David Ray Thamm

David Ray Thamm, 76, was called home on July 6, 2024. He was born in Cuero, Texas, on August 24, 1947, to Ruben and Rita Thamm. After high school and two years of college, David joined the Air Force in 1967 and served for 25 years, retiring in 1992. In December 1969, David married his college sweetheart, Yvonne Schultz, and they were life partners for over 50 years. David loved music and his Air Force career focused on performing and teaching. During this time, David caught the travel bug when he went on road trips with the bands and ensembles he was assigned to at his different duty stations. This passion for travel extended into his retired life when he and Yvonne traveled the United States and Canada together, exploring and experiencing great adventures. David’s passion for music extended into his spiritual life where, as a devout Lutheran, he used his talents to praise the Lord by singing in the choir, playing organ and piano, and leading music groups including a men’s choir, a bell choir, and a brass ensemble. In his retirement years, David continued to love music by following his grandchildren who played in band and orchestra, and became enamored with jazz groups, especially his favorite, Tuba Skinny, out of New Orleans, who he saw in concert several times. David’s life was filled with adventures, music, joys, and sorrows. His rock-solid faith, his unconditional love, and his ever-present sense of humor shaped David into a man who is immensely loved and who will be fondly remembered.

David was preceded in death by his wife, Yvonne; two grandchildren, Seth David, and Isabella Marie; a brother, Wayne; and his parents, Ruben, and Rita. He is survived by his sister, Margie Ideus; his children, Shannon (Gus), and Lance; four grandchildren, Amanda, Amberly (Joseph), Anthony (Aliciana), and Abigail; one great-grandchild, Aurelio; many nieces and nephews; and more friends than we could ever count.

David has earned his eternal reward and those of us left behind will honor his memory until the day when we are joined with him once again.