Max Elwood Nehrkorn, Jr.

Max Elwood Nehrkorn, Jr., 85, of Bellville, passed away at home on Sunday, April 19, 2020, after a short illness.

He was born on August 8, 1934 to Eleanor (Schroeder) and Max Nehrkorn, Sr.

He graduated from Bellville High School in 1953.

Max was united in marriage to Betsy Jane Lynch of Farmington, Missouri, at St. John Lutheran Church on April 20, 1963 and remained married to his beloved Jane until her death on August 20, 2004.

Max started employment with American Warehouses, Inc. in Houston, Texas in 1958. After serving in all capacities of the company, he was promoted to President in 1987 and held this position until 1989. When he and small group of investors purchased the company, he continued serving the company as President and CEO until his retirement in 1996. He continued to serve as a Director until his death.

Max was a member of St. John Lutheran Church since birth. He became more active in church activities after his retirement by serving two terms on the church council. Additionally, he was a member of the Men In Mission, Retreat Center Volunteers, Trust Fund Committee, and Captain of the Nehrkorn Ushering Team, and helped count the offering on Mondays.

Max’s community service included volunteering in different capacities for the Austin County Fair and he also was an active member of the local Lions Club for 18 years and served as Director for 12 years.

Max enjoyed cooking so he lent his talents and organizational skills to different fundraisers in and around Bellville such as the Bellville Fire Department, Lions Club and St. John Lutheran Church Picnic. He also judged BBQ Cook Offs and Chili Contests.

Max enjoyed working on his farm with his cattle and took pride in the appearance of his property. He enjoyed the great outdoors, hunting deer in West Texas, and the company of his family and friends.

He is preceded in death by his wife and parents. He is survived by his brother, Dewitt Nehrkorn and his wife, Lucille; his nephew, Ted Nehrkorn and his wife, Robin, all of Bellville, cousins and a multitude of friends.

Due to the current COVID-19 situation, the family will observe a private graveside ceremony at Oak Knoll Cemetery. A public memorial will be held at a later date at St. John Lutheran Church.

Pallbearers are Don Luedke, Brandon Luedke, Chad Luedke, Lonnie Lischka, Ryan Burke, Gene Cordes, Willie Froebel, Bruce Morlock, and Allen Wienecke. Honorary pallbearer is Larry Chandler.

Friends who wish may make memorial gifts to the:

St. John Lutheran Church

520 North Holland

Bellville, Texas 77418