Sister Serena Etzler, 86, died June 22, 2025. She was the daughter of the late Theodore and Agnes (Christ) Etzler. She was born in Hallettsville, TX, on July 9, 1938, the youngest of six children, 2 sisters and 3 brothers. She attended Sacred Heart elementary and high school in Hallettsville where she was taught by the Incarnate Word Sisters. She graduated from high school and entered Nazareth Convent in Victoria where she became a Postulant in 1957, became a novice in 1958, and professed first vows on August 6, 1959. Sister Serena received her BA degree with a major in education and a minor in history from Incarnate Word College in San Antonio and also became certified in physical education.
Her ministry began at Nazareth Convent where she worked in the laundry for a few years and then was missioned to St. Ludmila Academy, Shiner, for 16 years. She continued ministry in the laundry and cooking for the Sisters and gradually began teaching 3rd graders and working with all levels of P.E. She then ministered a few years at St. John School in San Antonio. After 25 years of teaching 3rd grade at Nazareth Academy, she moved to Incarnate Word Convent where she ministered in the Convent Gift Shop. She shared her devotion to Our Blessed Mother Mary by enjoying making and repairing rosaries. Her giftedness led to her other hobbies including making baby blankets, bracelets, and other crafts. She enjoyed playing cards and dominoes. Even when residing in the health care, she would join the community when she could. A few days before she died, she joined the community for a movie afternoon. Sister was always very prayerful and generous in giving of her time.
Sister Serena was preceded in death by her parents; her brothers Alphonse (Virginia) Etzler and Ervin Etzler; her sisters Emmerlin (Paul) Dworsky and Lucille Etzler; niece Joyce (Etzler) Miller; Carolyn (Hermes) Dworsky. She is survived by her brother and sister-in-law Hilbert and Joline Etzler and many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, great-great nieces and nephews, and friends.
Rosary and Visitation will be held at Incarnate Word Convent (1101 N.E. Water Street, Victoria, TX, 77901) on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. and a Wake Service and Sharing of Memories at 6:30 p.m. On Friday, June 27, 2025 a Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. at Incarnate Word Convent with Bishop Brendan Cahill as Presider and the Sisters’ Chaplain Reverend Albert Yankey as Master of Ceremonies. Burial will follow at Catholic Cemetery #3. Pallbearers are: Benedict Dworsky, Eugene Dworsky, Dennis Dworsky, William Etzler, Kevin Dworsky, and Kevin Patek.
Memorials may be made to Incarnate Word Convent, Victoria, Hospice of South TX, or donor’s choice. Share memories and condolences with the family at www.colonialfuneralhomevictoria.com.
