In what he’s calling his first official act as the new mayor of Wimberley, Jim Chiles proclaimed May 11, 2024 as “Helen Sauer Day,” before a crowd of family, friends and well-wishers during a party at Deer Creek Nursing and Rehab on Saturday.
According to the proclamation, Mrs. Sauer and her husband, Donald, sold one of the earliest Dunkin’ Donut franchises in Saratoga Springs, New York, and relocated to Wimberley in 1979 with their five children, urged by family friends, the Buxkempers.
Once settled in Wimberley, the couple frequently ate at David Lewis’ Sandwich Shop on Cypress Creek at the Square. Soon Donald was “coaching” Dave Lewis about sandwich- making efficiencies. At times, Helen could be heard quieting Donald, or at least trying to curb his advice, saying she didn’t think Mr. Lewis was amenable.
After Donald passed away, Helen had an impromptu meeting with Dave Lewis and offered to help him at the sandwich shop. What began as part-time work, became a full time endeavor. Over time, Helen assumed many roles in Lewis’ various restaurants. She became a welcoming presence at the Cypress Creek sandwich shop, John Henry’s and Juan Enrique’s for 25 years. Today, Dave Lewis organizes the annual Wimberley Community Thanksgiving.
After retiring, Helen continued to be active at St. Mary’s in the Ladies’ Guild and as a eucharistic minister. Her baking skills earned her a place as a judge, for many years, in the Wimberley Pie Social.
As elaborated in the proclamation, “Helen humbly and quietly visited friends in times of need, dropping off cookies and cake or simply lending an ear. Helen has always been
PHOTO BY TERESA KENDRICK
a steadfast friend and unwavering support system to her family, especially her daughter, Christine. As matriarch of the Sauer family, Helen’s example of living and loving others with quiet grace and dignity, is evident in her eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.”
The extended Sauer family, along with staff and residents of Deer Creek, officially celebrated Mrs. Sauer’s 100th birthday on May 13.
DRESSED IN A RABBIT COSTUME AND HOLDING A GIANT CARROT, DAVE LEWIS, LEFT, VISITS WITH FRIEND AND FORMER EMPLOYEE, HELEN SAUER.
