Klein, Texas— In a community defined by its deep roots and enduring spirit, few names are spoken with more reverence than Edwin G. “Butch” Theiss. Known affectionately as “The Original Mr. Bearkat,” Theiss embodied Klein ISD’s legacy of service, pride, and heart for nearly a century.
Born in 1928 in Louetta, Texas, Butch Theiss grew up during the Great Depression, picking cotton by age five and earning 50 cents for his first sack.
“I guess I probably wasn't but about five years old,” Butch once recalled. “That was 1933.”
His early education took place at Trinity Lutheran Parochial School before enrolling in Klein High School in 1943, then a small campus of around 200 students.
“I graduated in May of 1947,” he said. “And it started football that same year. I scored my first touchdown in that game… on about a 60-yard run.”
It was the beginning of a lifelong relationship with Klein High and the students who would follow in his footsteps.
Butch was a multi-talented student—playing football, learning under beloved math teacher and band director Merle Johnson, and even performing in the school band. He later served his country during the Korean Conflict as a sergeant and tank driver in the U.S. Army.
Upon his return, Butch dedicated his life to Klein ISD—as an employee, school board member, coach, and mentor. His contributions helped shape Klein Memorial Stadium, and in 2010, the football field was named Butch Theiss Field in his honor.
“I strongly believed in extracurricular activities—not only football, but everything: band, baseball, soccer,” Butch said. “And I always supported the sports.”
Theiss gave generously of his time and land, supporting students in FFA, attending fundraisers, and mentoring youth well into his 90s. His commitment culminated in being named the 2022 Klein ISD Distinguished Alumnus.
“We have good people living here and we have the best school district in the nation,” Butch said. “They should be proud to live here in this community.”
Following his passing at the age of 95, the Klein ISD community gathered at Butch Theiss Field to honor his life. His family received a folded American flag, a signed Klein High jersey with his number 12, and footballs autographed by Klein High and Klein Cain teams.
Superintendent Dr. Jenny McGown expressed what many felt:
“People never really die so long as we remember them. And in remembering Butch today, we honor a legend who lived a life of service and simply made the world and any place he ever went so much better.”
More than a Bearkat, more than a veteran, more than a board trustee—Butch Theiss was the heartbeat of Klein.
His name lives on—etched not just into the stadium that bears it, but into the lives of those he influenced. In Klein ISD, his legacy continues each time a student walks onto that field, learns in those classrooms, or finds support in the community he loved so deeply.
© 2026 Klein ISD
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