William Isaac "Bill" Wohlfeld '52 |
William Isaac (Bill) Wohlfeld, 89, passed away peacefully May 13, 2023 at his home in Midland, TX. Bill was born on February 21, 1934 to Nathan and Helen Coenver Wohlfeld in Dallas, TX. Bill graduated from Jesuit High School and then attended and graduated from Southern Methodist University (SMU) with a B.S. Mechanical Engineer Degree in 1957.
Bill had a long and successful career as a mechanical engineer. He began his career with The Western Company in Midland, TX. after graduating from SMU in 1957. In 1959, Bill worked for the Hughes Tool Company in Dallas, TX. He returned to Midland in 1964 to begin a 20 year stint working at Drilco Industrial. From 1994 until his retirement, Bill was employed by Canadian based, Mining Technologies International Inc. Bill's working career would take him all around the world as he focused mainly on mining operations. He became known in the industry as an expert on "big hole" drilling technologies. His wife, Dora Jean, was also able to travel with him on many of his assignments. They enjoyed traveling the world together and took delight in the souvenirs and memories that they collected along the way.
Bill married Dora Jean Riggs on September 12, 1970 at St. Ann's Catholic Church in Midland, TX. He is survived by sons, Mel G. Riggs and wife Marsha of Midland; George E. Riggs and wife Glenna of Ft. Stockton; Wesley M. Riggs and his partner Billy Meeks of Euless; granddaughter Suzanne Liscum and husband Jason of Houston; grandsons, Zane M. Riggs of Midland, Casey W. Riggs and his partner Levi Estes of Lamesa and great granddaughters, Vivian Liscum of Houston and Genevieve Riggs of Midland. He was preceded in death by his wife, Dora Jean; his brother, Bob Wohlfeld, sister, Natalie Stewart and his grandson, Frazier Riggs.
It was Bill's wish that he be cremated and his ashes buried next to Dora Jean at Erath Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Dublin HWY 377 in Stephenville, Texas. A private family graveside gathering will take place at a later date. Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory in Midland. Online condolences may be made here.
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