Vincent Hons

HONS
Vincent Michael Hons died February 16, 2013 with his family by his side. He was a man of great integrity and a role model for everyone who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Grace Elizabeth (Henke) Hons, who treasures their 53 years of marriage.
Vincent was born on October 30, 1932 in Hobson, Texas. He met Grace there and they married April 18, 1959. They had five children who all live in the San Antonio area: Janice and husband Michael Lenz, Stephen and wife Mary Lou Hons, Gayle and husband Timothy Kinnally, Jeffrey Hons and partner Lico Rios, Philip and wife Mary Hons. Vincent was an adored grandfather to Heidi Lenz, Derek Lenz, Matthew Lenz, Jordan Kinnally, Greta Hons, and Dane Hons.
Vincent is also survived by his four sisters: Martha Fey, Esther Nester, Elizabeth Dziuk, and Mary Jarzombek. He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and Joseph Hons, his brother, Joseph, as well as bothers Casper and Sigmund who gave their lives in World War II. Vincent was a part of the memorial service to the "Sons of Hobson", a tribute to the families who lost men during war. Vincent cherished his relatives and friends, holding family in the highest regard.
Vincent's values and strengths were evident in his life choices. Born a farm boy, he later attended high school at St. John's Seminary. He spent two years in the U.S. Army and found his career when he joined the San Antonio Police Dept. in 1961. He served for 31 years, embodying the very best of who we want to protect us. He impacted many with the rare ability to connect with the positive part of people and then help them build on it. He retired as a Sergeant in charge of the Forgery department. He was instrumental in the forward steps taken by SAPD to shield children from court proceedings after the trauma of abuse by allowing the video of children's testimony to be admissible in the courts. A few years after his 1992 retirement, he and Grace moved back to Hobson. Their place is named "Graceland II", indicating the special place that only she held in his life.
His advocacy of youth was a life-long quest illustrated by the poignant moments shared by his police officer friends, his interactions with dozens of nieces and nephews, as well as the extraordinary love he enjoyed with his grandchildren. In humble service to the Catholic Church, Vincent taught catechism to high school students. He would begin the year by telling his students he used to be a police officer. By the end of the course, the students had learned of saints, and even led the church in song. Vincent was also a member of the Knights of Columbus.
Vincent loved the Mexican culture, frequently traveling to Mexico and avidly studying the language. He gardened, was a phenomenal carpenter, and had life-long loves for dominoes and cards. His favorite game was Tarock. He was a master at it and taught it to his five children and grandchildren. He loved life, the simple things like growing fresh vegetables and making homemade wine, as well as taking risks like zip-lining in Alaska at the age of 77. He had a strong work ethic, but an even stronger faith.
Viewing will be Wednesday, February 20, 5:30 p.m. at St. Boniface Catholic Church in Hobson, Texas. Rosary to follow at 7:00 pm. Funeral services will be Thursday, February 21, 10:00 a.m. also at St. Boniface Catholic Church. Interment to follow at St. Boniface Catholic Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests contributions be made to the charity of your choice.