Ralph L. Schane

Ralph Lloyd Schane passed away peacefully Sunday, January 12, 2025, in Corpus Christi, Texas at the age of 85 years. He was born March 12, 1939, in Shay, Oklahoma to Emmitt Joseph Schane and Dorothy Mae (Turner) Schane.

Ralph grew up in Freer, Texas as the oldest of four children. He was a mischievous, fun-loving, young man who at the age of 18 volunteered to serve our country in the US Navy in 1957. After getting his assignment he took leave to come back from California to Freer to marry the love of his life, Carol, that he met at the age of 14. Carol then moved to California to wait for his return from his tour in Japan. After serving his time in the Navy, he and Carol moved back to Freer to start their family. After their daughters Connie and Frances were born, their love of fishing and the lake drew them to move to Mathis in 1972 where they spent every extra minute of time fishing, skiing, and sailing with their family.

Ralph is preceded in death by his loving wife of 59 years Carol Jean (Ward) Schane; his parents; brother, Vannoy Schane, and sister, Bunita Sue Center. He is survived by his daughters, Connie Jean Oelschlegel (Joe), and Frances Jean Jenkins (Kenny); grandchildren, Jessie Whittleman (Johnny), Daniel Oelschlegel (Alyson), Samuel Oelschlegel (Blaine), Kara Yost (Josh), Kenny Jenkins (Alexandria), Tayler Jenkins; great-grandchildren, Miles, Kason, Gage, Ashlyn, Dane, Hayes, Gracen, Ava, Cole, Micah, Niko, Alden; sister, Mary Lou Leon (Vic); special cousin, Darrell Schane (Georgann); numerous nieces, nephews and other loving relatives and many friends.

A visitation with family will take place Sunday, January 26, 2025, from 5:30 pm – 7:30 pm at Winsteads' Funeral Home, 121 N. Duval St., Mathis, Texas 78368.

Ralph will be laid to rest after a GRAVESIDE SERVICE, Monday, January 27, 2025, at 10:00 am at Coastal Bend State Veterans Cemetery 9974 IH-37, Corpus Christi, TX 78410

Brother Raul Morales will officiate the services with Brother Samuel Juarez and the United Veterans Burial Association presenting military honors following the service.