Waltraud "Wally" Elisabeth [Buerkle] Saathoff, 86, of Hondo, Texas, entered into eternal rest on May 31, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Wally was born in Ulm, Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany, to Agnes [Kanzler] Buerkle and Anton Buerkle on September 17, 1938. She attended school in Goeggingen, Germany, and immigrated to the United States in 1964. She later completed her nursing degree in 1983, first attaining her LVN and then her RN in San Antonio, Texas. Wally worked in nursing for over 20 years, cherishing her time at University Hospital in San Antonio most. She touched countless lives through her work and often said proudly, "Once a nurse, always a nurse."

Wally is survived by her only brother, Anton Joseph Buerkle (Leni); her three children, Patricia Brennan (Paul), Michael Saathoff (Viola), and Angela Saathoff (John Barrios); her nine grandchildren; twelve great-grandchildren; her niece; and a great-niece and great-nephew.

She was preceded in death by most of her family, including her parents, Agnes and Anton Buerkle.

A member of St. John's Catholic Church in Hondo, Wally lived her faith with devotion. She had a great sense of humor, often sharing jokes in both English and German. She delighted in teaching her grandchildren the "essential" German—especially Schwäbisch curse words—and was equally enthusiastic about American ones. Known for her strength, independence, and quick wit, Wally kept up with modern humor, even texting memes to her friends and family.

She treasured family gatherings, good food, and—above all—coffee, which she enjoyed at all hours, especially in the late evenings. A night owl to the end, Wally passed around the time she would typically be enjoying coffee at Jim's. She was an avid reader of fiction, and current events, particularly news from Germany. She loved Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and game shows, as well as historical and animal documentaries.

Creative and resourceful, Wally sewed Halloween costumes and crafted flower arrangements for her loved ones' special occasions. She was well-traveled and always ready for a road trip, visiting Mexico, Canada, and many corners of Texas. She navigated the roads of San Antonio and the Hill Country better than any map.

Wally took immense pride in attending her grandchildren's activities, from band concerts to school plays. A lifelong animal lover, she fostered numerous cats, dogs, and even a skunk—passing that love for animals on to her children and grandchildren.

She was fiercely devoted to her family, especially her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and had a special affection for babies. She kept a meticulous home, practiced her Catholic faith faithfully, and regularly supported St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.

Visitation will be held Thursday, June 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Guinn-Horger Chapel in Hondo, pausing for Recitation of the Rosary at 7:00 p.m.

Memorial Mass will be celebrated Friday, June 13, at 10:00 a.m. at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Hondo, with services concluding at the church.