John F. Roorda Jr.

John F. Roorda Jr. (Jack) died unexpectedly on September 6, 2011 in Houston, Texas. John was born on January 16, 1923 in Evanston, IL. John is survived by his wife and best friend of 62 years, Elizabeth M. Roorda, their children; Beth Barker (Bill), John Roorda III, and Ann Hollis as well as his six loving grandchildren; Jack, Brian, Nic, Mike, Alex and Sarah. He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Sadie Roorda, sister, Fran Smith, and son-in-law, Steve Hollis.

John was a proud veteran of World War II having served as a Navy Lieutenant in the Pacific. He received his PhD in Chemical Engineering from Purdue University. Upon graduating, John went to work at Shell Chemical Co. His career with Shell spanned 34 years. He retired in 1983 as Vice President of Economics and Planning with Shell Oil Co. After retiring, he volunteered his time with the Executive Service Corp advising various non-profit organizations. He also volunteered his time at the Spring Branch Club and enjoyed the many dear friendships he made there. John treasured his faith and was a member of St. Cecilia’s Catholic Church for 40 years

John will forever be remembered as a man who had an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and who was always willing to share his talents. He was the “Go to Guy” when others needed help or advice, whether it was teaching his family life lessons, putting people in touch with the world around them, ordering Chinese food and pronouncing the dish in correct Mandarin, sharing literature, or some jokes, he was always there. He always had a story to tell and never ceased to entertain. John will be greatly missed.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, September 11, 2011 from 5pm to 8pm with a Vigil at 7pm at Memorial Oaks Funeral Home. A Funeral Mass will be held on Monday, September 12, 2011 at St. Cecilia Catholic Community Church at 11am. Interment will be at 2:30pm at Memorial Oaks Cemetery.