Roll Call Tribute

Richard Jose "Rick" Schlabach 

April 28, 1951 - January 10, 2026 

Richard “Rick” J. Schlabach Fightin’ Texas Aggie Class of 1978 made his journey to our heavenly father on January 10, 2026 after a courageous fight against cancer. Born April 28, 1951 to Edgar J. Schlabach Class of 1945 and Maria Bolivia Schlabach, he was the second born of five children.

After receiving his bachelor’s in Engineering Technology from Texas A&M University, he spent many years with Stanley Filter, eventually moving to Hobbs, NM. There, he would build a successful career as an entrepreneur and owner of Wingmaster Embroidery and Wingmaster Sales, specializing in oilfield services and later boat sales and service. As he told the story, “Wingmaster” was an ode to the first dollars he ever earned which he spent on a Wingmaster gun. He also served as a former President of the Lea County A&M Club.

Rick joins his parents who preceded him in death, and he leaves behind many friends and family who loved and cherished him as the life of the party, always determined and strong-willed, and above all completely devoted to his Texas Aggies. He is survived by long-time girlfriend, Pennye West, his daughter who loved him unconditionally, Sarah Krzystofik '10, son-in-law, John Krzystofik, granddaughter Elizabeth Krzystofik, and son Michael Schlabach. He will also be missed by his siblings, Ron Schlabach ’72, Elizabeth “Didi” Schlabach ’79, Susan McLaughlin ’84, and Sandy Coe.

Ceremonies celebrating Rick’s life will be small and private as he makes his way back home to Aggieland to be his final resting place.