Englunds Funeral Service & Chapel 1400 Woodrow Rd. Slaton, Texas

02/02/2025

What did short people do?

02/02/2025

Did you know that Groundhog Day stems from the holiday Candlemas? Apparently, a superstition in Germany stated that if an animal saw its shadow on Candlemas (February 2), there would be six more weeks of winter. When settlers came to the United States, they brought the practice with them! Do you know any other random facts about Groundhog Day?

01/31/2025

When honoring a loved one’s life, it’s important to express your grief through healing actions. But what are healing actions and how can you use them to personalize the funeral? Click to learn more!

Did you know that you can personalize healing actions at a funeral? Learn more about how to include actions at a loved one's final tribute.

01/29/2025

The birth of your first grandchild is an exciting event! While you may be thrilled to welcome the new baby, keep in mind that this can also be a stressful time for the new parents. For tips on supporting new parents, check out the article below.

Learn how to balance excitement as a new grandparent with the needs of exhausted parents when welcoming your first grandchild. Read on for tips on supportive grandparenting.

01/29/2025

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Danny Don Kitten, who left this world after a brief illness on January 28, 2025, at the age of 80.

Viewing will be from 10:00am-1:00 pm on Friday, January 31, 2025 at Englunds Chapel, followed by a Rosary Service at 1:00 pm. Funeral Services will follow at 2:00 pm at Englunds Chapel. Interment will be at Englewood Cemetery in Slaton. Arrangements are by Englunds Funeral Service of Slaton.

Born on October 16, 1944, in Slaton, Texas, Danny lived a life rich in love, friendship, and dedication to his family and community. Danny was the cherished son of Hildegarde Bednarz Kitten and Clementine "Clem" Valentine Kitten, both of whom preceded him in death. He is survived by his beloved wife of 37 years, Petra Anderson Kitten, whom he married on December 20, 1988, after meeting through mutual friends, at a square dance. Dancing became a big part of their lives and social calendar. This union brought immeasurable joy and companionship to both of their lives.

Danny was the proud father to two daughters, Cathey Amos Heitman and husband Ed, and Wendi Kitten Whitley and husband Aaron, as well as a loving father to his sons, Max Kitten, Luther Adams and wife Vanessa, Patrick Adams and wife Patty and Barry Anderson. Danny's legacy continues to thrive in the hearts of his 14 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren, who adored him deeply. He is also survived by his sister Glenda Kitten Schroeder, husband Charles, and many nephews and nieces who will miss him dearly. He greatly loved his extended family and attended many Kitten Family Reunions over the years.

An avid learner, Danny’s educational journey began at St. Joseph's Parochial School of Slaton where he graduated from 8th grade. He then continued his education at Slaton High School where he graduated in 1963. His pursuit of knowledge led him to South Plains College, where he earned an A.A. in Agricultural Sciences in 1966, followed by an A.A. in Building Construction Technology from James Connally Technical Institute in 1969. He concluded his academic achievements with a B.S. in Occupational Education from Wayland Baptist University in 1989.

Danny dedicated much of his career to education, serving as a Special Education Teacher in the Roosevelt School District from 1989 until 2009. His earlier years included work for the City of Slaton and a life-long commitment to cotton farming, which began in 1963. His most cherished moment after receiving his Bachelor’s Degree was writing his book, titled “I WON! I BEAT CEREBRAL PALSY”, in 2015. He had overcome so many barriers over the years and became so successful in his chosen field, so his crowning moment was completing these writings.

In addition to his professional roles, Danny was an active member of St. Joseph’s since birth and an active member of his community, contributing to organizations like the Knights of Columbus where he has been a member since May 1983. In addition, he had a plethora of hobbies that reflected his diverse interests. An avid collector and builder of model trains, he was also known for his impeccable woodworking skills, square and ballroom dancing, and his love for driving his 1950 Ford truck to car shows. One of his proudest moments was participating as a long hauler in the 2003 Hot Rod Power Tour alongside his dear friend Mike Harbour and sharing this with his son-in-law Ed, and grandson Spencer. Danny enjoyed being outdoors and planting, displaying the same meticulous care for all his plants as he did in his woodworking crafts.

Danny was a man who made friends effortlessly; he was known for never meeting a stranger. His warm and engaging personality left a lasting impression on everyone he encountered. As he traveled across the U.S., he would often run into someone he knew, a testament to his friendly nature. His signature farewell, “Catch'ya Later, Buddy,” will echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

His family wishes to extend heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Hospice of Lubbock, The Beehive Assisted Living, and the Slaton Care Center, as well as numerous friends and neighbors who provided loving assistance & support during this challenging time.
In remembrance of a life well-lived and a spirit that touched so many, Danny Don Kitten will be missed dearly but never forgotten. His legacy of friendship, kindness, and love will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate to know him.

01/29/2025

Karen Maberry Carson, 62, of Graford, was called home Sunday, January 26, 2025.

Viewing will be from 11:00 am-6:00 pm on Thursday, January 30, 2025, at Englunds Chapel, followed by a Rosary Service at 6:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am, Friday, January 31, 2025, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church in Lubbock, Texas. Interment will follow at Englewood Cemetery. Arrangements are by Englunds Funeral Service of Slaton.

Karen was born on September 7, 1962 to Eugene and Shirley Bednarz. She was the second of four children and being the only girl, she embraced the role of big sister. Growing up on the family farm, she never complained when she had to head to the field to work, as that meant she got to drive the car.

She graduated from Cooper High School in 1980 where she enjoyed distance running and playing basketball.

She married Sidney Maberry at St. Joseph Catholic Church on April 17, 1982. In 1983, they had their first of three children, all spaced 5 years apart. Through these years, she worked as a medical transcriptionist. You could often find her in her office with one of her children sprawled across her lap or hanging on her back as she typed away.

In 1994, Sidney passed away after a 12-year battle with cancer. Karen gracefully cared for Sidney while also raising three young children. Her passion for caregiving led her to enroll in nursing school at Texas Tech University. She attended nursing school while also working full time and raising her children. Her natural aptitude for nursing and diligent work ethic as a student resulted in her receiving prestigious scholarships and grants awarded for her excellence in nursing school. She graduated in the Iota Mu Chapter of Sigma Theta Tau, the international Honor Society for Nursing.
She met Rick Carson, and they quickly bonded over their mutual love for fishing and their children. This meant you could often find Rick and Karen at the lake fishing or at one of the kids’ sporting events. They were married in Lubbock on February 1, 2006. Karen and Rick’s large, combined family was her greatest joy, and her pride in them was evident to everyone around her.

Her natural talent and caregiving nature led her to quickly earn the love and respect of her coworkers at Covenant. She worked as a Registered Nurse in the Medical ICU until 2011 when she became ill and was no longer able to work. Her illness resulted in many complications with her heart, a stroke, and heart transplant, but in the face of adversity, she faced it head on. Always with a smile and a positive, upbeat attitude, she fought every day with grace and strength.

Rick and Karen moved to Graford in 2022 on Possum Kingdom Lake. They quickly made friends with many in the community and Karen loved spending time on the water, and fellowship with their neighbors as well as members of their church.

She is preceded in death by her first husband, Sidney Maberry, and her brother, Keith Bednarz; grandparents Willie and Irma Bednarz, and Ray and Lorena Kitten.

Karen is survived by her husband, Rick Carson of Graford; her daughter, Ashley Bynum and her husband, Will of New Home; her sons, Tyler Maberry and his wife, Laree of Midland, and Trey Maberry of Lubbock; her parents, Eugene and Shirley Bednarz of Slaton; her stepdaughter, Karsi Bradford and her husband, Cole of Lubbock; her stepsons, Casey Carson and his wife, Tricia of New Home, and Derick Carson and his wife, Cassie of Lubbock; her brothers, Curtis Bednarz and his wife, Claudia of Bedford, and Glenn Bednarz and Karla Vivial of Buffalo Springs; and 11 grandchildren.

01/27/2025

Pete Riojas, 64, of Slaton, passed away on Saturday, January 25, 2025.

Viewing will be 11:00 am-6:00 pm Wednesday, January 29, 2025 at Englunds, followed by a Rosary Service at 6:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am Thursday, January 30, 2025 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Slaton. Interment will follow at Englewood Cemetery in Slaton. Arrangements are by Englunds Funeral Service of Slaton.

Pete was born on June 29, 1960, in Slaton to Tomas and Clara Riojas. He graduated from Slaton High School in 1979 and married Becki Quintero on May 5, 1979, before a Justice of the Peace. They were married in front of family and friends at Our Lady of Guadalupe Catholic Church in Slaton, on October 5, 1979, and celebrated more than 45 years of marriage. Pete was a truck driver for a total of 25 years at Plains Co-op Oil Mill, which became Pyco Industries. Pete loved the outdoors. He enjoyed his classic movies, and he made sure Nicolette and Tammi, and their kids knew his classics! He was someone who could make you laugh and was genuine as hell. He also enjoyed playing dominoes, yard sales and thrift shops and was Dallas Cowboy fan. Pete also loved music, but especially his family.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and his brothers, Jesse Riojas and Alfredo Riojas, Sr.

Pete is survived by his wife, Becki; his daughters, Nicolette Riojas and her husband, David Leyva of San Antonio and Tammi Riojas of Slaton; his sisters, Mary Lou Elms and her husband, Pat of Lubbock and Bibiana Soto and her husband, Eddie of Plainview; his brother, Tino Riojas and his wife, Eloisa of Slaton; seven grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. He also had several nieces and nephews who he loved so much, as well as his five Godchildren.

01/27/2025

01/24/2025

Did you know that you can name a star in a loved one’s memory? You can! If you are interested in learning more about star registration and how to keep your loved one’s memory alive in the night sky, click the link!

Do you know about naming a star in a loved one's memory? It's possible! Check out this article to learn more about memorial star registration.

01/22/2025

Planning a vacation this winter? Whether you’re heading out on an exciting ski trip or curling up in the lodge with a good book, read these great tips to make sure everything goes smoothly on your winter getaway.

Navigating a resort town as a tourist can be stressful. This eight-part guide—which covers everything from booking the mountain's best instructor to renting the right gear—will help.

01/20/2025

Martin Luther King Jr. was a powerful voice for social justice and equality in our nation. Today, as we remember his life and legacy, let’s celebrate the progress we’ve made but also commit to continuing his work toward a more united, more equitable United States of America. Thank you, Dr. King - you made a positive difference and the ripples of your impact are still going today.

01/17/2025

Debra Kuss, 65, of Lubbock, passed away on Friday, January 17, 2025.

Viewing will be from 11:00 am-6:00 pm on Monday, January 20, 2025, at Englunds Chapel, followed by a Rosary Service at 6:00 pm. Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am, Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, Lubbock. Interment will follow at City of Lubbock Cemetery. Arrangements are by Englunds Funeral Service of Slaton.

Debra was born on February 28, 1959 in Slaton to Bill and Madalynne Wilson. She graduated from Monterey High School in 1977 and then earned an associate’s degree from Micki’s Beauty Academy. She married Rodney Kuss on September 8, 1984. Debra worked as a beautician at various shops until her son was born, then she stayed home, and eventually homeschooled her son and her daughter. Debra was a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church and taught Vacation Bible School. She loved doing arts and crafts, painting, and crocheting.

She is preceded in death by her father, and her sisters, Arlene Kirby, Kathy Young, and Billie Jo Cortez.

Debra is survived by her husband, Rodney; her daughter, Elyse Kuss of Lubbock; her son, Logan Kuss of Houston; her mother, Madalynne Wilson of California; and her brother, Ivan Wilson and his wife, Jackie of Hereford.

01/17/2025

Digital estate planning is a big part of getting your affairs organized. Many companies now provide a way to ensure that you can give trusted friends and family access to your accounts after your passing. For Google, this is the Inactive Account Manager. To learn more about this function, how it benefits you, and how it fits into your digital estate plan, click the link!

Do you have Google accounts? Then you may consider setting up a Google Inactive Account Manager to protect your information. Click for more!

01/17/2025

Daniel Leonard, age 69, passed away peacefully on January 14, 2025.

A Memorial Service will be held in honor of Daniel’s life on Monday, January 20, 2025, at 2:00 PM at Englund’s Funeral Service and Chapel in Slaton, Texas.

Born and raised with a deep sense of family and dedication, Daniel followed in his father’s footsteps to have a successful career in management, where he earned the respect and admiration of all who worked with him.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Daniel was a man defined by his love for his family, his warmth, and his generosity. He was the beloved husband of Mary for 45 years, sharing a partnership built on love, respect, and unwavering devotion. Together, they created a beautiful life filled with laughter, support, and shared memories.

Daniel’s love for his family extended to his two surviving children, Jed and Jaclyn, as well as his late son, Zach. While Zach is no longer with us, his memory will forever be a part of Daniel’s legacy. Zach’s spirit lives on in his siblings, who carry the traits of their father — kindness, patience, and strength — with pride and honor.

A gifted cook and baker, Daniel inherited his culinary talents from his mother, who passed down her love for creating delicious meals and treats. Daniel had a rare ability to craft dishes from memory, often inventing new recipes on the spot and knowing exactly what went into any dish he made. His meals, always prepared with care and love, were a central part of the many family gatherings that will be cherished forever.

Known for his calming presence and gentle nature, Daniel was the nicest person anyone could meet. His peaceful demeanor created a sense of ease and comfort to all who knew him. He was the kind of man who made those around him feel safe and loved, and his quiet strength was a source of support for his family and friends alike.

Above all, Daniel Leonard was a man who loved his family with his whole heart. His legacy will live on through the lives of those he touched, his lessons of kindness, patience, and love continuing to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Daniel is survived by his loving wife Mary, his children Jed and Jaclyn, his son-in-law Derek, and his extended family and friends, all of whom will deeply miss him but carry his memory forward.

01/16/2025

Clifton “Bo” Cantrell, 63, of Slaton, passed away on Monday, January 13, 2025.

Visitation will be 10:00 am-12:00 pm, Friday, January 17, 2025, at Englunds Chapel. Funeral Services will be at 2:00 pm Friday, January 17, 2025, at Englunds Chapel. Interment will follow at Englewood Cemetery in Slaton. Arrangements are by Englunds Funeral Service of Slaton.

Bo was born on November 7, 1961, in Lubbock to Merrell Randolph and Merle Jean Cantrell. He was raised in Petersburg and graduated from Petersburg High School in 1980. He lived in several places in Texas including Henrietta and Levelland, where his children were born. Bo was a jack of all trades until 2005, when he moved to Slaton and started working at South Plains Compost and has been there ever since. He enjoyed traveling across Texas and was an avid reader.

He is preceded in death by his parents, and his infant son, Dustin Cantrell.

Bo is survived by his daughter, Kyria Platt of Levelland; his son, Chase Cantrell and his wife, Ashley of Slaton; his sisters, Debrah Bailey and her husband Carl of Dalhart, Karen McElroy and her husband, David of Lubbock, and Phyllis Melton and her husband, Gary of Levelland; his brothers, Gerald Cantrell of Merit, Clay Cantrell and his wife, Janette of Petersburg, Patrick Cantrell and his wife, Kelly of Dalhart, and Eric Cantrell and his wife, Rhonda of Slaton; his grandchildren, Caden, Hunter and Bentley Cantrell, and Eilah, Ethyn, and Eliana Platt; numerous nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews, and his chihuahua, Baby Girl.

01/15/2025

Lower back pain is a common issue, but did you know that regular stretching might help alleviate some of the tension in your back? Click the link below to learn about some helpful lower back stretches you can try.

Learn to relieve lower back pain and tightness with these 7 stretches, complete with step-by-step instructions and modifications to meet your needs.

01/13/2025

Mary Alice Houchin, 78, of Wilson, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025, in Idalou.

Viewing will be from 11:00 am-5:00 pm Wednesday, January 15. 2025, Englunds Chapel, followed by a Visitation, 5:00-6:30 pm. Funeral Services will be at 2:00 pm, Thursday, January 16, 2025, at First Baptist Church, Wilson. Interment will follow at Green Memorial Park in Wilson. Arrangements are by Englunds Funeral Service of Slaton.

Mary was born on February,23, 1946, in Wellington to Edward and Sarah Todd. She attended school in Plainview. She married Gary Houchin on November 16, 1962 and they celebrated 62 years of marriage. Mary was a wonderful wife and homemaker who loved raising her kids. She was a great cook and seamstress. She was active in church participating in Vacation Bible School and teaching with GAs and also played the piano. It was also important to her to teach her kids and grandkids about the bible. Mary’s favorite pastime was watching her kids and grandkids sporting events. She also enjoyed working estate sales and going to market.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her daughter, Tamera Nix; and her sister, Shirley McLain.

Mary is survived by her husband, Gary; her daughters, Tonya Spears and her husband, Keith of Salado, and Trisha Singleton and her husband, Vance of Breckinridge; her son, Todd Houchin and his wife, Emily of Idalou; her son-in-law, David Nix of Liberty Hill; her brother, Jerry Todd and his wife, Barbara of Eureka, NV; her grandchildren, Kelby, Kylee and Hanna Singleton, Ky, Koal and Kutter Houchin, Allee and Noah Nix, and Koby and Kase Spears; and her great- grandchildren, Sterling, Baker, and Brewer Spears, Kaybri Jo, Krew, Kopper and Keaton Houchin.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest donations be made to First Baptist Church in Wilson, Texas.