Ron Cabal
1996-05-05Musician, writer, teacher and leader, Ron Cabal, leaves behind a devoted family, and friends too numerous to count.
A native of Arlington, Ron moved to San Marcos in 1974 to pursue his B.A. in English at Southwest Texas State University. Ron became a pioneer in the revival of Texas Swing music as co-founder, bandleader, lead guitarist and vocalist with the Ace in the Hole country swing band. After hiring fellow SWTSU student George Strait as their lead vocalist, Ace in the Hole became renowned as a tireless touring show throughout the United States.
Ron recounted his experiences with Ace in the Hole, including such appearances as a show for 35,000 fans at the Astrodome in a 1990 book, A Honky Tonk Odyssey.
In the 1980's Ron co-founded a popular rock n' roll band in the Austin-San Antonio music corridor, Texas Weather. It was at this time that Ron became an active musical composer and lyricist.
Ron received his master's in English from Southwest Texas State in 1992. While leceturing at St. Edward's University in Austin (after a stint at SWTSU), Ron returned to his misical roots with a series of appearances in blues venues.
Preceded in death by his father Ted, Ron is survived by his sons Taylor and Trevor; beloved companion Revecca Tassi; step-children Rivkah, China and Josef; mother Maxine Cabal Schrader and step-father Roy Schrader of Arlington; brother Dr. Ted Cabal; and three nephews in Midlothian.
Per Ron's living request, cremation was administered by Angel Funeral Home of Austin.
A memorial service was conducted in Austin on Sunday, May 12, 1996 in Queen of Peace Chapel on the St. Edwards campus.
Ronnie (that’s what I called him) was my first real love. I was 15 and a grade below him at AHS. I will always think of him with love and appreciation for what we shared. He was amazing and I’m grateful to have had him in my life. I’m a private person and don’t usually post on social media, but I’m in the process of clearing out my Mom’s house in prep for selling. I found a folder where I had saved all my pictures, notes and letters from high school. Ronnie was my guy then and I have sweet memories. Thanks for this opportunity to share with you. Carole
tribute by Carole Smith-TownsleyWhen I first heard of your demise I was deepely saddened. We met Fall '74 in San Marcos, and Spring '75 I moved into your rental house on Uhland Rd. We had some great times! On your reel to reel to would put on Jethro Tull, The Grateful Dead, Bob Wills, etc., and you would play along with your Les Paul Gold Delux. You started your band Ace in the Hole and used the middle room as a mini studio. Who knew what stardom you would achieve. R.I.P. my friend.
tribute by Jon Paul SmithI am proud to say I was married to Ron and had two wonderful boys. He was the best Dad and husband. I loved hearing him walk around the house singing or playing his guitar. We had many happy times together. He was a happy man and I think of him daily.
tribute by Melissa McClellanTo my friend and one Hell of a musician, Ronnie! Who knows, if Ronnie hadn't hired George Strait to sing in his band (Ace in the Hole), country music history may have been different!
tribute by Bryan SawyerWhat a guy! And, what a musician we will miss. He will not be forgotten.
tribute by Ana Pettit