Robert William Blang

Bob was born on May 2, 1938, in Riverside Illinois to William and Violet Blang. Early in his childhood the family moved to New Braunfels where he married his high school sweetheart, Jewell Ann Bormann in 1957. New Braunfels remained his home throughout his life.

Bob was preceded in death by his wife, Jewell, in 2012 and his brother William Blang in 2025. Fortunately, Bob was blessed to find true love again and married Helen Fiedler in 2016 with whom he shared many happy years traveling, playing music and attending Oakwood Baptist Church.

Bob was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great‑grandfather, brother, naval veteran, musician, and friend to many in the local community. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy for six years and he was honored to perform in the Naval Band at Great Lakes. After completing his service, Bob returned home to New Braunfels, where he began his family, work career, and a lifelong passion for playing Country, orchestral and German music.

His early musical journey began as a drummer, playing weekends with numerous local bands throughout Texas and even performing at the coveted Gruene Hall. Bob’s talent and charisma quickly earned him recognition leading him to perform with international accordionist Myron Floren. Bob’s love for German music blossomed from there. He eventually traded his drumsticks for an accordion and entertained audiences with polkas, waltzes and of course the chicken dance at Wurstfest for an incredible 62 years 

Always dedicated to giving back, Bob volunteered with the Wurstfest Association, helping guide its transformation from a small‑town German music and sausage celebration into the ten‑day “Salute to Sausage” it is today. He was deeply proud to serve as a Wurstfest Opa for an incredible 33 years. His volunteer spirit continued into his later years, as he loved entertaining at senior living centers, where Bob, his lederhosen, and his accordion became a welcome sight year after year.

He is survived by his loving wife, Helen, his devoted four‑legged companion Bentley, sons Brett (wife Deon), Bryan, Bruce (wife Michelle), eleven grandchildren, and two great grandchildren.

Those who knew Bob will remember his steady kindness, his deep love of family, and the joy his music brought to so many. His generosity, humor, and community spirit will continue to echo through the songs and chicken dances he left behind.

Friends and family are invited to a graveside service on Saturday, April 4 at 10am at the Comal Cemetery in New Braunfels, Texas.