Justice of Peace Francis Truchard, 81, passed away on March 8, 2023. Truchard will be remembered for many things: a devoted husband, a loving father, a grandfather and a friend to all, even those who fell on the wrong side of the law.
As Justice of the Peace in Precinct 6 and then in Precinct 3 when the county merged precincts, J.P. Truchard held court, not as a strict disciplinarian but as one who believed in second chances as he had compassion for those he came in contact with him as a friend or justice of the peace.
A long-time employee of his, Jennifer Stancik, stated he always said, “We are here for the people, not the revenue.” Stancik also said “He was awesome, he was the best, hard to replace and taught me a lot.”
Truchard was just shy of holding the justice of the peace position for 60 years. He was honored by the Gover- nor's Office when he hit his 50-year service to the county. He is the longest- serving justice of the peace in Texas.
He started as the Justice of the Peace, Precint 6, when he was only 21 years of age. He filled an unexpired term on April 8, 1963, when George Schindler resigned. He held that position and fended off few opponents because he treated every individual like a country neighbor. He endeared many with his country-boy demeanor, but no one made the mistake of underestimating him. He did not shy away from community service. Truchard was always there to lend a helping hand in directing traffic at St. Roch's in Mentz.
He was made an honorary Bernardo Volunteer Firefighter for his selfless vol unteering during fundraisers. He was a Knights of Columbus member for many years.
It was not unusual that he put out over 40 bales of hay for his cattle by himself in his 70s.
Humerous stories are shared with family and friends who knew him best. He led a simple, uncluttered life and did not throw away anything that could still be used. That was reflected in his grow ing up in the era of waste not, want not.
He was a conservative farmer, and rancher.
He was a Colorado County icon who will surely be missed.
Truchard was laid to rest at St. Roch's Church and cemetary on March 14.
Editors note: I had known Francis my entire life. All the stories you have heard about him are probably true, like the roadkill squirrel that became stew for supper or not knowing exactly what was in his stew during the times he owned a beer joint and had free stew night.
He was a hard worker, loved the Lord, and was a living icon that will go down in the Colorado County history books. He is who he is.
