IRA JEROME SCHRAMEK, 89, of Pasadena, Texas, went home to be with his heavenly Father on Thursday, February 8, 2007. He was preceded in death by his loving wife of 63 years, Frances "Nonnie" Schramek. Ira was born in Schulenburg, Texas, on October 31, 1917 to Charles and Mary Schramek. He is survived by his daughter Peggy Pagan and husband Jim; son, Ira Schramek, Jr. and wife Pam; and sister Ollie Mendel. He was an adoring "Gramps" to grandchildren Jason Walker and wife Karen; Jennifer Dellinger and husband Michael; Adam Schramek and wife Chari; Christopher Schramek; Melinda Brieger and husband Scott; Scott Pagan; and late granddaughter Heather Schramek Carter. He was also blessed with five great-grandchildren: Madison Carter, Abigail and Caroline Walker, Zoe Brieger and Walker Dellinger. Ira proudly served his country during World War II in the Pacific theater as a member of the U.S. Army's 1715th Signal Service Battalion. He then worked at Nabisco in Houston for 31 years before retiring in 1981. Once he retired, Ira devoted much of his time to fishing, often with his son, Ira, Jr., and his grandkids. But in his 70s, he decided to take a swing at a new sport golf. Ira became an avid golfer and even made a "hole in one." He was also proud that he rarely ever used a golf cart, instead preferring to walk all 18 holes. Family and friends will gather to remember and celebrate Ira's life at Deer Park Funeral Home at 336 E. San Augustine, Deer Park, Texas, on Saturday, February 17 at 11a.m. Following the service, a reception will be held at The Republic Grill at The Battleground Golf Course, located at 1600 Georgia in Deer Park.

Published in the Houston Chronicle on 2/15/2007.