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BORN
1926
DIED
2015
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Herman Mueschke Obituary
1926-2015
Herman W. Mueschke, Jr., 89, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and great, great, grandfather went to be with the Lord on Thursday, September 17, 2015, in Heights Hospital, The Heights, Houston, Texas, after a short illness.
He was born January 5, 1926, in the same Heights Hospital. He lived an abundant life in The Heights, attending Immanuel Lutheran School and Reagan High School.
He was born to Herman W., Sr. and Ruth Rodrigo Mueschke, founding Immigrants in our country. At age 19, he entered the U.S. Army and deployed to the European Theatre during WWII, as a soldier in the Legendary 273rd Infantry of the Fighting 69th, assigned to the invasion of Leipzig, in April, 1945, the climax to the fall of Hitler's regime. The Infantry boarded ship for the Pacific invasion on Japan, but were spared many causalities by President Truman's order to bomb Hiroshima. Herman felt his life had been spared, and when he returned devoted his time to serving others. Recently, Congressman Ted Poe recognized this heroic service and presented Herman with a flag flown over the U.S. Capitol in his honor. Upon returning from the war, Herman's law enforcement and entrepreneurial life began.
First, joining the Harris County Sheriff's Office in 1946, then, founding Texas Glass & Mirror Company, and later, Mueschke Mfg. Herman wore many hats during his life including that of Deputy Sheriff of Harris County, Police Officer of Jacinto City, and Deputy United States Marshal here in the Southern District of Texas. As a law enforcement officer, armorer, and firearms instructor, Herman served numerous law enforcement agencies including The United States Marshals' Service, The FBI, The United States Secret Service, ATF, DEA, The Texas Rangers, Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriffs' Department and numerous other law enforcement agencies.
Herman was believed to be the only person in the history of the Houston Police Department to carry police credentials as Armorer for the Houston Police Department. Then, in 2005, Retired, Captain, Dan North, along with Retired, Captain Earl Pearson, officially recognized Herman as the first armorer of the Texas Rangers. A 16" x 16" plaque is displayed in the retired section of the Texas Rangers' Museum in Fredericksburg, TX. Herman received many awards, commendations, and letters of acclaim for not only his expertise as a gunsmith, but also his acumen for inventions, and benevolence to fellow officers and dignitaries.
As a man skilled with his hands and mind, Herman held U.S. Patents relating to firearms, their safety and ambidexterity. Herman was a mentor and friend to all who carried a badge and was always there to serve his fellow officers.
He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Sherry, and 3 children: son Paul and wife Patti, son Ralph and fiancée, Kathy, daughter, Debra Anne and husband, Wayne, 2 stepsons, Mickey and Bob Stephenson, along with numerous nieces and nephews. 11 grandchildren: 11 great grandchildren: 1 great-great grandchild, Grandson, David, Grandson, Paul, Jr. and wife, Lynn, their 2 children, Reese, Blake and wife, Bailee, their son, Case; Grandson, Robert and wife, Amanda, their 2 sons, Aedan & Ethan; Granddaughter, Amy and husband, Richard, their 2 children, Razi and Aliyah; Grandson, Ryan and wife, Laurie, their son, Wesley; Granddaughter, Alisa and husband, Jorge, their 2 children, Israel and Emma; Grandsons, Cody, Parker, and Liam; Granddaughter, AnnaKate; Grandson, David Stephenson and wife, Kristy, their 2 sons, Thomas and Matthew.
Pallbearers: Ted Thomas, Jim Ramsey, Roger Monkres, Jim Morris, Mike Bennett, Jimmy Bankston. Honorary Pallbearers: Daniel Ebarb, the Men and Women of the Houston Police Department, Harris County Sheriff's Department, Texas Rangers and United States Marshals' Service.
His body has been entrusted to Heights Funeral Home, 1317 Heights Blvd., Houston, Texas. The family will receive friends, Monday, September 21st, 4:00-8:00pm, at the Funeral Home.
Funeral services will be held at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 306 E. 15th Street, Houston (The Heights), Texas, Tuesday, September 22, 2015, 11:00 am. Rev. Jeffrey W. King, officiating. Entombment to follow at Memorial Oaks Cemetery, IH 10 (Katy Freeway) @ Eldridge, Houston, TX.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Herman Mueschke
Sponsored by The Hensons.
October 9, 2017
it were a good friend and we did lot of sp work altogetherwith another friend WAYNE W who introduced me in 1980. see you on the heaven with god condoleance again to your family wife and son .michel
Clarence Venables
October 19, 2015
October 19,2015
Herman was one of the finest men I have ever known and I am very honored that he was my friend for over 35 years. It was always a pleasure to visit the Heights Sub Station which was the central meeting place for all kinds of law enforcement officials. On any given day Herman's visitors to the "Sub station" could be the Harris County Sheriff, a State Judge, the US Marshal, various Police Chiefs, Texas Rangers, Police Officers, Deputy Sheriffs, Federal Agents...you name it, they were there! Sometimes, all at once! The coffee and the conversation never ran out. Herman was happy to be with all of us in his law enforcement family. Herman was especially kind to my police officer sons, Chris and Kevin, and my wife Sharon, whose banana bread was one of Herman's favorites. Herman was extremely helpful to my old agency, the FBI. Unknown to most, Herman was extremely helpful in the overall success of a large scale training exercise involving the FBI Field Offices from Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, & FBI Headquarters. He also took care of the handling, delivery, and distribution of the FBI's 75th and 100th Anniversary Commemorative Weapons for the Houston Field Office. Herman was solely responsible for obtaining of the first undercover offsite facility for the FBI Special Operations Group which formed in the mid 1990's. Herman was humble and never wanted any recognition for assisting in any way he could. A few strobe lights for his Crown Vic so he could run "paper" at night for the U.S. Marshal's Service was all he ever hinted that he might need was gratefully provided for all his service to the Bureau.
Aside from everything above, Herman was a good Christian family man, dedicated law enforcement officer, and great friend. Our sympathies, thoughts, and prayers go to Sherry and all the Mueschke family. Herman will always remain in our hearts as a true friend.
The Venables' Family
Terry Davis
October 14, 2015
As all good things...time fly's. It seems as if I did not have enough time spent with you as i would like to have. But I can honestly say my life was better by having you as apart of it. I will miss seeing your smiling face and hearing your wonderful words of wisdom as well as your story's of days past. I watch the many people that came and went around you. Listening to the words exchanged between you and so many. There is no doubt you "Herman Sir" were a blessing to many. I will miss you and your friendship. When its my turn to go, I hope its your smiling face I will be blessed to see once again.
Your Friend and A/C man...Terry Davis (Houston, TX)
A good friend for him in his the office desk
MICHEL JAMBOU MARCHANDON DE LA FAYE
October 8, 2015
He is here for aye
Michel Patrick JAMBOU MARCHANDON DE LA FAYE
October 8, 2015
MICHEL JAMBOU
October 8, 2015
Hi Herman you were a good friend of me and we did lot of thing for the usa security .good bye and see you on the even one time .
MICHELJM from FRANCE
Wayne Reed
September 30, 2015
Good Bye old friend, your loss to the law enforcement community can not be measured. The many times you went to the gun range with the agents of US Secret Service will not be forgotten, as you were part of our family. Too bad I will not be able to collect the last dollar bet and the target all of the other agents shot to help you. I can only wish the best for the family that is left behind, but they should get comfort knowing you were loved by so many.
David Donahue
September 30, 2015
I received an email from a Houston Police Sgt. that I have been seeing... she had been out of state on vacation and upon her return, she was checking her emails and has seen the notice of Herman's passing. She realized that this was the same person that I had talked so much about to her and was going to take her to meet him when she got back.. so she called me and forwarded me the HPD email notice. Upon reading it I can only say I was stunned.... and I had missed the funeral. I do know that Herman knew I considered him a very good friend and mentor. Herman believed in me when others had doubt. he gave my purpose to stand tall and move forward and his thoughts meant a lot to me. It was hard that I missed the funeral... I would have been there for him.. as he was for me. In memory of a Fine Man, with a huge heart... and I will personally miss him
Jim Gardner
September 25, 2015
My Dad and Herman grew up together in the Heights and served in WWII together in the Fighting 69th.I first met "Doc" Mueschke when I was 10 years old when he came to visit our family in Conroe. He stepped out of his car, drew both pistols, and "guns blazin", announced his arrival! What a guy!! As God would order our lives, I became Herman's UPS man! He always told me, and anyone else around, that he "never met a finer Christian man than my Dad, Howard Gardner". Herman always had a kind and thoughtful word for you. He made you feel right at home. I can say to you that there are two men in Heaven today, greeting one another and swapping stories. No two "finer men" that ever blessed my life.I will miss you my friend. Go rest high upon that mountain.
Samuel Henson
September 25, 2015
I never met Mr. Herman. He was my Dad's friend. I know he was nice because he used his metal lathe to make changes to stainless steel frame supports for free over night for our classic truck project. My dad helped me write Mr. Herman a thank you note. I hope I'm like Mr. Herman when I grow up. My dad tells me stories about him all the time. I pray for him and his family. I'm sorry.
Amy Lucario
September 24, 2015
Beverly Haynes
September 24, 2015
I knew Herman through my work as Colt and my boss Al DeJohn. Herman was a great man and his contributions to the firearms industry will be remembered.
God's blessings on you Herman.
May you rest in peace.
Beverly Haynes, Colt Historian
Art May
September 23, 2015
Known Herman for many years, always there when you needed him and willing to help with his time and knowledge. Just a GREAT GUY and a MASTER-GUNSMITH. It was a honor to know him. He will surely be missed by many.
Art May - Republic Arms, Inc..
Michael Woo
September 23, 2015
When I was young and my father was working for the Secret Service in Houston, he would take me over to Mr. Herman's shop. I can clearly remember his office and the shooting station. He was a great man and an inspiration. Rest in peace.
Angela Lucario-Suarez
September 23, 2015
My dad met Herman many years ago, and they hit it off instantly. Through that friendship, I grew to know and love Herman like family. I have many memories of Herman that I will treasure forever. He was such a vibrant and unique spirit. He always told me I owed him hugs when I hadn't seen him in a while.
I'll never forget one time at a gun show, I was looking around and this vase at a table caught my eye. I went to pick it up at the base to check the price and it rolled over and broke - it was old and cost $300. The lady running that table stomped over and told me I had to pay for it, which I did. I was upset and ran into Herman, as he was working security, and I told him what happened. He went over to that table and gave that lady a piece of his mind. Then he took my broken vase home and fixed it for me. It has held a special place in my home ever since.
I will miss him dearly. Sherry, I'm so sorry for your loss. I know he's watching over us all now.
Herman and Gary Lucario
Angela Lucario
September 23, 2015
Scott McKissack
September 22, 2015
Dear Mueschke Family, I attended Brother Herman's funeral today. I need not tell all of you that the world is a lesser place without him in it, but heaven gained a great Christian and it is only a short time before we all meet him again in heaven. I regret not getting by his shop and having the fellowship he was always ready to give,it had been too long since I was there last. My prayers go out to Sherry and her entire family. There are no words that can express my feelings of love for Herman. My greatest respect and love, G. Scott McKissack,Sr. Kinney County Sheriff's Department.
Ray Collins
September 22, 2015
Went to Herman's funeral today and just sat there remembering all the good times we had over the last 30 years,the ups and downs.Everyone has a special moment with Herman that they will always remember.I know all the regulars will remember all the feeds we had there and how happy that made Herman.I didn't see Herman much in the last couple of years and I regret that.My prayers go out to you Sherry and that you find confort in knowing that Herman was well liked and had many friends.GO WITH GOD HERMAN
Dana King
September 22, 2015
Herman I know the Lord has told you JOB WELL DONE, Come on in! Love ya brother.
James Johnson
September 22, 2015
I met Herman about 1969 when I worked for West University PD. We needed a Thompson sub machine gun worked on. He repaired the gun in a short time. Herman was a good friend, a true patriot and a very good gunsmith. He always had a pot of coffee on and a story to tell. He was sharp as a tack. He always remembered every one's name. He will be missed. My condolences to the family.
Fred Thomas
September 22, 2015
I first met Herman when I was a new HPD officer in 1968, and he treated me as if I was as important as the Chief of Police. I never forgot how nice he treated everyone, and he was always there if an officer needed help. My deepest sympathy to his family.
Ramona Arnold
September 21, 2015
I knew Herman thru his circle of friends, like Tommy Simpson and John Wiedemann. I got to attend a few food fests at his warehouse. Loved the Yorkies, too. I was a barber of many HPD clients that also knew Herman. The thing that I enjoyed about Herman was his subtle attitude! He always spoke the truth no matter what...the world needs more Hermans!!!
Gary & Vickey Lucario
September 21, 2015
Herman was a dear friend of mine and we worked together for many years. I have no words to express my sorrows with his passing. Sherry, my deepest condolences. Vickey and our girls thought the world of him. We will miss him dearly.
Kyle Dean
September 21, 2015
In remembrance of Herman Mueschke and a life well lived.
James (Jim) Boy
September 21, 2015
When I rode Patrol in the Heights in the late 70's, I would stop in and see Herman. He was always friendly and made me feel at home. As we all know, he was one of the finest Gunsmith's that ever lived. I'm sure I speak for all who knew Herman in saying that we appreciate Herman for his love of his family, his service to our Community and our Nation and simply being our friend. Herman, you will be missed and I look forward to meeting you once again in the Kingdom of GOD.
Jerry & Ann Todd
September 21, 2015
Our prayers to the family. My husband Jerry has known Herman a very long time & considers him a friend. He was saddened to hear if his passing.
David Rainwater
September 21, 2015
I have very fond memories of the times I spent with Herman. An American Hero from our greatest generation and a true friend and allie to the Law Enforcement Community. A man that carried himself with great poise, dignity and humility. Well done, good and faithful servant.
Respectfully, David T. Rainwater, Texas Rangers (Retired)
Breck Porter, Jr.
September 21, 2015
Mom and Dad were friends with Herman and the Mueschke family when I was a kid. Herman made handmade, leather pistol holters for Dad and other Homicide Detectives in HPD. Herman was a wonderful, caring, decent man, known by many and will be missed by us all. Breck Porter, Jr.
Vincent Woo - US Secret Service, Retired
September 21, 2015
I first met Herman when I was an Inspector with ATF. As we became friends, I could no longer inspect his firearms records. Herman encouraged me to pursue a law enforecment career and as a result, I became a Special Agent with the US Secret Service.
As fortune would have it, my first duty station was in Houston, and I would often stop by his shop for a hot cup of coffee, which Herman always seemed to be brewing. It was not unusual to run into a Texas Ranger, HPD Officer, Harris County Sheriff's Deputy or another Federal Agent who had also stopped by to grab a cup hear a story or two and have a gun worked on. My network of law enforcement contact always doubled when I stopped by Herman's shop.
After transferring to Washington DC I would visit Herman whenever I was in the Houston area. There was always a warm smile, hearty handshake and hot cup of coffee waiting.
Herman's knowledge of guns was unmatched and he would freely pass on that knowledge to anyone who asked. Herman kindled an interest in the mechanical side of gunsmithing which I am passing on to my sons. As I like to tell friends, Herman forget more about firearms than I ever hoped to learn.
I am lucky and truly thankful that I was able to call him Friend.
Hernam you will be missed. God Bless.
Sherry, Deb and the entire Mueschke family my thoughts and prayers are with you.
Dianne Motes
September 21, 2015
Herman, are a great man. I'll never forget the first time Jimmy brought me over to you place of business - what a delight. My prayers go to your extended family and the many friends you made over the years.
Mark Laird
September 21, 2015
Anybody that could say they were friends with Herman W. "Doc" Tex Mueschke, Jr. consider themselves lucky. He was too humble to agree, but we all know it's true. He said what he meant and meant what he said. His blue eyes twinkled when he told stories from his past and the way he lived it, there were plenty to tell. The way he told his stories made us feel like we were there to see it happen. I wish someone would write a book, but reckon Herm wouldn't approve. He loved all Officers of the Law, and they loved him. They knew he had their back and they had his. I believe the safest place in Texas was Herm's Shop especially during business hours. Solid handshake. Solid eye contact. Unquestionable integrity. Generous and kind. Ingenious but modest. Army veteran (He could run faster than he could swim! That's another story). Irreplaceable man from "The Greatest Generation". He would have thrived and distinguished himself in Texas if he had been born anytime between 1820-1950. Herm would have just found a way. I could see him riding with John Coffee Hays or Sam Houston. I believe he and Sam Colt would have been friends if they had been contemporaries. That didn't happen, but he did make his mark patenting an ambidextrous safety for Colt's 1911. That lead to working with the best gunsmiths at Colts Factory such as Al DeJohn and many others. He lived his Christian beliefs, but he didn't do it alone. I know Herm would say his life wouldn't have been much without the love of his life Sherry Mueschke. Her loving devotion kept him going, right up to the last. Thank you, Sherry, for taking care of Herman and sharing him with us. We love you.
September 20, 2015
Herman was the man I would always go to with any issues as they related to my firearms. He always had a smile on his face and would joke with me about the fact that the bullet comes out of the end of the pistol with the hole in it. Even though I have been retired from HPD for over 27 years I will always remember Herman. I was truly blessed to have had him as my friend. God Bless you!! Retired Lieutenant Ronnie Bird HPD.
Tom DeHart
September 20, 2015
RIP, Herman. Always enjoyed our bull sessions.
Holman Gregory
September 20, 2015
Herman was a man who loved life, especially that of a Law Enforcement Officer. He directed his abundant talents to assisting all branches of Law Enforcement over many years. His quick wit and humor made us all laugh with him. He was a true friend and he will be sorely missed. May God bless you Herman.
M. D. Beale, Jr. - Det./Sgt. HPD Ret.
September 20, 2015
Herman was one of the very first people my senior partners introduced me to my first week on the street in August 1968. We worked on a project together in 1971 and visited over the years. I last saw him having a good time at the Reliant Center Houston Gun Collector's Show a couple of years ago. He's really going to be missed. My deepest sympathy to the Mueschke family.
John Runion, Sr.
September 20, 2015
Herman "Tex" Mueschke and Al DeJohn (Colt Firearms legendary deceased Custom Shop Manager) are both in Heaven; discussing their next firearms design venture together and sharing "Colt's over the wall" experiences! Sherry and Eddie, my sincerest condolences for the loss of an "old sole" and iconic human being. Herman was a gifted designer and master Gunsmith; who first and foremost was as close to the personification of "AMERICAN PATRIOT" as is humanly possible. I have only known "Tex" for one year; but the few times we personally met, there was an instant connection and friendship between Veterans of two different Wars! Tex and Eddie repaired and sold me some wonderful firearms and I shall cherish all time spent in his company! Herman is the epitome of my U. S. Military affiliations U.S. Army-Signal Corps Motto; "Pro Patria Vigilans". Herman is forever vigilant and watching over all of us; until we meet again Brother. John G. Runion, Sr.
JIMMY MORRIS
September 20, 2015
HERMAN WAS MORE THAN A FRIEND TO ME. WE WOULD SIT AROUND DRINKING COFFEE AND HE WOULD TELL STORIES AND SPEAK OF THINGS ONLY A TRUE CLOSE FRIEND WOULD TALK ABOUT. I WILL, AS MANY FAMILY AND FRIENDS WILL, MISS THE STORIES AND KINDNESS HE SHOWED TO THE BACK ROOM GANG. HE WILL BE IN OUR HEARTS AND THOUGHTS FOREVER. HERMAN WILL BE MISSED -- OUR HEARTS ARE "BROKE" BUT NOW HE CANNOT FIX IT. WE WILL HAVE TO BEAR OUR SADNESS, AND SO OUR MEMORIES OF HERMAN WILL HAVE TO DO TILL WE MEET AGAIN. USMC
Shirley Jennings
September 20, 2015
RIP to a true gentleman always so kind to me & my children.
Gregory Henson, Sergeant Houston PD
September 20, 2015
I love you brother.
Gregory Henson, Sergeant Houston PD
September 19, 2015
I am never a man of few words even today.
Herman you were guiding light to all that would listen, a true friend, a mentor, a brother in Christ, a brother in law enforcement, a brother in Masonry.
You lived by a moral code that few will be able to emulate. Your work ethic could not be matched. Your memory was impeccable. Your wit like a whip. Your ingenuity the stuff of legend. Your heart as big as Texas and made of the purist gold. Your stories unforgettable. Your friendship cherished forever.
I feel selfish because I could never match the gifts you gave me. I witness so many acts of kindness on my visits to your shop. Even though you were "covered up" you always offered a warm cup of coffee and a chair.
Time marches on and schedules changed, but when I could make it back you always made me feel at home. True friendships pick up right where they left off. Understanding obligations pull us away.
My thoughts and prayers are with you, your family your wonderful loyal wife Sherry, and Eddie, and everyone else that feels the pain I'm feeling right now, my friend.
As long as it is within my power Central Patrol will look after Sherry. Rest easy my friend. Until we met again So mote it be.
Joseph Montalbano
September 19, 2015
To a good friend, we broke and fixed many firearms in the many years I knew him. From Joe the Gunsmith
Roger Dickson HPD (Ret.)
September 19, 2015
My sincere condolences to the Mueschke family.
Ismael "Iffy" Flores Jr.
September 19, 2015
He worked on one of my pistols.... He was a good man... R.I.P.
Herman Mar
September 18, 2015
Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.
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