David Rice Obituary
David Kenneth Rice died peacefully at home in Kendalia, on January 29, 2005. Born on July 23, 1947, his father was Rudy Rice a prominent San Antonio trial lawyer, builder, rancher, and Army Air Corps pilot during World War II. David's mother, Caroline Rice, veteran world traveler, lives in Honolulu, Hawaii. David attended Alamo Heights High School, California College of Arts in Oakland, California and San Antonio College of San Antonio, Texas where he obtained an Associate of Arts Degree. He studied for a degree in finance and real estate at U.T.S.A. His broad educational background explains something of the extent of his multifarious interests and knowledge. Once started on subjects of David's interests, such as Gardening or Texas history, David's perfectionism came through in the depth of his knowledge. He is survived by his wife, Joy Michele Shiels Rice, and son Michael David Rice, of Kendalia; his mother Caroline Rice of Honolulu; brothers Greg Rice of Santa Barbara, and Torque Rice of Texas; nephews, Bob Rice of Hawaii, Ryan Shiels, Aaron Shiels, Thomas Shiels, Philip Shiels and Leo Mares of Australia; nieces, Roxane Rice of Kerrville, Regina Rice of Los Angeles, Lauren Shiels, Nicole Shiels, and Eliza Shiels of Australia. David served four years in the Air Force during the Viet Nam War. Upon discharge, he worked with his Dad & Brother in managing a 412 apartment complex on the southeast side of San Antonio. David spent his weekends at their 2,000 + acre ranch, formerly owned by Sam Berry, currently owned by Dr. Schweppe. Joy came into his life when David's mother discovered her in the middle of Australia during her travels there. It was love at first sight and they were married in 1978. David lived a full and happy life. He enjoyed doing the things he loved best: living the rural life and spending time with his family. On March 17, 1983, The Rices bought Nora and Frank Heidrich's house, on FM3351 in Kendalia. During his next stage of life, David applied his many artistic and practical talents to remodeling and renovating buildings, starting with his own home. After realizing his need for a personal relationship with God, David sought to put God first in his life and has been blessed in every way as a result. David volunteered his services for building the Boerne Bible Church. He was a member and a former Deacon there. David had integrity; he was loyal, honest, kind and generous. He had a gentle and loving nature which he lavished upon all - but particularly the second "joy" of his life - Michael. David poured himself into his son, anxious that he should grasp the vales of life and worldview from his Dad. The family wishes to thank his sister-in-law Elizabeth Muir Chamberlain, and her husband Carl Chamberlain for their dedicated and loving care; as well as VistaCare of Kerrville. Special thanks goes out to Donny Turner for just "being there for him," and the Boerne Bible Church members who kept him in their hearts and prayers. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, February 3, 2005 at 3:00 p.m. at the Jones Cemetery in Kendalia, officiated by Bernard Briscoe. Following a balloon release at the graveside, family and friends will be celebrating David's life, at the Kendalia Volunteer Fire Department. All are invited. Come prepared to share your memories of David. In case of inclement weather the service will be conducted at the Kendalia Volunteer Fire Department. In lieu of flowers memorials will be accepted by: Kendalia Volunteer Fire Department, P.O. Box 382, Kendalia, TX 78027, and VistaCare Hospice of Kerrville, 420 Water Street, Kerrville, TX 78028, or Compassion International, Colorado Springs, CO. 80997-0001 To leave a message or tribute for the family, please visit www.vaughanfuneralhome.com and select the obituary icon. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Vaughan's Funeral Home of Boerne, Texas. VAUGHAN'S FUNERAL HOME Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 816-2011
Published by San Antonio Express-News on Feb. 1, 2005.