Gary Wayne Schoch

Gary Wayne Schoch, age 69, of Austin, Texas, passed away Friday, September 3, 2021, from a brief illness. He was born in Minneapolis, MN on April 4, 1952, to Dr. Eugene P. Schoch, Jr., and Eugenia Worley Schoch. (Dr. Schoch was completing his residency in Dermatology at the time.) The family moved back to Austin two years later and resided in their family home on Nueces Street, which had existed in the family for generations.

Gary is survived by his mother, Eugenia Worley Schoch; brother, Dr. Eugene P., Schoch III, and wife, Dianne Dies Schoch; niece, Stephanie Dies Schoch; niece, Sharon Schoch Hubbard and husband Dr. Charles Jason Hubbard; and his great nephews and niece, Charles Jason Hubbard, Jr., Henry Schoch Hubbard and Charlotte Elizabeth Hubbard. In addition, Gary is mourned by his many cousins and friends in the Worley, Schoch and Dies families, as well as a multitude of others.

Gary attended Wooldridge Elementary School, O’Henry Junior High, Austin High School and later The University of Texas. To say Gary was an avid Longhorn fan would be an understatement. As one of the grandsons of the founder of The University of Texas Chemical Engineering Department and the Longhorn Band, the Schoch family was immersed in all things burnt orange. In watching a Longhorn game with Gary, one had to be prepared for ear splitting protestations and bellowing.

Gary performed in a band in high school and later for many class reunions, as the percussionist. Called the “Starvation Army”, the band consisted of Scotty Sayers, Jamie Holtzman, Mark Connally, Carl White, Bob Miller and Mark Donner. Gary was known for his enthusiasm and work ethic. Their videos can be viewed on Youtube.

Gary was an exceptional artist, and one could see this talent affect any job he pursued. His drawings and paintings were unique and authentic, and are greatly cherished by his family and friends. In addition, Gary was a fine, articulate public speaker. He made it look easy without notes, and his words were deeply felt. Many remember his incredible oratory skills, always sincere and touching. And, Gary was the essence of conviviality.

Lastly, Gary marched to the beat of a different drummer. More religious in his adult years, Gary could not be swayed to do anything he didn’t feel was right. His individualistic ways are well known, and Gary is to be remembered lovingly as a true original, a one-of-a-kind man, with a huge heart for all.

A memorial service will be determined at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, one can donate to: The Settlement Home for Children, 1600 Payton Gin Road

Austin, Texas 78758