Harper-Talasek Funeral Homes

03/20/2026

The more personal a funeral service is, the more meaningful it will be for the entire family. To help your family brainstorm possible ways to create a truly one-of-a-kind final goodbye, check out this list of 10 ideas to consider. And if you don't find something that feels right, this list is only the beginning. We're happy to sit down with you and come up with even more ideas to create the perfect sendoff.

To be meaningful and healing, a funeral must be personal. Check out this article for 10 ideas to create a truly unique final tribute.

03/20/2026

Winter is past. Spring has come. After long and difficult winters, spring is a welcome change. Do you have any plans for this spring that you're looking forward to?

03/18/2026

Lynn Van Ness

Lynn was born October 25, 1959, in Maryland and spent her early life in Berwyn Heights. The family spent two years in Heidelberg, Germany when her father, James Van Ness, was with the University of MD’s overseas division. When Lynn was in ninth grade, the family moved to upstate New York, where Lynn spent the rest of high school. There, she attended St. Lawrence University, majoring in Library Science. In 1981, the Van Ness family moved to Riverton, Wyoming. James Van Ness took a job at Temple Community College in the mid-80’s and the family followed him there soon after.

Lynn worked at various jobs in Austin, Temple, Taylor, and then came back full time to Temple in 2019 to work remotely and support her mother, Nedra, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The latter part of her career was in configuring and supporting the EPIC Electronic Medical Record system for Baylor Scott and White.

She was an early member of the Bluebonnet Quilt Guild in Temple, a Charter Member of the Taylor Blackland Quilt Guild, and a member of the P.E.O. Chapter EW. P.E.O. supports Cottey College in Nevada, Missouri and provides a variety of scholarships for women’s education. Lynn was a parishioner at Christ Episcopal Church in Temple.

Lynn was kind, creative, crafty, and thoughtful. She loved learning for its own sake. In addition to quilting and reading, she found joy in cooking, baking and trying new foods, especially from international cuisines. She always made sure there were gummy bears at Christmas — a small, beloved tradition leftover from the family’s time in Germany. She was curious and knowledgeable in many subjects, thanks to her background in library science and the influence of literary parents.

Lynn was preceded in death by her mother, Nedra Tracy Van Ness; her father, James Samuel Van Ness; and her brother, Paul Van Ness.

She is survived by her cousins: Leslie Tracy, her son, Jacob; Lorne Tracy, his wife Christie; Neal Tracy, his wife Ashley; Eric Tracy, his wife Iju; and Cheryl Van Ness MacBride, her husband Jay, and their children Kristin Wauson, husband Nick, and their children Lucas and Tobias Wauson; Mark Van Ness; Kevin MacBride; and Clayton MacBride. Her Aunts, Lynne Tracy and Beverly Tracy.

Thank you to all who loved and shared life with Lynn. Her quilting guild members from Taylor and Temple brought her great joy. We are so grateful to her neighbors Bill Shaffell and Becky Smart for looking after her, gathering mail and handling household tasks. She was a lover of education and so enjoyed her volunteer work with the POE group. Thank you to her church family for your love, support and prayers.

View Lynn Van Ness's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/17/2026

Genevieve Lara

Genevieve Lara, 67, of Temple, Texas, passed away on March 7, 2026. She was born on June 27, 1958, in Los Angeles, California, to Porfirio and Aurora Lara.

Genevieve lived a life rooted in faith, family, and service. She graduated from Schurr High School in Montebello, California, and later earned her associate degree from Temple College in Medical Information Systems. She built a meaningful career working with Temple ISD in food service from October 1995 to September 2005, where she cherished her daily interactions with students and staff. She later worked in customer service and sales at Macy’s from October 2004 until July 2017, continuing her passion for connecting with others.

A proud veteran, Genevieve served four years in the United States Air Force. After her service, she made Temple her home in 1984, where she raised her two daughters—her greatest joy in life. She was a devoted mother who intentionally chose part-time work whenever possible so she could be present for her girls, whom she loved deeply.

Genevieve was a woman of strong and unwavering faith. She was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Temple, and her belief in Jesus remained steadfast throughout her life. Her family finds comfort in knowing she is now whole and at peace.

She enjoyed the simple joys of life—playing sports like tennis, cheering on baseball and basketball teams, and spending time with family. Known for her competitive spirit and warm personality, Genevieve brought energy and love into every space she entered.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Porfirio and Aurora Lara, and her brothers Jesse, Richard, Raymond, and Edward Lara.

Genevieve is survived by her loving husband, Steven Lopez; her daughters, Kristina McCoy and Felicia Lopez; her grandchildren, Aidan McCoy, Olivia McCoy, Liam McCoy, Alyssa McCoy, and Nora McCoy; her brothers, Armando and Carlos Lara; and her sister, Irene Lara. She also leaves behind extended family and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

Visitation will be held Thursday, March 26, 2026, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Harper-Talasek Funeral Home in Temple.

Funeral services will be held Friday, March 27, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Temple.

Interment will follow at Temple Garden of Memories.

Genevieve’s life was a beautiful reflection of devotion—to her family, her faith, and her community. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her

View Genevieve Lara's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/17/2026

The color green has long been associated with Ireland, so it makes perfect sense that we should wear green to honor St. Patrick's Day. Do you wear anything special to celebrate St. Patrick's Day?

03/16/2026

Jesse Calderon

Jesus “Jesse” Calderon, 90, of Temple, Texas, passed peacefully from this life on March 5, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, family, and devotion that will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Jesse was born June 15, 1935, in Temple, Texas to Aurora and Pedro Nieto. He was raised by his step father, Manuel Calderon, in Central Texas, and completed his education through the eighth grade before beginning a life of hard work and service to others. Jesse later became both a pastor and a skilled upholsterer through his work with Calderon Upholstery, using his talents to provide for his family and serve his community.

A man of deep faith, Jesse dedicated much of his life to sharing the love of Christ with others. His greatest goal in life was to bring as many people as possible to know the Lord. Those who knew him remember his wisdom, his guidance, and the encouragement he freely gave to anyone who needed it. To many, he was not only a pastor but also a mentor and trusted friend.

Jesse found joy in the simple moments of life. He loved gathering with family and friends around the dining room table to play games and spend time together. His grandchildren especially remember rides in his car to the post office, where he would have them spell every word to each other as a way to practice spelling. Jesse also enjoyed painting and drawing, often creating artwork to share with family and friends. In quiet moments he could often be found reading his Bible or spiritual growth books, or listening to music by Hank Williams Sr.

He was known for his memorable sayings and for the words of encouragement he shared with his family. One of his favorite phrases was to say “Charge!” right after praying for a meal. During family gatherings he often reminded his loved ones, “Never turn loose of your faith. Stay close to the Lord and always be in the Word.”

Jesse was preceded in death by his father, Pedro Nieto; his stepfather, Manuel Calderon; his mother, Aurora Calderon; his brothers, Andrew Nieto and Joe Calderon; and his sisters, Linda Martinez and Rita Nieto.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lydia Calderon; his son, Randy Calderon (Peggy); and his daughter, Diane Calderon Flow (Mike): his brothers Pete Jr. Nieto, Johnny Nieto, and Fremensio Calderon, and his sisters Benita Schramme, Patricia Schnell, Alice Tobar, Teresa Medrano, and Helen Jimenez-Suringa.

Jesse’s legacy continues through his beloved grandchildren Adriana Calderon Lopez (Juan), Shawn Flow (Alex), Jacob Calderon, and Shane Flow (Destenne), as well as his cherished great-grandchildren Sofia Flow, Mariana Lopez, Stella Flow, Lilyana Lopez, Luziana Lopez, Emersyn Flow, Xander Flow, Jesse Flow, and Riley Flow.

Jesse will be remembered as a faithful servant of God, a loving husband and father, a proud grandfather, and a man whose life was devoted to faith, family, and encouraging others to walk with the Lord.

A visitation in Jesse‘s honor will be held on Thursday, March 19th from 6 to 8 PM at Harper Talasek funeral home in Temple, Texas. Funeral services will be the following day, Friday, March 20th, at 10 AM at Harper Talasek funeral home in Temple Texas.

View Jesse Calderon's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/16/2026

03/13/2026

Pansy Carol Lange

Pansy Carol Lange, 85, of Temple, Texas, passed peacefully from this life, surrounded by the love of family and the many memories she created throughout a life well lived.

Pansy was born December 29, 1940, in Belton, Texas to Marshall and Rosemary Adams. She grew up in Central Texas and graduated from Salado High School before continuing her education at Durham Business College in Austin. She later spent 25 devoted years working at JCPenney, where she became known not only for her dedication but also for the kindness and friendships she shared with those around her.

Pansy lived a life rooted in faith, family, and simple joys. She had a special gift for music and faithfully shared her talent by playing piano for her church, bringing comfort and beauty to many worship services over the years. She loved traveling, cooking for those she cared about, and creating crafts that reflected her creativity and thoughtful spirit.

Those who knew Pansy will remember her gentle nature, warm heart, and the quiet strength with which she lived her life. She treasured time with family and friends and found her greatest happiness in the moments spent together. Her love, kindness, and steady presence will remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Marshall and Rosemary Adams; her beloved husband, Franklin Lange; her brother, Michael Adams; and her sisters, JoAnn Walker and Gail Sellers.

Pansy’s memory will be lovingly carried on by her son, Franklin Gregory Lange and his wife, Theresa Darshek Lange; her daughter, Cynthia Pesa; and her cherished grandchildren, Kristin, Amanda, Lianna, Bethany, and Cody.

Visitation will be held Saturday, March 11, from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., followed by a funeral service at 11:00 a.m. at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Bartlett, Texas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America at alzfdn.org.

View Pansy Carol Lange's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/13/2026

Have you ever wondered what happens during an arrangement conference for a funeral? This article shares a few tips on what to expect and how you can prepare ahead of time.

Do you know what to expect at a funeral arrangement conference? Read over these tips so you can prepare for the conversation ahead of time.

03/11/2026

Today, as we honor our funeral care colleagues around the country on National Funeral Director & Mortician Recognition Day, we want to say "thank you" for stepping into difficult situations, for offering kindness and compassion, and for going the extra mile for families in grief. Today is about you and making sure you know just how valuable you are to the community!

03/10/2026

Thomas Perry Saiz

There are no words except we are thankful for the time our family had with Tom. There is so much to say about Tom, but those who had the awesome privilege of knowing him as a teen and adult can share their stories. Born in Dillon, Montana, raised in New Mexico, the legacy Tom leaves behind is what he did serving God, teaching and ministering to young people leading them to Christ in confirmation and as a youth minister, coaching his sons in baseball, coaching girls from EHS and KHS in a traveling softball team, and a youth group team with the Diocese of Austin. You see our Tom was kind and generous, who allowed people to be human, knowing we were not perfect. Not only was he a husband, father, son, uncle, brother-in-law, grandpa, great grandpa, but a soldier. He was and did everything to perfection, because what he did was to love unconditionally. As a soldier, he received many awards, medals, commendations and at the end of his Army Aviation career, as a First Sergeant with 6th Cavalry Brigade he led his troops and made better soldiers of them and better husbands by mentoring them. His legacy is not how many awards and accolades he received, but it was about the love he had for his family and friends, incredibly pure and honest. He was fire and brimstone at times, wanting the best for everyone. His goal was to lead us to heaven. He will be missed for his quick wit and choice words, for the night blessings he gave us, for his grandchildren Adelaida, Pepper and Matt, his great grandchildren Aayden, Alahnni and still in the womb Jeramiah, he loves you more than numbers. To his immediate family, his church family the memories of you have always lived in his heart. The miles never separate love. For all the young people he mentored, for the times in youth group he walked the perimeter with you, you were the best. For his sons, Thomas and Matthew, he loved you more, now together for all eternity. We, who are left behind continue Tom’s legacy to lead each other to heaven. Thomas, we love you more than numbers, pray for us. Sleep with the angels and our heart. Thomas was preceded in death by his parents Paul and Lorraine Saiz, his grandfather, Tomas Saiz, his brothers Earl, Paul, and John Saiz and his beloved son’s Thomas and Matthew Saiz, as well as his in-laws, Jake and Mela Herrera.

View Thomas Perry Saiz's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.

03/09/2026

Gwenda Whatley Downing

Gwenda Whately Downing, of Troy, passed away on March 6, 2026, in Temple, Texas. She was 88 years old.

Gwenda was born on November 24, 1937, to Frank and Lorene Lucky Whatley in Temple, Texas. She graduated from Temple High School in 1956 and from Mary Hardin Baylor with a degree in Elementary Education. She married Chester Edwin “Dub” Downing, on May 31, 1958. They made their home in Troy, Texas, where they lived and raised their two sons, John and Douglas.

Gwenda started her teaching career in Troy but ended up teaching with Temple ISD for the majority and remainder of her career. She loved teaching and loved every student that she had the opportunity to work with. Her students also loved her. Gwenda was even awarded the Golden Apple Award for “Outstanding Teacher of the Year”. After retiring, she continued to work with students by tutoring from her home.

Gwenda loved welcoming her five precious grandchildren as they got off of the school bus each afternoon. They enjoyed the warm welcome as they rushed into the house and were greeted by the smell of freshly baked cookies as she helped them complete their homework. Gwenda enjoyed following her grandchildren across the state and country to their sporting events, rodeo competitions, and livestock shows. She also enjoyed traveling with Dub as he made deliveries until he retired. Gwenda loved gardening, working outside in her yard, cooking, baking for family and friends, and decorating beautifully for the holidays, especially Christmas.

Gwenda was a Christian and a faithful member of First Baptist Church Troy. Her faith in Jesus and trust in the Bible remained firm to the end, and we rejoice in knowing that she now is healthy and whole again praising Jesus in heaven.

Gwenda is preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Dub Downing; and her son, Douglas Downing.

Left to cherish her memory is her son, John Downing and wife Carla; daughter-in-law, Shellie Downing; grandchildren, Trinton Downing, Clayton Downing, Raley Downing, Ashleigh (Downing) Magness and husband Morgan, and Chance Downing; great-grandchild, Archer Magness; and numerous nieces and nephews.

A Visitation will be held on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at 10:00AM, at First Baptist Church Troy, with a Funeral Service beginning at 11:00AM. Following the service, Gwenda will be laid to rest at Roberts Cemetery.

The family would like to extend a special thanks to the Canyon Creek Memory Care facility and the Amedisys Hospice Care team.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the First Baptist Church of Troy.

View Gwenda Whatley Downing's obituary, send flowers, find service dates, and sign the guestbook.