Beloved Husband, Father, “Happy,” Son, Brother, Friend, and Servant Leader
Sherman W. Krause, a native New Braunfels resident, devoted public servant, and cherished community leader, passed on February 7, 2026, unexpectedly. While his passing came far too soon, those who love him take comfort in knowing that Sherman was gently called to his heavenly home leaving behind a legacy of service, faith, and wholehearted love for his family and community.
Born in New Braunfels, Texas, Sherman’s life was deeply rooted in the place and people he served so faithfully. It was also there that he met the love of his life, Melissa. Together, they shared nearly 40 blessed years of marriage, building a life grounded in partnership, laughter, and unwavering support for one another.
Sherman was a proud and devoted father to his daughter, Niccolette “Nicci” Tanner Krause Messenger, and a loving father-in-law to Kurt Messenger II. His greatest joy came in his role as “Happy” to his two grandsons, Colt and Emmitt. Happy is a name that fit him perfectly (if you know Sherman – you know what we mean). Becoming a grandfather brought Sherman immense pride and happiness, and nothing delighted him more than having two little boys to love, guide, and spoil.
Public service was not just a career for Sherman; it was a privilege and a responsibility he carried with deep sincerity. Following his graduation from Southwest Texas State University (Texas State), he devoted 10 years to serving the State of Texas through the Texas Natural Resource Conservation Commission/Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. His calling to serve locally led him to Comal County, where he served as tax assessor-collector, including a term as president of the Tax Assessor-Collectors Association of Texas from 2008–2009, where he was honored as Tax Assessor-Collector of the Year in 2007.
Sherman was later elected Comal County Judge, a role he held for more than 15 years, guiding the county through significant growth while championing expanded facilities, long-term planning, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources. Over 24 years, he proudly represented the people of Comal County, always mindful that leadership meant listening first. In every role, Sherman led with humility, integrity, and kindness, holding deep respect not only for the people he served, but for those he served alongside.
Community involvement was near and dear to his heart. Sherman invested decades with organizations that strengthened the fabric of Comal County, including the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce, Wurstfest Association, United Way of Comal County, and other civic organizations. Through the Chamber, he earned his Blue Coat in 2005, served on the Board of Directors in 2008 and 2024, and contributed to related entities, including the Barron of Braunfels Foundation Trust (2010–2026) and the Economic Development Foundation Board of Directors (2012, 2015–2026). His time with Wurstfest and his beloved Opas began in 2002, progressing from Green Vest to Red Vest in 2006. Among his greatest joys was serving as Wurstfest President in 2024, where he proudly worked to ensure Gemütlichkeit, alongside Grosse Opa Eric Couch and his wife, Renee. Sherman also took great pride in serving on the Wurstfest Scholarship Committee, helping invest in future generations.
Outside of his professional and volunteer life, Sherman found joy in the simple, meaningful things. His two girls – Tilley and Winnie (the family Boxers) – were always by his side and ready to be part of absolutely anything he was doing. He had a great love for them! He was a wonderful cook, a skilled woodworker, and a dedicated “piddler,” known for his meticulous eye and love of perfection.
He especially enjoyed landscaping, with springtime often spent bringing the yard into tip-top shape. His most recent labor of love was restoring his 1966 Mustang, a project that reflected his patience, craftsmanship, and appreciation for timeless beauty.
Sherman is survived by his wife, Melissa Krause; his daughter Nicci Messenger, and son-in-law Kurt Messenger, II; and his treasured grandsons, Colt and Emmitt. He is also survived by his mother, Georgine Krause; his father, Walter Krause, Jr. (Debbie); brothers Brett Krause (Pam), and Ryan Krause (Bridgett); sister Adrianna Allen; extended family members, including nieces and nephews Amanda Krause, Cameron Krause, Jordan Krause; and numerous other family members, friends, and colleagues who love him dearly.
Sherman’s life was one of steady leadership, quiet generosity, and genuine joy. He leaves behind a community made better by his service and a family forever shaped by his love.
The Krause family has been deeply moved by the extraordinary outpouring of love, prayers, and support from friends, colleagues, and the community. Your compassion has been a source of strength and comfort, and a powerful reminder of the community Sherman loved and served so faithfully. – https://bit.ly/sherman-krause