Inez Katherine Britsch Iltis, of Castroville, Texas, passed away August 23, 2026 at the age of 96.  She was born November 10, 1929 in Hondo, Texas to Willie Henry Britsch and Frances Magdelene Weiss Britsch.

She married William Alois (Bill) Iltis on April 18, 1950. They were blessed with 59 years of marriage until the time of his death on January 17, 2010.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, brothers Joseph Britsch and Lawrence Britsch and her sisters Lillian Britsch Schumann and Corine Britsch and son-in-law John Hart.

Left behind to cherish her memory are her children Michael Iltis (D'Neece), Frances Gravell (Gary), Wayne Iltis (Lisa), Jerome Iltis (Tammy), Phyllis Hart, and Lawrence Iltis (Beverly). She is also survived by her grandchildren Nicole Cypert (Justin), Joshua Iltis (Taylor), Jonathan Gravell (Maggie), Lauren Gravell, Lexie Warren (Jarrod), Katie Arp (Kevin), Greg Iltis (Andrea), Kayla Ott (Jarrett), Katherine Moore, Jay Iltis, Alexandra Hart, Shelby Hart, Kaitlyn Pratt (Alex), Grace Iltis, and Claire Iltis, 18 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.

Born and raised on the Britsch family farm, frontier living had a lasting influence on the life of Inez. As a young girl, she walked a long distance to school in the neighboring Vandenburg community, and she would ride a horse to school in Hondo. An avid outdoorswoman and hunter, not only did she bring home the game, but she prepared it to perfection.

She actively served her community as a longtime member of the American Legion Auxiliary in support of Weiss-Wurzbach Post 460, named after her uncle, Corporal Joseph Weiss. She also worked alongside her husband Bill as a poll worker during elections.

The Catholic faith that sustained Inez was demonstrated by her service to St. Louis Parish. She was a fixture in the kitchen during the annual St. Louis Day celebration. She also volunteered for several years to lead the altar boys apostolate. Prior to her passing, she was recently recognized as the oldest current member of the St. Ann's Altar Society and for her service to the parish as a 75-year member of the Society.

Brought up speaking German, Inez took delight in talking with others in the native language of her immigrant grandparents. She was a connoisseur of good food and earned her reputation as a great cook. Dancing was one of her favorite activities. She welcomed every opportunity to play a game of pitch with family and friends. Inez and Bill were enthusiastic supporters of their children's athletic programs attending practically every sporting event. In order to finance her love to travel, she worked part time as a waitress at Sammy's Restaurant.

Known for her friendly conversation and her outgoing personality, Inez was a joy to everyone who had the pleasure of her acquaintance.

Her legacy lives on through the family she cherished, the faith that she shared, and the countless memories she leaves behind. Mom, Grandma, Great Grandma, Aunt, Cousin, Friend, and Daughter of Christ: "You have fought the good fight. You have finished the race.  You have kept the faith." 2 Timothy 4:7.

Visitation will be held on September 7 from 4:00 – 7:00 pm at Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home in Castroville, with the Holy Rosary prayed at 5:30 pm. The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 am on September 8 at St. Louis Catholic Church, Castroville. Interment will follow at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Cemetery in LaCoste, Texas.

Memorials may be made in her memory to St. Louis Catholic School or the charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Tondre-Guinn Funeral Home. www.tondre-guinn.com