Tex Gerald Gildner

Gerald W. Gildner, affectionately known as “Tex,” passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, Monday, October 10, 2022.  Tex was born on December 14, 1945, in Brodheadsville, Pennsylvania, to Charles Nathan Gildner and Mary Berger Gildner.  Tex grew up and attended school in Pennsylvania.  After graduating high school, he enlisted in the United States Army.  Tex traveled throughout various states, working different odd jobs, before ultimately settling in Texas in the early 70’s.  While attending a Rodeo in Lexington, he was thrown from a bull and sent to Flemming Memorial Hospital for medical treatment, where he met the love of his life, Manuela “Nellie” Rangel.  On June 15, 1974, the couple were united in Holy Matrimony.  The next year, they were blessed with their baby daughter, Bernice Michele “Shelly.”  Tex began a lifelong career as a roofer and owned and operated his own roofing company, Del-Tex Roofing.

Tex worked hard throughout his life, but always found time to enjoy fishing or woodworking.  After retiring, he loved spending time with his two grandsons, Ryan Michael and Alexander Paul.  He was an active member of the Austin Rotary Club for many years.  His favorite time of year was Christmas!  He spent many years as Santa Claus for the nursing home where his daughter worked.  He made hundreds of homemade cookies passed them out all over town.  In the warmer months, he loved to garden and took great pride in the vegetables and flowers he grew.

He was preceded in death by both his parents; grandparents, Charles Gildner, Sr. and Edna Gildner; two brothers, Charles Gildner and Richard Gilldner; and sister, Josephine Bobst.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his wife of 48 years, Manuela “Nellie” Gildner; his only daughter, Bernice Michele “Shelly” and husband Peter Herrera; his two grandsons, Ryan Michael and Alexander Paul Herrera; his sisters, Annie Pesil and Pauline Martz; numerous nieces, nephews, extended family and dear friends.

The family would like to extend their gratitude to St. Joseph’s Hospital of Bryan, Juniper Village at Spicewood Summit Skilled Nursing, and Halcyon Home for their compassionate care.

Family and Friends will gather at Elgin Funeral Home for Visitation, Friday, October 14th at 6:00 PM.  A Celebration of Tex’s Life will follow at 7:00 PM with Pastor Steve Davila presiding.  Graveside services, with Military Honors, will be held at Elgin Latin Cemetery, Saturday, October 15th at 10:00 AM.