Ralph “Steve” Stephen Taylor

Ralph “Steve” Stephen Taylor, 73, of La Grange, died Thursday, Aug. 21, 2014. Steve was born in Lubbock on June 27, 1941, the son of Raymond “Bill” Oscar Taylor and Mildred Monnell (Thompson) Taylor. He married Barbara Louise Chamlee on June 24, 1978 in Pasadena. Steve served in the United States Marine Corp from 1960- 1969. He was a humble leader in the Viet Nam War and is looked up to by many of his troops all over the U.S. for his fearlessness, courage and leadership. He worked as a Pipefitter for 26 years. He enjoyed reading and keeping busy working with his wood projects. He was a loyal husband, loving father and would lend a helping hand to anyone that needed it. He is survived by his wife, Barbara, of 36 years; daughter, Stephanie Taylor and boyfriend, Josh Zimmerman, of Houston; sister, Sharon Self of Conroe; brother, Phil Taylor and wife, Francis, of Pearland; two nieces: Jaynie Self Hutchison and husband, Rick, and their daughter LeighAnna of Taylor Lake Village; Karla Self Butler and husband, Pat, and their children, Meganne, Josh, Morgan and Dori, of Georgia; nephew, Flint Taylor Self and wife, Michelle, and their daughter Jayden and son Chance, of Houston. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bill and Monnell Taylor and brother-in-law, Ron Self. Visitation will be held on Friday, Aug. 29, 2014 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home. Family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Funeral Services will be held at Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home, located at 208 W. Pearl St. in La Grange, at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2014. Pallbearers are: Burt Blaha, Roger Blaschke, David Janda, Bob Ashlock, Calvin Noland, and John Bray. Honorary Pallbearers are: Rick Hutchinson, Flint Self, Andy Kruppa, Preston and Eric Lange. Burial will follow at La Grange City Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society. Family and friends can view and sign the guestbook online at www.lagrangefunerals.com. Koenig & Strickland Funeral Home in La Grange is in charge of arrangements.