Memorials

Dorman Farmer Sr. (B.S. ’50) devoted father, friend and respected local geologist, died Oct. 8, 2024, in Abilene. He was 98. Dorman Farmer was born April 27, 1926, in Fisher County and grew up in Abilene where he would spend his life and raise his family. The first-born son of Eugene Levi Farmer and Ida Mae Shelton Farmer, he graduated from Abilene High School in 1943 and joined the U.S Navy, serving in World War II and later in the Korean Conflict. Stationed at Louisiana Tech, he completed the Navy V-12A program. Later graduated from Midshipman’s school at Columbia University in New York, serving on the U.S.S. Teal (AVP5). In 1946, he was aboard the command ship U.S.S. Cumberland Sound (AV-17) for Operation Crossroads at Bikini Atoll, for the testing of the atomic bomb. After the war, he enrolled at the University of Texas graduating in 1950 with a B.S. in Geology, becoming the first member of his family to earn a degree and becoming a lifelong Texas Longhorn fan. After returning to Abilene, Dorman became an independent geologist. More importantly, he soon met Sarah Craig while on an elevator. The couple married in 1955 and had three children, Neal, Dorsi, and D’Anne. Sarah was diagnosed with breast cancer and passed away at the age 32, just eight years later, leaving Dorman to raise three children ages 5, 4, and 3 years old. Life as single father in the early 60’s was a tough road, but he remained dedicated and focused on raising his children, whom he adored. Dr. Jake and Jackie Barron, his best friends, became a second family to the Farmer brood. A decade later, it was Jackie who set him up on a date with Marian Penrod Spence. They dated for six months before they married June 27, 1973, combining the Farmer and Spence families. Together, Dorman and Marian travelled the world with good friends known as the Board. Dorman was widowed a second time when Marian passed in 2020, just a few months before their 47th wedding anniversary. Active professionally Dorman owned and operated Fargo Exploration Co. from 1957 until his retirement in 2018. As an AIPG Certified Professional Geologist, he was a charter member of the local AIPG chapter and a member the Abilene Geological Society. He was also a member of the West Central Texas Oil & Gas Association, a deacon at First Baptist Church in Abilene, on the Hendrick Medical Center Board of Trustees and a Mason for over 75 years. Dorman’s children learned their father’s lessons to live by: If you can’t say anything nice, don’t say anything at all; nothing good happens after midnight; trust in God and do your best. He loved his family, the Lord, his friends, golfing, hunting and The Texas Longhorns. Dorman was preceded in death by his parents, Gene & Ida Mae Farmer, and four siblings: Irma Gene Henson, Guy Farmer, Virginia Wise and Gloria May McCorkle. He was also preceded in death by his first wife Sarah Craig Farmer, and by his wife of 46 years, Marian Penrod Farmer. He is survived by five children: Randy Spence (Vicki), Penny Spence Pittman (Cory), Neal Farmer, Dorsi Farmer Faulkner (Von), and D’Anne Farmer; and by eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Leonard Fowler (B.S. ’55) was born on November 7, 1927 in Liberty Hill, TX to Dr. Wirt Fowler and Fay Fowler. He passed into Glory on March 8, 2025 in McKinney, TX. He was 97. Leonard grew up in Liberty Hill, Texas with 9 brothers and sisters and attended Eden High School. After graduation from High School, Leonard enlisted in the US Marine Corps where he served honorably from 1945-1947. After an honorable discharge from the Marine Corps, Leonard used his GI Bill to attend the University of Texas where he obtained a degree in Geology. He went to work for Shamrock Oil & Gas and lived in Austin, TX, Salt Lake City, UT, and Amarillo, TX. In 1971 he formed Lear Petroleum Company and moved to Richardson, TX. Leonard retired from the oil and gas business in 1987, but didn’t retire from working. He formed LSF Services where he designed and built residential drain systems until he finally retired in 2017. Leonard was a huge fan of Texas Longhorn football. He also loved to reminisce about his time in the service. Animals always played a big part in his life as he loved hunting, his dogs, and bird watching. Leonard was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. Wirt D. Fowler and Fay S. Fowler, his wife of 53 years Colleen O. Fowler, and his son Leonard K. Fowler. He is survived by his son Brian D. Fowler, his wife Shelli B. Fowler and their children Trinity and Hunter; his daughter in law Connie R. Fowler; his granddaughter Hannah M. Smith, her husband Drew Smith, their children Sawyer and Shiloh; and his grandson Samuel C. Fowler.

Charles Goebel (B.S. ’80) of Fort Worth, Texas, passed away at his home on July 14, 2025, at the age of 68. Charles was born on December 28, 1956, at St. David’s Hospital in Austin, the eldest son of the late James and Lois Goebel. He was baptized at St. Martin’s Lutheran Church in Austin and lived in both Kansas and Houston with his family. He returned to Austin to receive his bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas in 1980. Though he initially majored in Radio, Television & Film, he changed his major to Geological Sciences after falling in love with an elective geology course. Charles began his career as a geologist in the Permian Basin in Midland, Texas. After nearly two years working in arid Midland, Charles found an opportunity at ARCO International Oil & Gas Co. and moved to Los Angeles in 1981. The move proved fateful when Charles met his future wife, Sandra Felsenstein, at Shakey’s Pizza Parlor in West Hollywood. Charles and Sandra were married in 1983 and moved to Dubai, United Arab Emirates after he was transferred there for work. The couple had two children, James Sebastian and Amanda Christine, in Dubai. After 5 years in the Middle East, the family returned to Texas and settled in Plano (which he called Draino) in 1989, where their second daughter Clara Elena was born in 1994. A proud Texan, Charles was a highly intelligent man and avid reader who loved good music, good food, and good wine. In his early adulthood, he loved playing tennis, biking, scuba diving in Bonaire, and teaching his kids how to fish. A scientist at heart, he also had an appreciation for art and history. Traveling was in his blood, and he found excitement and fulfillment in his work as an international petroleum geologist. His job took him all over the world—to Greenland, Oman, Morocco, Turkey, Syria, Qatar, and Ecuador, among others. Outside of travelling for business, Charles explored Europe, South America, and Asia, both solo and with his family. A naturally curious person, Charles was always open to exploring new foods, languages, and cultures. He was a thoroughly decent and honorable man who always tried to do the right thing for the right reasons, never seeking recognition or to impress others. He was a hardworking man who tried to do right by his family and his friends, and never hesitated to help others if he could. A natural teacher, he loved sharing his knowledge, whether about geology, science, or history (especially Texas history). He was a thoughtful and considerate man who cared deeply about how his words and actions affected others. He enjoyed being in nature, the mountains of New Mexico, and heading out on the open road of the entire country in search of the best hole-in-the-wall restaurants with his youngest daughter, Clara. As he grew older, Charles continued to enjoy the thrill of riding his Porsche on the open road, but also appreciated the quieter moments of solving crossword puzzles or watching UT sports and old westerns like The Lone Ranger. He cherished his daughter Clara’s singing voice and often listened to the recorded songs from the choir. Most recently he had come out of semi-retirement and was invigorated by working on oil deals for his company, Santa Rita Energy, once again. Charles was preceded in death by his parents, Lois Obermiller Goebel (2007) and James William Goebel (2009), and his brother Paul Joseph Goebel (2015). He is survived by his daughters Amanda and Clara, his son Sebastian, his ex-wife and best friend Sandra Felsenstein, and his siblings Helen and Richard Goebel, along with three nephews, Jake, Gus, and Wyatt Goebel.

Charles G. “Chip” Groat (Ph.D. ’70) 84, passed away on March 14, 2025, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, due to complications from Parkinson’s disease and heart failure. Born on March 25, 1940, in Westfield, New York, Chip lived a life dedicated to his family, education, and the advancement of geological sciences. A devoted husband, father, and mentor, Chip is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Barbara F. “Bobbie” Groat, his son Douglas A. Groat, and his daughter Lisa A. Groat. He is also mourned by his brothers, Robert H. Groat and Richard W. Groat. He was preceded in death by his mother, Beatrice Foote Groat, and his father Howard Henry Groat. Chip was an avid runner, often logging several miles daily, regardless of the weather. His love for running took him through a snowstorm in Russia and a torrential downpour in Vietnam. He also had a passion for sailing and would race with his crew on a J/24 sailboat on Lake Pontchartrain and the Gulf of Mexico during the 1980s. An accomplished world traveler, his journeys took him from South America to the Middle East, throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa, and to the remote wilderness of Alaska. His distinguished career in geology began with a B.A. from the University of Rochester in 1962, followed by an M.S. from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in 1967. It was here during his graduate studies that he met and married his wife Bobbie in September 1963. He earned his Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin in 1970. Over his career, Chip held several positions in academia, government, and research institutions. He served as a research geologist, followed by associate and acting director of the Bureau of Economic Geology at the University of Texas at Austin (1968–1976) and associate professor in the Department of Geological Sciences (1974–1976). He then served as associate professor and chairman of the Department of Geological Sciences at the University of Texas at El Paso (1976–1978). From 1978 to 1990, he was a professor at Louisiana State University’s Department of Geology and Geophysics. He also played a key role in state government, serving as Assistant to the Secretary at the Louisiana Department of Natural Resources (1983–1988) and as Director and State Geologist for the Louisiana Geological Survey (1978–1990). From 1990 to 1992, Chip served as the Executive Director of the American Geological Institute, followed by his tenure as Executive Director of the Center for Coastal, Energy, and Environmental Resources at Louisiana State University (1992–1995). He later joined the University of Texas at El Paso, where he was the Director of the Center for Environmental Resource Management and Director of the Environmental Science and Engineering Ph.D. Program, Professor of Geological Sciences, and Associate Vice President for Research and Sponsored Projects (1995–1998). In 1998, Chip was appointed the 13th Director of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) by President Bill Clinton and was retained in this position by President George W. Bush. He led the agency until 2005, overseeing critical research on energy resources, water policy, and environmental sustainability. Chip was awarded the AGI (American Geosciences Institute) Campbell Medal for Superlative Service to the Geosciences in 1998. This Medal is presented each year to a nationally recognized, living geoscientist with a distinguished record of significant achievements in science, education, and administration, in support of the profession of geology and its role in society. It is AGI’s most distinguished award. Following his tenure at USGS, Chip returned to the University of Texas at Austin to direct the Energy and Earth Resources Graduate Program and the Center for International Energy and Environmental Policy. In 2008, he was named interim dean of the Jackson School of Geosciences. In 2011, Chip became the founding president and CEO of the Water Institute of the Gulf, where he championed scientific and engineering research to address coastal and environmental challenges. From 2019 to his retirement in 2021, he served as acting Director of the Louisiana Geological Survey. Chip’s leadership in the field of geology was widely recognized, and he was an active member of the Geological Society of America, the American Association for the Advancement of Science, the American Geophysical Union, and the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. He also served on numerous scientific boards and committees and contributed extensively to research publications on earth sciences and environmental policy. A devoted family man, he was deeply involved with his children, offering them guidance and unwavering support throughout their lives. He served as a dedicated Scoutmaster, president of the church council, and as church treasurer. Service to others was a central part of his life. He took great pride in supporting his family’s education and aspirations, always encouraging them to follow their dreams. Chip’s legacy will be remembered through his contributions to science, his mentorship of future geologists, his kindness, generosity, and the love he had for his family.

Milo E. McMurtray (B.S. ’57) 90, of Laguna Woods, CA and formerly of Chambersburg, PA passed away from acute leukemia on Friday, October 11, 2024. The son of the late Roy S. and Lucille Harris McMurtray born on May 15, 1934, his mother’s 30th birthday. Born in San Antonio, TX, Milo graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School and received his B.S. in Geology from the University of Texas in 1956. He was honorably discharged from the United States Air Force on October 5, 1960. Milo worked for many oil companies and served as a geologist and land man in the trust department of Liberty National Bank & Trust Co., Oklahoma City, OK (1968). While employed by Texas Eastern Pipeline, he moved to PA to serve as a senior Right of Way Agent to oversee the replacement of their pipeline across Franklin County. During this time, he met Sue Kocek, Managing Director of Totem Pole Playhouse, where the pipeline traversed the playhouse parking lot. Married on October 7, 1995 at Cathedral of the Pines, the couple honeymooned in London. Married for 18 years, Milo and Sue’s love of adventure also took them all over Western Europe, Poland, UK and the Caribbean. Milo moved to Laguna Woods, CA in 2012 to be near his children. He is survived by son Michael McMurtray, daughters Kim McMurtray, Jennifer Ireland (John) and granddaughter Mila McMurtray, all of CA. He is also survived by his brother, Russell T. McMurtray, Laguna Woods, CA. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sister, Frances McMurtray (2009), brother, Robert McMurtray (2015) and his first wife, Carolyn McMurtray (2024) and his two favorite standard poodles, Ezzie and Kizhi. Milo was a member of St. George’s Episcopal Church, Laguna Hills, CA. He enjoyed swimming and Tai Chi.

Marvin Leroy Mills (B.A. ’58) 89, passed away September 24, 2024 in Fort Worth, TX. Marvin was born on January 18, 1935 in Sapulpa, Oklahoma to Clara and Marlin Mills. One of five children. He graduated from Spring Creek School class of 1949 and Borger High School in 1953 both in the Texas panhandle. He kept in contact with many of his past classmates throughout the years. Always looked forward to receiving those phone calls and Christmas cards. He received a B.S. in Geology from the University of Texas. During the summers while attending college he roughnecked in the oil fields in Wyoming. He was drafted into the Army and stationed in Mainz, Germany for two years with the 367th Ordinance Detachment. Upon his return to the States, Marvin met Barbara Inglish and married in November of 1960. They had one daughter, Lori and one son Roger. Marvin was employed with Mid-America Pipeline Company (MAPCO) until his retirement. Upon retirement he and Barbara moved to Fort Worth, TX. His grandsons loved to get him started playing board games and sharing stories when all together at Christmas time. He is survived by Kay Matzer (sister), Lori Mayes (daughter) and husband Robert Mayes, Roger Mills (son), four grandsons and families: Keith Mayes (and Maddy – spouse, great-grandsons Aiden and Xander), Kristopher Marvin Mayes (and Elizabeth – spouse, great-granddaughters Kalisha and Lillian), Nickolas Mayes, Mitchell Mayes (and Kasi – spouse) and several nieces and nephews.

John A. Minks (Maj. USAF, Ret.) (B.A. ’66) navigated his last C-130 Hercules flight on October 9th, 2024 succumbing to lung cancer and Parkinson’s disease. John avoided being drafted (by seven days) in 1967 by joining the Air Force after graduating from the University of Texas at Austin with a BS in Geology. He served in Vietnam from 1969 to 1972 as a navigator for C-130’s flying 692 missions and sorties including Operation Blind Bat along the Ho Chi Minh Trail. He was awarded numerous medals for distinguished service. His first transfer stateside was to test and evaluate Omega, the first worldwide air navigational system for USAF. In 1977 he was assigned to Kirtland Air Force Base (KAFB), in the Air Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center (AVOTEC) for the Air Launched Cruise Missile System. His last assignment in England is where he completed 21 years of service and was part of the North Atlantic search and rescue operations. After retiring from the Air Force in 1989 he went to work for the State of New Mexico’s Department of Workforce Solutions. He was born in 1943 at Maxwell Army Air Base in Montgomery, Alabama to Guy Marion Minks and Lois Myers, the first of their five children. He is preceded in death by his parents, his first wife, Doreen McCoy Minks of Troon, Scotland, and one brother, Raymond (killed in Vietnam 1971). He is survived by his second wife of 21 years, Judith Minks, as well as one daughter, Jenniffer Minks (Col. USAF, Ret.) (Chris), three step-daughters, Kim Allen (Dudley), Erica Moss and Jackie Apodaca (Jeff), as well as three sisters Marian Minks (Susan), Jeanie Elwood (Gary), and Marie Minks Johnson. In addition there are seven beloved grandchildren and five great grandchildren.

Isaac Walker Jock Norman (B.S. ’48) having served his family and his community for over 99 years, finally rested at his home on January 29, 2025. Born to parents, Isaac and Winifred Rickard Norman, on October 11, 1925, Jock spent his early years exploring the creeks and fields of Norman’s Crossing, along with siblings, Wynette and Howard. The family soon moved down the road to the farmhouse built by his grandfather in 1906, a house that would become a symbol of perseverance, comfort, and love for Jock for the rest of his life. Following the death of his father when Jock was only 10 years old, he began working the farm and helping his mother as she rented out rooms in their home to make ends meet—all while excelling in his studies at the school at Norman’s Crossing. It was through these challenging childhood experiences that Jock learned the importance of determination, frugality, commitment to family and love of farming—traits that would mold his character and shape his future years. Jock graduated Valedictorian of the class of 1942 from Hutto High School, where he was president of his senior class, and was a proud member and captain of the Hippo football team. Following graduation, Jock served his country as Second Lieutenant of the United States Army Air Corp, training to be a navigator and bombardier at bases in Louisiana, Utah and New Mexico. After his service to his country, Jock enrolled and excelled in the University of Texas, graduating with a degree in geology. Jock married his love, Frances Tyler, from neighboring Taylor, on April 10, 1948, and the couple moved to Houston to pursue their passions of geology and art. Together they raised five children, Wynette, Leigh, Pat, Lisa, and Howard. Jock’s career as a geologist took him from Gulf Oil Corporation, to the Brown Family, and later Highland Resources. While progressing in his career and raising their family, the Normans kept strong ties to Norman’s Crossing, frequently returning to the farmhouse for weekend visits. Upon retirement and upon the promise of building Frances an art studio, they returned to their roots and spent their golden years tending the fields in the place that always felt most like home. Jock could usually be found on his tractor or enjoying quiet moments on the porch, taking in the sunset with a cigar in hand. Jock will be laid to rest by his wife of 70 years, Frances, and his only son, Howard. Jock will be sadly missed and joyfully remembered by his daughters, Wynette Lessner and husband, Roy, Leigh Norman, Pat Norman, and Lisa Norman and husband, Patrick Gaylor. He is also in the hearts of five grandchildren: Katherine Shannon Hess and fiancé, Matthew Greene; Chris Shannon and wife, Leanne; Bridget Brewer and husband, Nick; Will Lessner and Adrian Lessner; and five great-grandchildren.

Fred Oliver (B.S. ’51) was born in Amarillo, Texas on March 18, 1924 to Mac Donald Oliver and Bertie Prudence Oliver. He graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1951 with Bachelor of Science degrees in geology and physics. Fred was married to Frances Jane Schmidt on July 1, 1950 with whom he raised seven children during their marriage of 61 years, until her passing in 2011. Fred worked as a petroleum engineer and geologist, eventually becoming President & CEO of Greenbrier Operating Company in 1974, retiring in 1990. He was active in several professional organizations including SPE, Dallas Geological Society, Society of Independent Professional Earth Scientists, AAPG and IPAA. Fred is preceded in death by his wife Frances Jane Oliver, and his brother Mac Donald Oliver. Fred is survived by his children Fred Oliver, Jr. (wife Lori Oliver), Jimmy Oliver, Duane Oliver, Jane Oliver Smith (husband Steve Smith), Gary Oliver (wife Peggy Oliver), Paul Oliver (wife Shannon Oliver), and Judy Oliver Lee (husband Frank Lee), and daughter-in-law Robin Oliver, 14 grandchildren and 4 great grandchildren.

David “Dave” Orchard (M.A. ’79) passed away on Jan. 7, 2025, at the age of 72, surrounded by loved ones in Katy, Texas. David was an oilman, a fireman, a scientist, an entrepreneur, and a poet. He loved fishing, baseball, unearthing Ice Age megafauna bones, and throwing elaborate surprise birthday parties for his wife of 51 years. His eyes would light up when his kids could identify the Great Unconformity on one of the family’s frequent road trips through the American West. David was born Oct. 21, 1952 in Ukiah, Calif. His father, Merle, was an accomplished boxer, attorney, prosecutor, and harmonicist. Both David and his uncle, Wayne, would regularly describe Merle as “the best man I’ve ever known.” David’s mother, Ruth, was an erudite teacher and civic organizer who delighted in showing off her grandchildren to the Ukiah French Club (and terrifying them with invitations to the San Francisco Opera). David grew up in a hillside home above the Russian River with two sisters, the late Anne Hurley and Janet Orchard, plus a rotating menagerie of donkeys, horses, ravens, raccoons, and very good dogs. He wrestled and ran track at Ukiah High School, where his record time in the 100-yard low hurdles still stands. (Races began being measured in meters the following year.) David rowed crew at Stanford University, where he received a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology. In his free time, he would hitchhike up the El Camino Real to the College of Notre Dame in Belmont to see Marie Anne Horning, also from Ukiah. He spent four summers in the Coast Ranges fighting 105 wildfires (including one while dressed as Smokey the Bear). His biggest—a 10,000-acre blaze near Covelo—was also his last; he left the front lines to marry Marie on Sept. 22, 1973. One of David’s lifelong fascinations, incurring lifelong teasing from his children, was geology—its mysteries, majesty, and revelatory “time-transcendent experiences.” This led him to San Diego State University and to a pair of stints doing fieldwork for the USGS around Anaktuvuk Pass in Alaska’s Brooks Range. It led him to graduate school at the University of Texas at Austin, where he earned a Master of Science in Geology and where David and Marie’s eldest, Emily, was born on his birthday in 1979. It also led to a long and productive career in oil and gas exploration, beginning with ERG in Houston. In 1982, BHP Petroleum transferred the family to Denver, where Phillip and Ellen were born, and eventually back to Houston for good in 1989. In 1994, David started Manzanita Alliances—a prosperous industry services company that he ran with Marie until its sale in 2007—along with side projects involving, among other things, translating Chinese petroleum literature, plus some misadventures in digital publishing in London. He remained active in local geology circles, helping revive the Houston Chief Geologists and serving as editor of the Houston Geological Society’s in-house journal, the HGS Bulletin. He always longed for a return to his scientific roots. Toward this end, in 2005, he started the Foundation for Quaternary Paleontology of Venezuela in support of a project excavating Pleistocene fossils from the Breal de Orocual tar pits in Venezuela’s Orinoco Belt. The following year, he returned to work as a geologist with ConocoPhillips. He found a lot of oil. In Houston, the family flourished. David served as Little League coach and Boy Scouts leader. He was fond of organizing fishing expeditions along the Gulf Coast, geology field trips, and backpacking treks. He made several trips to check in on his kids’ overseas adventures in London, Switzerland and Thailand. He was a proud member of the Knights of Columbus council at St. Edith Stein Catholic Church and the Houston Poetry Society. Each Christmas, family and friends would receive an anthology of his recent poetry whether they wanted one or not. In 2007, David dispatched Phillip to Liberia to help Samuel Holmes, a promising tennis player, secure a student visa to attend college in Houston. In 2009, David took the first of his own two trips to Liberia, returning with Samuel’s brother, Abraham Kamara, and fostering a profound kinship with their father, Arah. Both boys thrived in Texas and became full members of the family. David’s final years were spent primarily doting on his 10 grandchildren. He became a member of St. Bartholomew the Apostle Catholic Church in Katy, Texas, and a volunteer firefighter. He loved the Astros and organizing work weekends at the family’s bucolic “farm” (total output: 1.5 peaches) near New Ulm, Texas. In addition to Marie and the kids, David is survived by his sister Janet Orchard; son-in-law Justin Kilbride; daughters-in-law Constance Dykhuizen, Ashton Holmes, and Olivia Enriquez-Kamara; and extended family Maddy Hirshfield, Mary Nolan, and James Steindl.

Robert Pettigrew (B.S. ’52) of Spring Branch, TX crossed over in peace September 18, 2024. Bob is survived by his loving wife of 30 years, Sheila M. Pettigrew, his children Stephanie Leff (Barry) of Memphis, TN, Venetia (Venny) Zachritz (Walter) of Ashville, NC, Ariana Pettigrew (Brian Garvey) of Austin, Nicole Beall of Spring Branch and Danielle Beall (Collin Hammond) of Cornwall, England. He was preceded in death by his son, Christopher Pettigrew. Bob loved his grandchildren Benjamin Leff of Houston, Mitchell Leff of Atlanta, Melissa Zachritz (Caiti Pratt) of Denver, CO, and Sara Zachritz (Anthony Baldo) of Santa Fe, NM. Bob was born in Wichita Falls to Margaret and Virgil Pettigrew April 6, 1931. He obtained a MA in Geology from UT Austin. He served in the US Army Counterintelligence CI Division in Berlin, Germany where he met his late wife Helga Bober Pettigrew. Following his tour he was employed by ExxonMobil with a 35-year career as a supervising geologist. His work in the energy field sent him around the globe including Asia, Africa Ivory Coast, South America as well as North Sea exploration. While employed with ExxonMobil, Bob lived in Surrey, England from 1975 until 1985 where he enjoyed the culture, art and history of Europe. Retirement brought him back to Texas, where he continued as an Independent Consultant. Fulfilling his dream, Bob built a home surrounded by nature on high ground near the Guadalupe River. By his own hands he converted rocky hill country soil into a formal English Parterre Garden. Bob loved to spend his time connecting with nature, always improving his garden and time with his beloved pets. Bob was a talented artist. He painted in oils. His landscapes and still life paintings were fashioned after the old European masters using local themes from his native Texas. His love of art led him to be President and Treasurer of the Bulverde Area Art Club. Bob was a dedicated parishioner of St. Joseph Honey Creek Catholic Church in Bulverde.

John Pope (B.S. ’86) 62, passed away peacefully at home in Sugar Land, Texas, on April 18, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, John lived a life marked by humor, loyalty, and strength. Born in Columbus, Mississippi, John was the son of Colonel Joe Daniel Pope and Frances Anne Pope. As a U.S. Air Force “brat,” he spent his early years moving frequently with his family, but eventually settled in one of his favorite places Ft. Walton Beach, Florida where he graduated from Choctawhatchee High School. He went on to attend the University of Texas at Austin, where he received a B.S. in Geology and cultivated a deep appreciation for Longhorn pride. In 1988, John began his career at Travelers Insurance Company, where he worked as a senior account executive until his retirement in 2019. His work ethic, professionalism, and keen intellect earned him the respect of his colleagues and clients alike. But John’s proudest role by far was that of Dad. He poured his heart into raising his children Susan Claire Pope, J.D. Pope (Becca), and Kyle Leger Pope (Megan) and was always present for them, whether it meant sports, plays, or late-night talks. He was also a loving Foddy to his granddaughter, Lilian Kial Pope, whose joy and energy brought him endless pride. He loved fishing and hunting with his family and friends—time spent in nature that often turned into storytelling sessions filled with laughter. His ability to tell a great joke, usually laced with sharp wit and intelligence, was one of his trademarks. His family will always remember his wisecracks, one-liners, and his signature piece of advice: “Never try to teach a pig to sing. It’s a waste of your time, and annoys the pig.” John is survived by his wife of 32 years, Paula Leger Pope; his children and their spouses; his granddaughter; and his sister, Mary Spain Schwantes. He was preceded in death by his parents Joe and Anne Pope.

Clyde Seewald (B.S. ’63) 82, passed away on October 27, 2024, in Longview, Texas after a short illness. Born on September 29, 1942, Clyde graduated from Boerne High School and furthered his education at the University of Texas where he was awarded both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. He built a distinguished career as a petroleum geologist, contributing significantly to his field. Clyde was an avid outdoorsman who enjoyed hunting and fishing, passions that brought him both joy and peace throughout his life. He is survived by his loving wife, Paula Seewald, son, Jeff Seewald, Jeff’s partner Cristina Bustamante, son Chris Seewald, son Greg Seewald and Greg’s wife Tammie as well as 5 grandchildren.

Keith Tompkins (B.S. ’57) of Houston, Texas, joined his heavenly wife, Audrey, on February 24, 2025 at the age of 101. He can now hold her hand as he did when she took her last breath in 2023. Keith was with family in his home of 68 years. Keith was born on February 11, 1924 to his parents, Charity Ruth Shults Tompkins and George Washington Tompkins in Las Animas, Colorado. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 75 years, Audrey Elizabeth McDermott Tompkins; his parents, Charity Ruth and George Tompkins; his youngest daughter, Nancy Lynn Tompkins Walton; daughter-in-law Nancy Marie Tompkins; grandson Brian Keith Tompkins; and siblings Horace Tompkins, Jack Tompkins, Inez Fowler, and Guy Tompkins and sisters and brothers-in-law. He is survived by his children: Ray Tompkins and wife Carol, Phil Tompkins and wife Kay, Joan Johnson and husband Roy, Gregg Tompkins and wife Lynette, Russell Tompkins and grand puppy Mitzi, Timothy Tompkins and wife Nancy, Karen Michalak and husband Robert, Glen Tompkins and wife Valencia, and son-in-law Mark Walton. Also survived by many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sister-in-law Ruth Tompkins and many nieces and nephews. Keith’s childhood was primarily in The Heights (Houston) where he and his brother Guy spent most of their time together exploring the outdoors. He attended Helms Elementary, Hamilton Junior High School, and Reagan High School. While at Reagan HS, he was a pole vaulter, setting multiple records. After high school, Keith served in the Navy as a private first-class aviation mechanic while stationed in Beeville, Texas. He was discharged at the end of WWII. Keith’s sister, Inez, introduced Keith to Audrey. Inez and Audrey attended Massey Business College at the same time. Audrey and Keith went on a double date with his brother Guy (Guy’s date, Ruth, would be Guy’s future wife). From then on, Audrey and Keith’s future was destiny—married for 75 years! They had a beautiful family: 9 children, daughters and sons-in-law, 22 grandchildren and 29 great-grandchildren. Keith pursued his Bachelor of Science in Geology at the University of Texas, graduating in 1953. He had a love for all things science. While at UT he was also on the track team as a pole vaulter. According to the UT Sports Association, Keith was a master pole vaulter and contributed to the 1950 Southwest Conference win. His highest vault was 13 feet with a bamboo pole. He lettered in several events throughout his time at UT. He was a Longhorn through and through. After completing college he worked as a geologist for several different oil companies including Gulf Oil, Coastal States Gas Production, Houston Natural Gas & Pipeline (which merged with InterNorth Inc. and later named Enron), United Gas Pipeline, and Mesa Petroleum. Keith loved all things outdoors, even receiving the nickname “Nature Boy.” As an adult he continued to participate in sports: golf, bowling, pole vaulting, coaching and umpiring Little League (also attending MANY grandchildren’s sports games), horseshoes, diving, Senior Olympics (until age 85). He spent much of his time with Audrey doing things they both loved: sitting outside on their swing, watching Wheel of Fortune, listening to music, traveling. Keith’s kindness shone in many ways. He helped others with many projects, whether a house remodel or repairing whatever needed to be repaired. He was kind, quiet, humble, patient, reserved, a thinker, a provider, a role model, a sportsman, a family man. We’ve lost a good man who will be greatly missed by all!

Billy F. Watkins (B.S. ’50) was the only child of Gus Edward Watkins and Willie Belle Pack Watkins. He was born in Gulf, Texas on January 27, 1927 and spent the majority of his youth in Newgulf and Matagorda. He was introduced to fishing and hunting at a young age and was an avid sportsman for his entire life. He enjoyed and participated in many sports as a youth, and continued playing golf, hunting and fishing for as long as he could. Billy was a man who loved his family greatly and was their unquestioned leader. The values and integrity with which he lived were a model for his family. He led primarily by example in a gentle but firm manner. The great love of his life was his wife of 51 years, Peggy, whom he married in 1953 after meeting on a blind date. They did everything in life together until her passing in 2014. His love for his 3 sons knew no bounds, and when he reached the position of Grandad, he took on this new responsibility with the same great love, affection and care. He was fully supportive in all the sports and other events his children participated in. Billy served his country in World War II as a radar operator on the Vella Gulf aircraft carrier, enlisting in the Navy at age 17 after graduating from Boling High School. He was accepted into a naval aviation program that was shuttered by the Navy when the outcome of the war was certain. After the war, Billy enrolled in college and graduated from the University of Texas at Austin in 1950, majoring in geology. He returned to Newgulf to work for Texas Gulf Sulphur Company, and worked in the field department as a geologist until his retirement as field manager in 1987. He and Peggy lived in Newgulf until building a home in Wharton in 1994. He lived there until moving to Austin for the remainder of his life. Billy’s greatest joy and purpose in life was in serving his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. He was active in many organizations in his pursuit of spreading the gospel, including the Emmaus program in the Methodist church, and in many Bible study groups. Billy is preceded in death by his son Russell James Watkins, wife Peggy Watkins and his parents. He is survived by his sons Randall Lee Watkins and wife Roxanne of Chappell Hill, Kenneth Edward Watkins and wife Denise of Austin, three grandchildren and a great grandson.

Katherine “Kathy” Weiner (B.S. ’83) beloved wife, mother, and friend, passed away peacefully in New Braunfels, Texas, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with cancer. She was 64 years old. Born in Midland, Texas, Kathy grew up in Corpus Christi and later attended the University of Texas. She built a beautiful life filled with love, adventure, and deep connections. She is survived by her devoted husband of 40 years, Steve; her son, Tom, and his wife, Sarah; and her daughter, Laura. She was also cherished by her large extended family and many dear friends. An active and vibrant person, Kathy embraced life with enthusiasm and warmth. She loved to travel, exploring the world with curiosity and joy. She found immense happiness in her many social circles, where she formed lifelong friendships. Above all, she was an incredible mother and wife, always putting her family first and filling their lives with love and laughter. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her kindness, adventurous spirit, and unwavering love will live on in the hearts of those she touched.

Anne Lesikar’s vibrant life ended abruptly on January 13, 2025, at one of her favorite places while celebrating 48 years of marriage with her husband, Bill. Anne was born June 14, 1953, in Beeville, Texas. Anne was a wonderful example of a Proverbs 31 woman – wise, strong, generous, faithful, caring towards her family and friends, actively involved in her community and deeply devoted to God. As a devout Christian and disciplined student of the Bible, Anne was committed to becoming more and more Christlike throughout her life. She exemplified this by always working in service of others, whether as a dedicated volunteer GED science teacher for Aspire and its predecessor Aberg Center for over 10 years, as a volunteer at vacation bible school, or simply as a loving presence in her family and friends’ lives. Anne graduated with highest honors from the University of Texas at Austin and practiced pharmacy for over 40 years. She was a die-hard Longhorn, having attended her first University of Texas football game as a young child and her last one with several lifelong friends just a few days before her death. Anne’s family will remember her as a dedicated wife, a nurturing mother, a doting “A-Diddy” to her four beautiful granddaughters and their many friends, and a loving sister and aunt. Her friends will remember her as a true friend – joyful, positive, loyal and compassionate, with a smile that would light up a room. Her GED students will remember her as a patient and encouraging science teacher who celebrated with them in their successes – Anne was always thrilled beyond description upon learning that one of her students had passed the science section of the GED exam.

Kirk Michaux passed away peacefully at his home on the Solana Ranch, April 12, 2025. He was 84 years old. Kirk was born on January 18, 1941 in Houston, Texas to parents Frank W. Michaux of Houston and Retta Hazelip Michaux of Greenville, Mississippi. Kirk spent his early years in Houston, Texas, attending The Kinkaid School. For high school, he attended the Sewanee Military Academy before graduating from Avon Old Farms in Connecticut. He attended the University of Texas and was a member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity, an organization he supported for decades, including acting as the Chapter Advisor. Kirk married Julie Ann Gentry of Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1967. They moved to Austin, where they raised their two children. Kirk was active in the commercial real estate business in Austin, developing apartment complexes and several office buildings. Kirk also served as the Director of the Texas Department of Commerce, supporting economic development throughout Texas. Some of Kirk’s favorite times in Austin were spent at the Knebel Little League field, where he served as the Commissioner, UT Football games, and sitting on a backyard patio with friends and family. In 1995 Kirk and Julie moved to the Solana Ranch, the ranch Kirk’s parents started in 1950. Although the two intended to be there for only a few years, Kirk and Julie became immersed in Salado and the surrounding communities and have now lived there almost thirty years. The Solana Ranch is a Michaux family legacy and Kirk treated it as such. He spent countless hours ensuring that Solana Ranch enhanced the local environment and wildlife, while also generously supporting the community. In 2017, Kirk proudly accepted the Lone Star Land Steward Award from the Texas Parks and Wildlife, celebrating and honoring the years of stewardship and wildlife management at Solana Ranch. In his later years, Kirk’s best and most cherished memories came from celebrating and enjoying his grandchildren.

Keith Paul 94, of Hunt, TX, passed away on September 23, 2024, in Kerrville, TX. Keith was born in Los Angeles, CA on May 1, 1930. He grew up in Houston, TX, and graduated from Lamar High School. He earned a BBA from the University of Texas at Austin where he was a member of Kappa Sigma fraternity. At the age of 14, he started working for Texas Tire Co. and also working on and driving farm equipment until he graduated from UT in 1952. He married Betty Robertson, and then served in the U.S. Army for two years. Keith then began working as a management consultant which ultimately led him to small business ownership in his chosen field of pipeline evacuation and portable compression services for the past 60 years.

Mary Ruth Valerius died on March 19, 2025 in Houston, Texas, after a short battle with cancer. She attended Lamar High School and continued her education at the University of Texas at Austin where she became an active member of Delta Delta Delta Sorority. She married Robert Valerius in 1959 and lived in several cities before settling in Corpus Christi for 44 years raising a family. Once her children began school, she earned a B.S. degree in nutrition at Texas A&I in Kingsville (now Texas A&M) traveling about 40 miles each way every day. She says she could not have done it without the support of her loving husband. After working for a short time as a dietitian, she began working with Robert at his new oil and gas business. Mary Ruth loved traveling with close friends and entertaining them and family at their vacation home on the Blanco River in Wimberley, Texas. She loved sewing, music, cooking and hosted many dinner parties with close friends. In 2006 she and Robert moved to Houston and joined Memorial Drive Presbyterian Church. She became involved with the food ministry and had the honor of being asked to become an elder.

Marilyn Waggoner joined her Heavenly Father on Friday, December 13th, 2024. Born on March 26th, 1936, Marilyn was the daughter of Louise and Luther Wheeler. Unfortunately, Marilyn lost both of her parents by the age of ten. She was raised by her sister, Barbara Wheeler Cullum. Marilyn responded to these early hardships with a resilience that she carried through her lifetime. She was a graduate of Wichita Falls High School and attended the University of Texas in their Plan II program. She was also a member of Kappa Kappa Gamma Sorority. Marilyn and Thomas “Tommy” Jefferson Waggoner, III, fell in love on a high school trip to Italy and were married 6/23/1956. She was a devoted wife and mother to her three children. She was a founding member of the Junior League of Wichita Falls, an organization close to her heart. In 1969, Marilyn and Tommy moved their family to Dallas, Texas. In the 1970’s Marilyn opened a gift shop, “The Tulip Tree,” in Highland Park Village with a friend and her sister-in-law. The gift shop was a success and remained the place for gift buying for 15+ years. In 1995, Marilyn and Tommy moved to Barton Creek Lakeside in Spicewood, Texas, before deciding that the Rocky Mountains in Montana were calling. In 2002 they moved to Bigfork, MT and spent 13 wonderful years enjoying Big Sky Country. In 2015 they moved back to Wichita Falls to be closer to family and friends. After losing her husband in 2017, Marilyn took a leap of faith and moved to central Oregon in 2022 to enjoy the mountains of the Pacific Northwest with her daughter. Marilyn had lifelong friends from Wichita Falls of 80+ years that added much joy to her life – “The Falls Girls.” Some of Marilyn’s favorite things included summers at Possum Kingdom Lake, watching the Dallas Cowboys (preferably when they were winning which often seems like a distant memory), rooting for the Texas Longhorns football team, traveling all over the world, spending time with her dogs, volunteering, watching Dateline (Lester Holt’s #1 fan), playing competitive bridge or any games with friends and family. She loved greasy Tex-Mex food (think cheese enchiladas covered with queso and chopped onions), Dr. Pepper, and vanilla ice cream with chocolate sauce and THREE cherries (not 2 or 4 – had to be 3). Marilyn was always up for any adventure – anything to not be “dull and boring” and be surrounded by the people that she loved. She enjoyed countless hours sitting on the back porch in Oregon admiring nature and keeping an eye on resident birds.

Mary Walton died on her 95th birthday, the 5th of April 2025. Mary Elizabeth Knobelsdorf Walton was born on the 5th of April 1930 to Curtis S. Knobelsdorf and Orphelia Eggert in Houston, where she lived her entire life. Mary was a cheerleader at Lamar High School, class of 1948, where she met her future husband, Lawrence E. Walton, also class of 1948. Mary and Lawrence attended The University of Texas at Austin where Mary became a member of the Delta Delta Delta sorority and married Lawrence in their junior year at UT in 1951. Lawrence graduated first, through the ROTC program at UT and was sent to Korea as an officer, leaving Mary to continue her education. Mary was a true academic, transferring to Houston where she earned her Bachelor of Arts (History and Language Arts) and Master of Education degree (Counseling and Development) from the University of Houston. Mary taught in the H.I.S.D. at the newly opened Robert E. Lee High School and at Holy Ghost Catholic School. Mary then became the counselor at Mt. Carmel Catholic School. Mary raised two children, Martha and David, in the Larchmont subdivision where she, Lawrence and the kids met and nourished lifelong friends. Each summer, Mary and Lawrence escaped the Houston heat with their children, taking two and three-week camping trips through the Rocky Mountains—always with close neighbors and her brother Johnny’s family.

Kenneth Wilson passed away on February 20, 2025. He was born in Moscow, Idaho to John Andrew and Marjorie Kress Wilson, and grew up in Austin, Texas, with his younger brothers, Steve and Chris. A proud graduate of Austin High School class of 1959, Ken’s athletic talent earned him a football scholarship to Texas A&M. His academic journey took a circuitous route through the University of Texas and Texas State before he returned to A&M for his PhD in Biochemistry. He served honorably in the National Guard although his irreverence got him into trouble on numerous occasions, resulting in KP duty where he honed his potato peeling skills.