Ervin “Tex” Books

Ervin “Tex” Books

Ervin “Tex” Books, 76, of Eau Claire, Wisconsin passed away October 27, 2005 at Dove Healthcare Center in Eau Claire.

Ervin “Tex” Books was born in Eau Claire but at a very early age his family moved to Bremond Texas. Tex graduated from Bremond High School in 1946.

Tex enlisted in the Air Force in 1947. He served for 5 years. During his first tour he was assigned to the Air Transport Command stationed at the Marshall Islands in Kwajalein and Hickam field in Hawaii. During his second tour he served as crew chief and engine specialist on B-29’s and B 50’s for the Strategic Air Command.

Tex then returned to Eau Claire and enrolled in U.W. of Eau Claire. He graduated in 1956. He also attended Grad School at the University of Stout in Menomonie. He was employed by the Eau Claire School Board for 32 years as a teacher and coach. Tex was a fast pitch softball pitcher for many years. He was inducted into the Softball Hall of Fame in 1986. He was a member of the American Legion Post 53 and the Eau Claire Elks Club.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Marilyn (Zielie); son Randy and his wife LuAnn; son Michael and his wife Laurie; daughter Kathy and her husband Gary; daughter Mary Kay and her husband Pat; 14 grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; brother-in-law Butch Zielie and his wife, Donna; sisters Shirley Ethridge and Pat Stone, both of Texas.

He was preceded in death by his parents Ervin and Zale Books, brother-in-laws, William and Jack and 3 grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Monday, October 31, 2005 at Christ Church Cathedral with Father Gardner officiating. Burial and Military Rites will be held at Rest Haven Cemetery. Friends may call at Fuller-Speckien Funeral Home on Sunday afternoon from 2:00 until 5:00 p.m. and at the church on Monday one hour prior to the service. Fuller-Speckien Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements. Family and friends may send their condolences online at www.fullerspeckien.com.