James Lamar Williams peacefully passed away on August 22, 2025. He was born on January 23, 1936, in Amite, LA, and grew up in Baton Rouge, LA, where he graduated from Baton Rouge High School in 1954. After graduating from Louisiana State University (LSU) with a Bachelor of Science degree in Geology in 1959, Lamar was accepted into the U.S. Navy, where he attended Officer Candidate School. After a few years in active duty, Lamar transitioned to the Naval Reserve and began a career in the oil and gas industry as a geophysicist for Humble Oil/Exxon. He retired from Exxon and the U.S. Navy (as a Commander) in 1994 and 1996, respectively.

Lamar was married to Marinell (Watts) Williams for 59 years, living in a variety of locations, including Pacific Beach, WA, Ventura, CA, Roswell, NM, Midland, TX, Sydney, Australia, and Houston, TX. He was an active member of Tallowood Baptist Church in Houston, TX, and enjoyed various hobbies, including Little League Baseball umpiring, wedding videography, traveling, and watching Houston Astros baseball.

Jim McCullough, age 71, passed away on July 3, 2025. He was born July 26, 1953, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, to James Dewitt McCullough Sr. and Peggy Bohannon McCullough (both deceased). He is Survived by his wife, Nora Schwartzkopf McCullough; daughter, Raleigh Palis, and husband Chris, of Spring, TX; stepson, Leonard (Trey) Svrcek, III of Austin, TX; stepdaughter, Madison Rodon, and husband Matt, of Spring, TX; and granddaughters Sailor Palis of Spring, TX, and Harper Rodon of Spring, TX.

Jim was raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and received a BA in Geology from UT-Chattanooga. He received an MS in Geology from Memphis State University. Upon that graduation, Jim began a 30+ year career as a Petroleum Geologist in Lafayette, Louisiana, and in Houston, Texas, where he lived for over 20 years. He worked for several companies, retiring from ConocoPhillips as Global Chief Geologist. He loved geology and worldwide travel with his wife, Nora.

Upon retirement, Jim and Nora built a home in the Hill Country of New Braunfels, TX. He became active in that community, becoming a Master Naturalist, and volunteering for Meals on Wheels, Tye Preston Memorial Library, The Gorge Preservation Society, and in his Waggener Ranch Neighborhood. 

Jim and Nora continued their love of geology by traveling to mineral shows around the country. Jim was an avid fan of the Tennessee Volunteers and enjoyed the friendly rivalry with the other UT (Texas), where Nora was a graduate.

By request, no funeral service will be held, as it was Jim's wish to have his ashes scattered amongst a geological site significant to him by his immediate family.

Instead of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Gorge Preservation Society and/or the Lindheimer Master Naturalist Organization. Donations may be sent to the addresses listed below. Please indicate that the donation is in memory of Jim McCullough.

Thomas Keith Bjorklund passed away on July 2, 2025, at the age of 87 in Davis, CA. Born in Albion, NE, in 1938 to Helen Kunze and Thomas O. Bjorklund, the family moved to Phoenix, AZ, where he spent his childhood. "Tommy" had fond memories of visits to his mother's family home and his many cousins in Nebraska.

Tom's math and science skills caught the attention of a Caltech admissions counselor who encouraged him to enroll. Tom was energized by the challenging academics at Caltech and played football as a tackle and blocking back. In later years, Tom liked to brag that he played in the "Rose Bowl", which is true because the Rose Bowl was Caltech Football's home field.

With a Bachelor's of Science in Geology from Caltech and then a Master's degree from the University of Texas in Austin, he was hired by Chevron in Denver, CO to work in oil and gas exploration. In Denver, Tom met and fell in love with Meredith Schlater, a recent graduate from Northwestern, and they married in 1965. His career took them to the oil fields of Vernal, Utah, and then to Los Angeles. They started a family in Ventura with their first a daughter, Kristin, then their son, Eric. They lived the quintessential Southern California lifestyle, visiting the beach, bowling, and playing cards with friends, until earthquakes and a job change sent them packing to New Orleans, LA, and shortly thereafter, Houston, TX. Tom passed along his love of sports to his kids, who he kept busy with swimming, baseball, and softball.

In 1978, a new job with Amoco Production Company took the Bjorklunds back to Denver. They all enjoyed the many outdoor activities that Colorado offered. Kris and Eric cherish the times with their father-skiing, fishing, camping, and going on long hikes in the Rocky Mountains. Once the nest was empty, Tom seized an opportunity to transfer to Amoco's international division. He and Meredith started a new life as ex-pats in Trinidad & Tobago, where they had the unique experience of being evacuated by helicopter to an offshore oil barge during an attempted political coup. Tom's work soon called him away to Pakistan and China, but Meredith had developed a newfound love for the Trinidad lifestyle. After an amicable divorce, Meridith and Tom went on to pursue their own goals.

Tom's international lifestyle introduced him to the "Hash House Harriers," a social running club. He became a diehard member with the nickname "Bleeder." After he returned to the States, he retired in 1994, and his love for academics called him back to school to earn a PhD from the University of Houston. Tom always looked forward to the Caltech reunion every year, but in 1995, it was particularly memorable because he also met Rosaria Bulgarella (Rosanne), who would become his partner for the rest of his life.

After earning his PhD in 2002, he took a position advising graduate students at the University of Houston, while also working as a consultant to oil exploration companies. Roseanne made sure Tom took time away from his work, and they enjoyed travelling together -- from cruises to Alaska and the Mediterranean, visiting grandchildren, a Caltech alumni rafting trip, and visiting her family in Italy. It was during this time that Tom, an only child, found great joy to learn that he had a half-brother, Clayton Chase, deepening his ties to his Nebraska family.

Rosanne, his children, and grandchildren had a special place in his heart, but Tom's north star was always scientific advancement, which nourished his soul and gave him purpose. He continued working and researching well into his 80s when a neurodegenerative disease diagnosis sent him to Davis, CA, where he could be close to his daughter and her committed caregiving.

He is survived by his partner Rosaria Bulgarella, his children Kris [Sandy] Borowsky and Eric [Jenny McClintock] Bjorklund, and his grandchildren Hayley, Skylar, Alex, Nick, Katie, Imogen, Asher, and Calvin.

Donald Edward Napp of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully at the age of 96 in his home with Nelda Sue, his wife of 74 years, by his side.

Donald was born on December 22, 1928, in Alton, Illinois, but moved to Texas with his parents, Edward Frank Napp and Ruby Ann Winters Napp, the next year. He grew up in Pasadena, attended Pasadena High School, and graduated from Texas A&M in 1951. After serving in Korea as an Army pilot, he returned to Aggieland to complete a Master's in Geology. As a geologist, Donald worked for Gulf and Sinclair, then retired after 23 years with Tenneco. With his wife, Nelda Sue Hardie Napp, he lived and travelled throughout the United States, South America, and Europe.

His favorite toy was his 73 Cessna Skyhawk. He was an active member of the QB Society, the Texas A&M Alumni Association, the Korean War Veterans, the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, the First Degree Masons, and the United Methodist Church. He is survived by his wife, Nelda Sue Hardie, his children, Susan Napp Willis, Edward Hardie Napp, and David Alan Napp, their spouses Charles Perry Willis, Jr. and Rose Napp, and longtime friend Pat Nichol, five grandchildren Charles Perry Willis III, Sarah Willis Cady, Zachary Willis, Nicole Napp Bordelon, and Amanda Napp, and nine great-grandchildren.

By Bob Merrill, Linda Sternbach, Craig Moore, Kristie Ferguson, and others.

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Denise M. Stone, a respected geoscientist and dedicated leader in the geological community, on May 3, 2025, in Centennial, Colorado, after a courageous battle with cancer. Read more using the Dignity Online Memorial Link: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/centennial-co/denise-stone-12.

Denise had a long and accomplished career as a petroleum geologist and consultant, primarily based in Houston, Texas. Over her 40 years in the oil and gas industry, she worked with Superior Oil International, Mobil, and Amoco Production Company, later transitioning to consulting following industry mergers and downturns. Her technical contributions spanned basins in the U.S., the North Sea, Egypt, and Colombia, focusing on the Cook Inlet Basin, Alaska, and Wamsutter Field, Wyoming. She co-authored AAPG Memoir 104, "Oil and Gas Fields of the Cook Inlet Basin, Alaska" (2013), with David Hite. Many might be interested to learn that Denise was the first American female geologist at Amoco to accomplish field geologic work in Egypt.

Denise's leadership within AAPG, the Houston Geological Society (HGS), and the Rocky Mountain Association of Geologists (RMAG) was both significant and sustained. At HGS, Denise served as President from 2002 to 2003 and previously held the positions of Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. She was the creative mind behind the name "NeoGeos" for the society's young professionals committee, which remains active and vibrant today.

She served as AAPG Treasurer from 2020 to 2022, bringing clarity to the organization's financial health through detailed reports in the AAPG Explorer, Executive Committee meetings, and presentations to members. She also contributed over twenty years to the AAPG House of Delegates, chaired the Houston delegation from 2007 to 2008, served on the Advisory Council and Publications Committee, and was Associate Editor of the AAPG Bulletin. See Link to Stone's AAPG Resume: https://www.aapg.org/about/aapg/leadership/executive-committee/member/ar.

Her academic journey began with a B.S. in geology from Texas Christian University (1979) and an M.S. from Memphis State University (1981). She later attended the Jones Graduate School of Business at Rice University (1996–1997) to expand her management expertise.

In an AAPG interview, Denise said she had a strong interest in geology during her first year of college. She decided to major in the field and was eventually encouraged by her professor to join the AAPG board. According to Stone, what sparked her interest was seeing the "organization to the solid earth beneath my feet" and "being in the field and seeing the relationships" as opposed to reading about them in textbooks.

Nowell Donovan, Provost of Texas Christian University, recalled: "Denise Stone was a marvelous, sparkling person. She was one of the most loyal supporters of the Geology Department at TCU. Her friendship with the late Professor Art Ehlman was legendary. He was her principal mentor, she the ideal student. Denise possessed an abundance of talent and was noteworthy for the sense of curiosity that drove her entire career. She was also driven by an ethic of service that led her to give back to the entire geological community, both academic and professional. When she met with graduate and undergraduate students, she was inspirational."

Kristie Ferguson, who served with her on the AAPG Executive Committee, noted: "I admired Denise for her ability to stand her ground with a calmness and determination that showed grace and wisdom. She was generous and just a lovely person… she and her dogs— I am sad to see her go."

Linda Sternbach recalled: "She was always interested in people and events at the geology societies. On hearing society news, Denise had a trademark phrase, ‘What's up with that?'. She was very smart and had a gift for detail and analysis that served HGS and AAPG well."

Charles Sternbach comments: "One of the great things about volunteer-led societies like HGS and AAPG is that you get to know people well by working closely with them on worthwhile projects. Working with Denise was a delight. She brought solutions, not problems. As the HGS Treasurer, Denise initiated the NeoGeos program to meet the needs of young professionals. When she was HGS president (2002-3), she gave me the go-ahead to organize the 2003 HGS Legends program, which featured Michel T. Halbouty and other legendary wildcatters with 500 attendees. Linda and I recruited Jack Schmitt to speak at a sold-out Guest Night (400 attendees). Denise had quite a year, and HGS flourished. Denise was loyal, creative, and courageous, and we will always remember her fondly. With a name like Stone, her geologic destiny was fulfilled."

Bob Merrill recalled: "Denise's thoughtful attention to detail and quiet strength made her an extraordinary leader and a joy to work with."

Craig Moore recalled: "In my many years working with Denise, starting with the HGS Board 2000-2001, I like to remember her as a true 'Renaissance' person who constantly strove to improve and share her knowledge not only in the earth sciences, but in all of life's activities. We worked together at Benchmark Oil and Gas, 2004-2007, on exploring for prospects in the Cook Inlet of Alaska, and later, while on a logging run in the "Cook Inlet", visiting with her just after she finished a field trip with a group of state geologists and the Geologic Society of Anchorage. After this trip, she and David Hite assembled and published their AAPG Memoir 104, "Oil and Gas Fields of the Cook Inlet Basin, Alaska".

Denise is remembered for her technical and leadership acumen and her energy, kindness, and loyalty to friends, family, and colleagues. She was an avid traveler with a special love for Rome, Italy, and also a devoted daughter to her mother, Clara, and a loving caretaker of her dogs. Denise M. Stone leaves a lasting legacy of excellence, service, and compassion. Her memory will endure in the geological community she served so diligently.

See the Wikipedia article on Denise Stone's life: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Denise_M._Stone.

Send condolences to Jim Coleman at jlcolemanjr03@aol.com.

Denise Stone on grad school field trip (center of photo)

Denise Stone (second from left) while at Amoco

Denise Stone with Michel T. Halbouty at Spindletop anniversary 2001

Past HGS Bulletin Editor, Geologist, Poet, Writer, and Business Entrepreneur Remembered by Linda Sternbach.

We want to take this time to remember one of HGS's most dedicated volunteers, Dave Orchard (1952-2025), who made a lasting mark on HGS history by becoming Editor from 1996-1997 and then continuing to publish the print magazine as the owner of Manzanita Alliances from the mid-1995 to mid-2000s. Dave served HGS as a long-term committee member on publications, including the Bulletin, and was the Guest Night chair in 2018. He is fondly remembered for his sense of humor, wit, and creative writing, including poetry.

On a personal note, Dave and his wife, Marie Orchard, have lived in Houston for 45 years, raised three children, enjoyed ten grandchildren, and sponsored two young men from Liberia who became beloved family members, college graduates, and US citizens.

Dave grew up in California and earned a BA in Anthropology at Stanford University in 1974. During college summers, he fought fires for the California Division of Forestry. His interest turned to petroleum geology, and he attended the University of Texas at Austin, graduating with an MA in geology in 1979.

When Dave got involved with HGS, he was a geologist and exploration manager at BHP in Houston. When the oil industry suffered a downturn in 1995, Dave pivoted away from geoscience and started his own publishing and translation business called Manzanita Alliances. He kept his hand in the petroleum news by acting as HGS Bulletin volunteer editor, supervising layout, and taking charge of the print and mailing issues. Linda Sternbach followed Dave as editor and worked closely with him and his staff at Manzanita from 1995 to 1998. Dave had a vision for the HGS Bulletin that included improving the cover design, adding better graphics, and using color printing. Before Dave, the HGS Bulletin was all black and white and looked like it was typed out by hand. After Dave's improvement, the HGS Bulletin became what it looks like today.

Dave was beloved by many because of his keen interest in any type of geology, his sharp mind, his analytic ability, and his sense of humor. When things went wrong, Dave would always see the humorous side of magazine publishing problems and management snafus. Then, he would crack a joke and let everybody know the situation's absurdity. In one of his Editor columns, Dave mused on "Nine Easy Steps to Longer Sentences." One Suggestion: Use weasel words as often as possible. For more effective weaseling, replace "will" and "would" with "can" and "could".

Dave's love of geology drew him back into the petroleum business in 2006. He left Manzanita Alliances and became a staff geologist at ConocoPhillips in Houston. Dave trained himself to be an expert in carbonate petrophysics. He was in charge of well operations and development in the Permian basin. In 2016, Dave joined Layline Energy. His interest was in developing shallow oil production from Pennsylvanian (Cisco, Canyon) clastic and carbonate reservoirs in two thousand active and shut-in wells on the Red River Arch, north Texas.

In 2017, Dave fulfilled a dream to purchase country property (with a pond!) near New Ulm, Texas, as a family retreat. At the same time, he renewed his interest in firefighting and joined the New Ulm Volunteer Fire Department.

Dave was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 2022 and passed away on January 7, 2025. A funeral service is planned for February 21st at St. Bartholomew Catholic Church in Katy, Texas, at 10:30 am. Friends can contact Marie Orchard at marie.orchard@gmail.com.

Obituary at https://www.schmidtfuneralhome.net/obituaries/David-Merle-Orchard?obId=34358241

On the evening of July 17, 2024, Jesse Thomas Perry, Jr., passed away peacefully at his residence in Houston, Texas, at the age of 88. Jesse was born on a small rice farm in Indian Bayou, Louisiana, a small farming community about 16 miles southeast of Lafayette and where he spent his childhood. He was a star athlete and an excellent student, earning All-State honors in basketball and graduating as Valedictorian at Indian Bayou High School in 1954.

Upon graduation, Jesse accepted a basketball scholarship to McNeese State College, where he was a four-year letterman and played on its 1956 NAIA Championship Team. In 1958, he graduated with a B.S. in Geology and received an ROTC commission as a 2nd Lieutenant. Immediately after graduation, Jesse was assigned to the Army Signal Corps and spent his two-year tour in Fort Monmouth, NJ. After his service tour was completed, Jesse returned to Louisiana and was hired as a Mud Engineer by May Brothers, a small drilling mud company in Eunice. He quickly moved up the management ranks and became district manager when his company was bought by International Mineral and Chemical Company (IMCO) and later by Halliburton. He rose within the Halliburton corporation and became the European Operations Manager stationed in England. The Mud Division of Halliburton was sold to Dresser Magcobar and became M-I Drilling Fluids, and Jesse moved back to Houston and retired several years later. He started his own company, which he maintained for several years until his final retirement.

Even in his later years, Jesse continued to play basketball, and when he returned to Houston, he began playing with a team at the Houston Club in downtown Houston. In 1996, the Houston Club team won the Olympic Gold Medal in Atlanta.

Those left to mourn his passing are his wife, Jan, and his two sons, Chan and Duane (Lisa), his sister, Dorothy Fay Brown, and his brothers, Gerald and Byron (Carolyn), his grandchildren, Jake, Brittany, Brooke, and Brina, great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Jesse T. (Bebo), Sr., and Dollie Spell Perry.

There will be a Memorial Service for Jesse at the Forest Park Funeral Home on Westheimer on with a burial at the Indian Bayou Community Church Cemetery.

Leighton Felker Young Jr., 86, of Houston, passed away June 3, 2024. Leighton was born on November 9, 1937, in Houston, Texas, to Leighton and Sarah Young. He is survived by his wife, Joan, of 67 years. Joan and Leighton met on a blind date the last few weeks of their senior year of high school.

Leighton was born and raised in Houston, Texas, and graduated from St. Thomas High School. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a degree in Geology in 1959 and attended Rice University for his master's degree. He began his career as a geologist at Austral Oil Company. He became an independent geologist and then formed the Irish Oil & Gas Company. He was a member of HGS, AAPG, AIPG, Canadian Society of Petroleum Geology, SIPES, SPEE, and many more.

At Notre Dame, he was a Golden Glove champion boxer. He was a four-year letterman and reached the finals of the Bengal Bouts each year. He was the Bengal Bouts champion in 1959 and was named the most valuable boxer. Later, he took those skills to the ice.

As a young adult, Leighton enjoyed playing ice hockey in Houston and made lifelong friends through this association. They traveled to Mexico City to play the Mexican Olympic team and played a team from Russia. His love for the game led him to work with others to establish the first youth hockey organization (HYHO) at Winterland Ice Arena. He supported professional hockey in Houston by being the goal judge for both the Apollos and the Aeros. He put his heart and soul into saving the WHA for Houston.

He was a strong man of faith and loved his family dearly. He attended Bible Study Fellowship for over 15 years. He was a member of St. Cyril of Alexandria and St. John Vianney Catholic Communities. He helped many quietly behind the scenes. One of his favorite quotes was, "There is always a way." His passion for his family was apparent in his loyal attendance at sporting events and other extracurricular activities.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Sarah and Leighton Young, his brothers, John and Thomas, and his great-granddaughter, Hendrix Vernon. He is survived by his children - Cindy Young Vernon, Melanie (Devin) Heasley, Trey (Sarah) Young, and Julie (Mike) Rucker and grandchildren Nick (Caroline) Heasley, Trevor (Candy) Vernon, Brandon (Hope) Heasley, Jared Vernon, Megan Rucker, Jake (McKenna) Rucker, Travis Rucker, Haley (Garrett) Heasley Tolivar, Leighton Young IV, Hardy Young, and May Young and 7 great grandchildren, Sisters-in-law Carole Hobbs and Jan Young, and many nephews and nieces.

Cameron Herschel Gates passed peacefully on December 15, 2024. He was born in Houston, Texas, to Edith and Herschel Gates on December 3, 1937. He grew up in Baytown, Texas, where he attended Robert E. Lee High School and was a star football player for the Ganders. Cameron excelled as a running back and linebacker and was recognized as a high school all-American football player. He was recruited by the University of Texas, among other universities, and he received a scholarship to play football at the University. While at the University of Texas, he earned both a bachelor's and a master's degree in geological sciences and courted his future wife, Elaine Bruce. He married Elaine, and they had three children: Bruce, Brock, and Lynne. Before his marriage to Elaine, he had a daughter, Sheila, who gave Bruce joy because he had an older sister. Before starting his business career, he served as a second lieutenant in the US Army. Cameron went on to have a successful career as a petroleum geologist and businessman. He started his career with Exxon. Later, he joined up with his college roommate, Jim Bob Moffet, and helped build McMoran into a preeminent offshore exploration and production company. Cameron remarried, and their union brought them his youngest child, Cameron H. Gates Jr. Cameron spent the last 13 years in the loving arms of Linda Solook, whom he loved dearly and who made his later years a blessing. Cameron is preceded in death by his mother and father, his brother, Buddy Gates, and his son, Brock Gates. He is survived by his children, Sheila Alloway, Bruce Gates, Lynne DiFrancesco, and Cameron Gates Jr., eight grandchildren, his sister, Yslita Brewer, and many nephews and nieces, as well as his loving partner, Linda Solook. Cameron lived a full life, always keeping his children close to him, teaching us most of what we know. He worked hard, played hard, and got the most out of life, and in the end, he simply ran out of juice. Rest in peace, Dad. WE LOVE YOU.

Mike Barnes passed away on November 24 at the age of 83. Always with a smile, he frequented HGS meetings, SIPES luncheons, and represented the HGS at AAPG House of Delegates meetings and events. He joined the HGS in June 1967. In 2002, he was a recipient of the HGS Rising Star Award and served as a Director on the HGS Board of Directors from 2002 to 2004. He joined the AAPG in 1972 and was proud to be a Certified Petroleum Geologist. He served on the AAPG House of Delegates for Houston from 2000 to 2007 and from 2017 to 2020. He was also a member of SIPES, GSH, and SEG.

His biography cites his experience in prospect generating and field studies, unitization, and planning in the Gulf Coast, Tyler Basin, and Mississippi Salt Basin. His bio expressly lists providing "advice on how not to screw up a project." You had to know Mike.

Mike was a founding member of the Houston lunch group, Onshore Exploration Independents, over 30 years ago, and a cofounder of the Onshore Exploration Independents 2.0 that grew out of the original OEI group.

His complete obituary follows.

It is with deep sadness that the family of Michael Allen Barnes announces his passing on November 24, 2024, at the age of 83 due to unexpected surgery complications. Born on August 19, 1941, in San Diego, CA. Birth parents were Ima Ree & Charlie Chamness. He was adopted at age 8 by Ray and Bessie Barnes of Ferris, Texas.

Mike spent his school years in Ferris and Lancaster, Texas, where he met the love of his life, Dorothy Tuley, during his senior year. They married on August 1, 1959, and shared 65 years of love and memories. His family and friends cherished Mike, known for his kindness and devotion as a husband and father. He is deeply missed by Dorothy, their children Eric and Kelly, and Bruce, who welcomed him to his heavenly home. Their little dog, Harley, is also mourning his absence.

An avid outdoorsman, Mike loved fishing and hunting, cherishing trips to Beeville, Fayetteville, and Alaska, eagerly anticipating each adventure. He earned a B.S. in Geology with minors in math and biology from the University of Texas at Arlington in 1967, supported by a major oil company scholarship during his senior year. He began his career with Texaco in Houston, where he worked in the oil and gas industry, holding several VP positions at a number of other companies in Houston. He was a member of numerous professional affiliations. Even in retirement, he continues working on his “Hackberry” project and is proud to be a Certified Professional Geologist.

Mike is survived by his wife, Dorothy; son Eric; daughter Kelly; brothers Bill Palmer & Helena; Montey & Lauretta Chamness; sister Dana Gately; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A Celebration of Life and Memorial Service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, at Garden Oaks Funeral Home, 13430 Bellaire Blvd., Houston, TX 77083, with a reception to follow. In place of flowers, donations may be sent to 2806 S. Blue Meadow Cir., Sugar Land, TX 77479, or if you wish, flowers may be delivered to Garden Oaks Funeral Home by 9:00 a.m. on December 10.

Brian Edward O'Brien passed away peacefully on Saturday, the 27th of January 2024, surrounded by his loving family. Brian was born on the outskirts of London in Wanstead, England, on the 13th of October 1933, to an Englishman, Wilfred Augustus "Tim" O'Brien, and a native Texan, Catherine Louise Perrenot O'Brien. During World War II, while his father served in the Royal Air Force and his mother volunteered as an ambulance driver, Brian attended boarding school and served as an eyewitness to history as the Germans began bombing London. He could recount memories of having to shelter in the basement during air raids and was grateful to have survived the Battle of Britain and the Blitz.

Though Brian enjoyed afternoon tea and his British grandmother's cooking, it was during a visit to his mother's hometown of Corpus Christi, Texas, as a young boy that he became captivated by the Texas cowboy, the stark majesty of the landscape, and the unique warmth of the culture. It was then that Brian decided he belonged in Texas.

In 1946, at the age of 12, Brian, his mother, and two sisters, Janice and Stephanie, left a war-torn England and sailed to the United States (he would jokingly tell his grandchildren that he came to the U.S. on the Mayflower) to live with a family in Corpus Christi. In Texas, he was raised by his maternal grandparents, Edward P. Perrenot and Julia Hunter Perrenot, along with his uncles, Robert Loyd Perrenot and Harlan Peter Perrenot, to whom he remained close throughout his life. Surrounded by relatives working in both the cattle and oil and gas businesses in Texas, Brian began shaping a dream.

Brian graduated from high school in Corpus Christi and attended Cameron Agricultural College in Lawton, Oklahoma, for two years before being drafted by the U.S. Army in May of 1953, where he served in Korea until 1955. Upon his return to the U.S., Brian enrolled at the University of Oklahoma (OU), where he met the love of his life and wife of 62 years, Sandra Ruth Lewallen. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Geology in 1958, married Sandra in 1961, and received his Master of Science in Geology in 1963.

Though Brian appeared to never take life too seriously, he had a strong work ethic, a strong faith in God, and an unwavering dedication to achieving his goals. While a student at OU, he made ends meet by working as a mud logger in the oil fields in Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Louisiana. Upon graduation, he was hired as a geophysicist and later worked as a geologist for Atlantic Richfield Company (ARCO), first in Houston and then in Corpus Christi. During this time, Brian and Sandra's first three children were born: Timothy Loyd, Mary Catherine, and Robert Edward. In 1969, the family came back to Houston, and Brian took a job with Mesa Petroleum Corporation. Soon after, Brian and Sandra would welcome twin sons, Sean Michael and Stephen Patrick.

While working for Mesa, Brian generated an oil and gas prospect south of the city of Laredo. Mesa's management turned down this prospect, and in true entrepreneurial spirit, Brian decided to pursue the prospect on his own. He gave up the guarantee of a steady paycheck, turned in the company car, and placed all his chips on the table. Despite the opinions of others, he relied on confidence in his own abilities and geological talents and began drilling. This wildcat prospect turned out to be a major discovery and led to the development of the Lobo play. In 1972, Brian, along with A.R. Sanchez, Sr., A.R. Sanchez, Jr., John Blocker, and Joe Thomas, formed the South Texas Exploration Company, which was the forerunner of Sanchez-O'Brien Oil & Gas Company (SOBOG). From 1974-1997, SOBOG, under Brian's technical leadership, was one of the most successful privately held independent oil and gas companies with numerous notable discoveries.

After dissolving SOBOG in 1997, Brian continued his career, independently exploring for oil and gas while also partnering with his son, Robert, at Saxet Petroleum, Inc. Together, they continued their exploration efforts with successes along the Gulf Coast and throughout South Texas. For many years and up until just two weeks before his passing, Brian was at the office daily working on his next prospect.

Brian was a member of many industry associations, including the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, the Houston Geological Society, the South Texas Geological Society, the Corpus Christi Geological Society, the Texas Independent Producers and Royalty Owners Association, the American Petroleum Institute, the American Association of Petroleum Landmen, and the Institute of Professional Geologists. In 1997, he was inducted into the All-American Wildcatters. Brian had a passion for generating and drilling wildcat prospects, and he enjoyed one of the best exploration track records in the oil and gas industry. One of Brian's most notable sayings was, "If you ain't drilling, you ain't sh--".

Brian never forgot his humble beginnings and early struggles, and his great success allowed him to share generously and touch the lives of those around him. Brian and Sandra were not spared hardship as their son Sean was born with a genetic condition that has required full-time care throughout his life. They were blessed to be able to provide the care Sean needed while also generously helping fund medical research and fundraising on behalf of the Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance.

Brian was a member of the Petroleum Club of Houston, the River Oaks Country Club, and The Houstonian, where he enjoyed many good times with friends and occasionally exercised. He also kept very close ties with his friends at OU. With gratitude, Brian returned OU's investment in his education several times over. Brian was an avid fan and generous supporter of the OU football team, spending years flying from Houston to Norman to catch Saturday games. He served as a member, founder, or chairman of the following organizations at OU: the Alumni Advisory Board to the School of Geology and Geophysics, the Advisory Board of the Sarkey Energy Center, the Presidential Search Committee, the Oklahoma Seed Sowers Society, the OU Foundation, and the OU Advisory Task Force on Energy. As a result of his dedication to service, personal integrity, and exceptional professional achievements, Brian was a recipient of the 1989 Regents Alumni Award and the 2016 Oklahoma Trailblazer Award, in addition to many other awards bestowed by the University of Oklahoma.

Brian was able to fulfill his lifelong dream of owning a ranch in South Texas and becoming a cattle rancher. He began acquiring land in 1975 in Maverick County, Texas, and continued to increase his land holdings over the next 30 years. Cinco Ranch, named in honor of his five children, has been a place for Brian to live out his cowboy dreams � raising cattle, hunting, and experiencing what Brian called the "mesquite mystique." He was blessed to share the ranch with his ever-expanding family, friends, and colleagues. Many joyful holidays have been spent with his family, which today includes his and Sandra's five children, ten grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren.

Brian, in true form, found ways to give to the community in South Texas. In 2000, he and Sandra funded the Brian E. and Sandra O'Brien Endowed Maverick County Scholarship Fund with Texas A&M International University to benefit Maverick County students. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Maverick County Water Control and Improvement District for 16 years and was a member of the Texas Southwest Cattle Raisers Association, Range Management Association, Beefmasters Association, the Texas Wildlife Association, and the Texas Historical Society. Brian had a special fondness for South Texas, and it will be his final resting place, as he will be buried amongst the mesquite trees in the beautiful landscape he so loved.

Brian was many things, including husband, father, grandfather "Bobo", great-grandfather, geologist, rancher, employer, mentor, colleague, friend, and philanthropist. He was a hard worker, whip-smart, and the life of every party. He was beloved by those fortunate enough to work for him and appreciated by those from all walks of life who met him in passing for the kindness he showed them. He adored his grandchildren and attended multiple sporting events, taught them how to hunt and fish, and never missed a graduation, especially if it was at OU!

Alfred Roy Danforth, 79, of Rd. 1, Cambridge Springs, Pennsylvania, died in Houston, Texas, at the Houston Methodist West Hospital on July 4th, 2024, at 21:11 hours.

Alfred was born in the City Hospital of Meadville, Pennsylvania, to Roy Alton Danforth and Charlotte Rebecca Sweet. Alfred used to be dropped off by a bridge to go fishing while his mom went to the market when he was 6 years old.  He developed a lifelong love for fishing, either with flies or light tackle.

Alfred graduated from Townville High School on May 28, 1963, and was one of twelve students who received scholarship awards for the Titusville Campus of the University of Pittsburgh.

Alfred received a Bachelor of Science in Geology from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania and attended graduate school at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, specializing in Sedimentology and Stratigraphy, Sedimentary Environment, and Petroleum Geology.

Alfred R. Danforth carried a license from the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists while being a consultant in Houston, Texas, after taking early retirement from Texaco Inc.

Al (Alfred) Danforth, as he was known professionally, started working for Texaco Inc. in New Orleans in 1973. In the late 1970s, he had a new managerial assignment with Caltex, a Texaco affiliate, in Djakarta, Indonesia, where he lived with his first family until 1983.

Al Danforth transferred back to the Texaco Inc. headquarters in Harrison, New York, during the latter part of 1983. He remarried in October of 1984, and in May of 1987, he was re-assigned to Houston, Texas, as General Manager of New Ventures in Africa. He retired from Texaco Inc. in 1998 and became a consultant.

Al Danforth was the organizer of the first Africa Symposium in Houston, Texas, in conjunction with the Petroleum Exploration Society of Great Britain (PESGB). He was a co-founder in 2002 of the highly successful African Conference that has occurred each year since the first Africa Symposium in London. The conferences held in Houston had Al as Chairman every other year, including the conference in Houston, Texas, September 11-12, 2012.

Al Danforth was an Emeritus Member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) and was awarded Honorary Life Membership in the Houston Geological Society (HGS) for his continuing efforts on behalf of the Society and its members. He was a major resource to HGS, especially to the International Explorationists group. Since his first talk to the HGS in October of 1998, “Petroleum Systems of the Kwanza and Benguela Basins, Angola”, he assisted his fellow authors closely in preparing talks about the rapidly changing understanding regarding offshore Africa. Al was chair of the Technical Programs of the International Explorationists group of the HGS from 1999-2001. He was chairman of the International HGS group from 2002-2005. He conducted a thorough investigation of regional seismic lines and joined with fellow authors in well-illustrated talks for HGS about regional tectonic offshore Africa and adjacent areas. Al shared his extensive international experience when he was on the Organizing Committee of the HGS Continuing Education Committee in the programs “The Business of International Exploration Symposium”, February 2000, and “Doing Business in Latin America Symposium, January 2002.

Alfred R. Danforth was preceded in death by his two brothers, Frank Stanley Danforth Sr. (1943-2005) and Paul Robert Danforth (1950-1959).

Alfred R. Danforth is survived by his wife, Carlota Alexandrina Jouvin Poetzscher, daughters Lori Kay Danforth, Julie Jo Pedersen, and Elizabeth Charlotte Serrano, son Jonathan Alfred Danforth, granddaughters Lorraine C. Pedersen, Elishah Serrano, and Soraya T. Danforth, grandsons Jared A. Lewis and Christopher J. Pedersen, and a great-grandson, Nikolai A. Lewis.

A Houston Memorial Service will be at the Memorial Drive United Methodist Church, 12955 Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77079, TBA.

A Pennsylvania Memorial Service and Burial will be at the New Richmond United Methodist Church and Cemetery at 29776 Highway 77, Guys Mills, PA 16327, TBA.

The burial location is at Al’s hometown church and cemetery, where his relatives have been interred going back to his great-grandfather. He had already purchased plots there for himself and his current wife, Carlota.

In place of flowers, donations to the New Richmond United Methodist Church for the Cemetery and Building Fund would be greatly appreciated. We thank you for your kindness.

Who in the Houston Geological Society hasn't heard of Peter Vail, the Father of Sequence Stratigraphy? The man who pioneered the integration of sedimentary geology and reflection seismology left a lasting mark, truly to be counted among the greats in geological science history. We are deeply saddened by his passing on December 28, 2024, at 94, but we are so lucky to be living in a world graced by his presence. When you ask almost anyone who knew him, the universal sentiment would be "He has made amazing contributions, but he was an even better person". What could be a better remembrance?

A man of Peter's stature has had his biography told on many occasions as he garnered prestigious recognition for his achievements. The Benjamin Franklin Institute Award, the Geologic Society of America's Penrose Medal, and an amusing citation to Peter on his reception of SEPM's Twenhofel Award from his thesis advisor at Northwestern, Larry Sloss, are just a few examples. Peter Vail's journey to scientific greatness is well-documented, but his greatness as a person can never be shared too much.

Peter Vail was my thesis advisor at Rice University in the early 90's. When I visited Rice to tour the Geology Department, Pete, as he was known to his many friends, greeted me at the airport as if I were family already. The Department was vibrant in Stratigraphy, with students from around the world coming to work with Bert Bally, John Anderson, André Droxler, and, of course, Vail. These professors attracted and acquired incredible datasets for stratigraphic study. Pete could not have been happier as students brought him new seismic lines in diverse settings, so that he somehow knew immediately what they were showing him. "Here is the Mid-Oligocene unconformity," "Look at that Valanginian lowland," or "This stacking pattern in Norway is the same thing we see in the Gulf Coast." He would share his interpretation genius and mentor those students so they could run with his guidance. His office at Rice was a chaos of scattered seismic lines and colored pencils, but he never turned away a student seeking help, and those interactions often had an impact for a lifetime.

While he had unparalleled stratigraphy knowledge and confidence in his models, he could be convinced to change his thinking in the face of new or contrary data. After vigorous debate, when a change seemed to win, Pete would pause and say, "It's even better!" and embrace a new model incorporating the change. He would then proceed to take the new models and apply them to other problems around the world – always giving credit to the person whose work convinced him to change. "It's even better" is a lesson for open-mindedness and inclusivity that Pete taught naturally, something that was even more valuable than sequence stratigraphy to me in my career.

Those times at Rice were incredibly special because we did not know what was to come. In 1993, while teaching in Europe, Pete hit his head when a chair collapsed and suffered a brain injury that would change his life forever. Although he lost mobility that would limit his teaching and time in the field, he worked hard to come back from the effects of his injury, always remaining upbeat, kind, curious, and generous with his time and insights. Above all, he was devoted to his family and would light up whenever talking to them or sharing news about them.  He was passionate about birdwatching, Houston professional sports, and occasional pinot noir. His former students and colleagues would regularly gather with him for "Friends of Pete" meals, celebrations, or outings, and we always felt like the lucky ones who got to share him with his family.

Pete fundamentally changed stratigraphy and subsurface data interpretation for the better. That contribution and the countless lives he influenced are a legacy that will last forever. I, and so many others whose lives were touched by this remarkable man, will never forget his spirit, humor, kindness, generosity, and genius. We are so grateful for every moment we got to spend with him and will cherish those memories. May he rest in peace, and may the love so many had for him bring comfort to his family and friends in their loss.

Houston Chronicle Obituary

Shengu Wu LinkedIn Post

Awards Given:

• Hollis D. Hedberg Award, Energy Institute for the Study of Earth and Man, Southern Methodist University (2005)
• Benjamin Franklin Medal for Earth Science (2005)
• Legendary Geoscientist Award, American Geological Institute (2004)
• Penrose Medal, The Geological Society of America, Inc. (2003)
• Sidney Powers Memorial Medal, American Association of Petroleum Geologists (2003)
• Distinguished Educator Award, American Association of Petroleum Geologists (1999)
• T. Neville George Medal, Geological Society of Glasgow (1995)
• Northwestern Alumni Merit Award (1994)
• Honorary Medal, University of Burgundy, France (1993)
• Geological Society of France Award, European Union of Geosciences Meeting, Strasbourg, France (1993)
• Twinhofel Award, Society for Sedimentary Geology (1992)
• Honorary Degree, Ghent University, Belgium (1989)
• William Smith Medal, Geological Society of London (1986)
• Distinguished Achievement Award for Individuals, Offshore Technology Conference (1983)
• Best Paper Award, Houston Geological Society (1983)
• Matson Award, Author of Best Paper, American Association of Petroleum Geologists Convention (1981)
• President's Award, Best Published Paper, American Association of Petroleum Geologists (1977)
• Virgil Kauffman Gold Medal, Advancement of the Science of Geophysical Exploration Society of Exploration Geophysicists, Annual Meeting (1976)

Don passed away in Beaumont, Texas, on December 30, 2023.  He was born in Galveston on November 27, 1936, where he first became acquainted with hurricanes and coastal geologic processes, which provided early inspiration for his interest in geoscience. After graduating at the top of his class at Lamar University in Beaumont, Don earned his MS and PhD degrees at Kansas University. A self-described "fanatical geologist", his passion for the science was reflected in his research, teaching, and consulting accomplishments.

Don's primary interest was field geology, particularly classical stratigraphy. Those of us who went to the field with him could count on long days spent measuring sections, digging up bentonites, characterizing sediments, and describing depositional environments. He did not have time for anything else. Don's outdoor kitchen consisted of a cooler full of Diet Cokes, a can opener, and a fork.

Don spent the majority of his career as a professor, first with Bowling Green University (14 years), followed by a 37-year tenure at Lamar University, where he retired as Emeritus Professor of Geoscience in 2012. He was a prolific author and editor of over 100 technical papers and guidebooks, many of which focused on the San Juan Basin of northern New Mexico.

When he wasn't teaching field camp, Don spent his summers doing field research and consulting for petroleum companies in New Mexico. He was known as "Doctor Dakota" for his work in the complex Cretaceous Dakota Formation. His collaboration with petroleum geologists resulted in the first basin-wide resource assessment of the Dakota Formation. That work remains an industry standard for integrating enormous outcrop and subsurface datasets over an entire petroleum system.

Don was active in many professional organizations, including AAPG, SEPM, HGS, NMGS, FCGS, and NMBEG, and he was a commissioner with the North American Commission of Stratigraphic Nomenclature. Highly respected by peers and students, Don was a positive influence on multiple generations of students and colleagues, and his enormous contributions to academia, teaching, and the petroleum industry are lasting legacies.

Edward Fabra Haye died on Tuesday, the 13th of August 2019, from a fall while doing what he loved to do - powerwalking in his neighborhood.  He attended McKinley Grade School and Mark Twain Junior High, as well as Central Catholic and Alamo Heights High Schools in San Antonio. He briefly enrolled at Trinity University and then transferred to the University of Texas at Austin. He graduated in 1951 with a BS degree in Geology.

He went to work for Standard Oil of Texas, now Chevron, in 1951. He started his own gravity meter company, Photogravity, in 1959.  Ed sold Photogravity in 1977 and began Benchmark Exploration, Inc., where he developed and sold oil and gas prospects to the oil industry.  Ed joined the Houston Geological Society in 1960. 

Edward is survived by his wife Janice, two daughters, a son, and five grandchildren.

This Remembrance was summarized from the Life Tributes section of the Houston Chronicle dated August 16, 2019.

Leonid Alexandrovich Buryakovsky, 89, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, November 24, 2019, in Houston, Texas. He was born on October 12, 1930, to Rebecca Pachepskaya and Alexander Gregorevich Buryakovsky in Dnipropetrovsk, Ukraine.

In 1939, World War II erupted, and Leonid's father went to serve in the Red Army to fight the Nazis. At the age of eleven, Leonid and his family were forced to evacuate their home and were resettled in Uzbekistan. Following the war, the Buryakovsky family came back to their home in Ukraine. Following graduation in 1953 from the Mining Inst the USSR, he moved to Armenia, where he worked as a geologist.  Leonid worked as a geologist and offshore engineer in the Caspian Sea while continuing his studies in geology and geophysics. In 1960, he earned a Master's Degree in geophysics, and in 1965, Leonid was invited to become a member of the Academy of Sciences. In 1969, Leonid earned a PhD in geophysics and quickly became a world-renowned expert in his field. He authored dozens of highly acclaimed geological books, journals, and research publications.

Following Leonid's immigration to the United States in 1991, Leonid continued his geological work as an academic until his reluctant retirement at the age of 78. He was an avid reader and collector of books.

He is survived by his wife Rena, a son and a daughter, five grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren.

Summarized from the Life Tributes section of the Houston Chronicle, published on Dec. 1, 2019.

Peter Cornay Smith was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, on June 6, 1928, and died on Wednesday, January 9, 2019.

He received his undergraduate degree in Geology from Tulane University in 1949 and a Master's in Geology from LSU in 1952. Peter spent his entire 33-year career with one company, Stanolind, which later became Pan American Petroleum, and thereafter Amoco (now BP). He began his career in New Orleans in 1953 as a Gulf Coast Geologist. In 1958, Peter relocated to Houston, where he spent the rest of his career. Peter joined HGS in 1959.

Pete is survived by his wife of 67 years, Hathaway "Frances", and his five children and their families.

Published in Houston Chronicle on Jan. 13, 2019

John Lawrence Boone was born in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1950 and died of metastatic prostate cancer* on Wednesday, January 9, 2019, at his home in Houston. He earned a BS degree in 1973 and an MA degree in geology in 1975 from the University of Texas, which led to careers in petroleum geology and hydrogeology. His keen mind led him to constantly read about discoveries and theories about the Earth's formation, its secrets, its resources, and the geology of places beyond Earth. 

After graduation, his oil and gas career began at Getty Oil Company in Houston. He relocated to Corpus Christi, where he worked for TXO Production Co., Tondu Corporation, and Everest Minerals. In 1986, the price of oil fell from around $30 per barrel to $10 per barrel. At this point, John changed the focus of his career to hydrogeological and environmental assessment at Conoco, Inc., GSI, RMT, ERM, and Arcadis U.S., Inc. He was a past member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, the Corpus Christi Geological Society, the Houston Geological Society, and the National Groundwater Association.  John joined HGS in 1994.

He was passionate about history – from the Greeks and Romans to the Franco-Prussian wars to World War II to Vietnam to today's tumultuous climate. He understood history and put it into the context of today's events. John was a man of many talents and interests. He piloted his V-tailed Bonanza, sailed, rode horses, bicycles, and motorcycles, played classical guitar, ran, skied, wind-surfed, kayaked, canoed, hiked, worked out, played tennis, and was an all-around handyman. John was a voracious reader of autobiographies, military history, and history in general, politics, finance, and geology books and publications. For many years, he and his wife, Marta, regularly attended performances presented by Chamber Music Houston, as well as those by the Houston Symphony and Austin Classical Guitar Society.

He is survived by his wife of 33 years, Marta, and their daughter and son.

*Marta has a Final Request:

"Men, please have your PSA level checked regularly, for your and your family's sake."

This Remembrance was summarized from a very extensive Life tribute, published in Hthe ouston Chronicle on Jan. 27, 2019

Arch Wesley Helton was born in 1928 and died on January 27, 2019.

Arch graduated from the University of Houston in 1957 with a degree in Geology. He was a member of the Houston Geological Society and the Houston Association of Professional Landmen. He founded and operated two successful companies for over 50 years. He was known for his sense of humor and love of life. He enjoyed fishing, gardening, and especially growing orchids. He is survived by his wife of 62 year,s Antoinette, their two children, and three grandchildren.

Summarized from Life Tributes published in the Houston Chronicle on Jan. 30, 2019.

James Edward Scott III, 83, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on September 6th, 2019, near his home in Houston.

Jim was a graduate of the University of Houston, where he achieved his B.S. in Geology. Jim went on to be an exceedingly successful Geologist, working for companies such as Unocal, HuffCo, and eventually his own company, Tradewinds Oil & Gas, which he operated for 30 years.

He was a highly respected Geologist, pursuing domestic and international oil & gas projects across the world.

James is survived by his wife, Brenda Ann Scott, of 48 years, five sons, one daughter, and two grandchildren.  Jim was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, and his daughter.

Summarized from the Life Tributes section of the Houston Chronicle on Sept. 13, 2019.

Dwight "Clint" Moore passed away suddenly on Tuesday, October 1, 2019.  Clint, as he preferred to be called, will be sorely missed by his many friends and the many people he touched, which includes, but is not limited to, many in the Oil and Gas Industry. Clint was a tireless, quick-thinking doer who served a breathtaking number of communities. He was a multifaceted person who excelled in everything he set his mind to do, and that was a lot.

His great passions included geology, government, helping other people, including via involvement in the Susan G. Komen organization, and diving. Clint often managed to combine his passions in much of what he achieved. He was a grassroots activist in both professional and political organizations. At his core, he strongly believed that individuals, not autocracies, could govern themselves and be the driving force behind human progress.  He did not just give lip service to his belief in a bottom-up-driven source of governance. He was a tireless volunteer and more often than not, a leader who showed his colleagues and citizens how to be involved and make things happen. 

Clint's passion for geology started at an early age as he learned geology from his father, who was an independent Petroleum Geologist.  His professional career started with his first job in 1978 at Diamond Shamrock as a Junior Geologist, subsequently rising to District Geologist and Senior Business Analyst by the time he left in 1987.  He then joined Anadarko Petroleum Corporation for around a 15-year tenure as a Senior Geologist, rising to Exploration Supervisor. He interrupted his career as a geologist in 2003 to make an unsuccessful run to represent the Texas 2nd Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, coming in 3rd out of 5 primary candidates.  From 2004 until 2006, he hung out his shingle as an Exploration-Business Analysis Consultant, which was followed by a couple of yearlong tenures at Murphy Oil as Manager of Business Development during 2007 and as the President of DiamondStar Drilling from 2007 to 2008.  Those situations were followed by more than 5 years from 2008 to 2013 as the Vice President for Corporate Development at ION Geophysical Corporation. He left ION in 2013 to co-found GulfSlope Energy, Inc.  He initially served as Vice President and Corporate Secretary, while simultaneously serving as Officer of the Corporation, as well as Chief Administrative Executive, and became Vice President – Geophysics, Geology, & Exploration in 2018.  

Clint was a widely respected geoscientist in the Gulf Coast who was an active leader in the geoscience community at the local level with the Houston Geological Society (HGS), as well as the regional level through the Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies (GCAGS), and at the national level as an Active Member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG).  He was a Licensed Professional Geoscientist in the State of Texas, a member of AAPG's Division of Professional Affairs (DPA), and has held scientific and management positions with several petroleum exploration companies during his 40-plus-year professional career. For over the last 20+ years, Clint has presented and published many talks, lectures, and speeches to his many professional organizations.

Clint's leadership and commitment in the geologic community were extensive. His service to the Houston Geological Society included Vice President (1992-1993), President-Elect (1993-1994), and being the youngest president of the HGS (1994-95), after which he also served on the HGS Nominations Committee. His impact and active participation in HGS were recognized by his colleagues. He received HGS's highest awards, including the President's Award (1993), Distinguished Service Award (1996), and Honorary Life Membership (1999). 

In addition, Clint was a leader for more than 30 years at the regional level for the Gulf Coast Association of Geological Societies. This was recognized in 2019 when he was awarded the Distinguished Service award for his work bringing high-quality technical presentations to the GCAGS annual conventions. Previously, he served on the GCAGS Board of Directors (1994-1995), the AAPG Advisory Council Representative for GCAGS, and often as a GCAGS Convention Session Chair (2019, 2015, 2014, 2012).

Clint's participation on the national-global level included representing GCAGS and HGS as a Delegate in the AAPG House of Delegates (HoD). He was a member of the HoD's Constitution and Bylaws, Credentials, Future Directives and Nominations, and Election committees. He was awarded both the Distinguished Service Award and the HoD's highest award of Honorary Membership.

His service to American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG) included membership on the AAPG Executive Committee as AAPG Treasurer (2004-06); AAPG Investment Committee Chairman (2009-2013) and Vice Chairman (2007-2010), Audit Review (2004-2006) and Career Services Committee Vice-Chairman (2009-2013) and Chairman (2006-2009 and 2013-2015), Budget Review Committee (2004-2006), All Member Survey Committee (2003-2006), Constitution & Bylaws Committee Chairman (1999-2000), and finally, AAPG Foundation Military Veterans Scholarship Program Committee (2013-present)

Clint's AAPG colleagues and peers recognized his efforts when he received six Certificates of Merit (2016, 2013, 2006, 2004, 1999, 1997), DPA Distinguished Service (2010), DPA Distinguished Service (2001) and John W. Shelton Search and Discovery award (2011), House of Delegates Long Service Award (2012), and AAPG Honorary Member of the House of Delegates Awardee (2018).

Clint was also a mover and shaker in Republican politics, both in Texas and on a National level. Clint combined his diving, government, geology and the petroleum industry passions when, in October 2005, NOAA's National Marine Sanctuary Program Management appointed Clint as the "Oil & Gas Production Representative" to the Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC) of the Flower Gardens Bank National Marine Sanctuary, and was he reappointed in January 2008 to the term limit of a four year term that ran through May 2012. In March 2014, he was reappointed to a new 3-year term through March 2017 and reappointed in May 2017 to a new 3-year term through December 2020. He was elected in May 2015 to a two-year term as Chairman of the Sanctuary Advisory Council (SAC) and re-elected again as SAC Chairman to an additional two-year term that ended in May 2019. While serving on this citizen Council, Clint was elected by the Council to serve as Chairman of the 1st Boundary Expansion Working Group, as well as the Charter Revision Subcommittee, and as Co-Chairman of the current Boundary Expansion Working Group.

In the government arena, in June 2006, Texas Governor Rick Perry appointed Clint as a Committee member from Texas of the Interstate Oil & Gas Compact Commission (IOGCC), where he served the State of Texas on the IOGCC's Energy Resources, Research, and Technology Committee. He was elected by the Texas State Republican Convention six times in a row from 1996 through 2016 to serve as a Republican National Convention Delegate.

On a State level, he served as the Texas Senate District 7 Representative on the State Republican Convention Rules Committee 13 times from 1994-2018, as well as the

State Republican Executive Committeeman - Senate District 7 from 2004-2012 and the State Party Assistant Parliamentarian from September 2019 to his death. He served as a former Republican Senate District Chairman for Senate Districts 7 and 15. He was honored in 2012-13 as State Party Volunteer of the Year – Senate District # 7, and in 1994-95 as State Party Volunteer of the Year – Senate District # 15. From 1989 to the present, he has served as the Executive Committee Member, and Precinct # 520 and # 110 Chairman. Clint was quite a lobbyist for all the causes he believed in. He once commented that he felt the best thing he had done in his life was to help shepherd through the 2019 Texas law requiring Texas insurers to cover diagnostic breast cancer screenings at no additional cost to patients. He also lobbied on behalf of establishing and reauthorizing the Texas Geoscience Act, which established the Texas Board of Professional Geoscientists (TBPG) and therefore licensing in Texas of Geoscientists who are engaged in work that protects public health, safety, welfare and the state's natural resources. In the most recent Sunset episode, Clint was solely responsible for pushing the reauthorization through the governor's office against significant resistance.

In Harris County, Clint was the Assistant to the Harris County Republican Party Chairman, 2004-2008 and 2012-14. He was a member of the Conservative Coalition of Harris County and a Member of the Board of Directors and Candidate Review Committee.

Clint's service did not stop with professional societies and government. He served as Director of the North Harris County Regional Water Authority from 2000-2002, where he is credited with negotiating favorable water rates with the City of Houston. He also served as the Director of the Spring Lakes Homeowners Association, 2003-2007 (President 2006-07), and was the Director of Harris County Municipal Utility District # 249 (2004-2007).

He was an avid diver with over 450 dives and 100 to the Gulf of Mexico Banks and Platforms. He belonged to the Texas Gulf Coast Council of Diving Clubs, where he was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award – 2018, and held multiple PADI Certifications for Open Water, Advanced Open Water, Enriched Air (NITROX), Manta Ray Awareness (YAP), and Maldivian Manta Ray Conservation.  From 1997-2001, he served as the Production Advisor on IMAX Film "Ocean Oasis," a journey into the Baja California desert and Sea of Cortés.

For his extended family, he was the President from 1997-Present of the Rodeham Moore Descendants Association.

Clint graduated from Cranbrook College Preparatory School in Michigan. He served as the 1999 and 2004 Reunion Committee Co-Chairman. He went on to study at Southern Methodist University (SMU) in 1974, and he graduated in 1978 with a dual degree in geology and business administration, with a minor in economics. He was the Vice President and President of the SMU Alumni Association – Houston Chapter from 1982-1986.

Clint is survived by his wife, Diana Moore. To honor Clint, and instead of flowers, Diana asks that people make donations to the AAPG Foundation's Military Veterans Scholarship Program.  Clint was particularly proud that he was able to help set up that program. To do this, please go to https://donate.aapg.org/Core/eDonation.aspx/ and from the “Designate Fund” select "Military Veterans Scholarship Program" and please dedicate your donation in memory of Clint Moore.

George attended Victoria Junior College (now the Victoria College) on a basketball scholarship and earned an Associate of Arts degree. He then attended Lamar State College of Technology (now Lamar University) on a basketball scholarship. While a junior in mechanical engineering, he took his first course in geology as an elective and changed to a geology major, science being his first love. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Geology in 1955.  He received a Master of Science degree in Geology with a minor in biology from the University of Houston in 1957.

He went to work for The Atlantic Refining Company as a micropaleontologist and stratigrapher.  George worked two years with Skelly Oil Co. as an exploration geologist, then he joined the Brazos Oil & Gas Division of The Dow Chemical Company. He worked 18 years with Dow and resigned as Southern Region Exploration Manager to form Gordon Exploration Co, Goliad Operating Co, and The Raisin Corporation. He was active in Oil & Gas exploration and production until his death.

George is a past member of the Geological Society of America, American Institute of Professional Geologists, Society of Economic Paleontologists and Mineralogists, and a current Emeritus member of the American Association of Petroleum Geologists, and Emeritus member of Houston Geological Society, and served on the Executive committee of the Board.

George's love for geology never faded. Outside of travel and his family, his passions were fossils, rocks, bones, or anything else very old that you could find in the ground. He was a master of micropaleontology. In his spare time, he enjoyed creating models and replicas of fossils.

George is survived by Shirley, his wife of almost 65 years, one son, one daughter, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

Kenneth "Ken" Eugene Nemeth, 66, passed away June 14, 2018, in Houston, Texas. He was born  June 15, 1951, in Hamtramck, Michigan, to Eugene and Patricia Anne (Ryder) Nemeth.

He attended St. Rita’s in Detroit from first through ninth grade and Clintondale High School for tenth through twelve grade. High school activities and achievements included: basketball, track, captain of the football and wrestling teams, National Honor Society, Quill and Scroll Society, Latin Club, Varsity Club, Key Club, Student Council, and Salutatorian. He was inducted into the Clintondale Hall of Fame in 1999 in recognition of outstanding athletic achievement.

At Albion College in Albion, Michigan, he majored in geology and completed a B.A. degree in 1973. He graduated with honors after surviving Division II NCAA football, where he co-captained the team his senior year. Activities and honors include Sigma Nu fraternity, Sigma Gamma Epsilon, Omicron Delta Kappa Society, All MIAA Honorable Mention Football 1972 (Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association), and Albion College Varsity Award.

While completing an M.A. degree in 1976 at the University of Texas, Ken was a teaching assistant in the Department of Geological Sciences and a research assistant at the Bureau of Economic Geology. He turned in his thesis on a Monday, showed up for work at Shell Oil in New Orleans on Tuesday, and attended his first Mardi Gras the following week. From 1976 to 1980, he worked for Shell and then worked for Louisiana Land & Exploration in New Orleans.

Ken met Sandra Olson in 1976 at the Parc Fontaine Apartments, where they both lived. Sandra was a teacher at Archbishop Blenk High School. They married on June 11, 1977, at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans.

By fall 1981, Ken went to work for BlueSky Oil & Gas Company in Houston and later worked

for Adobe Resources. In 1991, he moved to Dallas, Texas, to work for Browning Oil Company. Schlumberger hired him in Dallas and moved him back to Houston in 1999.

Ken joined the Houston Geological Society (HGS) in 1981, the Dallas Geological Society (DGS) in 1991, and reactivated his membership in HGS in 2001.

A few of his activities and honors:

American Association of Petroleum Geologists (AAPG): AAPG Imperial Barrel Award Committee, 2009 – 2018; Candidate for Vice President of Sections, 2012-2013; Vice Chairman, Imperial Barrel Award Committee, 2009 – 2012; IBA Medal 2010, 2012, 2013; Houston Geological Society Alternate Delegate, 2012; AAPG honors: Certificate of Appreciation, 2007, 2008; Certificate of Recognition, Technical Session Judge, 1998; Employment Committee Chairman, 1997 National Convention; Dallas Geological Society Alternate Delegate 1996-1998, 1998-2000; Dallas Geological Society, Delegate Vice-Chairman 1998-2000.

Houston Geological Society (HGS): Nominations Committee, 2015-2018; Past President, 2015-2016; Chairman, Nominations Committee, 2015-2016; President, 2014-2015; President-Elect, 2013-2014; Honorary Membership, 2010; Office Committee Chairman, 2007-2010; Outstanding Distinguished Service Award, 2007; Guest Night Committee, 2005-2007; Treasurer, 2004-2006; Treasurer-Elect, 2004-2005; Finance Committee Chairman, 2001-2005; Website Committee, 2003-2004; President’s Award, 2005; Rising Star Award, 2003; Entertainment Committee, Annual Shrimp Peel 1981-1985, Chairman 1983-1985; Employment Committee, 1986-1991; Service Award, 1982-1983, 1983-1984, 1984-1985; Certificate of Appreciation, Shrimp Peel, 1982, 1983;

Dallas Geological Society (DGS): Newsletter Editor, Awards Committee Chairman 1998-1999; Co-Founder and Steering Committee Chairman, 1998; former Board Member, and Instructor, Ellison Miles GeoTechnology Institute, Brookhaven College, Dallas, Texas 1998-1999; Outstanding Service Award, 1998; Recognition & Awards Chair, 1998-1999; Past President, Nominating Committee Chairman, 1997-1998; President, Newsletter Staff/Editor, 1996-1997, Host Society for AAPG Convention; President-Elect/Secretary 1995-1996; Employment Committee 1991-1995, Chairman, 1992-1995.

Gulf Coast Association Geological Society (GCAGS): Certificate of Appreciation, 2013; Honorary Member, 2012; Continuity Committee Chairman, 2010-2012; Continuity Committee, 2006-2012; Awards Committee, 2008-2011; Past President, 2008-2009; Author of President’s Handbook for GCAGS Presidents, Best Practice passed on to AAPG Sections; President, 2007-2008; President-Elect/Vice-President, 2006-2007; Section Point Coordinator and Committee for AAPG Imperial Barrel Award, student exploration contest, 2008. Publicity Committee GCAGS Convention, 1982.

Southwest Section American Association of Petroleum Geologists (SWAAPG): President, 2007-2008; Vice President, 2006-2007; Candidate for President, 1999; Southwest Section Secretary, 1998-1999; Dallas Geological Society Delegate, 1997-1998; Dallas Geological Society Alternate Delegate, 1996-1997.

Ken loved playing tennis. He attended multiple tennis tournaments across the Gulf Coast and participated in the World Oilman’s Tennis Tournament (WOTT) for over 35 years, held at the Houston Racquet Club. 

Surviving him are his wife, Sandra; daughter, Samantha; brother-in-law, Foster Olson; sister, Debbie and her husband, Dan Doyle; nephews, Josh and Kyle Doyle; brother, John and wife, Denise

Nemeth, niece Stephanie and her husband, Michael Lee, niece Jennifer and her husband, Curtis Ferguson.

The funeral mass was held on Friday, June 22, 2018, at St. Mary’s church, St. Clair, Michigan. He was buried in St. Mary’s Cemetery in St. Clair, Michigan.

Instead of flowers, contributions may be made to AAPG’s Imperial Barrel Award (IBA), American Heart Association, or the charity of your choice in memory of Ken Nemeth.

Imperial Barrel Award Donation Site:

https://archives.aapg.org/eDonation/Core/eDonation.aspx

(Choose "Imperial Barrel Award Fund" in the drop-down choice for Primary Fund)

John Brewster Sangree, Jr. was born in Camden, New Jersey, on February 21, 1929. He died peacefully and painlessly on November 14, 2018, while surrounded by his large, loving family. John started out at Renselaer Polytechnic Institute and Rutgers University, getting his B.S. in 1951. He earned his PhD in Geology at Northwestern University in 1959. He married Joan Appleton Sangree in 1951 and enjoyed an ardent love affair with his lifetime sweetheart. Together, they raised a family during the graduate years and early company days, which was no easy task. Joan passed away in 2012 and has been sorely missed.

John worked for Exxon for 30 years as a geologist/geophysicist in research and exploration. He traveled to over forty countries and was involved in discoveries in Chad, Niger, the Ivory Coast, offshore China, Thailand, and the North Sea. He worked closely with his dear friends Pete Vail and Bob Mitchum, and their research team developed the foundation for sequence stratigraphy analysis, which changed the way geologists analyze seismic data. Following retirement, he performed consulting and conducted classes.

John developed an interest in watercolor painting and combined that with his love of Chinese art and creating many beautiful paintings which are cherished by his family and dear friends.

John is survived by his loving children, Ian Sangree, Jill Chouffot, Paul Sangree, Carol Vykukal, Kathleen Womansong, and Amy Swartz, and by their wonderful spouses. He also leaves behind many friends, fourteen admiring grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.

Michael (Mike) Alexander, 88, passed away on October 26, 2018. He was born in Syracuse, NY, grew up in Mt. Vernon, NY, graduated from high school there, and went to sea at age 17 in the Merchant Marines. Mike was fortunate to win a scholarship to Colorado School of Mines, enabling him to work his way through school by means of various summer and campus jobs. He graduated in 1952 as a Geophysical Engineer and began his 38-year career with Humble Oil (now ExxonMobil) as a trainee on a seismic field crew. After various office assignments, a "temporary" assignment finally brought him to Houston in 1966. He was assigned to a digital seismic processing team, and then to a newly-formed gravity/magnetics section. After retirement in 1991, he began a second career as a geophysical consultant, primarily with IGC in Houston.

While working in New Orleans, Mike married Barbara Wilkins.  Barbara died in 2009. Mike is survived by two sons and daughter-in –laws and two grandchildren. He also leaves behind his precious friend Margie Abel and first cousins Jeanne Hansen, Joan Taylor, and Peg Guy.

He enjoyed outdoor activities, especially running and hunting.