Roger D. Zornes

Born in 1946, Roger lived a life filled with curiosity, creativity, and a deep love for those around him. His dry sense of humor and love for a good party brought joy to many, while his quiet moments of reflection—often spent in the garden or with a paintbrush in hand—revealed the thoughtful soul beneath his lively sometimes gruff exterior.

A man of many passions, Roger cherished his family above all else. He was a loving husband to Martha J. Zornes, and a proud father to his sons, Michael and Joseph. Roger took immense pride in his family’s accomplishments, and his legacy lives on in the love and wisdom he imparted to them.

Roger’s early years were difficult. He was born in Harlingen, Texas and his father died when he was young. He and his brothers, Mark and Darryl, and sister, Theta, were raised in Houston. From an early age, he decided he would attend college and “make something of himself.” He joined the military because they promised all the food he wanted, a safe place to sleep, and money for college when he was discharged.

Roger served his country with honor in the U.S. Air Force from 1964 to 1968 before embarking on a successful career as an electrical engineer. He spent much of his military service in Minnesota fixing airplanes being flown in Vietnam. After discharge, he attended the University of Houston and received a BS in Electrical Engineering with a minor in English Literature. He met and married his beloved wife of 53 years in Houston and was transferred with his work to Austin, Texas in 1983.

His professional journey took him through esteemed companies such as Schlumberger, Eagle Signal Control, Arrowsmith Technologies, Hall Kinion, and Motorola, where his sharp mind and dedication left a lasting impact. In 1997, he and Martha began buying rental property around The University of Texas and remodeling them extensively. They rented to many groups of UT students who always knew they could call on them if there was a need. Beyond his work, Roger found his greatest happiness in the simple pleasures of life—finding funny or ironic stories to share with his wife, painting, reading the classics, tending to his garden, and sharing quiet moments with his aways faithful dog, Riley.

When he retired, Roger finally had time to pursue his passion for artistic endeavors. He wrote a script and filmed a short movie which was entered into a local film contest. He began painting and would often disappear for hours with a paintbrush and a glass of wine. He especially liked doing large canvas abstracts and smaller “forgeries” of the masters. He and his wife traveled to many countries to enjoy the culture and the food. In his last few months, he spent hours enjoying “happy dog videos” on the internet.

While not a fan of formal religions, Roger was a deeply spiritual man with his own private relationship with God. He often thanked God for a beautiful sunset or tree, and sometimes for that perfect parking spot. He believed strongly in treating others with fairness and was upset by others’ lack of kindness and concern, especially toward children.

Roger is survived by his wife of 53 years, Martha Jordan Zornes, and his sons, Michael and Joseph Zornes and Michael’s wife Jennifer. He is also survived by his brother, Mark Thomas Zornes. Roger was preceded in death by his parents, Mark Thomas and Betty Jean Littrell Zornes, his brother, Darryl Zornes, and his sister, Theta Zornes.

Those who knew Roger will remember him for his sharp wit, his love of travel, and the way he found peace in the kitchen—cooking was his Zen time. Whether attending gatherings or enjoying solitude in front of a canvas, he embraced life with warmth and authenticity. Roger’s memory will be cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him, and his spirit will continue to inspire those he leaves behind.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Roger, the family requests donations be made to a charity that serves the needs of children, especially regarding food insecurity.