Joseph "Buddy Joe" Eilers

1939 - 2025

Joseph "Buddy Joe" Eilers, 86, passed away on July 21, 2025, in Fredericksburg, Texas. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he leaves behind a legacy of strength, dedication, and faith.

Born on January 19, 1939, in Hallettsville, Texas, Buddy was the son of Joseph Elbert Eilers and Elizabeth Grafe Eilers. From an early age, he demonstrated a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to his family and community - values that would guide him throughout his life.

Buddy graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Hallettsville in 1957 before entering Texas A&M University where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics and graduated in 1962. While at Texas A&M, he was a proud member of the Corps of Cadets and played football for the Fightin' Texas Aggies as an original "12th Man". Upon graduation, he fulfilled his military commitment as a commissioned officer with the Marine Corps. After his military service, he continued to pursue his love of football in several NFL pro camps, Canadian football league, and ended with the San Antonio Torros.

Buddy began his professional career as a steel fabrication estimator for General Supply Company in San Antonio. In 1977, Buddy founded Eilers Steel. Through hard work and determination, he built a respected business that, to this day, reflects his integrity and leadership.

Buddy was married to Barbara Jung on January 14, 1967 at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Harper, Texas. From 1967 to 1978, they welcomed 6 children into their family.

A man of deep faith, Buddy was a faithful member of St. Mary's Catholic Church in Fredericksburg, Texas. His spiritual life was central to who he was and, while a man of few words, he led and inspired others by the example of the life he lived. His family will always be grateful for many nights on the front porch, enjoying his love for music and singing along with his guitar while watching the grandkids play football in the front yard.

Buddy is survived by his beloved wife, Barbara; their children: Mitch and Amber Maner, Joe Don and Leaneta Eilers, Lacy and Andrea Freeman, Chip and Audri Bowers, John and Melinda Eilers, and Jed and Brenda Eilers; along with 21 grandchildren and 9 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brothers, Tommy (Cindy), Paul (Kathy), Michael (Judy), Timothy (Lori) and his sisters Mary Lindig (Johnny), Cindy Eilers-Weaver and brother-in-law, Warren Jennings, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; three sisters: Betty Jean Eilers, Shirley Eilers Jennings, Sister Emilie Eilers and brother-in-law, Ronnie Weaver.

Buddy Joe will be remembered for his steadfast devotion to family, faith, country, and hard work. May Christ bring comfort to those who knew him.

Special Thank You to Knopp Assisted Living and their staff, and the Doctors and Nurses at Methodist Hospital Hill Country for their care and compassion during this difficult time.

See you on the other side, Gentle Giant.

Visitation for Buddy was held on Thursday, July 24, from 3-5 p.m., in the Chapel of the Schaetter Funeral Home.

Rosary services were held on Thursday, July 24, at 5 p.m., at Schaetter Funeral Home.

A Mass of Resurrection was celebrated on Friday, July 25, at 10 a.m. in St. Mary's Catholic Church.

Graveside services and interment followed in St. Mary's Catholic Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his memory to St. Mary's School Endowment Fund, St. Mary's Loving Care, St. Mary's ACT's, or to the charity of your choice.

Arrangements under the direction of Schaetter Funeral Home, Fredericksburg, Texas.

Expressions of sympathy may be sent at www.schaetter.com