James C. Fennell

Jim was born on the 23rd of January 1929, in Port Arthur, Texas. From youth onward he could accomplish anything he set his mind to do. He achieved the rank of Eagle Scout at the age of fifteen. He was a good listener which contributed to his having many long lasting friendships and was affectionately called “Dooney” by friends and loved ones. A reserved man, he had high integrity along with a good sense of humour and was a champion and teacher of right over wrong. Jim loved his family, was true to his Alma Mater, a patriot to his country and a follower of Jesus Christ. A man of strong character, perseverance and willing self sacrifice; Jim always gave his best to employers and for his loved ones.

After graduating from Texas A&M University in July 1950 with a B.S. degree in Civil Engineering, Jim served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and was honourably discharged as a first Lieutenant in May 1953. He attained the rank of Captain while serving in the Army reserves. After serving his country, he worked over thirty years for the Gulf Oil company and held management positions at their Vengref Refinery in Puerto la Cruz, Venezuela before being promoted to Manager of Engineering for the Alliance refinery located on the Mississippi River, fifteen miles south of New Orleans. In 1971, he commissioned Alliance as one of the last new oil refineries to be built in the U.S. He was a member of the Alliance site’s innovative management team for almost fifteen years keeping the facility safe, reliable and profitable.

Jim and his loving wife Charlotte celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary on the 7th of October 2011 with their family. They loved travelling together around the U.S. and the world but even more so when they were able to bring family together in Sapphire Valley, NC and for momentous occasions.

He is survived by his wife Charlotte M. Fennell; daughters, Anne Walters and Mary Kay Mohrmann, and their husbands, Gregory Walters and Charles Mohrmann; grandchildren Caroline Walters, Sarah Walters, Travis Walters, Susannah Mohrmann and Cooper Mohrmann; sister, Karen Helm and brother-in-law, Michael Helm and nieces, Bonnie Hlavinka and Kerry Antona; and numerous first cousins. Jim was predeceased by his parents, the late, Ivah and James Calvin Fennell, Sr.

A memorial service, in his honor, is to be conducted at noon on Saturday, the 14th of January, in the Sanctuary of Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church, 6035 South Fry Road in Katy, where Rev. Dean Pogue, Pastor, is to officiate.

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests that contributions be directed to the James C. Fennell Memorial Fund at Grand Lakes Presbyterian Church, 6035 S. Fry Rd., Katy, TX, 77450; or to the charity of one’s choice.