Irene Mary Rica Nietenhoefer Muennink, age 93 of Hondo, passed away March 18, 2015, in Hondo. Born in Hondo Nov. 25, 1921, she was the daughter of Robert and Olga Saathoff Nietenhoefer. She spent a lot of time during her childhood with siblings, Erlene and Milton. Many aunts, uncles, cousins and family friends were an important part of her childhood. She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran church, but became a member of New Fountain United Methodist Church when she married Marion Muennink March 4, 1939. A perfect mother to her four daughters, most of all she was a helpmate to Marion on the family farm. Together they worked the irrigated farm, hosted barbeques, and enjoyed trips to Colorado, fishing at the pasture, going to cattle auctions and attending grandchildrens' events. She enjoyed watching Spurs basketball and bull riding on TV. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband of 52 years; daughter, Dorothy Beard; brother, Milton Nietenhoefer; sons-in-law, Russell R. "Bob" Rowell and Ken Beard; and in-laws, Bud Hickey, Laura Ann Nietenhoefer and Jay E. and Marie Muennink. Survivors include daughters, Kathryn Rowell of Schertz, Marianne (Buddy) Sandidge of Bandera, and Rita (Lindy) Mechler of La Coste; grandchildren, Todd (Sissie) Sandidge, Darrell (Jennifer) Sandidge, Shelly (Norm) Galyon, Natalie Mechler, Kristi (Scott) Clendennen, Brett (Robby) Beard, Loal (Desirae) Beard, and Kathi (Cabin) Long; 22 great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; sister, Erlene Hickey of Flagler, CO; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. Services were March 23 at New Fountain United Methodist Church with Pastor Mel Hazelwood officiating. Interment followed at Hondo Cemetery, Oakwood Section. Pallbearers were Todd and Darrell Sandidge, Brett and Loal Beard, Scott Clendennen and Norm Galyon. Honorary pallbearer was Cabin Long. Memorials may be made to New Fountain United Methodist Church.