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Lowell Lebermann Obituary

Lowell H. Lebermann Jr., a three-term Austin City Council member, former University of Texas System regent and civic, cultural and business leader, died Thursday at the age of 70. He died while vacationing in Aspen, Colo., after an apparent heart attack, according to friends. Lebermann, was renowned for his incisive intelligence and keen wit. Born April 26, 1939, Lebermann was reared in Commerce, about 60 miles northeast of Dallas, where his father practiced medicine. At the age of 12, he lost the sight in his right eye in a gunshot accident. Vision in the other eye deteriorated as a repercussion of the accident until he was completely blind by age 23. But his dimming sight did not stop him from academic achievement. A student in the Plan II Honors program at the University of Texas, he was elected student body president in 1961. By then Lebermann already had set up his own real estate company. He made an unsuccessful run for state representative in 1964 in Northeast Texas and returned to Austin, where his father's family had lived for four generations. But to most Austinites, he was known for his work as a member of the Austin City Council in the 1970s. Then-Mayor Roy Butler dubbed Lebermann "the Green Panther" because of his environmental efforts. Lebermann wrote the ordinance establishing the city's Office of Environmental Resource Management and pushed through a measure governing development on Lake Walter E. Long, Lake Austin and what is now Lady Bird Lake. He also wrote the city's creeks ordinance and its historic zoning ordinance. His civic participation continued after he left office. Former Lt. Gov. Ben Barnes, a longtime friend, said that whether it was working on light rail or solving health care issues, "there were very few things that happened that were really important to Austin in the '70s, '80s and '90s, that Lowell Lebermann didn't play a significant role in." A diverse investor, Lebermann ran a car dealership, owned the beer distributor Centex Beverage Inc., and served on the boards of several banks and companies. Active for years in state and national fundraising for the Democratic Party, he was elected treasurer of the state party in 1981 and for several years was on the executive committee of the Democratic National Finance Council. He ran unsuccessfully for Austin mayor in 1983. Recently, Kinky Friedman said Lebermann was helping advise him on a possible second run for governor. The list of his civic involvements was lengthy, including his service on the boards of the United Way, Salvation Army, Austin Community Foundation and the Austin Symphony Orchestra Society. He was president of the Laguna Gloria Art Museum and chairman of the Paramount Theatre board. His participation paid off for the organizations in ways large and small. "In the early years of the Long Center project, Lowell was very supportive and sponsored a number of essential strategy meetings at his home," said Jo Ann Christian, a board member of the Long Center for the Performing Arts. Lebermann was on the Chancellor's Council Executive Committee at UT, the Ex-Students Executive Council and the Symposium Planning Committee for the LBJ School of Public Affairs. He was appointed to the UT System Board of Regents in 1993 by Gov. Ann Richards and served as vice chairman from 1993 to 1995. Lebermann was assisted by a phalanx of loyal assistants and a series of guide dogs, including a German shepherd named Lucky, who was the subject of an obituary in the American-Statesman in 1983. For those who knew him well, his blindness was hardly a consideration and much less a focus than the reach of his intellect. But he was not reluctant to refer to his lack of sight to put others at ease. He was fond of joking that he was the only blind chairman of an art museum. And it was not uncommon for him, when told that a nearby individual was wearing especially colorful clothing, to flip up his eye patch and exclaim, "My God, that's the first thing I've been able to see in years!" Former UT board Chairman Bernard Rapoport described Lebermann as "one of the most priceless, precious human beings I've ever known. He was just marvelous. The most amazing thing, of course, was his brain. To hear something and understand it and capture it like he did was just unbelievable." Lebermann's contributions to the UT System were many, Rapoport said, but he singled out a committee that Lebermann chaired, aimed at improving management efficiency. The time and money saved by that effort, Rapoport said, "was all Lowell's ingenious contributions." Former Gov. Mark White, a personal friend for years, said, "What impressed me most about Lebermann was the fact that, here was a fellow who'd had one of the toughest blows that a person can have, to have sight during the course of his life, and in his early youth, he lost his vision. And I never saw his spirits flag. I never saw anything but an upbeat, positive outlook on life that was an inspiration to everyone who knew him or came in contact with him." Lebermann was "one of the most extraordinary people I've ever known," said Barnes, who had known him for more than 40 years. "I don't know of a person who was more caring and more concerned and more compassionate than Lowell Lebermann. He was always willing to help any good cause." Lebermann married twice. Both unions ended in divorce. Survivors include his daughter, Virginia, her husband, John Wotowicz, and a grandson.

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Published by Austin American-Statesman from Jul. 9 to Jul. 24, 2009.

Memories and Condolences
for Lowell Lebermann

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Robert Reynolds

July 25, 2021

Lowell Lieberman was an outstanding citizen of Texas, and a highly honorable public servant. He would have been an excellent mayor! I was saddened to learn of his death. But his environmental devotions and many other good works will forever be noticed and appreciated, as he strove to make Austin the great and progressive city it is today!

May our late servant, Lowell, forever Rest In Peace!

David (David IV) Thomas

July 23, 2009

Lowell was the most positive role model to so many people, myself included. Although we saw each other infrequently throughout the years, he was always ready with a warm handshake and a genuine interest in how things were going. Rest in peace.

Isabel

July 21, 2009

I did not know your love one,my condolaces go to family and friends,peace be with you.

Anonymous

July 20, 2009

He gave so much to the Community!
We need more community leaders like him!

May God grant peace and comfort to his family during this very sad time.

He was a real Texan!

Gonzalo Barrientos

July 19, 2009

Words are not adequate to express the friendship, our endevors together, the accomplishments, the near accomplishments, your love of humanity and all that you have done for so many. Emma and I will never forget. Lowell Leberman thank you. Su historia sera escrita con letras de oro! Gonzalo and Emma Barrientos

Margaret Gately

July 18, 2009

We have lost a wonderful human being. I have not had contact with Lowell for many years but he was so generous to St. Austin's School when I was principal (Sr. Margaret Mary). Also, he helped me personally in many ways after leaving Sr. Austin's. My prayers to his family.

Jeannie Fowler Carter

July 18, 2009

Bang, My first love from age 5. You have and always will have a very special place in my heart. From the time your mom would pick me up and take me to your home above the hospital to play or take us to the movies...my first kiss you planted on my cheeck while pumping me on your motor bike...the fun times with the Spices in high school. You will be so missed by all those who ever knew you.
I still can't believe you are gone. I had always hoped to have a chance to revisit our old times. My prayers are with your family in their loss. See you one day in Heaven.

Mark White

July 17, 2009

Lowell was so full of life. I still find it hard to believe he is gone. I can hear his unique voice and cadence of speech in my head even now as I write this. I will miss him. He meant so much to me, and truly helped shape the person I am. He was so fun and made people feel so good about themselves that I, among so many others, felt such joy just to be around him. Eleven years ago I moved away from Austin, and I lost the regular communication with Lowell I had so long enjoyed. I always intended to reconnect someday. I am so sad now to know that will never happen and that we have lost this great man. May he rest in peace.

Radu B.

July 16, 2009

Lowell's been very good to me, and I'm so sorry to see him go... Rest In Peace, Lowell, and condolences to the family.

J.C. Yelvington

July 16, 2009

He encouraged his KA brothers to "hang in there" while we were establishing our chapter at Texas State University. It was at Palmer Auditorium during the annual MDA telethon: he shook our hands, and told us: "if you need anything, don't hesitate to call me." There was no doubt in my mind that he meant it !

Rest in peace, Brother Lowell

"Fratres usque ad aram fideles"

Gib Lewis

July 16, 2009

Lowell was always a perfect gentleman.
My condolence to the family.

Carmen Grossmann-Siegert

July 16, 2009

My condolences to family and friends.
Thanks to Mr Lowell, for all he did for my daugther Krystel Baeza during her time of education at University of Texas at Austin, Texas, and for all those extraordinary advices he gave her.I will always be grateful.
Carmen Lourdes Grossmann-Siegert

Alejandro Granados

July 16, 2009

My condolences to Mr. Lowell's family. Mr. Lowell was a great man to work for.

Cameron Hightower

July 15, 2009

In silence and sorrow, we gaze at a vacant space in the sky where a giant tree has fallen in the Aspen woods. And the sound will reverberate in the hearts and minds of all those who are here and well beyond.

July 15, 2009

My sincerest condolences to all Lowell's family and closest friends.
He was on the School Board of St. Austin's School in the late 70's when I was Principal and he was always a joy to be around.Whenever he visited the school with his dog Lucky,he brought his love of life and of young people. I wish I had seen more of him in recent years. Thank you, Lowell for many happy memories. Mary Berwick

Jeff Crosby

July 15, 2009

I first met Lowell when I was in college. His passing evoked some old memories, such as a raid on his huge refrigerator that led me to wonder what kind of guy keeps leftover gourmet-prepared frog legs; an anxious Two steering me out of Lowell's clothes closet, which I had drunkenly mistaken for a bathroom; and Lowell knowing who I was simply by the rhythm of my footsteps.

Lowell was indeed the witty, charming, sophisticated and generous gentleman others have described. I'll add another adjective: cool.

Thank you, sir, for being so kind to a kid who knew so little.

John Kurilecz

July 15, 2009

It has been well over twenty years since I was introduced to Lowell Lebermann, as a result of my friendship with his in-laws at the time, Dr. and Mrs. Cecil Patterson. I remember him well because he was such a kind and thoughtful person.

Dr. and Mrs. Patterson thought highly of Lowell, and shared a story about him with me that I have never forgotten.

One evening, Pat, Lowell and the Pattersons went out to dine at a restaurant in Dallas that provided valet parking.

After they had finished dining and everyone was ensconced in the car and ready to leave, Lowell said confidently: "This isn't the right car!" Mrs. Patterson said, "Lowell, this is the right car, it is my Cadillac!", to which Lowell replied, "This car has leather seats, and the car we arrived in had cloth seats!"

I have shared this story with many friends and business associates to demonstrate that a disability, especially in Mr. Lebermann's case, was merely an inconvenience and to never "overlook" the smallest of details.

Jill Wendell Herrlod

July 14, 2009

Lowell was a dear friend of my family and I have so many fond memories of him, but one of my favorites took place in Rockport, Texas, my hometown. It was 4th of July, and I'd have to say early 8o's. Anyway, jet ski's were a little different then and were usually made for only one passenger. Well on this particular day I jumped on the front/yoke and Lowell got in the driver's seat and we took off. He went as fast as he could turning and spraying and flying thru the flats until we practically ran out of gas. It was truly one of the most fun experiences of my life especially when I looked back and saw that giant smile of his and heard that intoxicating giggle!!
God Bless you Lowell and thank you for all you did for me. You will be dearly missed. Jenny my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family and my heart goes out to you.
With love,
Jill Wendell Herrold

Will Crewdson

July 14, 2009

Lowell was in a particularly whimsical mood when he invited me to come and work for him in the mid-80s from the UK, to the general puzzlement of his talented entourage at that time. He looked after me for three years, time during which I learnt many things from his example, lessons that I have since drawn on constantly and a period of my life that I will always treasure. I saw his zest for life, his ability to mix seamlessly business and pleasure, his acuity, courtesy and charm, as a force of inspiration to all with whom he came into contact, and especially for the young, whose interests he generously promoted.

Frances Elliott Slaughter

July 14, 2009

I would like to wish my condolences to family and friends alike. Thanks to Mr. Lebermann for all he did for my son, Jason Elliott Hicks during his time of education at the University of Texas at Austin. He was a very kind gentleman of whom I had much regard. With much reverence.

Keith Hogan

July 13, 2009

Mr. Lebermann was probably never aware of his impact on my life. He convinced my maternal grandfather that I could successfully attend the University of Texas at Austin in spite of my disability. You see, I was born with a form of muscular dystrophy and I’ve never been able to walk. Mr. Lebermann provided an example for me to emulate and for that I will always be grateful.

Mary Hardy

July 13, 2009

Bang Leberman was indeed a great man and a great Texan. I grew up two blocks down the street and he and my sister Myra were great friends. After his accident they did homework together every day and they were also in Plan II together at UT. Great over-achievers. She kept her black eye patch from his Student Body Presidential campaign all of her life.
I feel sure she was there to greet him in Heaven.

Ree Willaford

July 13, 2009

Our brief encounters with Lowell over the years were filled with intellect and humor, we feel as though we have known him a lifetime.
Our hearts and hugs go to the family, We are here if you need anything !
Love Camille,Ree & Jason

Sharon Austin Miller

July 13, 2009

Anna Belle, Bill, Robert Austin and Sharon A. Miller were life long friends and will miss this fabulous friend. So many great adventures with Sue, Gus and Bang. We will always remember how he handled his loss of sight and how he showed us that it was just a little glitch and he could do anything he set his mind to do. He was the most thoughtful, generous, bright, and generous person in the world. We send our most sincere sympathy to Jenny and family.

A. Bryan Spires M.D.

July 13, 2009

A very special person! I was invited to be a member of his Saturday Club, which met at noon at the Driskill Hotel for wine, lunch and lots of B.S.!What an experience! I was the token Republican, and was allowed to speak occasionally! He will be missed,

July 13, 2009

Bang was a very special person to all of us. We send our condolences to the family and his friends. He walked with us and left big tracks. He was blessed.

Bailey and Sara (Wheatley) Lasater
Spriong Branch, Texas

Dian Hawkins Rainbolt

July 12, 2009

Classmates mean so much, Bang is right there at the top! Bang was everyone’s
friend. In the small town of Commerce, the area teens didn’t have much to do, but the Lebermann family took care of that issue. They even built on a wing to their home on Monroe St. just for the teens. I think Bang told his parents that a dance floor was needed with juke box! Bang with his side-kick Ladayne (might as well have said brother) planned many “happy” events for all of us. Bang continued his best trait thru life. . . LOVE OF PEOPLE AND TEXAS! Thanks for the memories my "dear" friend.

Frank Cooksey

July 12, 2009

Lowell and I have been friends since college days, at UT. I appointed him to head the Grievance Committee in Student Government, and he did his usual wonderful job. Later, it was my pleasure to support him in his race to become Mayor of Austin, and he then supported me generously when I ran for that place of service. Lowell excelled in  many things, including his contribution as a UT regent. He was intelligent, caring, and very funny. I will remember him for his early vision and foresight in the area of environmental protection, but,mostly for being a man of good will. He blessed us with his life and good works.

Jan Wendell

July 12, 2009

He was our family's dear, dear friend. Would that we could have the times together go on forever. He was our love.
Jan and all the Wendells

Richard G. Cernosek

July 12, 2009

Lowell was a great guy to know. He was also a great friend and business partner for over 25 years. Everytime we talked, he would alway say, "Richard it is nice to hear your voice". You will be missed.

Paula and Sam Douglass

July 12, 2009

Lowell had a great gift for always remembering his friends, wherever he might be. We will miss our visits and his kindness.
Vaya con Dios,

Paula and Sam

James (Jeff) Kelley

July 12, 2009

Many of us from Commerce, will always remember Bang fondly from our childhood.... We were friends from before we were old enough to go to school... From there, lots of "growing up" adventures and memories include him... To his family and friends, so sorry for your loss... I know he will be missed....

Caleb Wood

July 12, 2009

I am very sad to hear of Lowell's passing. I first meet Lowell at the passing of my Grandfather, F H McDowell, two years ago, he was very gracious to my mother, Susan Wood, who he grew up with. We had many laughs and I know that he will be truly missed. My thoughts and prays are with is family.

Mike Millsap

July 11, 2009

What's it all about , when you sort it out?
Here was a person who was dealt a cruel blow as a young boy with the loss of sight in one eye, then losing the sight in his other eye. How easy, and understandable it would have been to at least to have a bitter outlook on life.
Instead this extraordinary person was charming and productive in so many aspects of his life and became a success in business and politics.
How many times do I recall him telling my wife, "My dear you look lovely tonight."
Lowell, perhaps in private anguish, in spite of partly cloudy to overcast conditions decided to see the world in bright sunlight with hues of burnt orange.

Sherre Cantwell Ernster

July 11, 2009

Lowell sees now clearly ...all our love ... all God's love...

Veach Billie & Bob

July 11, 2009

We were saddened to hear of Lowell's
passing..I have so many wonderful
memories of him and how he worked for
his community, his state and his
country. He will be sorely missed.
Our prayers are with the family,
he was a special person and a
great loss to us all.
Sincerely, Billie & Bob Veach
Temple & Burnet, Texas

July 11, 2009

I had the opportunity to follow Jaderlund as his aide in the early 80's and can remember after a couple of months thinking "what have I gotten myself into ?" As it turned out, it was the GREATEST experience of my life. I truly was given a gift by being employed and working so closely with this extraordinary man ! I started as his employee and he became over time to me a big brother, confidante, and most importantly, a great friend. He was such a real person and yet a force of nature at the same time. Even in the rough days of the mayors race, I would get wound up about something and he would always put it in perspective and make me laugh ! I cannot imagine Austin or Texas, for that matter, without him. He will be deeply missed but NEVER forgotten. God Bless you Lowell Henry for all you did for me and so many others ! You left a huge legacy and made this world a better place ! My condolences to Jenny and John and little Henry. With love.....III

Carolyn Goldston

July 11, 2009

Lowell was my husband's first cousin, and I loved him very much. I toiled on all of his City Council races. He was full of joy and wit, knowledge and kindness. My world will be a darker place without him.

July 11, 2009

Lowell was my first cousin. His mother Sue Goldston and my father were brother and sister. I have many fond memories of Lowell as a young boy, before he as blinded, when they would visit me in Corpus Christi...he was always full of joy!
I am much saddened by his passing. Since I am now 88 yrs. old and unable to attend his memorial service in Austin, please accept my most sincere condolences. James M. Goldston, P.E.

David Biegel

July 11, 2009

I had the opportunity to follow Jaderlund as his aide in the early 80's and can remember after a couple of months thinking "what have I gotten myself into ?" As it turned out, it was the GREATEST experience of my life. I truly was given a gift by being employed and working so closely with this extraordinary man ! I started as his employee and he became over time to me a big brother, confidante, and most importantly, a great friend. He was such a real person and yet a force of nature at the same time. Even in the rough days of the mayors race, I would get wound up about something and he would always put it in perspective and make me laugh ! I cannot imagine Austin or Texas, for that matter, without him. He will be deeply missed but NEVER forgotten. God Bless you Lowell Henry for all you did for me and so many others ! You left a huge legacy and made this world a better place ! My condolences to Jenny and John and little Henry. With love.....III

July 11, 2009

Lowell Lebermann, Jr., was my first cousin. He is the son of Sue Goldston who was my father's youngest sister. I have fond memories of Lowell as a young boy,before he was blinded, visiting me in Corpus Christi...he was always full of joy! I am much saddened by his passing. Since I am 88 yrs. old and unable to attend his Memorial Service at LBJ library, please accept my most sincere condolences. James M. Goldston, P.E.

Marilyn Munroe

July 11, 2009

Lowell accomplished many worthwhile things ~~ a life well-lived! My sympathies to all of his family.

Carol Carrington-LeBleu

July 11, 2009

I am so sorry for your loss. I have no memories of Lowell, only the wonderful childhood memories of visits with his grandmother, Virginia, with my parents, Duncan (Walter's brother) and Alice Carrington. Our prayers will be with the family and community during this grief over the loss of their loved one.

Charles Hummel

July 11, 2009

Forgot to sign my entry I am the KA brother who used to tease his dog Laurie with a cat, Possum or such
Will miss Bang alot and see him on the other side.

July 11, 2009

To the daughters of Bang Leberman:
Girls
Your Father & my KA brother was the most extraordinay man I have ever I loved My brother "Bang" well and will morn his death the rest of my days. Bang was my "pick me up" in school. Room 10 was where I would go for solace,wise counsel or jokes during our formative years. I could call him not having talked for years and he would always know my voice. I wouldn't let his aids tell him who was calling. I would tell them that Gym Nasium was calling or some other crazy name Another brother, Pat Ireland & I would delight in teasing his dog Laurie at the time with a cat,possum or some wild animal which he took sorta good naturedly.

July 11, 2009

Those of us from Commerce, Texas always called Lowell "Bang". However, he seemed to have overcome that name in so many ways. Some of us didn't know him as much as others, but we always knew about him and his family. Please know that you have our kindess sympathy and we hope you will always remember all the good times you have shared together.
--Veta (Julian) Givens, Commerce, TX

Shirley Kline

July 11, 2009

With deepest sympathy.

Shirley Fisher Kline

Ed Reusch

July 11, 2009

I was very saddened and dismayed when I learned we had lost Lowell this week. My experiences working for him in the early 80's were unforgettable, and his influence on my life was significant. He was a great man, and I'm sad that I have not seen him in so long. I will miss him as will many others.

Pat and Nancy Ireland

July 11, 2009

We are so very sorry. Lowell was a Texas treasure. We have many happy memories of our times with him.

Pat and Nancy Ireland

July 11, 2009

We are so sorry. We have many happy memories of our times together.

Bill Melton

July 10, 2009

Lowell's passing is a huge loss to so many Institutions and individuals. He was a truly outstanding man, from UT Student Body President to Member of the Austin City Council, business, civic and political leader and father.

It was an Honor to be recognized with Lowell by the Texas Jaycees in 1974, as members of that year's "Five Outstanding Young Texans".

Sincere condolences to the Family and God Bless my friend "Bang" Leberman.

Trish Huddleston

July 10, 2009

I had the pleasure of knowing Lowell many years ago through his daughter, Jenny and his boys. He was a consummate gentleman with a fabulous sense of humor. I have great memories of him and feel honored that I knew him. My thoughts are with Jenny and his family in this sad time.
Love,
Trish

Jim Bennett

July 10, 2009

My condolences

Evelyne Bennett

July 10, 2009

Thank you for the times working together

July 10, 2009

My condolences

Jim Bennett

July 10, 2009

My condolences

Jan Bennett

July 10, 2009

What a loss for humankind.

Jan Bennett Steger

Rosie

July 10, 2009

I remember Mr Lebermann from the 70s while attending St Austins with his sons, he was a generous man, donating a VW van to our school for field trips, my deepest symphathys to his family.

Peck Young

July 10, 2009

Few people get to make thier home a better place for thier having passed this way. Lowell Lebermann was one of those lucky few who did. He will be sorely missed.

Pete Cook

July 10, 2009

Ginny, what a great legacy your dad is leaving. the name Lebermann has ment a lot to my family thru the years from my Aunt Loraine Dahlstrom who worked for your grand mother, Virginia, at Christensen Lebermann, to most recently my son Beaux Cook that worked with you and your mom on the West Texas Ranch.
Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with you. John V. "Pete" Cook, Georgia Cook, Mark Pride "Beaux" Cook, Kristen Cook and Holland Cook

Ronnie Quintanilla-Perez

July 10, 2009

My condolences go out to his daughter and her family and all the employees at Centex Beverage who are experiencing such a great loss in Mr. Lebermann's passing. I worked at Centex throughout college in the early to mid 90's and have many fond memories. Mr. Lebermann was always nice to everyone and I will remember him fondly.

Andrew White

July 10, 2009

I knew Lowell because he was a close friend of my parents for many years.

He is one of my favorite people in the world--who wouldn't love someone who on your 12th birthday picked you up in a helicopter to take you to dinner (b/c he knew chicken fried steak was my favorite and there was a good restaurant in Fredricksburg)?

Or, what about a guy who when you went into business selling peanut brittle as a 13 year old, was my ONLY customer b/c he bought ALL the inventory every time...or sailing with him on Lake Travis, and wondering why the only person who could not see was driving the boat...

These are only some of the highlights, but the real deal was simply a man who was interested in you and wanted to know more. He gave you his time and his interest and, of course, his sense of humor and wit.

He loved me and my brother and sister. One of my lifelong regrets will be never having the opportunity to introduce him to my children.

I will always love him and am thankful for the time we had together. When we get to the other side, he is one of the first people I want to see--and I am sure there will be a line.

God bless you Lowell and thank you for everything you have meant to me,

Andrew

Peter,Walt,Elspeth Rostow

July 10, 2009

Lowell was a great friend, he will be missed by all of our family.

Stella Braman

July 10, 2009

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

Janet Galeener Redeker

July 10, 2009

Lowell was a good friend and the kindest, most intelligent, funniest, caring person I have known.
He will be missed by so many and I am so sad not to be able to see him again.

Mandy Myers

July 10, 2009

Austin lost a legend, and we have lost a legendary friend. I know Lowell is holding court and making God laugh. Lowell will always be remembered for his generosity and humor as well as his incredible involvement in education, The University of Texas and Texas government. You will be missed Lowell along with your wonderful laugh.

Judye Hartman

July 10, 2009

I rejoice over the gift of Lowell's life and all that he gave to his family, friends, and the world. He was the delight of any conversation I ever had with him. He always made me laugh. I will miss him and his wit, his charm, and his compassionate heart.
Judye Hartman, Houston, Texas

Colette Olson

July 10, 2009

I worked for Centex Beverage in 1995 as the Dispatcher. I had loads of fun w/that job and met Mr. Lebermann at the Christmas party that year. He was such a nice, generous man. I send my condolances.

Patrick McCord

July 10, 2009

As always, one of Lowell's phrases is the most appropriate description. He was "a great American and an outstanding Texan."

Terry Tottenham

July 10, 2009

Lowell was an extraordinary individual who always was available for worthy causes. In doing so, he positively touched many lives over the years. We will miss his gifted wit, keen intellect, and bigger than life personality.
When he hits the Pearly Gates, he will have lots of suggestions for improving the environs!! Terry Tottenham

De Anne Clark

July 10, 2009

Please accept my deepest sympathies.

July 10, 2009

Thank you Lowell for all you did for my family and everyone else while you were here.

Your impact on the world was enormous thank you!

Greg Barnes

Chris Jackson

July 10, 2009

Lowell was above all things, my dear friend. Austin has lost its greatest advocate and perhaps its greatest citizen. To paraphrase something he loved to say when describing a real character...'if he didn't exist, we would have had to make him up'...

Joe Krier

July 10, 2009

A wonderful friend to all who knew him. Despite his visual handicap, he was a man of great and thoughtful vision. More important than that, a man whose engaging humor made every moment with him a delightful experience.

July 10, 2009

To Virginia and your Family

I had the honor of meeting your father a few years ago at a christmas party held for centex bev employees. His words were kind to me including a little advice that I held on to to this day. I pray Our heavenly father may give you comfort in your time of bereavement. Specialist Anthony Ramos United States Army

David Jaderlund

July 10, 2009

Lowell's passing will create an enormous vacuum for Texas, the nation, and a myriad of friends around the world.
My years in his employ were absolutely life changing, and I frequently try to imagine what my life would have become had I not taken the path of becoming his aide in the 70's.
He was truly the best mentor, friend, and family I could have ever have been fortunate to have known.
His sense of humor was inexhaustible, which made the ordinary seem extraordinary.
Much love to Jenny, John, and Henry.

Alyssa Burgin

July 10, 2009

Mr. Lebermann was one of the candidates my student organization interviewed for endorsement in the 70's. I'll never forget, when he came in the door, the group's director suggested he sit in the "red chair." There was an awkward moment of silence while we all got very embarrassed. And then Mr. Lebermann started laughing, making it safe for the rest of us to join him. He was always like that, making it less awkward for others. What a gentleman. He will be missed.

Frances Cooper Briggs

July 10, 2009

My condolences to the family. Lowell and I were at UT at the same time and served on the YM-YWCA board together. Since my return to Austin in the 70's, I have watched his public life with admiration.

Ladayne Johnson

July 10, 2009

Bang, my best friend thru High School, and I had too many good times and adventures to list. We played football together in the 6th grade and 7th until he was shot. I'll never forget our adventures together in the old woody ford station wagon. Also our summer trip all over South Texas. God Speed. Ladayne

Brian Etzel

July 10, 2009

Mr. Lebermann was one of our favorite members. Just seeing him come through the door was enough to brighten your day. He was truly an original. He will be greatly missed. Brian Etzel, Bar Manager-Headliners Club.

Chef Joseph Lowery

July 10, 2009

Goodbye to an authentic Texas gentleman. It was always a privilege and a joy to work with him.

Pamela Nevarez-Fisher

July 10, 2009

Dearest Lowell
You were always so good and kind to me. I will truly miss you....especially hearing you tell me how good it is to 'see' me every time our paths crossed. Much love...
Pamela

John & Cynthia Adkins

July 10, 2009

Lowell was one of the best friends the University of Texas ever had. Many Texas Exes spread around the world and across several generations knew him well, and were inspired by his love and support for UT.

Thanks, Lowell, and Hook 'em, Horns,

Peter Castro

July 10, 2009

I worked for Lowell's Centex Beverage Inc. Twice in 1993 in his warehouse and in 2003 as a delivery driver. When I ran into him he always knew who I was and when I returned about eight years later he remembered who I was and told me he was glad to have me back. He was a good man and I will have fond memories.

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