In memory of Robert L. Schlabach, our mentor and friend, husband, father, and grandfather. Bob, as he was known to most, left this world too soon but entrusted we are, with a legacy and work ethic that transcended well beyond the small circle we call “the office at 553 Landa St”.

Robert L. Schlabach (Bob), age 80 of New Braunfels, left this world on November 24, 2021. He was a loyal friend and wise mentor. His knowledge was vast. He was the first source to contact when things were challenging; he would smile (that smile), grab his favorite extra fine blue pen and yellow notepad, and present a plan of action.

He was surrounded by mostly women in the office; He always remembered birthdays and all the odd special occasions and holidays of the year, bringing in breakfast or flowers, sometimes both. It was common for Bob to gift his staff in recognition of hard work, a rough season, holidays and “just because”. Bob was a kind man and generous in so many ways, intelligent and quite creative.  We will remember that crooked smile, contagious laugh, and making the most of each day never taking “one” for granted.

Bob’s History:

Bob was born on November 29, 1940. He graduated from Bellville High School in 1959 and attended Southwest Texas State to earn his Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education. He went on to attend Our Lady of the Lake University and earned a Master’s Degree in Education Administration. Bob’s love for music was contagious and he was able to share that joy with his students over the years. When Bob and his wife Jo Ann, moved to New Braunfels in 1968, he was hired as the Director of Music for Comal ISD, which included serving as the Canyon High School Band Director until 1972. While at Canyon High School, Bob formed a 22-piece dance band (Die Grosse Kapella). The band played for numerous dances in the area and in 1972 toured in Europe for 6 weeks. While there, they played at Military bases, NCO clubs and performed a concert in Braunfels, Germany.

He left teaching in 1973 to pursue another career opportunity. He was elected the Comal County Tax Assessor Collector and worked in a variety of endeavors through this industry for many years before teaming up to start a property tax consulting firm in 2001, Property Tax Alliance. He and the team have successfully operated this business for over 20 years. During his career he held multiple distinctions; member of IAAO, Registered Senior Property Tax Consultant, and achieved the CMI distinction in the property tax field. He was extremely proud of all that this firm has and continues to achieve.

He enjoyed working at (PTA), being involved in the community, and serving his family and church. Bob was greatly devoted to the Wurstfest Association and was selected to become an Opa in 1970, moved on to being a Senior Opa in 2001 and was elected to be an Opa Emeritus in 2015.

It has been a great honor to know and work under Robert Schlabach; to have the privilege to learn from the best through his infectious personality and work ethic and to have experienced his kindness and generosity. Those of us and through all his years who have had the benefit of knowing and experiencing “Bob” are better because our paths crossed.