1947
2013
Robert R. Schaefer of Praha passed away November 11, 2013 at the age of 66. He was born in Shiner to Lester C. and Ludmila (Jalufka) Schaefer on January 26, 1947.
He grew up in Lavaca and Fayette Counties helping out around the farm, fishing, and hunting.
Robert graduated from Flatonia High School in 1965.
On February 1, 1966 Robert joined the Army and served in Vietnam as a Huey combat helicopter crew chief and door gunner. During his military service Robert received the National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with Bronze Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal, 1 O/S Bar, Aircraft Crewman Badge and the Air Medal w/Numeral 2. He was Honorably Discharged on January 31, 1969.
Robert married Helen Vrana on May 18, 1974, and since that date, you never saw one without the other. They hunted, fished, and raised cattle together and were also known to go on a trail ride or two.
Robert was a lifetime member of the Vietnam Helicopter Crew Members Association and with his wife Helen, attended 25 annual meetings in many different states.
He was a truck driver for Smith Farms and now Cal-Maine for over 40 years.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Lester and Ludmila Schaefer; three brothers, James, Joseph, and Michael; and two sister-in-laws, Dorothy Schaefer and Julie Schaefer.
He is survived by wife Helen Vrana Schaefer of Flatonia; three brothers, Lawrence L. Schaefer of Corpus Christi, Eugene E. Schaefer and wife Sharon of Flatonia, and Patrick P. Schaefer of Flatonia; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Visitation will begin at 5:00 pm Thursday, November 14, 2013 at Smith Funeral Home Chapel. Rosary will be recited at 6:00 pm Friday, November 15, 2013 at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Praha. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 16, 2013 at 10:00 am at St. Mary's Catholic Church in Praha with Father Gabriel Maison officiating. Burial will follow in the St. Mary's Catholic cemetery in Praha.
Pallbearers will be Ken Stryk, Chris Schaefer, Jared Vrana, David Schaefer, Eric Viktorin, Jeff Schaefer, Randy Vrana, and Felix Ramirez.
www.smithfuneralhomeflatonia.com
Smith Funeral Home, 128 East 5th Street, Flatonia, Texas 78941
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
November 15, 2013
Sean Slaughter(Kari Schaefer)
I only ever met you a few times when Kari and I would go to your tank and fish with the kids and a few times when you were at Gene and Sharon's house you were always a very nice person and it was a pleasure to know you. Everyone is so upset at your untimely passing, Kari especially has been hit hard. She constantly talks of the times at the old farmhouse and fishing and farming with her uncle recalling all the very fond memories with you. God Bless you Robert and I will keep you and Helen in my prayers.
November 14, 2013
Melinda (wife of the Late Tim) Schaefer
May God Bless you with His Grace and give you courage during this trying time.
Our prayers and thoughts are with you.
November 14, 2013
Felix, Cheryl, Quin Ramirez
Robert was a one of a kind individual. From the moment I met him, he took me in as family. He was funny with his dry sense of humor, kind and well liked. The first time he met Quin, mine and Cheryl's son, He greeted him and then immediately took him to feed cows and go fishing. Quin loved his Uncle Robert and Aunt Helen. We will miss him dearly.
Love you Uncle Robert.
Love ,
Quin, Cheryl and Felix Ramirez
November 14, 2013
Chris Schaefer
Robert was one of the very few truly good people i have known, a very sweet man. He is the kind of guy we should aspire to be. As an uncle he was always gracious, kind, and fun to be around. As a great uncle to my kids, he was the same. My family is shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of such a wonderful man.
November 14, 2013
Joan O'Connell
Dearest Helen,
Sean and I can't express our sadness on the news of Robert's passing. You have been such a wonderful part of our lives. If it wasn't for Robert calling about the reunion we would never had met. We will keep you in our prayers and know in our hearts the 2 "Bobs" are once again together.
November 14, 2013
Kari Schaefer
I am so sorry and distraught to here about the tragic passing of Uncle Robert.
November 14, 2013
Kari Schaefer
November 13, 2013
My dear neighbor and friend Helen,
We are so saddened by your untimely loss of Robert. Your photos show the love, work, and fun the two of you shared and will help to comfort you. Daddy is living with us and sends his wishes of sympathy, for he respected Robert and said he was a good worker. Time flies, but I fondly remember your family, Helen, and my dear classmate, Robert. May God grant you peace and comfort at this sad time.The class of 65 says "Goodbye" to Robert and sends its love to you.
Johnny Kallus, Judy& Tom Berry
November 13, 2013
Dottie Perales
I loved the photos shared with us. They showed so much love for family, friends, and his passion for farming and fishing. Most of all his love for Helen. Our prayers go out to all who knew and loved him to help them get through this difficult time. Johnny and Dottie Perales
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