Francisco R. Chapa

Francisco R. Chapa (“Frank” / “Paco”), of New Braunfels, Texas, passed away peacefully on February 27, 2026, at the age of 91, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on October 3, 1934, in New Braunfels to Decederio and Timotea Chapa.

On June 10, 1956, he married the love of his life, Ruth Campos of New Braunfels. They shared nearly 70 wonderful years of marriage and built a life centered on faith, family, and community. Together they raised two sons: Cy Chapa of New Braunfels, Texas, and Kevin M. Chapa of College Park, Georgia.

Frank is survived by his four sisters: Angelita Velasques of New Braunfels; Lucia Virginia Ayala and her husband, Jesse, of Pingree Grove, Illinois; Arjelia Chapa of New Braunfels; and Lourdes Gonzalez and her husband, David, also of New Braunfels.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Decederio and Timotea Chapa; his brother, Ramon Chapa; and his sisters, Amalia Martinez and Maria Teresa Montanez.

Frank’s family lived in both New Braunfels and Eagle Pass before ultimately settling in New Braunfels. He first worked for Mission Valley Mills and then dedicated 47 years of hard work and loyalty to Servtex Asphalt Plant, which became Gifford Hill and Hanson Servtex Plant.

In his younger years, Frank loved playing baseball and was a proud member of the West End Lions baseball team. Later, he discovered golf—a passion that remained with him throughout his life.

A devoted father, Frank was deeply involved in his sons’ activities both in and out of school. He served as assistant little league coach and manager for Cy’s team, was president of the PTA at Lone Star Elementary School, and co-chaired the New Braunfels High School Unicorn Band’s participation at the Wurstfest booth. Frank and Ruth rarely missed an event, always showing up to support their boys.

Faith was the cornerstone of Frank’s life. He and Ruth had been faithful members of Holy Family Church since the 1940s. Frank served as an usher for 15 years and generously volunteered his time with bingo nights, church festivals, and numerous fundraising events. In 2023, Frank and Ruth were honored with the Lumen Gentium Award, recognizing Catholics who exemplify the spirit of the Second Vatican Council. In 2024, they were crowned Prince and Princess at the Holy Family Church Valentine’s Sweetheart Dinner and Dance.

Frank also served as President of C.I.M.A. (Comal Independent Men’s Association), an organization dedicated to establishing and funding scholarships for local high school graduates.

His love for golf extended well beyond the course. He served as President of the New Braunfels Golf Association and was a member of the first Landa Park Golf Course advisory board. A devoted volunteer at Landa Park Golf Course, Frank was named Volunteer of the Year in 2010. The award was later renamed in his honor as the “Frank Chapa Golf Service Award.”

Frank’s love of travel blossomed through the opportunities his sons provided. With Cy serving in the Air Force and Kevin working for an airline, Frank and Ruth were able to explore Germany, Luxembourg, Costa Rica, Hawaii, destinations throughout the Caribbean, New York, St. Louis, and many other places. He especially enjoyed visiting Kevin in Atlanta and working in his yard—something he truly loved. When he wasn’t on the golf course, Frank could often be found tending to his own yard, another of his great joys.

Frank never met a stranger—everyone he encountered quickly became a friend. He treasured his family and his wide circle of friends, valuing each relationship deeply. He will be profoundly missed by many, but his kindness, generosity, and spirit will live on in the hearts and memories of all whose lives he touched.

Visitation will be held at Zoeller Funeral Home 5:00 PM Tuesday, March 10, 2026 with a Rosary to be recited at 7:00 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at Holy Family Catholic Church on Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at 10:00 AM with Interment to follow in Comal Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, a donation may be made in his memory to Holy Family Catholic Church for the Religious Education Center Fund. You can mail a donation to Holy Family Catholic Church: 245 Hidalgo Ave. New Braunfels Texas, TX 78130 or call the church office at 830-609-5320.