Harold Arthur Schwausch (83) was born on October 20, 1940, to Arthur and Ruth (Kokel) Schwausch at Scott and White Hospital, Temple, Texas.  He was called to his heavenly home on December 28, 2023, Cedar Park, Texas.  He was baptized on October 31, 1940, and confirmed his Christian faith on April 3, 1955, at Zion Lutheran Church, Walburg, Texas.  In his early years he attended Zion Lutheran School through the eighth grade, Georgetown High School, and Temple Junior College.  Harold's Confirmation verse was:  "LORD, I have loved the habitation of thy house, and the place where thine honour dwelleth." Psalm 26:8 (KJV)

Harold grew up on a farm east of Walburg, doing the usual chores such as milking cows, picking cotton, and working in the fields.  He was active in the church youth organization then called Walther League.  Friendships and enjoyment came from participating in activities such as baseball, volleyball, basketball, and fairs among other churches in the zone as well as participating in agricultural events through FFA.

When he graduated from high school, he moved to Temple and took classes at Temple Junior College while working at Ralph Wilson Plastics.  He excelled in his math skills that were used throughout his career working as a machinist with Winkler's Auto Parts and then MTC for many years.  That's when he became interested in cars, motorcycles—anything with engines.  He was able to attend several Indianapolis 500 races which he thoroughly enjoyed.  Harold served his country for 6 years in the Texas National Guard, 49th Armored Division, in Temple.

While living in Temple, he stayed engaged with multiple interests and participated in many worthwhile causes.  His passion was making BBQ for the annual Texas Early Day Tractor and Engine Association Show.  He was a regular blood donor as long as his health allowed and served as a volunteer with the Air Show and Bluegrass Festival.  He supported the Children's Miracle Network, Relay for Life, George W. Bush Presidential Center, and Immanuel Lutheran Church--his home church in Temple serving as an usher for many years.  Through these activities, he made many friends from all over Texas.

He enjoyed attending special times with family and friends as well as solving math problems, Sudoku puzzles, old tractors and machinery, hunting and guns.  He had a vast knowledge of Texas wildflowers and rivers.

As his health declined, he relied heavily on a host of co-workers, neighbors, housekeeper, and friends who assisted in one way or another with phone calls, visits, grocery shopping, yard work, taking him to church, etc.  Without the friendships he made over the years, he could not have lived in his own home for the length of time he did.  He enjoyed and cherished all those times together and appreciated the help and concern.  The family is forever grateful to you all.

After two hospitalizations and a rehab stay in Temple, he could no longer stay in his own home; he moved to Sagebrook Nursing and Rehabilitation, Cedar Park, to be closer to family.  At that time, he also moved his church membership to Zion Lutheran Church (his home church while growing up).  The family would like to thank the caregivers at Sagebrook and Magnolia Hospice for the loving attention and care provided.

Harold was preceded in death by his parents Arthur and Ruth Schwausch and an infant brother.  He is survived by two brothers and two sisters:  brother Landon Schwausch (Doris) of Pflugerville; sister Loretta Hefner (Jackie) of Leander; sister Elaine Schlomach (Harvey) of Austin; and brother Rick Schwausch (Debbie) of Walburg.  He is also survived by nephews:  Tim Hefner (Peggy), Jason Hefner (Jenn), and Matthew Schwausch (Laura); nieces:  Amy Hefner, Shelly Cox (Bobby), Amber Salazar (Steven), Lori Whitley (Chris), Jennifer Schwausch, and Renee Wilson (Bradley); and numerous great nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be from 10-11 a.m. before the funeral service at 11 a.m., Saturday, January 6, 2024, at Zion Lutheran Church, Walburg (6101 FM 1105, Georgetown, TX).  Graveside services will follow at Zion Lutheran Cemetery.  Reception will follow burial. Rev. Wilbern Michalk and Rev. Zach McIntosh will be officiating.

For those unable to attend in person, the Schwausch family has provided a Livestream of the service in partnership with Ramsey Funeral Home. Click on the link to attend virtually: In Loving Memory of Harold Schwausch

Pallbearers include: Tim Hefner, Jason Hefner, Matthew Schwausch, Bobby Cox, Chris Whitley, Steven Salazar, and Bradley Wilson.

Honorary pallbearers include: David and Nancy Fincher, Richard and Trish Long, Eleno Alvarado, Bill Aiken, Jerry Schrimsher, and Kanda Koehler.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church, 2109 West Avenue H, Temple, TX 76504; or Zion Lutheran Church, 6101 FM 1105, Georgetown, TX 78626.