Ewald Edward Koepp Jr., “Junior” of La Vernia, Texas, devoted husband, father and grandfather, passed March 20th, 2016 in San Antonio, Texas. He is survived by his wife, Jewel Helmke Koepp; his son, Dwight Koepp and wife Patricia Koepp, his son Hiram, and his daughter Melissa Koepp-Beck and her husband D. Bradford Beck; his sisters Evelyn Wosnig and Patricia King and husband Evin; his grandchildren Eric Koepp and wife Katherine Charlotte Koepp, Andrew Koepp, Lauren Koepp, Jessica Koepp, Elise Koepp, Alexandria (Ali) Beck, Travis Beck, Parker Beck, and Ryan Beck.

Junior was born on February 3, 1930 to E.O. and Theresa Koepp. He planted his roots in La Vernia and invested his time there throughout his life. Junior attended La Vernia High School, where he proudly played football for the Bears. He then attended Texas Lutheran University where continued to play football. He also served in the Korean War. Junior married Jewel Helmke on April 10th, 1955. From a young age, he worked in the automotive industry. Following in his father’s footsteps, Junior took over the Koepp Chevrolet dealership and grew the company to great success. He was devoted to his business in providing the best service in the area.

Junior was best known for his commitment to the La Vernia community. He was Past Master of Masonic Lodge #226 in La Vernia and a past member of Alzahar Temple. In addition, he organized the Wilson County Republican party in 1980 and served as County Chairman for 12 years. Junior was also the delegate/alternate to the Republican National Convention 4 times throughout his life. He was one of the founders of the La Vernia Chamber of Commerce and the Greater La Vernia Chamber of Commerce. Junior was active in local politics as he was mayor of La Vernia for 14 years, leading the development of several advancements for the city including implementing a sewer system and paved roads in the community. He was an active member in the Lions Club, Sons of Hermann, the American Legion, and an officer in the volunteer fire department. Junior was very active in Boy Scouts. He was a scout leader and built the scout hut in La Vernia. He was also a member of the county school board and Wilson county appraisal board. Junior developed Silverado Hills and Westover subdivisions to help grow the city of La Vernia. He took pride in his efforts to beautify, support, and progress the city of La Vernia.

Junior and his family were members of Immanuel Lutheran Church; there Junior served as councilman for the church in addition to being a member of the cemetery committee. He was devoted to his faith and let the Lord guide his path.

After retiring, Junior spent his days on his ranch where he worked cattle, fished, hunted and took care of the land; a true passion of Junior’s. His final years were spent enjoying the community he helped grow full of friends and family. Junior was a selfless leader, giving everything he had to the people around him. Junior is deeply loved by his family and will be remembered throughout the La Vernia area for his love and wisdom. Junior was not only a leader, but also a teacher. He was always thinking about how he could improve the world around him and with every goal he set, he achieved success with fortitude and humility.

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