Ronald was born on July 18, 1940 in Dallas, Texas to Earl and Nora Pringle.He is preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Nora Pringle, and brother, William Michael Pringle. Ronald is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Teresita Amacio Pringle; children Carrie Lynn Pringle and son-in-law, James Pringle; Step-daughter Tracy Rivera, Step-sons Felix Rivera, Jr., and Phillip Rivera; daughter’s in law Rica Rivera and Laura Rivera; grandchildren James Lloyd Cole, Joseph Ronald Cole, Tianna Faye Pringle, Antonio Lorenzo Rivera, Stella Charlotte Rivera, Scarlet Lila Rivera, Syrus Felix Rivera, Lucy Marie Rivera, and Anne Claire Rivera; nephews Christopher Michael Pringle, Aaron Klenke and Michael Klenke.
In 1963, Ronald joined the Army, 1st Battalion, 3rd Artillery, 2nd Armored Division (Hell On Wheels). From April 23rd, 1964- October 24, 1965, he was awarded the Army Commendation Medal as Specialist Five (E-5) for meritorious service with exceptional performance of duty earning him the highest credit upon himself and the military. He retired from the military in 1969. This was only the beginning of a much decorated and celebrated life for Ronald. He started a career in the oil and gas industry when he became employed by CAMCO, Inc. as a mailroom employee. He developed a great interest in mechanical drafting. And because of his natural talent for art and science, was able to work his way up to draftsman, assisting fellow engineers with their designs. The end result of Ronald’s dedication and passion for design and innovation landed him as one of Texas’ most recognized engineers and inventors in the oil and gas industry. With over 130 patents awarded for oil well and valve designs, he earned a spot on the “Top 100 Inventors” list in Texas and was declared by Houston Mayor Robert Lanier to be remembered on Inventor’s Day, every year on February 27th, for achieving Inventor of the Year in 1996. Because of his numerous achievements and recognition by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Houston Intellectual Property Law Association, President George Bush commissioned Ronald Earl as Admiral in the Texas Navy February 13, 1997. He continued his career in mechanical design until his retirement with Schlumberger in the early 2000’s. In his retirement years, he took great pride in providing consultation services to major oil companies and lending his innovative creations. That is who Ron was.
In Ronald’s personal life, first and foremost, he was a big Dallas Cowboy fan. He also loved gardening, painting, and journalism. He had a great love and respect for science and nature and was devoted to the National Geographic channel. He enjoyed spending time with family while indulging in the finer foods Houston had to offer- including a Whataburger or chilidog every now and then. He genuinely wanted to show people a good time and wanted to make his family happy. We are proud of Ronald and his lifetime achievements- they did not go unnoticed. We love you.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, July 27 at Earthman Southwest Funeral Home from 4:00 pm-8:00pm.
On Wednesday, July 28th, a formal procession to Houston National Cemetery from Earthman Southwest Funeral Home will depart the funeral home at 10:15 am with police escorts.
Upon arriving at Houston National Cemetery, guests that have not joined our procession may line up in Lane 2 after our funeral cortege has entered. If in the event of any late arriving guests, please check in with the office for directions to which shelter our graveside services will be held at. Graveside services will be held at Houston National Cemetery at 11:15am with military honors.
Tribute and words of condolence can be left at earthmansouthwest.com.
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