Memorials

December 8, 2024

Alumni

John Aldridge (B.A. ’70), 76, passed away peacefully at his home on November 16, 2023. His family and the Tulsa community are abundantly grateful for his life, a life well-lived. John was born in San Francisco, California in 1947 to John Vernon and Beverly Nan Aldridge. His family moved to Plainview, Texas, shortly after his birth. After his father’s death in 1961, his mother moved the family to Austin, Texas, where he attended McCallum High School and gained life-long friends. He studied geology at The University of Texas at Austin, graduating with a bachelor’s of science degree in 1970. He graduated from The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston in 1975. Following his residency in anesthesiology at Scott & White Medical Center in Temple, Texas, he began his 40 plus year career with St. Francis Hospital-based Associated Anesthesiologists Inc. He married Jeanie Marie Northcutt in 1983. John and Jeanie raised their children, John and Sidney, in Tulsa. John was a thought leader within his large anesthesia group, of which he was a past president. He was appreciated for his wonderful compassion, willingness and ability to take care of very sick patients, and his famous wit. He was a past president of the Oklahoma Society of Anesthesiologists. John pursued his passion for all things car-related. He maintained an ever-changing group of vintage cars. He collected Cushman motor scooters and was active in the Cushman community, attending meets with his wife, Jeanie, on their beautifully restored scooters. John was a devoted son, brother, husband, father, grandfather, friend, and physician. He adored and provided for his whole family. He took loving care of his widowed mother until she died at the age of 100. John is survived by his wife, Jeanie Marie Aldridge; his son John Vernon Aldridge (Genevieve), daughter Sidney Aldridge Gnaedig (Christopher); his adorable grandchildren Petra, Declan, and Hendrick; his brother Bryan and his sister, Sidney.

Theodore Bartling (B.A. ’79), 69, of Austin, Texas, passed away on October 27, 2023 in Temple, Texas. Theodore was born to Theodore Charles and Phyllis McGuinnis of Houston, Texas. Theodore grew up primarily in Houston, Texas. He attended the University of Texas for his Bachelor’s in Geology. Theodore loved being with family and friends, being on the lake, playing sports with kids, and had a burning passion for music. He owned and operated Bartling Oil Co. and Heart Music. Theodore was a caring and loving person who loved generously. He consistently was interested in other people’s passions and had an amazing way of remembering and inspiring them. Theodore is survived by his son Theodore Adams Bartling, Jr. and wife Paige Bartling, daughter Lauren Bartling; grandchild Cannon Bartling; his sister Pam Bartling.

Pat Burbridge (B.A. ’58), Helen Patricia Burbridge was called home by the Lord on May 14, 2024 at the age of 87. She lived a beautiful, full life and was loved by everyone who met her. She was known for her gentle demeanor, keen intellect, and a curiosity that did not diminish with age. She is survived by her daughters Julie Tanner and Ellen Comer, sons-in-law Scott Tanner, Tim Comer and Don Owen, and siblings Richard Parks and Sue Lilley. She was a loving and devoted “Nonnie” to her grandchildren Brian and Colin Tanner, Grace and Nathan Comer, Adele Owen, and great-grandson Ray Tanner. She is preceded in death by husband Wallace Burbridge, daughter Kay Owen, and sister Martha Goodman. Pat graduated from the University of Texas, Austin, with a degree in Geology and spent a long and successful career with Sun Oil Company. An avid reader, Pat was a member of multiple book clubs, and she loved all things in nature with a particular fondness for wildflowers. She had a heart for serving and was a longtime member of the Richardson Woman’s Club and a nursery worker for her church. She will be deeply missed.

Burke Burkart (B.A. ’54) of Arlington, Texas, passed away in late July in the presence of his beloved wife, Marilyn, and his family near his residence at the Texas Masonic Retirement Community. Burke was a Professor of Geology at the University of Texas at Arlington for thirty-five years whose research focused on Central American plate tectonics. He was born and raised in Dallas, Texas, by his parents, Velma and Herman. He attended Highland Park High School before leaving for Austin, Texas, to attend The University of Texas at Austin, where Burke graduated with Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Geology. He served as an Air Force officer in Germany before returning to Texas to complete a Ph.D. in Geology at Rice University. Burke and Marilyn married in Philadelphia before moving to Arlington in 1970, where they raised sons Patrick and Michael. Burke is survived by his wife Marilyn, sons, grandchildren Zoe and Felix, and brother Robert.

Susan Cage (B.A. ’50), 95, of Georgetown, Texas passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 13, 2024. Susan was born September 28, 1928 in Houston, Texas. She was the only child of Rene Lowry Kiefner and Charles Harold Kiefner. Her early schooling was scattered in several Texas cities but was mainly in Houston. She attended Woodrow Wilson Elementary School and Sidney Lanier Junior High School. She graduated from Lamar High School in 1945. Susan received an Associate of Arts Degree from Stephens College in Columbia, Missouri in 1947, and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Geology from The University of Texas at Austin in 1950. Susan met her future husband while both were majoring in Geology at the University of Texas. She and Warren Jackson Cage Jr. (Jack) were married on April 11, 1953. Susan was employed with Gulf Oil Corporation in August of 1950 as a file clerk, then draftsman. Later, she was promoted to geologist, retiring in 1983. She and Jack lived in Houston, Corpus Christi, and Bakersfield, California. Both she and Jack enjoyed traveling, especially in the western United States. After retiring, they built a home in Fair Oaks Ranch, north of San Antonio, Texas. In 1998, after Jack’s health deteriorated due to Parkinson’s disease, they moved to Sun City, Georgetown, Texas. She again pursued her interests in nature as a member of the Sun City Nature Club. Jack passed away on November 13, 2006.

Royce Carr (B.S. ’76), beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully with family on February 25, 2024 in Ft. Worth, Texas. He was 72 years old. Born on September 28, 1951 in Texarkana, Arkansas, Royce was the son of John Preston Carr and Evelyn Faye Kirby Carr. He is survived by his loving wife, Deborah Carr; sons & daughters-in-law, Preston & Stephanie Carr, Patrick & Lindsey Carr, Paul & Anna Carr; grandchildren, Royce Preston “Tres” Carr III, Clifton Payne Carr, Emma Claire Carr, Catherine Elizabeth Carr, Lyla Lorraine Carr; sister, Marilyn Carr Chappell & husband, Wayne, numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and his beloved uncle, Royce Kirby. Royce graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences. He went on to have a successful career as a geologist in the oil and natural gas industry. Royce began his career with the Montana Power Company in Huntsville, TX. He went on to work for Superior Oil in The Woodlands, TX, and then went to work for The King Ranch in Kingsville, TX. Royce started working for himself in Mt. Pleasant, TX with his business partner Bill Silk. He was active in the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. Royce served as President of the DPA and received the distinguished services award in 2004. Royce had a passion for University of Texas Athletics. He loved watching his beloved Texas Longhorns play football, basketball, baseball, and all the postgame discussions with his family and friends. In his community, Royce was admired for his many efforts in service. He enjoyed coaching his sons, their teammates, and many more Mt. Pleasant youth in baseball and soccer. Royce served on the MPISD School board from 1997 to 2009. He served on the Titus Regional Medical Center hospital board from 2017 to 2024. He was a longtime deacon at First Baptist Church Mt. Pleasant and was very passionate about his Young Adult Sunday school class. Royce leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and integrity. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him.

William Carr (B.S. ’58) was born on September 12, 1936, in Houston, Texas to Henrietta Teel and John Ellis Carr and passed away on June 5, 2024, at the age of 87. He was predeceased by his two brothers. He graduated from WB Ray High School and earned his degree in Geology from The University of Texas at Austin where he was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity. He also received his law degree from UT and went on to become a certified landman and real estate broker. After initially practicing law and working in the oil and gas industry for Southern Minerals, he eventually began full-time cattle ranching. After an initial series of land purchases with his parents and brothers, by the early 1970s, he had become the sole owner of 12,000 acres in Webb County, Texas, and began breeding Beefmaster cattle. He eventually acquired two additional ranches in Wilson and Kendall Counties for a total of 14,500 acres and continued to breed Beefmaster cattle on all three ranches. He was passionate about Beefmaster cattle and has served the Beefmaster Breeder United organization in numerous ways, including as President and chairing various committees. He received the prestigious Breeder of the Year award a record two times, in 1993 and again in 2021, as well as the BBU Environmental Award, BBU Performance Award, Live Oak Legend Award, JBBA Helping Hand Award, and along with his wife Dusty, was inducted into the BBU Hall of Fame in 1996. He recently said, “I have been raising cattle and acquiring and improving land solely to raise cattle for 70 years. I will be continuing to do so as long as I can pull my boots on each day.” And that he did. He leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Edith Joyce “Dusty” Carr, and two children, Kirk Andrew Carr, of Pleasanton, Texas, and Courtney Carr Baxter (Todd) as well as three grandchildren, Claire Elizabeth Baxter, Kate Teel Baxter and Tessa Autrey Baxter, all of Austin, Texas.

Jack Cartwright (B.S. ’51, M.A. ’55) passed away peacefully at Midland Memorial Hospital after a brief illness. He was 93. Jack Cleveland Cartwright was born on June 24, 1930, to Grover Cleveland Cartwright and Laura Thelma Cartwright. Jack was the oldest of three children. He had a younger brother, Richard Cartwright and a sister Ann Hodge. The Cartwright family lived on farmland that had been in the family since 1856. He started his education in a two-room country school. Education was always important to Jack and he graduated from Gainesville High School in 1947, earned a BS Degree at the University of Texas in 1951. He was hired to work at Standard Oil & Gas in Monahans, TX during the severe drought of the 1950s. His parents were sure he was going to the “end of the earth.” He returned to UT in 1953 and earned his Master’s Degree. He also met and fell in love with Barbara Wells who worked in the Geology Library. He married Barbara in Wellington, TX on June 4, 1955. Jack and Barbara started their married life in Midland, TX. Jack was employed as a geologist throughout his life. He worked for Texas Pacific and later for MGF. In 1971 he formed a partnership with Ross Roberts and Charlie Koch. Jack truly believed in service to his church and community. He was very active at First Methodist Church, serving on numerous committees, boards and classes. His community service included Midland Junior Baseball Association, Leadership Midland, Midland Planning and Zoning board, Board of Adjustment and the Community Service Award Committee. His professional activities included the West Texas Geological Society, AAPG and SIPES organizations. He was a founding member and officer of the Midland Energy Library as well as a member of AAPG’s House of Delegates. In later years, Jack was an active board member of The Samaritan Counseling Center of West Texas and continued as an Advisory Board Member. In 2005, Jack and Barbara moved to Manor Park Village where they resided until July of 2022. Their final home was Cimarron Place in Midland.

Gerald Eubanks (M.A. ’66), lovingly known as Jerry, peacefully passed on September 2, 2023. He was born on November 6, 1940, in Port Arthur, TX. Jerry’s life journey was one filled with remarkable accomplishments and unwavering dedication. He pursued an academic path that led him to Lamar Tech University, where he studied Geology. He then went on to earn his Master of Science from the University of Texas. Jerry then pursued Petroleum Geology as his career. Beyond his professional achievements, Jerry held dear the values of faith and family. He embodied integrity and honor in all aspects of his life. Jerry was deeply devoted to his family, friends, and the Lord and valued these relationships above all else. Jerry had many different interests. Devoting more than two decades as a dedicated guitarist for his church community, Jerry used music to express his deep spirituality. He also shared his musical talent with the Brazos Valley Band. He had a deep love for geology and meteorology. He even collected rocks. Jerry had a green thumb and spent countless hours tending to his yard. He also loved to swim and hunt. Above all else, Jerry cherished his role as a family man. In Bulinda Ebanks, his beloved wife, he found a partner whose unwavering support and love sustained him throughout their journey together. They celebrated 59 years of marriage in August.

Tom Fanning (B.S. ’56), a much-loved father, husband, and grandfather passed away on September 1 at the age of 89. Born in Dallas in 1934, Tom graduated from Sunset High School as an honor student and president of the Student Council. He went on to the University of Texas in Austin and married his high school sweetheart, Anne. He obtained a BS degree in geology and served as a member of Sigma Gamma Epsilon honorary society and president of the honorary Arnold Air Society. He was called to a three-year tour of active duty in the United States Air Force where he served as an instructor navigator in The Strategic Air Command. Tom was employed by Marathon Oil Company with a career spanning 38 years. After several relocations, he and Anne resided in Houston during the last 20 years of his career. He advanced through various professional and managerial assignments, serving first as Vice President of North American Exploration and later as International Exploration Vice President. He was a graduate of the Program for Management at the Harvard School of Business. Tom was active in the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and served as Treasurer of the Board of Trustees of the American Geological Institute. He was an Honorary Lifetime member of the Jackson School of Geosciences Advisory Council. He served a term as Chairman and subsequently chaired the Nominating Committee for over a decade. He also created an endowed Scholarship for Geosciences Honors Undergraduates. He is preceded in death by his wife, Anne, and his grandson Hunter Fanning. He is survived by his two children and spouses, Cynthia and Jim Seeba of Milton, Georgia, and Tom and Rhonda Fanning of Houston, Texas, grandchildren Ainsley, Drew and Meredith McKay, Gary Seeba, Max and Katie Fanning, and Grace Fanning, and great-grandson Ford Hunter Fanning.

Frank Felcman (B.S. ’49) passed away on May 10, 2024, two days after his 100th birthday. He was born May 8, 1924, to Elsie Ferrell Fuller Felcman and Frank Joe Felcman in Sealy, Texas. On graduation from Sealy High School Class of 1941, he attended Southwest Texas State Teacher’s College in San Marcos for a year. He then worked with his sister, Leah, in Tulsa OK, as a post office file clerk and mimeograph operator before enlisting in the U.S. Navy in December 1942. He was called to active duty in June 1943 as an Aviation Cadet. He was based at the University of Texas facilities in Austin where he began ground school, flight training, and physical conditioning. Following earning his Naval Aviator wings (24 Oct 1944), he flew patrol missions over the Atlantic coast for the remainder of World War II. He was commissioned an Ensign, serving a total of 3 years. He also served 9.5 years in the Naval Reserves where he achieved the rank of Lieutenant. After release from the Navy in December 1945, he attended The University of Texas at Austin, graduated with a Bachelor of Science in geology in 1949, and began working for a geophysical exploration company. In 1950, he married Shirley Newman, his college sweetheart, and continued his oil exploration work, which took him to many small towns in Texas, the swamplands of Louisiana, and as far north as the Badlands in North Dakota. In 1963, he was transferred to Perth, Western Australia for a period of two years to work for West Australian Petroleum Pty. Ltd. (WAPET), a division of Standard Oil of California. He was transferred from Perth back to Texas and resided in Houston until his death. Following an urge to work for himself, Frank researched franchises in various industries and chose to move into the printing industry in 1971 when he purchased Kwik Kopying #47. In 1981, he purchased a second location in Austin. He sold both businesses to his daughters in the mid-1980s, then worked for a variety of others until his retirement. He was predeceased by his parents and his sisters Leah Mayeaux, Helen Tomlinson (Lloyd), and Doris Nastoupil (Carl Jr.). He is survived by his wife, Geneva Felcman; 3 children, Kathleen Barkley, Frank L. Felcman Jr. (Katherine), and Leah Linney; grandchildren, Charlotte Felcman Whitaker (Robert) and Kimberly Felcman Hatcher (Adam), and two great-grandchildren.

Don Ford (B.S. ’60) passed away peacefully at home on Monday, the 13th of May 2024, following a lengthy illness. Don was born in Houston on the 27th of February 1937, to Lucile and Don D. Ford. After graduating from Houston’s Lamar High School in 1955, he attended the University of Texas in Austin, where he pledged Delta Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Don earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Geology, and following graduation, he entered the U.S. Army as an officer serving in the peace-keeping mission in Korea. While in the Army, Don used all his leave time traveling through Southeast Asia and Europe. After the Army, Don took his first job with an oil well service company and was transferred to Tyler, Texas. While in Tyler, he also served as the company’s international trouble-shooter, adding even more foreign countries to his experiences. While living in Tyler, Don began dating Ann Suggs. Don and Ann married on April 30, 1966, and they immediately moved to Tripoli, Libya, the first of several overseas homes for them. By 1969, the Fords had returned to Houston where they decided to stay to happily raise their family. Don spent many years working in the oil industry, and upon retirement, he indulged his passion for investing in the stock market. Following Ann’s retirement from teaching, Don and Ann began spending several months a year at their beloved condo at Lake Tahoe and traveling to countless foreign countries. They truly had some great adventures, with Don doing all the planning, including celebrating their 80th birthdays in a tent in the desert of Mongolia. Don was a 40-year member of the Houston Petroleum Club, and he cherished his Friday lunches at the Men’s Roundtable. In his retirement, Don also greatly enjoyed spending Tuesdays at the Woodshop of St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, where he helped make toys for underprivileged children. Don is preceded in death by his parents, Lucile and Don D. Ford. He is survived by Ann, his beloved wife of 58 years; their sons Don D. Ford III and Spencer Carrollton Ford and his wife Catherine; and their grandchildren.

Ronald Gieger (B.S. ’63, M.A. ’65), 88, born in Summer 1935 in Baytown (Goose Creek), TX, passed away on September 22, 2023, in Diboll, TX. Ronald attended Ashbel Smith Elementary, Robert E Lee High School, and The University of Texas. He served in the US Navy.

William (Bill) Glover (B.S. ’85) passed away in Sarasota, Florida on 23 October 2023. Bill was born in Hartford, Connecticut to Claudette and William Glover on 15 December 1963. At the age of 8 Bill’s family moved to a waterfront home on Narragansett Bay in Rhode Island where he took advantage of everything the bay had to offer—swimming, boating, sailing, waterskiing and most of all fishing and clamming. He worked hard as a paperboy through grade school and eventually bought himself a motorboat that he kept on a mooring off the backyard beach. Bill was very proud of that boat and kept it through high school until he graduated in 1981 and went off to college. After a fun-filled family trip to Texas in his teens, Bill wanted to experience a large prestigious school with a lively football tradition, an active social scene, and excellent academics. Bill chose to attend The University of Texas at Austin. Bill was a founding and instrumental member of the UT rowing club. Bill loved driving his CJ7 Jeep which took him on many adventures including cave spelunking where he broke his rocks open with a tiny hammer and spit on them regularly to see the minerals. Bill graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Geological Sciences from The University of Texas at Austin in December 1985. In June 1989 Bill married Cynthia Schmidt Glover and in May of 1995 Jessica Lynn was born. Along with his Longhorns, Bill was an avid fan of his favorite teams the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Giants. Bill was a top salesman in the oil business in chemical sales. Bill’s career took him to locations including Houston, West Texas, New Mexico, and Alaska. Bill was very proud of his job on the North Slope and volunteered to be part of the environmental rescue team and the first response team. Bill had colleagues and customers alike who respected him and appreciated his professional qualities and expert knowledge. As an intellect, Bill’s eloquent letter writing indicated a passion for science, philosophy, and poetry. Bill was charismatic, personable and playful and had the ability to make good friends everywhere he went! Bill is survived by his daughter Jessica (Jessie) Glover Klingemann (husband Miles) who resides in Texas, his mother Claudette Hebert Glover, older sister Suzanne Glover Cherau (husband Christian), and younger sister Michelle Glover Miller (husband Mark), and many nieces and nephews. Bill is preceded in death by his father, William DeForest Glover Jr.

Hyman “Lee” Harvard (B.A. ’55), 91, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, August 26, 2023, surrounded with love by his immediate family. Lee was born February 7, 1932, to Eva Mae Sheffield and Everett McGehee Harvard in Pinehurst, Georgia. In 1936, the family of six, later to be seven, moved to Corpus Christi, Texas. In 1938, the Harvard family moved to another part of Corpus Christi where Lee met four boys his age who would become friends for the rest of their lives. They stayed in close contact for over 81 years. Lee always said that the two greatest blessings the Lord had given him were family and friends. All five friends decided to go to college at Texas A&M University, at that time an all-male, military corps campus. Lee was always very proud to be a part of the Aggie corps. He worked various jobs at A&M and in the oil field, including his first roughneck job, to put himself through school. After his third year at Texas A&M, Lee transferred to the University of Texas in Austin where his girlfriend and future wife-to-be, Joanne Wertz was enrolled. On August 21, 1954, Joanne and Lee were married in Corpus Christi, Texas. After a brief honeymoon, they returned to Austin to complete their college degrees. They enjoyed 63 years of marriage before Joanne’s passing in 2017. Industrious and resourceful from an early age, Lee had a variety of jobs over the years, culminating in his career in the oil business. Upon college graduation, Lee and Joanne moved to Midland, Texas, to begin his career. Soon after in 1956, they moved to Roswell, New Mexico, for him to work for Sinclair Oil Company. In 1960, Lee left Sinclair Oil to become Exploration and Production Manager for Robert Enfield Oil Company, then moving on to manage Southwest Production Company. In 1970 Lee started his own company, Harvard Exploration Company. The company continues today as Harvard Petroleum Company, LLC, under the management of his son, Jeff Harvard. Lee and Joanne loved calling Roswell home and raising their two boys here. Lee and Joanne were very active in the Roswell community, and he served on numerous boards and with various organizations. They were lifelong members of First United Methodist Church where he served and led the Cowboy Bell Scholarship Fund. He was also an active member of Community Bible Study for many years. Lee was a long-time member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists and the Roswell Geological Society, serving in various roles and positions, and traveling nationally and internationally to conventions and meetings. He was a strong supporter of the Roswell Desk and Derrick Club and the NM Landman’s Association. He was also active in the Independent Petroleum Association of America and a founding member of the Independent Petroleum Association of New Mexico. Lee enjoyed the friendships that serving on the board of Valley Bank of Commerce afforded him over the years. He also served as President of the Alto Alps Homeowners’ Association where he and Joanne built one of the first condo units in 1974. Lee was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Joanne Harvard; son, Alan Harvard; older sister, Mary Carter; and older brother, Tommy Harvard. Lee is survived by his oldest sister, Jean Lauderdale; sister-in-law, Mary Harvard; younger brother, Larry (Terry) Harvard; son, Jeff (Jane) Harvard; grandson, Jeremy (Ally) Harvard; granddaughter, Julia (Connor) Harvard Robertson; and great granddaughters, Stella and Goldie Harvard.

James Haynes (B.S. ’56) passed away on May 11, 2024, at the age of 90. Born on January 12, 1934, he touched the lives of many with his warm heart and vibrant spirit. James was the last in a line of distinguished petroleum industry professionals, making his mark as a dedicated petroleum geologist. A graduate of the University of Texas, he spent most of his illustrious career in Corpus Christi, where he honed his expertise and earned the respect of his peers. With his sharp mind and unwavering dedication, James made a lasting impact on the industry, leaving behind a wealth of knowledge and a reputation that will endure for generations to come. His legacy as the last of his family’s lineage in the petroleum industry will be remembered with reverence and respect. An active member of the Society of Independent Professional Earth Scientists, James was known for his passion for his work and his unwavering commitment to his community. Retiring to Wimberley, Texas, 40 years ago, James found solace in the beauty of nature and his love for golfing. He was a gracious host, known for his entertaining stories and infectious laughter that made everyone feel at home in his presence. A devoted family man, James cherished his relationships and worked diligently to keep his loved ones connected. James leaves behind a legacy of love and togetherness that will endure through the generations.

Harold Illich (B.S. ’63) was born on December 17, 1940, in Kansas City, Missouri and died on July 15, 2024. Harold’s family moved to Fort Worth, Texas within a year of his birth. Harold grew up in Fort Worth as the son of an aviator and a nurse. Harold graduated from Arlington Heights High School in Fort Worth before attending the University of Texas (Austin). At Texas, Harold studied geology. After graduating, Harold went to the University of Montana to study under the venerable professor, Don Winston. Harold graduated and enrolled in a Ph.D. program at the University of Texas but left to begin a distinguished career with Sun Oil Company. Harold believed that everyone had his enthusiasm for geochemistry, and in Sun, Oryx, GeoMark, and Pioneer, he found people who shared his passion. During this long career, Harold took special pride and interest in mentoring young scientists. In 1968 Harold married Nanette Dupont (“Netsy’) of Houston. Together Harold and Nanette had three children, Niles (Amanda), Karli (Hunter), and Collins (Katie). They also had their beloved orchids. Together they formed wonderful family traditions: An annual trip to the Christmas Tree farm, summers at the YMCA of the Rockies, lunch on Saturday, orchids for every occasion or none at all, the gifting of books at high school graduation, and warm, loving gatherings of families and friends. Harold is survived by his cherished Netsy, his children and their spouses, his nine grandchildren (Angelica, Skylar, Dobie, Susan, Hailey, Cora, Elaine, Walter, and Corbin), and his dogs (Sherlock, Murphy, and Bruno).

Steven Johnson (B.S. ’83) passed on March 20, 2024. He was a devoted husband, father, and best friend to so many people, and will be remembered for his kindness, generosity, humor, and faith. Steve was born in Houston on March 6, 1959. Steve attended Cy-Fair High School where he kept in contact with many lifelong friends. He graduated from the University of Texas in Austin and was a member of the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. Steve loved his Texas Longhorns! Upon graduation, Steve moved back to his hometown of Houston, Texas, where he worked in media and commercial real estate for many years. In Houston, he met his wife Jenny, and together, they shared over 32 years of a wonderful marriage and were blessed with two children, Amanda and Travis. Steve’s family was his top priority. He was the kind of dad who was always available for anything his family needed. In addition to spending time with his family, several of his favorite activities included playing golf, fishing, and loved hunting with good friends. Steve joins his parents Ron and Georgia and sister Pam in heaven where they are living in the fullness of eternal life. He is survived by his wife Jenny, two children, Amanda and Travis, his niece and nephew, Brian and Laura, brother-in-law Charlie Dunn, and many other family members and friends who will miss him dearly.

John Kimberly (M.A. ’61), 87, passed away on Friday, April 19, 2024. John was born on April 15, 1937, in Norwalk, Connecticut, to Oliver and Bessie Kimberly. He graduated from Avon Old Farms prep school in Avon, Connecticut, from Williams College in Williamstown, Massachusetts with a B.A. in geology, and from The University of Texas at Austin with an M.S. in geology. He was a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. He married his high school sweetheart, then Marion Conrow, on June 13, 1959. He started his long career as a geologist with Anadarko Petroleum Corp. in Liberal, Kansas. He and his wife Marion became Midland residents in 1965 when he was transferred here by Anadarko. He founded Grand Banks Energy Co. in 1977. Professional memberships included American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Independent Petroleum Association of America, and Society of Independent Petroleum Earth Scientists. He served on both the Presidents Advisory Board and the Business Advisory Council at the University of Texas at the Permian Basin. The latter was the founding board of the Permian Basin Water in Energy Conference. He also was a member of the West Texas Geological Society, Southwest Texas Oilman’s Tennis Tournament, Exchange Club, Midland Country Club, and the Unitarian Universalist Church of Midland where he served as chairman of the board. Highly regarded in his profession, John’s love for people showed in his many longtime friendships. John and Marion are big supporters of education and the arts. John is survived by his wife Marion of 64 years, his children and their spouses, Karen and Peter Finklea of Austin, John and Marlene Kimberly of Fairfield, Connecticut, and David and Stephanie Kimberly of Lubbock. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Andrew Kimberly, Griffin Kimberly, Eli Kimberly and Lauren Kimberly, his sister Joan Campbell of Florida.

Leon Lampert (B.S. ’51, M.A. ’53), 93, beloved husband, father, grandfather and brother, passed away Dec. 30, 2023, in Dallas. Leon was born in San Antonio to Abraham and Elsa Lampert on Sept. 14, 1930. Leon was a second lieutenant commissioned as an engineer in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers as a military terrain analyst, serving stateside during the Korean War. Leon attended The University of Texas at Austin, where he received a Bachelor of Science in geology in 1951 and a Master of Arts in geology in 1953. Leon was a member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity. Leon met his future wife, Barbara Oster, in the summer before his sophomore year at UT and Barbara’s freshman year at UT. After Leon completed his master’s degree and Barbara graduated with a Bachelor of Music, they married in 1953 in Dallas. Leon and Barbara lived in Dallas, Midland, then back to Dallas. Leon spent his career as a petroleum exploration geologist, working for Dalport Oil Corporation as vice president and head of exploration from 1958 to 1993. While at Dalport, he discovered oil fields in Texas and New Mexico. In 1969, he discovered a wildcat oil field in Chaves County, New Mexico, which was named after him, the Double L Queen Field. Leon and Barbara had three children during these years, Gail, Wayne and Ellen. In 1964 they moved their family to Corpus Christi, where he continued to work for Dalport. Leon was very active in Jewish organizations. At B’nai Israel Synagogue in Corpus Christi, he was vice president and a board member for 15 years. He was president of B’nai B’rith twice. In 1995, Leon and Barbara moved back to Dallas to be close to Gail and her husband and two children, who were living in Dallas at that time. They joined and participated actively in the congregations of Shearith Israel Synagogue and Kehillat Chaverim in Dallas. He was a Biblical scholar and studied Torah and ancient Israelite societies. Leon was happiest when he was with his wife, children and grandchildren. He is survived by his adoring wife, Barbara; his children, Gail (David) Greenberg, Wayne (Pninit) Lampert, Ellen Lampert Pollock; and several grandchildren.

Matthew Ledvina (M.S. ’17) passed away unexpectedly on March 24, 2023 at the age of 33. Matt was born on October 3, 1989 in Milwaukee, WI. He was born with a caring soul and a passion for nature, geology, food and other cultures that took him to all corners of the globe. Matt graduated from Marquette University High School in 2008 and went on to study Geology at the University of WI earning a BS in Geology. He continued his Masters studies at the University of Texas, Jackson School of Geosciences. After graduating he began his career at Hess Corporation in Houston. He shared his passions with friends and family in many ways… hiking Mt. Kilimanjaro, Glacier National Park, the Grand Canyon and Isle Royal with close friends or family. When family and friends hiked with Matt, they were treated to a geology lesson on the structure and chemistry of the rocks and how they were formed. It’s something his hiking partners looked forward to as part of the experience. He enjoyed cooking, baking, dining at the newest restaurant or best hole-in-the-wall in Houston; nurturing his gardens and sharing the harvest. Matt’s enthusiasm for geology was an extension of his love of nature. Whether logging core, hiking in a slot canyon or dropping into a mine a mile deep, he found beauty in the rock. This passion led him to his career at Hess Corporation. He truly enjoyed his work and his work family. Matt sought to make the lives of those around him easier and better. He was a teacher, a mentor, a sounding board, a friend or whatever you needed. He wanted to bring joy to the lives of others, he wanted to help you with your career in whatever way he could, and just generally would ‘walk through fire’ for his loved ones and friends. He is survived by his parents Daniel and Susan Ledvina, his brother Steven Ledvina, his cousin Joe (Wellsley) Ledvina, his Goddaughter Abbie, his partner Moira Chapman, many loving Aunts, Uncles, cousins and friends.

Pamela Luttrell (B.A. ’73, M.A. ’77) was born in Dallas, Texas on September 26, 1947, to Margaret Ann Cheatham and George Howard Luttrell Sr. After graduating from Bryan Adams high school, she went on to attend the University of Texas in Austin. During her graduate studies, she met her future husband of 44 years, William John Flynn, a former Air Force instructor pilot, counsellor, and advocate for Austin’s disabled community. Although she eventually earned her Master’s in Geology, she also pursued microbiology and German, two fields of study that happened to be perfectly aligned to her first major assignment at Mobil Oil. After a few initial years working on rigs in the Gulf of Mexico, she was transferred to Celle, Germany, to lead an exploratory team of geologists analyzing the ancient layers of stone deep beneath the North Sea. In 1983, during that first international assignment, she and William celebrated the birth of their son Aaron. Over the next 25 years, Pamela’s career would take her to every corner of the world, earning her the title of Mobil’s VP of Global Exploration. In her early twenties, she had spent a year at the Lutheran Deaconess Mother House outside of Philadelphia doing charity work and had always exhibited a strong tie to her faith. But as she grew older, that faith expanded into a multitude of spiritual disciplines. Her spiritual practice would be invaluable in her long and courageous battle with Parkinson’s Disease, but so would be her enduring wit, her sharp sense of humor, and her generous nature. She passed on at home, a little after midnight on the 24th of April, after a four-day vigil with family and friends. She is survived by her husband, William Flynn, her son, Aaron Flynn, and her brother, Howard.

Jack Mayfield (M.A. ’65), age 86, departed his full and happy life on November 19, 2023. Jack was born in New Orleans, Louisiana to Nancy McCleskey Mayfield and Dr. Jack Hastings Mayfield. Raised in Houston, Texas, Jack graduated from San Jacinto High School, earned a B.S. in Geology from the University of Oklahoma, and a M.S. in Geology from the University of Texas. Jack was a member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity at The University of Oklahoma where he met and later married his college sweetheart Patti Lynn Goldston in 1959. In Houston he joined Goldston Oil Corporation as a geologist and enjoyed satisfying careers in petroleum exploration and production as well as banking, and real estate. After Patti’s death, Jack married Susan Ray Dunlap in 1976. Over their 39-year marriage, they raised a combined family of seven children. During his long business career, Jack was President, Chairman and CEO of Goldston Oil Corporation. He was a former director of University State Bank, Greenway Bank, Chairman of the Board of Riverway Bank, and Director of Texas State Bank. Additionally, he was a member of the Management Committee and a Founder of Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), former Trustee of CCA Foundation, Life Trustee and former Chairman of The Kinkaid School, former Trustee of Kinkaid Endowment, Member of the UTHealth Houston Development Board, Member of University of Texas Geology Advisory Council, former Director of the Seminary of the Southwest, and Director of Open Door Mission. Jack was also a member of the Independent Petroleum Association of America, American Association of Petroleum Geologists, Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association, and the Petroleum Club of Houston.

Joe Meadows (B.A. ’62), 88, died peacefully in his sleep at St. Catherine’s of Waco on July 8, 2024. Joe was born at home in McGregor, TX to the late Harry Hervey Meadows and Letha Estelle Dawson Meadows on December 1, 1935. He was the oldest of three brothers. Joe was a proud member of the McGregor Bulldog class of 1954. Growing up, Joe worked for his dad, Hervey, in the family water well drilling business, Meadows Drilling. He graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a degree in geology. He was proud that his son, Mark, was a fellow UT grad. He enjoyed watching UT football on TV and going to UT track events with his friends. Joe served in the Army as part of the 2nd Armored Division (“Hell on Wheels”) in West Germany. He earned the rank of Sergeant and received an advancement as the highest-ranking Boy Scout in his unit. While in the Army, Joe was a member of the Fort Hood U.S. Army Chorus. Joe married Margaret Ellen Tyer on June 18, 1966. Joe had a life-long interest in geology and worked as a geologist in Dallas and Houston. He earned his law degree in 1973 by working full-time and attending night school at South Texas College of Law in Houston. He was part of the State Bar of Texas 2023 Class of 50-Year Lawyers. Joe practiced as an oil and gas attorney in Houston and Abilene, Texas, and he ran a title company in Abilene. Additionally, he owned and ran Builder’s Title Company in Waco, Texas. Following the sale of Builder’s Title, Joe practiced civil and criminal law in Waco. He also practiced civil law with his son-in-law, Chris Harris, in McGregor, TX. Joe served as McLennan County Justice of the Peace Precinct 1, Place 1, for several years. He was on the Stephen Ministry Team at FBC Waco where he was a member for almost forty years. Joe was preceded in death by his wife Margaret, brother Doug Meadows and sister-in-law Mary Meadows. He is survived by his daughter, Meredith Harris (and son-in-law Chris) of Hewitt, TX, and his son, Mark Meadows (and daughter-in-law Holly) of Nashville, TN, and several grandchildren. Joe is also survived by his brother Ray Meadows and sister-in-law Becky “Sis” of Waco; sister-in-law Pauline Tyer of Iowa City, Iowa.

Albert Muller Lt. Col., USAF, retired (B.S. ’54) peacefully left this world in the company of family on November 16, 2023, at the age of 92. As shared by his grandson, Christopher, “Between his service in Vietnam, employment at Boeing, subsequent contributions to the US space program, and his inventive pursuits, coupled with his love for family and adventurous spirit, he forged a legacy that most men can only dream of.” Al was born in Baytown, Texas, on May 28, 1931. Following his retirement from the Air Force, he established his home in Clear Lake City, Texas, residing with his wife, Janice, and near his children. Albert is survived by his son Mark Muller and wife Kim; his daughter Teresa “Tami” Scruggs and husband Bruce; grandchildren Crystal Mays, Christopher Muller and wife Virginia, Candice Griffith and husband Keith, Justin Scruggs and wife Teal, Melinda “Cricket” Engler, Dustin Weisinger and wife Lacey; and Brandon Weisinger; along with many great grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild. After obtaining a Geology degree from the University of Texas and an Aeronautical Engineering degree from the Air Force Institute of Technology, Al embarked on a dynamic and impressive career in the Air Force. While in the service, he became the inaugural chief of the System Safety Branch, playing a pivotal role in developing a program still utilized by the Department of Defense. Upon his retirement from the Air Force, Brig. Gen. Richard E. Merkling acknowledged, “There are still aircrews alive and irreplaceable military equipment still available that might have been lost were it not for your contributions to aerospace safety.” Albert’s involvement in the Corona Project Catch a Falling Star, retrieving spy satellites, and his service in Vietnam, flying an OV-10 as a spotter for bombing strikes, were aspects of his career he spoke passionately about. As the years passed, and missions and programs were declassified, his family discovered the profound contributions he made to his country’s military and space endeavors. Throughout his years of service, Albert earned numerous decorations, medals, badges, commendations, citations, and campaign ribbons. A few of the honors bestowed upon him include: the Distinguished Flying Cross, Air Medal with ten Oak Leaf Clusters, and National Defense Service Medal. After retiring from the military, Al persisted in pursuing his passion for aerospace engineering. During his tenure at United Technologies and Boeing, he made significant contributions to various projects, including those related to the space shuttle. Among his favorite hobbies was the time spent piloting his two vintage classic airplanes, especially relishing moments when he could share those flights with family and friends. Albert’s journey may have reached its earthly conclusion, but the impact of his warmth, generosity, and creativity will forever echo in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Andrew Parisi (M.S. ’18), 34, passed away at home on March 2, 2024, surrounded by his loving family and nurses. Born in Niskayuna, NY, he is the son of Adam G. Parisi and the late Christine M. Parisi (Ruzzo). Andrew graduated from Mohonasen High School. He held a Bachelor of Arts degree (geology) from Hartwick College, a Master of Science degree (geology) from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, a Master of Science degree (geology) from The University of Texas at Austin. He was a PhD candidate at the University of California at Los Angeles. He loved reading, geology field work, collecting dinosaur fossils in the Hell Creek Formation (Montana) with the Carthage Institute of Paleontology, and teaching. Andrew is survived by his father Adam G. Parisi, his siblings Aaron C. Parisi, Christopher R. Parisi and Sarah E. Parisi, his grandmother Marilyn D. Parisi, his grandfather Vincent J. Ruzzo, and many uncles, aunts and cousins. Andrew is predeceased by his mother Christine M. Parisi, his grandfather Frank N. Parisi and his grandmother AnnMarie C. Ruzzo (DiLorenzo).

Fred Lamar Oliver Sr., (B.S. ’51) at the age of 100, passed away peacefully at his home in Granbury, Texas on Sept. 23, 2024. Fred was born in Amarillo, Texas on March 18, 1924 to Mac Donald Oliver and Bertie Prudence Oliver. A 1951 graduate of The University of Texas at Austin with degrees in General Geology and Physics, Fred had a distinguished career in the oil and gas industry. He served as President of Petroleum Ventures of Texas, Inc., a private oil and gas exploration and production company. Earlier, he was the President and CEO of Greenbrier Operating Company. Fred was a founding member of the Society of Petroleum Evaluation Engineers and a member of the Society of Petroleum Engineers, AAPG, the Dallas Geological Society, and the Society of Independent Petroleum Earth Scientists. Fred’s passion for geosciences and commitment to education were evident in his generous gifts to the Jackson School. Together with his wife Frances, Fred established the Fred L. and Frances J. Oliver Lectureship in Texas Hydrology and Water Resources in 1985 to support visiting lecturers in hydrology and water resources, fostering better education about the critical challenges concerning water resources. There have been over 40 official Oliver Lecturers given at UT Austin, by distinguished scientists from all over the United States and overseas. Fred frequently returned to UT to introduce many of these speakers personally. In 2012, they also created the Fred and Frances Oliver Endowed Scholarship to recruit the best graduate students in hydrogeology or to support upper-level undergraduates who have expressed an interest in this vital field. Fred was a valued member of the Jackson School of Geosciences Advisory Council whose dedication and support spanned decades, beginning in 1977, and was honored as a life member in 2013. Fred’s generosity supported students, advanced research, and enriched learning experiences that have shaped the future of countless students. His involvement in and passion for geosciences and the Jackson School will be greatly missed.

Faculty

Gary Kocurek, 71, passed away suddenly on June 5, 2024 from injuries sustained in an unfortunate bicycle accident near Dubina, Texas. Gary was a complex personality, a non-stoppable thinker and doer. He was highly intelligent yet down to earth, hardworking and conscientious, thoughtful and caring and supportive, had a dry and sometimes bizarre sense of humor, was fascinated with history and weather, loved animals, and stood up for what was right. Gary was born on August 30, 1952 to Elick Kocurek and Lillie Knesek, and was the younger brother of big sister, Bernice. He was a quiet child but always observing, exploring, and collecting. At age six, he was featured in the Houston Chronicle as a budding archeologist, looking very scholarly surrounded by numerous artifacts he had collected. That interest eventually transitioned to geology as he earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees in geology at the University of Houston in 1975 and 1977, respectively. Gary was a descendant of Czech immigrants to Texas from the mid-1800s. Up until Gary’s generation, his ancestors spoke fluent Czech. Much to his dismay, his parents did not pass along the gift of the Czech language, but Gary sought to rectify the lack by enrolling in Czech language class at the University of Houston. It was in Czech class that he met his future wife, Dianna Stalinsky, who came from similar Czech/Polish heritage. After marrying on Jan. 7, 1978, they moved to Madison, Wisconsin to pursue graduate degrees. By the grace of God (and insulated parkas), they survived the Wisconsin winters and Gary received his Ph.D. in geology in 1980. Gary joined the geology faculty at The University of Texas at Austin in 1980. He and Dianna lived in Round Rock. His areas of expertise were sedimentology, geomorphology and stratigraphy of aeolian systems, fluid flow and grain transport, bedform dynamics and pattern evolution of dune fields, and the stratigraphic record of aeolian and related systems on Earth and Mars. His work took him to far-flung places such as Mali, Mauritania, Namibia, Ethiopia, Oman, and yes, even the Czech Republic. Colleagues and graduate students remember Gary for his supportive yet laidback approach to mentoring, his physical endurance in field work, his blunt yet insightful opinions, his work ethic and conscientiousness, and his aplomb and sense of humor under duress. Tiring of the big city, Gary and Dianna moved in 2006 to the rural countryside near Weimar, Texas (the farm). Gary continued to commute several days a week until his retirement in 2017 as Professor Emeritus. Gary spent his time on the farm split between continued geological research and transforming the 71-acre farm from scruffy hayfield and choked woodlands to native prairie and oak savanna. In 2020, along with four friends (Mark and Cheryl Brown, Rory and Virginia Johnston), Gary and Dianna started the Fayette Prairie Chapter under the umbrella of the statewide Native Prairies Association of Texas (NPAT). More recently, they developed the Smaller Acreage Restoration Program (SARP) in the Fayette Prairie Chapter to support projects on areas less than 25-acres. Gary spent many hours visiting landowners interested in prairie restoration to discuss how NPAT/SARP could support their efforts. With collaboration from NPAT, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), The Nature Conservancy, and too many others to name, the Kocureks were able to greatly advance their restoration goal. Spring on the property can be a glorious profusion of wildflowers, grasses, and butterflies. In 2023, the property received the TPWD Lone Star Land Steward Award for the Blackland Prairie ecoregion. Gary is survived by his wife, Dianna, sister Bernice King (husband Dennis), nephews Eric Huysman (children Lincoln and Lily) and Peter Carrico (wife Elizabeth; children Jacob, Sydney, and Zoey), and numerous cousins. Gary was preceded in death by his parents, Elick and Lillie Kocurek.

Memorial conference