Violet Schkade

Violet Adell Schkade peacefully entered the presence of her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Friday, March 6, 2026, at the age of 91. Violet was born on December 20, 1934 in Albany, Texas, to Alvin and Louise Schkade. A devoted Christian, Violet was a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Albany and truly lived as a servant of the Lord. She deeply loved her church and dedicated countless hours to cooking for the congregation, cleaning the church, and helping anyone who was sick or in need. She also delivered "Albany Vittles by Vehicle" many times to elderly community members.

Violet was well known for her exceptional cooking and baking, especially her coconut cake, pies, and pastries; not to mention her delicious divinity, fudge, and other holiday candies that she generously shared with family and friends. She lovingly prepared meals for many large family gatherings, always giving of herself. Family members fondly remember her commitment to cleanliness; if you wanted to help in her kitchen, Violet would always ask, "Did you wash your hands?"

After retiring, Violet enjoyed spending time outdoors, mowing the grass, picking pecans, and caring for her yard. During her school years, some of her fondest memories included playing volleyball, being on the pep squad, and spending time with friends. After school, she enjoyed skating on the courthouse square. Following high school, Violet attended Ranger Junior College in 1954 and Draughon's Business School in 1955.

Violet began her career in 1955 at Abilene Air Force Base, the same year the base opened, before it was renamed Dyess Air Force Base. Prior to that, she worked at Weaver's Drug Store in Albany, now known as Sander's Drug Store, where she was in charge of the soda and ice cream section. Violet remained at Dyess for 40 years, retiring as the Funds Manager. Throughout her career, she received numerous awards in recognition of her outstanding contributions.

A perfectionist in all she did, Violet was known for her professionalism and attention to detail. She was a meticulous dresser at work, always polished with her wardrobe, heels, makeup, hair, and nails. She was remembered as friendly, with a warm smile and a gift for conversation.

Although she never married, Violet had no shortage of suitors during her 40 years at Dyess. Single officers often asked her out to the officers' club, but Violet was very selective and had a strict rule: no smokers or drinkers.

Even while working full time at Dyess, Violet remained devoted to caring for her parents and her brother, William. While living in Abilene, she drove to Albany at least every other weekend to cook and clean for her beloved family.

Violet was welcomed into Heaven by her parents, Alvin and Louise Schkade, and her siblings: Bernhard Schkade, Oscar Schkade, Clarence Schkade, Richard Schkade, infant brother, Eric Schkade, and sisters Florine Jeter, Ella Welch, Ann Tankersly, and Hildegarde Wright.

She is survived by her precious brother, William Schkade of Abilene, Texas, along with numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who will forever cherish her memory.

The service will be held at 1:00 PM on Saturday, March 14th, at Trinity Lutheran Church at 733 US Highway 180 E in Albany, TX . Burial will follow at Albany Cemetery at 8603 US-283, Albany, TX. Those wishing to honor Violet's memory may do so through a memorial gift to Trinity Lutheran Church, where she faithfully served.