LeRoy Statler

LeRoy Statler, 73, passed away peacefully with his loving wife, Ellie, by his side.

LeRoy was born in Salida, CO, but always fondly referred to Idaho as his home. He was one of 12 children from a blended family. He met the love of his life, Ellie, at a wedding where she was a guest and he was the best man. They were married for 47 years, and she faithfully stayed by his side until the end, helping to care for him and manage all of his many health problems.

He loved all things outdoors and found tremendous peace while on his boat, trying to catch "the big one." He served in the Air Force for 20 years as a Vietnam-era veteran. He initially was a part of the security forces but had to be reassigned after a knee injury. During the Vietnam War, he was stationed in Thailand, where he worked on the flight lines and was exposed to Agent Orange, the effects of which eventually took its toll on his body. He ultimately went on to work for the VA Hospital, Audie L. Murphy, in San Antonio and would retire again from there years later.

LeRoy is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Ellie, and their daughter Kristal; his daughter from a previous marriage, Rena Statler of Edmond, OK, sister Goldie Grape (Harlan), of Krum, TX; sister Betty Jo Donaldson of Clackamas, OR, brother William Statler (Ruth) of Ellington, CT, close family friends Dana and Darrel Wagner, of Blanco, TX, his faithful furry companions Frankie, Riley, and Gigi, and numerous nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his father, Ora Frank Statler; his mother, Eva Mae Rasp; his mother-in-law, Guadalupe Valdez; his brothers, Billy Lee Statler and Ronnie Statler; and his sisters, Maryann White and Myrtle Grape.

We thank the many healthcare providers, nurses, and other staff who participated in LeRoy's care for the past ten years. We are incredibly grateful for the care and compassion of Dr. Akbar Rizvi, Dr. Thomas LeVoyer, Dr. Mian Yousuf, Dr. Kamran Rizvi, Jessie Sherrard, AGACNP, Robin Dore PA, Dan Richard PT, DC, and David Pham, PTA.

A Funeral Mass will be held on Saturday May 4, 2024 at 2:00 PM at St. Ferdinand Catholic Church in Blanco, Texas.

A gravesite service will be held on May 9 at 1:00 PM at the DFW National Cemetery.