Elmer Laubach

Elmer Laubach went to be with the Lord on Wednesday, May 6, 2009 in San Antonio. Born on October 24, 1925 in Bulverde, Texas, Elmer spent many childhood days with his trusty dog, Frisky, herding sheep to grazing fields across Cibolo Creek. He later graduated from Edison High School and served in the U.S. Army Air Force as an MP. He met Doris, the love of his life, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Bulverde where the two sang occasional duets. They celebrated sixty-two years of marriage last November. After his military service, Elmer worked as manager of various Handy Andy stores in the San Antonio area. As manager, Elmer's leadership style was always by example, modeling both the courtesy and the diligence inherent in his nature. He was beloved by his employees who were never surprised to see their manager bag or carry out groceries for customers who appreciated Elmer's friendly attitude. He enjoyed playing the piano, traveling, camping, hunting, fishing, and playing dominoes and cards with his many relatives, but his true passion was always church. Even in retirement, in his short residence in Loveland, Colorado, Elmer and Doris taught Sunday School to youngsters who readily responded to the joy Elmer found in serving the Lord. Most recently as a member of Our Savior Lutheran Church in San Antonio, Elmer inspired others with his faith and devotion. He shared a special bond with his "spiritual son" Pastor Tim Soukup. Elmer's special fondness for people drew many to Christ with the love he radiated. In the past eighteen months at the Medical Drive Regent Care facility, Elmer was beloved by the staff who found him to be the most willing and patient "guinea pig" for new students. The family is forever grateful for the loving care he received. Elmer is survived by his devoted wife, Doris; sisters, Dorothy Brown and Lenchen Blank; six children: sons, Larry Laubach and his wife, Catherine, Gerald Laubach and wife, Debra, and James Laubach and wife, Renee, daughters, Kathy Rothen and husband, Rob, Dorothy Jackenheimer and husband, Gary, and LuAnn Lockerbie and husband Owen; as well as nine grandchildren, Lisa Macias, Stephanie and Matthew Laubach, Jennifer Garcia-Hettinger, Amy Park, Jason and Brandie Geroianni, Daniel and Rachel Lockerbie and ten great-grandchildren, Ashlee, Katie, Jaime, Bella and Devin Macias, Nicholas and Vincent Garcia-Hettinger, Celeste and Harrison Geroianni, and Jakob Alonzo. The little shepherd boy is now home with the Good Shepherd.

Interment will be in Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery. Pastor Tim Soukup officiating.