Charles L. Korbell, Sr.

Charles was born on December 16, 1911 in San Antonio and was raised on a farm in Floresville, Texas by his parents, Albert B. and Josephine Thomas Korbell.

While a student at Floresville High School, he was known for his athletic prowess and excelled in all sports.

He was a football legend, quarterback and captain of his high school team. He also competed in numerous track and field events.

In 1929, he became the first person at his regional track meet to win first place in four different events, the 100, 220, 440 and high jump.

He was affectionately known as the "Jim Thorpe of Floresville." Charles graduated from high school in 1931.

Charles went to work for the Texas Highway Department in 1935, starting at the bottom, working outdoors building roads and highways.

He served as Maintenance Foreman in Hondo and was promoted to Maintenance Construction Superintendent of District 15 in San Antonio.

In 1977, after 42 years, he retired from the State Highway Department and started a second career with White's Uvalde Mines, which later became Vulcan Materials, and retired again in 1990.

His quality work ethic is a lasting example to his family and friends.

Charles married Emma Raska in 1939 in Floresville, Texas. They had four children, all born in Floresville, but raised primarily in Hondo before moving to San Antonio in 1961.

They especially enjoyed family activities such as picnics, sporting events and trips to the country.

They recently celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary this past June.

Charles was a devoted and loving father who enjoyed spending as much time outdoors with his family as possible, teaching the joys of hunting, fishing and just communing with nature.

Charles' favorite pastime was hunting in south Texas, which he began as a young boy.

He hunted every season for over 80 years, including this past Thanksgiving during which he tagged two mature bucks at the age of 93.

Dad's presence will be greatly missed, but will always be with us through our memories of his dedication to work and family, his caring ways, and his keen sense of humor.

Charles' family includes his wife, Emma Raska Korbell; son John Korbell and his wife Bonnie; son Wayne Korbell deceased and his wife Gayle; daughter Sharon Kidd and her husband Mike, and Charles Korbell, Jr. and his wife Cheryl; grandchildren Katherine Brown, Caroline Carrington, John Korbell, Jr.; Brooke, Danna and Emily Korbell; Michael and Sean Kidd; Allison Aderholt, Brian and Jennifer Korbell; and five great-grandchildren. He is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews.