Jack Watzke, 88, passed away in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Monday, January 14, 2019. Born in El Paso, Texas on April 9, 1930 to parents Lizzie and Albin Watzke. He grew up at the Smelter and attended Dudley Elementary and El Paso High. At age 18 he enlisted in the Navy, serving one year active duty aboard the U.S.S. Des Moines followed by service in the Naval Reserves.

After his honorable discharge, he attended Texas Western College, aka UTEP, graduating in 1953 with a degree in Electrical Engineering. He worked for El Paso Natural Gas Co. for 33 years and was Chief Mechanical Engineer of the Pipeline Design Division at the time of his retirement.

In 1952 he married his high school and college sweetheart, Tommie Jean Fox. They were blessed with a marriage lasting over 66 years.

Jack was an active member of St. Paul's Methodist Church where he served on every board, was a dedicated member of the men's ministry as well as teaching 3rd and 4th grade Sunday School classes alongside his wife, Tommie. As an avid collector of classic Mustangs, Jack often drove in parades and exhibited at car shows. He was a member of the Mustang Club, Horseless Carriage Club, El Paso Republicans, Genealogy Society and The Texas Society of Mechanical Engineers.

Jack's life exemplified love. First and foremost was his love for and faith in Jesus Christ. His spiritual legacy offered the assurance that we will one day spend eternity with him in heaven. As a devoted husband, father and grandfather, he was known as a wise counselor, problem solver, encourager and a true gentleman.

Jack was preceded in death by two children, a son, Tommy and a daughter, Carol Collins. Also, his parents, brothers Dick and Donald, and sister Betty Anne Reavis. He is survived by his wife Tommie, son James (Michelle), daughters Janet Pool (Darryl), Tricia Whitler (Jason), grandchildren, Sara and Aaron Collins, Rachel Ostervold (Berent), Drew Watzke, Melissa Whitler and sister Helen Jean Bolling along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Graveside services will be held Tuesday, January 22, 2019 at Fort Bliss National Cemetery at 10:30 a.m. A memorial service and reception will follow at 11:30 a.m. at St. Paul's Methodist Church located at 7000 Edgemere Blvd. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a charity of your choice or Clarehouse at 7617 S. Mingo, Tulsa, Oklahoma. 74133. The funeral home website is: Moorefuneral.com