Benno Real Jr.

Benno "Booby" Real Jr., age 86, born Aug. 12, 1925, in Converse, Texas, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2011, in San Antonio, Texas, after a battle with prostate cancer. The Brackenridge High School graduate enlisted in the U.S. Navy during World War II, and was stationed at Pasco Naval Air Station in Washington state from 1944-46. He worked as a U. S. Navy storekeeper in the supply department for CASU-50, specializing in parts for many fighter planes, including the F4U Corsair. After the war, he worked for Slick Airways and Dee Howard in San Antonio. In 1958, he joined Friedrich Refrigerators and traveled as purchasing manager to China, Korea, Saudi Arabia and Europe. He was president of the San Antonio chapter of the National Association of Purchasing Management from 1974-75. He capped his 46 year career with Friedrich when he retired in 2004. His great passion for music led him to the accordion, which he started playing at age 6. As a longtime member of the San Antonio Accordion Club and the Accordionaires, he played publicly for many years as the opening act at Beethoven Maennerchor concerts. He also played at many nursing homes and special events, including a Wurstfest birthday celebration for Myron Floren of the Lawrence Welk Show. Judy Real, his wife of 57 years, preceded him in death. He is survived by his children, David Real, Sharon and husband Michael Rapp, and Russell Real; grandchildren, Steven and Kathryn Rapp, Amy and husband Christopher Rodriguez, and Laura Real; great-grandchildren, Joshua Real-Rodriguez and Julie Anne Rodriguez; sisters, Elvira Downing and Lucille England and numerous nieces and nephews. Visitation will be held on Sunday, December 11, 2011 from 5:00pm until 9:00pm, at Sunset Funeral Home, 1701 Austin Highway, San Antonio, TX 78218. Funeral service will be held on Monday, December 12, 2011 at 12:00pm at Sunset Funeral Home Chapel, with burial to follow at Sunset Memorial Park. You are invited to offer condolences at www.sunsetfuneralhomesa.com