Johnny Gene Latzel

Johnny Gene Latzel, 76, of Midkiff, Texas, was welcomed into our heavenly Father’s arms Sunday, November 9th, 2025 at his home after a period of declining health. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and a man of boundless ingenuity and passion, Johnny left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

Viewing will begin at 9:30 AM until 10:00 AM, Friday, November 14, 2025, at St. Lawrence Catholic Church in St. Lawrence, Texas with Rosary beginning at 10:00 AM followed by the Funeral Mass 11:00 AM.  The Mass will be streamed via the St. Lawrence Catholic Church Facebook page. Interment will be at St. Lawrence Catholic Cemetery.

Born September 12, 1949, in San Angelo, Texas, to Robert John Latzel and Ora Mae (Rohmfeld) Latzel. Johnny was raised with a deep connection to West Texas soil, attending school in Rankin and Garden City. He furthered his education at the Automotive Technical Institute of Waco, graduating at the top of his class. This sharp mind, combined with an inventor’s spirit, defined his life’s work as a farmer and rancher he contributed his expertise to the family business, Latzel Drilling Inc., and expanded his agricultural endeavors by producing and selling wheat, hay grazer, onions and watermelon.

Johnny married the love of his life, Teresa Marie Schwertner, on July 14th, 1973, in Rowena, TX. For 52 years, they built their life on their farm, where Johnny was a true steward of the land, raising cotton, cattle, and, most importantly, his family. His passion for innovation shone through everything he touched—from building and improving his own farming equipment to his side hobby of transforming watermelon into various products. He could fix anything and was known for inventing and trying new things, including using a shop-vac contraption to safely move bee hives. By some, he was known by the nickname “Gene John Hot Rod” (for his old Plymouth Fury patrol car).

Johnny and Teresa shared a deep love for travel, exploring destinations from Alaska to Hawaii. Their most cherished tradition was their annual family vacation to Port Aransas, Texas, a tradition they shared with their family for 45 consecutive years.

A dedicated leader at heart, Johnny served his community through various organizations, holding positions on the Midkiff Gin Co-op board, St. Lawrence Cotton Growers Association, Cap-Rock Electric, Upton County EMS, and others.

Johnny was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Sue Ann Watkins.

He is survived by his loving wife, Teresa, and their children: Katherine Rasco and husband Bryan, Steven Latzel and wife Heather and Michael Latzel and wife Sarah.

He is also cherished by his seven grandchildren Taylor Rasco, Cason Rasco and Logan Rasco, Tristan Latzel, Aven Latzel, Ella Latzel and Claire Latzel. He is also survived by his siblings Linda Dusek (Carlos), Stan Latzel (Denise), Betty Holscher (Michael), and brother-in-law Richard Watkins (Dinette), along with numerous nieces, nephews, relatives, and a host of friends.

Pallbearers will be his grandsons Tristan Latzel, Cason Rasco, Logan Rasco, and nephews Derek Latzel, Skyler Dusek, and Joey Schwertner.

In his final years, his humble heart worried about being cared for, often saying he wished he could be the one to hold everyone up, as he had done through so many family tragedies. But in taking care of him, the family was able to give back the same deep, unwavering love he had provided them for a lifetime.

The family takes comfort in knowing that after enduring his “purgatory” on Earth, he is now in the blessed arms of Jesus. His impact on his family and community was immeasurable, and his legacy of love, resourcefulness, and devotion will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to their “Angels” including Visiting Angels, Angels Care Hospice, Angels Care Home Health, and all friends and family who provided food, comfort, companionship, and prayers while we navigated all the things to be “Team Johnny”.

In lieu of flowers, memorial offerings may be considered for the West Texas Rehabilitation Center or the Midkiff Public Library (12701 FM 2401, Midkiff, TX 79755).

Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home and Crematory of Big Spring. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.

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