Rufus "Joe" Mask

Rufus was born to Lois McCain Mask and Rufus Worthy Mask on July 22, 1929, in Alexander City, Alabama. Upon graduation from Alexander City High School, he turned down a scholarship to Auburn University and joined the U.S. Navy, serving during the Korean War as an Aviation Machinist. After being stationed at Cabiness Field in Corpus Christi, Texas, he met Margaret Lillie Zdansky, his beloved wife of 56 years, who went to her heavenly home in 2006.

Before settling in Houston, Margaret and Rufus lived in Corpus Christi, Sinton, and Beeville. Rufus had a successful career in the natural gas industry, serving as a Pipeline Superintendent and Pipeline Consultant for Houston Natural Gas/Entex and CenterPoint Energy. As a member of St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, he served on the Men’s Club for several years, where he enjoyed participating in many activities to support church ministries.

Rufus was an avid sports enthusiast and loved camping and fishing. He studied the almanac for the best fishing and always enjoyed planning fishing/camping trips with his family members (especially his mother). His favorite sports were baseball and football, and he could tell you anything you ever wanted to know about professional and collegiate players/teams past and present. Of course, his favorite teams were the Houston Oilers, Houston Astros, and Texas A&M Aggies. Rufus enjoyed listening to music of all genres, and he liked creating original songs that included things about his childhood.

Rufus was a strong, kind, loving father, uncle, brother, husband, and friend. His knowledge and guidance were the foundation for his immediate and extended family. He leaves his daughters Vicki Swenson, Elaine Boullion, Barbara Johnson, and their families, including one granddaughter, four grandsons, and seven great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his caring and loving companion, Margie Randolph.

Visitation will be at Pat H. Foley Funeral Home, 1200 W. 34th Street, Houston, TX. on Thursday, January 13th at 1:00 PM, followed by a Memorial Service at 2:00 PM. On Saturday, January 15th, Visitation at 9:00 AM, Rosary at 9:30 AM, and Memorial Service at 10:00 AM, followed by interment will be at Seaside Funeral Home and Memorial Park, 4357 Ocean Dr., Corpus Christi, TX.