Clarence Ferdinand Meyer of New Braunfels passed away on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026 at the age of 99. He was born on Dec. 17, 1926, to Eddie and Clara Meyer in Schulenburg. Clarence grew up alongside his older brother, Alton, on their family farm outside of Schulenburg.
After graduating from Schulenburg High School in 1945, he served in the United States Army until 1947. His time in the service took him to Fort Crowder (Missouri), Fitzsimons General Hospital (Colorado) and eventually his post as a dental technician on a troop transport ship, making multiple crossings to Europe, and one through the Panama Canal to the South Pacific. Following his discharge from the Army, he attended Southwest Business College in Houston, before starting a 39-year career at United Gas Corporation, which had become Centerpoint Energy at the time of his retirement.
He married the love of his life, Bernice Schindler, on Sept. 9, 1952, in High Hill, and the two relocated to New Braunfels a few months later. It was there that they would spend the rest of their lives together, building a family and becoming involved in various community organizations. Their love for traveling took them and their RV “camping bunch” on trips across the country. Eventually, they would begin sharing their love of camping with their grandchildren. In his free time, he could be found working on various projects in his workshop and helping Bernice with her homemade jewelry and crafts.
Clarence’s devout faith was deeply rooted as a dedicated member of the Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. He and Bernice were longtime volunteers at the church’s thrift store, bereavement ministry and praying in Perpetual Adoration. They were also extremely active in the Comal County Fair Association. This involvement was passed down to both their children and grandchildren. He was also a devoted lifetime member of the New Braunfels Elks Lodge.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eddie and Clara; his son, Ronnie Meyer; older brother, Alton Meyer and his wife Annie; and his brotherin-law, Albert Schindler and his wife Lillie.
Clarence is survived by his loving wife of 72 years, Bernice; daughter Debbie Meyer Bell (Mike Evans); and grandchildren Shattuck (Cricket) and Ransome Bell, and Brooks and Bailey Meyer, who affectionately referred to him as “Pa.” He was also blessed with three great-grandchildren, Jackson and Taylor Bell, and Cori Meyer.
The family received relatives and friends at Sts. Peter & Paul Catholic Church from 9 to 9:45 am, followed by a memorial Mass celebrated on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026 at 10 a.m. at Saints Peter & Paul Catholic Church.