Cleven August Engelhardt

July 2, 1938 - March 16, 2025

On Sunday, March 16, 2025, Heaven welcomed Cleven August Engelhardt, at the age of 86. A devoted husband, father and leading light in the community, he leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and friendship.

Cleven was born on July 2, 1938, in Zuehl, Texas to Rudolph and Elfrieda Schneider Engelhardt. He was raised in Marion, Texas and graduated from Marion High School in 1956 in a class of four; three boys and one girl.

On May 11, 1958, he married, Betty Kohlenberg Engelhardt and moved to New Braunfels, Texas. Cleven was a devoted husband who cherished every moment with his beloved wife of 66 years. Their partnership was built on a foundation of love, respect, and shared joy that served as an inspiration to all who knew them. Cleven and Betty had two daughters, Sharon and Brenda, whom he loved dearly. His greatest treasure was his family.

Those who had the pleasure of knowing Cleven will remember his remarkable ability to connect with others. Whether through his work or his many hobbies, he possessed a natural gift for friendship that drew people to him. His genuine interest in others and his warm personality made every conversation meaningful and every gathering memorable.

Cleven had a long successful career in the oil distribution business. He was employed by Harlan Wetz, Tri-County Oil, Johnson Oil, and Tex-Con Oil companies. He delivered fuel products to farmers, ranchers and businesses in New Braunfels, Texas and surrounding counties and later worked as a salesman. Exxon honored Cleven with a 50-year service award for distributing their products.

Cleven took great pride in his church, Redeemer United Church in Zuehl, Texas, where he was confirmed in 1953. He was very involved with the activities of the church and served as President of the Church Council for two terms. He and his brother Roy also took great pride in mowing the church grounds and the grove for many years.

Cleven had several hobbies that brought him great joy throughout his life. He participated in the Brady, Texas Goat Cook-Off for many years where he won 1st place in the “Main” division and 1st place in the “Superbowl” division. He was an avid hunter who found peace and fulfillment spent with nature, and an enthusiastic bowler whose competitive spirit and good sportsmanship made him a beloved figure at Freiheit, Marion, Germania, and Bexar bowling clubs throughout the years. He was a member of the New Braunfels Volunteer Fire Department where he participated in pumper races. He also served as Secretary of the Fraternal Order of Eagles for many years. Cleven also had a love of Polka music and enjoyed listening and dancing to the songs of the Cloverleaf Orchestra, the Hi-Toppers, the Little Fisherman and many others. Through these pursuits, he formed lasting friendships and created countless cherished memories.

One of Cleven's greatest pleasures was barbecuing for others. He took immense satisfaction in perfecting his recipes and techniques, but his true reward was always the joy his cooking brought to family and friends. This generosity of spirit extended to all aspects of his life. He particularly enjoyed mowing not just his own property but helping neighbors and friends with theirs. He also selflessly mowed for his church and other businesses expecting nothing in return. For Cleven, service to others was never a burden but a privilege.

Cleven is survived by his loving wife Betty Kohlenberg Engelhardt, his children: Sharon Abendschein (Bob), and Brenda Moos (Steve). Grandchildren: Amy Harbus (Chris), Michael Abendschein (Morgan), Allison Abendschein, Kyle Moos and Cory Moos, as well as great grandchildren: Hudson Harbus, Caroline Harbus, Emma Abendschein, Connor Abendschein and Madeline Abendschein.

He is also survived by sisters and brothers: Doris Lizana (John Henry), Gladys Kutach (Rudy), Erlath Engelhardt (Vi), Donnie Engelhardt (Elaine), and Roy Engelhardt, along with numerous extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents Rudolph and Elfrieda Engelhardt and in-laws Herbert and Gerda Kohlenberg.

The family would like to acknowledge the tender care given by Chapters Living of New Braunfels, Heart of Texas Hospice, HomeWell Care Services, and Dr. Mark Burns. 

Cleven Engelhardt leaves behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and warmth. He will be deeply missed by his wife, family, and the many lives he touched throughout his years in New Braunfels. While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved.

A visitation is scheduled for Tuesday, April 1, 2025 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Zoeller Funeral Home in New Braunfels, Texas. A Celebration of Life will be held on Wednesday, April 2, 2025 at 11:00am at Redeemer United Church in Zuehl, Texas. Burial to follow at Guadalupe Valley Memorial Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to Redeemer United Church “Memorial Grove Project”, 7415 Gin Road, Marion, Texas 78124 in Cleven’s memory.