January 9, 2006
The Rev. Thomas M. Schelble, S.M. died on Jan. 7, 2006, in San Antonio at the age of 88.
He was born July 28, 1917, in La Crosse, Wis., to Edward and Pauline Martin Schelble. He was the youngest of five brothers and one sister. Schelble entered the Society of Mary in St. Louis where he professed his first vows on Aug. 15, 1935, and final vows on June 30, 1939.
He attended St. Meinrad’s Seminary in Indiana and was ordained on June 11, 1946. In 1938 he was awarded a degree in Latin and History from St. Mary’s University. His early teaching assignments included St. Michael’s in Chicago, Coyle High School and NorthSide both in St. Louis.
In 1947 he began 36 years of foreign missionary service with his first assignment to Madrid, Spain. From 1950 to 1983 he began a long stay in Peru serving in various cities: Lima, Chaclacayo, Trujillo, Callao, and Arequipa. Schelble returned to the United States in 1983. He was assigned to Holy Rosary Parish in San Antonio as assistant pastor. In 1984 he moved to the St. Mary’s University community as chaplain and continued working in the parish. In 1988 he moved to Assumption Parish in Fort Worth. In the early 1990’s he returned St. Mary’s University community.
Due to failing health and the onset of Parkinson’s Disease, Schelble was assigned to the health care facility in 1993. He taught religion, English, Latin, and social studies. He moderated sodality groups, choir and enjoyed coaching football and basketball. His strong baritone voice could be heard in chapel services and sing-a-longs. Many appreciated his quick wit.
He celebrated his golden jubilee of priestly ordination in 1996 and his 70th year of religious profession in 2005. Schelble is survived by numerous nieces and nephews. All services will be conducted in the Chapel of the Marianist Residence as follows: Rosary at 7 p.m. Monday, Jan. 9, and Mass at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 10, followed by burial in the Marianist Cemetery adjacent to St. Mary’s University. Arrangements by: The Angelus Funeral Home.