrepreneurial spirit and started several successful businesses throughout his career. He was a proud lifelong member of St. Paul Lutheran Church serving as a councilman and Sunday School teacher. He was elected Mayor of Hondo from 1971–1972, proudly giving back to the community that shaped him.

An avid outdoorsman, George loved hunting across South Texas and parts of Mexico, and fishing in waters all over Texas with friends and family. He passed this passion down to his sons and grandsons. While on hunting trips, George discovered his true hobby: arrowhead hunting. Known for his keen eye, he could spot a point even at a brisk stroll. George loved to cook and barbecue, sharing countless meals, memories, and laughter with loved ones. He had a deep knowledge and love for raising cattle, which he tended with dedication and care. Many evenings were spent with Evelyn riding their Kawasaki Mule to check cattle and feed the catfish, enjoying the quiet beauty of their land together.

George was blessed with nine grandchildren and one great-granddaughter, with another great-granddaughter on the way. His grandchildren have fond memories of rides in the mule around the ranch with "Opa and Oma." Mondays spent with Opa at the cattle auction, followed by enchiladas in the auction cafe and ice cream at Dairy Queen – these were simple joys that meant the world to all of them.

He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers-in-law James "Jimmy" Amberson, Thomas "Tommy" Amberson, Samuel "Sammy" Amberson, Donald Effenberger, and sister-in-law Crickett Amberson.

George is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 61 years; his children: Lance (Jolynn), Cory (Brandie), Julie Brucks, and Rachel (Terry) Strawn; grandchildren Erin (Dustin Ernesti), Reagan, Zane (Charlotte), Kelsie, Kallie, Chloe, Julius, David, and Jennifer; great-granddaughter Tatum Ernesti; sister Barbara Effenberger; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.

George will be remembered for his deep faith, strong work ethic, love for the outdoors, and the steadfast devotion he had for his family and community. His legacy will live on in the hearts and stories of all who knew and loved him.

A Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, October 25, 2025, at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Hondo, Texas. Greeting of family and friends from 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by the Celebration of Life at 11:00 a.m. The services will conclude at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be made to St. Paul Lutheran Church or the church or charity of your choice.