Charles Ernest Kunze

Charles “Chuck” Ernest Kunze, a dedicated husband, father, grandfather and a respected member of the community, passed away at his home in George West, Texas, on July 23, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on June 4, 1951, in Falfurrias, Texas, Chuck was raised in Sinton, Texas, graduating from Sinton High School in 1969 and later attending Texas A&I University in Kingsville.

For 40 years, Chuck worked diligently in the oil and gas industry, specializing in natural gas measurement, primarily serving locations throughout South Texas and the Rio Grande Valley. He retired 13 years ago from EOG Resources as a Senior Measurement Foreman, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and expertise in his field, after which he retired to his ranch outside of George West.

Chuck married Dawna Jean Schmalstieg on June 22, 1974, in Taft, Texas. Together, they built a loving home. He was a proud father to two daughters, Heather Lynne (Alejandro) Kunze-Arredondo of Alamo, Texas and Meagan Jean (Mario) Kunze-Nevarez of Spring, Texas. He enjoyed a close bond with his cherished grandchildren, Emilia Marie Nevarez, Josephine Jean Nevarez and Daniel James Nevarez, who were his pride and joy. In addition to his family, Chuck had a deep passion for life on his 4K Ranch, where he found joy in caring for his horses and working cattle.

Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Guss Arnold Kunze and Betty Florene (Martens) Kunze.

His memory will live on through his wife of 51 years, Dawna Kunze; his daughters, Heather and Meagan; and his grandchildren, who will carry forward the values he instilled in them. Chuck is also survived by his sisters, Joyce (Paul) Matula of Richmond, Texas and Susan (Craig) Devenney of Katy, Texas.

Visitation will take place from 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, July 31, 2025, at Galloway & Sons Funeral Home in Beeville.

The funeral service will be held there at 9:30 a.m. Friday, August 1, 2025, with burial to follow at the Lebanon Cemetery close to Cadiz, Texas in Live Oak County.

Pallbearers will be Mario Canales, Alejandro Arredondo, Mario Nevarez, Gary Schroeder, John Schmalstieg, Robert Green and Gary Muniz.