Allene Rautio Friedel

Born on May 18, 1947, in San Antonio to Lola Barker and Walter “Skid” Rautio, Allene grew up with a spirited heart. A proud 1964 graduate of Highlands High School, she fondly remembered her days in the Pep Squad. It was while working at Brooks Field National Bank that she met the love of her life, Ben Friedel. The two were married for 45 years, building a life defined by partnership and hard work. Allene was the Assistant Vice President at New Braunfels National Bank. After 17 years in banking, Allene and Ben (a residential carpenter) co-founded Custom Homes by Ben and Allene, a business they successfully operated together for four decades.

Allene was the embodiment of strength. A two-time cancer survivor since 1971, she lived as a true warrior for over 50 years. Though Alzheimer’s eventually dimmed her memory, it never managed to dull the vibrant, kind spirit she shared with everyone she met.

A woman of faith and community, Allene was a member of First United Methodist Church and active in the New Life Emmaus Community, she served on a parsonage committee where she over saw remodeling, repairing and cleaning and eventually the purchase of a new parsonage. She spent plenty of time in the church kitchen cooking for others, gathering with Sunday School friends to play Chicken Foot and serving however she was asked. She found joy in the simple pleasures: camping in the RV with Ben, watching wildlife, planting flowerbeds and baking in her kitchen. Above all, she loved being home with her family, who will forever cherish her as their beloved “Gram.”

Allene was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Ben Friedel; her brother, Walter Allen Rautio; and her favorite aunt, Shirley Jung.

She is survived by her daughter, Kimberly Friedel Wersterfer and husband Keith; grandchildren, Ashley Wersterfer Bunde (Cory), Taylor Wersterfer, and Cole Wersterfer; and her adored great-grandchildren, Paige Bunde, Tyler Erben, Conor Erben, Logan Bunde, and Grayson Bunde. She also leaves behind her sister, Nancy Ponthieux (Steve), and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Celebration of Life will be held at First United Methodist Church New Braunfels on Monday, May 4 at 3:00 p.m. with Pastor Andrew Payne officiating. In her honor, guests are kindly invited to wear her favorite color, green, to the service.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to: First United Methodist Church: 572 W. San Antonio Street, New Braunfels, TX 78130. The Sophienburg Museum & Archives: 401 W. Coll Street, New Braunfels, TX 78130