Thomas “Tommy” Howard Schlein, 84, of Victoria, passed away peacefully surrounded by his loving family on June 8, 2025. Tommy was born September 20, 1940 in Victoria to the late H. C. “Jake” and Evelyn Wedemeier Schlein. Tommy graduated from St. Joseph High School and got his start at Union Carbide before embarking on a fulfilling life long career in insurance. He developed many friendships during those years in insurance that cultivated bonds lasting a lifetime.
He had a deep love for his Catholic faith, devoting many years to music ministry at Holy Family Catholic Church in Victoria. That love for music began as a teen where he organized a band, recorded records, entertained crowds and continued singing up until the end with his beautiful voice. His love for the Colorado wilderness and West Texas mountains led him down many different trails, where he loved soaking up the pure mountain air and crisp sunshine. It didn’t matter if it was by car, airplane, motorcycle or on foot, he was always traveling. He trekked the Continental Divide multiple times with his backpacking buddies. Tommy was always up for a tray of nachos sprinkled with jalapeños and Sap Sago cheese, a cold Coca Cola and a good western movie. His life can be summed up with a quote from one of his favorite movies, Jeremiah Johnson, “You’ve come far, pilgrim.”
Tommy is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Faye Marie Fowler Schlein; children, Eva Hanes, and husband Blake of Waco, Thomas “Toby” Schlein Jr. of Victoria and Jill Crain, and husband Christopher of Cuero. Grandchildren, Jake Thomas Hanes of College Station, Mitchell Crain, Harrison Crain, Landon Crain and Annie Crain all of Cuero.
He is preceded in death by his parents.
Visitation for family and friends will be Wednesday, June 18, 2025 from 5-7 PM at Rosewood Funeral Chapel with a rosary to be recited at 7 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Thursday, June 19, 2025 at 10 AM at Holy Family Catholic Church. Burial will follow at Memorial Park.
Pallbearers include Jake Thomas Hanes, Mitchell Crain, Harrison Crain, Landon Crain, Dr. Charles Daniel and Jimmy Fowler. Honorary Pallbearer include Tommy Hermes, Ronnie Acosta, Joe Lopez and Jim Hall.
The family wishes to thank Tommy’s wonderful caregivers for their devotion and care during these last 9 months. Also Dr. Charles and Melissa Daniel, Del Staten, Ronnie Acosta, Joe and Sylvia Lopez and all who called, visited and prayed during the long hospital stays.
Memorial donations may be made to The Karen Obsta Wendel 4-H Memorial Fund (TDECU) or Holy Family Catholic Church Music Ministry.
Words of comfort may be shared at http://www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com
