Marlin, Falls Co., Texas

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Jack Richard Blann

May 28, 1926 – February 27, 2009

Jack Richard Blann, age 82, of Marlin, passed away on February 27, 2009.

Visitation will be held at Adam's Funeral in Marlin on Tuesday, March 2 from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. Graveside services will be held Wednesday, March 4 at 1:15 p.m. at Calvary Cemetery in Marlin. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, March 5 at 1 p.m. at Fair Haven United Methodist Church in Houston, Texas.

Jack was born May 28, 1926, in Marlin and was an honored WWII and Korean War veteran, decorated with a Purple Heart, Legion of Merit, two Bronze Stars, and the Combat Infantry Badge. He was active in the Army Reserves for many years, retiring with the rank of colonel. After the war, he returned to Texas A&M University, where he had been a proud member of the Fightin' Texas Aggie Band and received a degree in Civil Engineering. In 1949, he joined Humble Oil Company, eventually transferring to Houston with Exxon Production Research. During this time he traveled the world as a consultant and instructor, specializing in artificial lift technology where he holds a patent, and made dear friends worldwide.

Jack was awarded many professional honors, including recognition from S.P.E. for Outstanding Leadership. He was recognized by the Texas Board of Professional Engineers for being a P.E. for over 50 years. He was a member of Pioneer Oil Producers and A.P.I., organizing the A.P.I Gas Lift Task Group. He was a past president of the 9th Infantry Division Association and a Diamond Member of the Century Club of A&M. He was proud to receive the Marlin Distinguished Citizen Award and was a longtime member of the Masons. Jack was an active member of Fair Haven United Methodist Church since 1967. He was an avid writer who published his own textbooks, poems, and papers. A Private's Diary, an account of his experience as an 18 year old serving in the 9th Infantry Division during WWII, was written during the war and published in 1997, receiving high praise from all who read it. He will be remembered for his delicious barbeque, candy making, and family Christmas cards. His humility, generosity, integrity, and loving nature enhanced the lives of those he touched and will always be cherished.

Jack is survived by his childhood sweetheart and beloved wife of 62 years, Lavonne Fischer, also of Marlin; children Bette Prochaska, Paul Blann and wife Debbie, and Mary Cooper and husband Randy. He is also survived by his five grandchildren; David Prochaska and wife Sherry, Leslie Prochaska, Bonnie Cooper Denbo and husband John, Ross Cooper, and Drew Prochaska; along with his sister Jane Curry and husband Jim and brother Clint and his wife Hilda.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to Fair Haven United Methodist Church Bell Choirs, the 9th Infantry Division Association, or the Texas A&M University Music Department.