Comal County Judge Sherman Krause, 62, died unexpectedly this morning at his New Braunfels residence.
No further details have been released.
Precinct 2 Commissioner Scott Haag, the most senior-sitting member of the court, has ordered county flags lowered to half mast and asks businesses and organizations to consider the same, out of respect for the judge.
The lifelong New Braunfels resident served as county judge since 2011. He was not seeking reelection.
“During his time as county judge, he was a steady presence in both times of challenge and progress,” the county said in a statement. “Our Comal County family is devastated by this loss. Judge Krause was more than a leader. He was a colleague, a mentor, and a friend to many. We ask that you keep Judge Krause’s family in your prayers during this difficult time.”
Canyon Lake resident Gloria Meehan, who worked closely with Krause over the years to develop a strategic plan for the Canyon Lake boat ramps, said Krause was “one of the good guys.”
Speaking on behalf of the Canyon Lake Boat Ramps Community Alliance (CLBRCA) she said the judge meant a lot to the community.
“He was always willing to listen and work to find common ground,” she said. “He deserved a peaceful future future.”
Precinct (Pct.) 4 County Commissioner Jen Crownover said she was saddened by the news.
“We are all in shock.”
Pct. 4 Constable Ali Flores was sworn in by Krause in 2024, and in a statement today said she remembered their “heart-to-heart” conversations.
“County Judge Krause truly was a kind-hearted soul that had the best intentions for everyone in this county,” she said.
Krause was married to Melissa Krause, executive director of communications and external affairs at New Braunfels Utilities (NBU).