Maurice "Gene" Karels

Maurice “Gene” Karels, age 93, passed away October 13, 2026, in Waco. 

Services will be scheduled for a later date.

Gene was born to Fred William Karels and Lucia “Agnes” Bates Karels on September 27, 1933, in Robinson, Texas. He graduated from Waco Technical High School.

Gene married the love of his life, Emma “Mildred” Lewis, on April 20, 1952. For 74 years, they shared a steadfast and extraordinary love, hardly spending a night apart. Their marriage was built on devotion, companionship, and a deep commitment to each other. Together they created a home filled with love, laughter, hard work, and family-a foundation that continues through the generations they raised.

Gene lived by the conviction that people should stand up for what is good and always do the right thing, even when it was difficult. He served as mayor of Robinson, Texas, where he gave his time and energy to the community he called home. He and Mildred also owned the local printing shop, Rapid Printing Company, and a trailer sales and rental company, Specialty Trailers. Through his businesses, he brought his determination, ingenuity and strong work ethic to everything he undertook and instilled in his children the value of working hard, providing quality products, and building lifelong relationships.

He believed deeply in the importance of education and took great pride in encouraging his children to work hard, pursue their goals, and make the most of their abilities. The accomplishments of his family were among his greatest sources of joy: two daughters earned master’s degrees and a son and daughter earned law degrees. Gene taught through his example that success was measured not just through achievement, but also through integrity, perseverance, and the willingness to do what was right.

Gene was, at times, bigger than life. His booming laugh could fill a room, and his presence was impossible to overlook. He began losing his hearing as a teenager, but he never allowed that challenge to diminish his voice or his engagement with the world. He was an eloquent speaker, a beautiful singer, and a man who cherished language and the power of words. His humor, convictions, and unmistakable spirit, made a lasting impression on those who were fortunate to know him. His laughter, wisdom, work ethic, and devotion will live on in the children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren whose lives he helped shape.

Gene was preceded in death by his parents, his twin brother, Wayne Karels; his brother, Ray Niswanger; and his sister, Katherine Kelly.

Gene is survived by his wife of 74 years, Mildred, and four children: Daughter, Marsha Ridlehuber and her husband, John, of Lott; son, Hoagie Karels of Marlin; daughter, Sabrina Karels of Houston; and daughter Frances Karels and her husband, Cardinal Wuebker of Hewitt.

Gene also leaves three grandchildren, Jessica Gonzalez, Cody Noe, and Zachary Noe, and seven great grandchildren.

The family would like to thank the caregivers at St. Anthony Care Center and Providence Hospice for their compassionate care and kindness. A special thank you goes out to Gene’s granddaughter, Jessica, for her care and compassion during his end-of-life time.

The family invites you to leave a message or memory for Gene in his “Memorial Guestbook” at www.WHBfamily.com.