James Herbert Stautzenberger

James H Stautzenberger joined the Lord on April 2nd, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas. James was born in San Antonio, Texas to Herbert and Zora Stautzenberger on May 20th, 1938. Zora gave birth to James, the first of her two sons, in his childhood home. James had a deep love for Medina Lake, where he spent summers growing up, developed his passion for the outdoors, and met and married the love of his life, Dessa Stautzenberger. The two met on Easter Sunday at Lakehills Baptist Church in 1966. They fell in love and were married nearly five months later on a beautiful day in August. James and Dessa welcomed two children, James Dennis Stautzenberger (1968) and Judith Denise Berro (1971), into the world full of pride and love.

As a man of outstanding character, James’ life was one of dedication, hard work, service, and love. He served in the Army Reserves and the Air Force National Guard, worked at the Medina Base gun shop, and worked as a machinist at the VA hospital, with over 40 years of civil service. Many would say that there was nothing James couldn’t fix. He was also a member of the local Masonic lodge. He was as dedicated to his family as he was to his career and community. James coached his children’s sports teams and served on the Little League board. He devoted his time to the Little League by helping with field maintenance. As a lover of the outdoors, he was an avid hunter, spending many weekends hunting with his son. He loved to impart his knowledge of nature onto both of his children, taking every opportunity to share what he knew with James and Judie.

James was full of wisdom, strength, and compassion. He took every opportunity to shine light on each member of his family, celebrating their triumphs with great pride. He had steadfast love for his grandchildren and great grandchild, showing up to every event and being their number one fan. He used his strength to lift those around him, notably caring for his wife Dessa through difficult health battles. His quiet wisdom made people feel comfortable around him; every conversation with him left you feeling better for having spoken to him. He loved deeply and honestly.

James is preceded in death by his parents Herbert and Zora Stautzenberger and his wife of 58 years, Dessa Stautzenberger. He is survived by his son and daughter in law, James and Lisa Stautzenberger, his daughter and son in law Benson and Judie Berro, his grandchildren James Daniel Stautzenberger, Jenah Stautzenberger, Jason Stautzenberger, Abby Berro, and Aaron Berro, and his great grandson Nolan James Stautzenberger. He also leaves behind his brother and best friend, Stan Stautzenberger.

“But God will redeem my life from the grave; he will surely take me to himself.”

- Psalm 49:15