Harvey Gideon Ellebracht

1934 - 2025

Harvey Gideon Ellebracht, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at the age of 91 years.

Born on October 9, 1934, in Doss, Texas, Harvey was the eldest of three children born to Albert and Lena Ellebracht. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Doss and attended Doss School through the ninth grade before graduating from Fredericksburg High School with the Class of 1953.

As a young man, Harvey was active in the Doss Boy Scout Troop 132, earning the rank of Eagle Scout - an achievement that reflected his lifelong character of dedication and service. He also excelled in the Future Farmers of America (FFA), participating on several judging teams, including Poultry, Meats, and Livestock. One of his proudest accomplishments was representing Fredericksburg at the National FFA Livestock Judging Contest in Kansas City, Missouri, in 1952, where his team earned the Silver Emblem Award.

In 1954, Harvey enlisted in the U.S. Army Reserve, completing his training at Fort Bliss, Texas. After his service, he worked at Stein Lumber Co. and later joined Krauskopf Bros., the local John Deere franchise, where he served as Parts Manager for over 40 years. Harvey took great pride in his work, farming countless friendships and earning the respect and trust of customers throughout the Hill Country.

On April 14, 1956, Harvey married his high school sweetheart, Vernell Usener, at Holy Ghost Lutheran Church. Together, they shared 69 wonderful years, building a life grounded in faith, family, and a love of the land. She preceded him in death on August 31, 2025.

In 1973, Harvey and Vernell were blessed to adopt their daughter, Violet, through Lutheran Social Services. He delighted in sharing his love for ranching and the outdoors with her, teaching her about hard work, stewardship, and the beauty of God's creation. "Papa" continued that legacy with his son-in-law and grandchildren - passing on his knowledge, his stories, and his gentle wisdom. He was his grandchildren's biggest supporter, never missing a livestock show, sporting event, or special occasion.

A devoted servant of God, Harvey's faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was an active and faithful member of Holy Ghost Lutheran Church, where he served multiple terms on the church council, participated in Men in Mission, sang in both the Men's and Mixed Choirs, and faithfully attended Sunday School. Every Sunday morning, he could be found in his regular pew at the 8 a.m. service, offering a warm smile and kind words to all who passed by. Harvey lived a life defined by faith, integrity, and love - a steady and gentle presence to all who knew him.

Harvey is survived by his daughter and son-in-law, Violet and Richard Kruse; his cherished grandchildren, Gideon (and wife Rilae), Caleb, and Hannah Kruse; his brother, Clinton Ellebracht; and his sister-in-law, Betty Ellebracht.

Visitation was held on Friday, November 7, from 12:30-2 p.m. at Holy Ghost Lutheran Church in Fredericksburg, with funeral services beginning at 2 p.m. Interment will follow at Greenwood Cemetery, with refreshments and fellowship afterward in the church Fellowship Hall.

Pallbearers: Gideon Kruse, Caleb Kruse, Sam Olson, Shane A. Menz, Patrick Krauskopf, Edward Krauskopf.

Honorary pallbearers: Hannah Kruse, Rilae Kruse, Kristie Pressler, Donald Pressler, Karrie Menz, Shane Menz and Nan Romanick.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holy Ghost Lutheran Church, the Golden Hub, Doss V.F.D, or a charity of your choice.

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

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