James Martin Sigler

Col. James “Jim” M. Sigler, United States Army (Retired), age 89, of Houston, Texas, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2025, embraced by the love of his devoted family. His passing marks the end of a life defined by honor, wisdom, integrity, and unwavering devotion to his family and country.

Born in Denver, Colorado, Jim graduated from Englewood High School in 1954 and attended the prestigious United States Military Academy at West Point. There, he earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in engineering in 1958 and was then commissioned into the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers—a calling that would shape the rest of his life. Around this time, he met the love of his life, Marilyn McKibbin Sigler. Their marriage of 67 years was a lasting example of partnership, commitment, loyalty, and shared strength.

Jim’s pursuit of excellence continued with a master's degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He later returned to his alma mater to teach Fluid Mechanics at West Point from 1965 to 1968. There, he inspired and mentored a generation of future Army leaders, not just in engineering, but in life.

Throughout his distinguished military career, Jim served across the globe—including assignments in Europe, Southeast Asia, the Pentagon, and the U.S. Army War College. His decorated military career spanned more than two decades. He concluded his service as the District Engineer for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Galveston, Texas, from 1979 to 1982. His leadership, integrity, and technical expertise left a lasting impact on both the Army and the communities he served.

After retiring from the military, Jim brought the same dedication to the private sector, working for Bovay Engineers and then Brown & Root in Houston. He remained professionally active until age 73, leaving behind a legacy of engineering excellence and leadership.

Jim’s impact and interests extended beyond his resume. He was a man of deep curiosity and genuine wonder. He loved to learn and to teach. He had a lifelong love for automobiles, snow skiing, and world travel. He was a passionate student of history, particularly Roman history, often found with a book in hand, eager to expand his understanding of the world.

Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Marilyn; his children James Sigler II, Dr. Cynthia Sigler, Robert and wife Megan Sigler; and his grandchildren Patrick, Charles, Joseph, Ryan, Andrew, Erin, Jamie, Jennifer, Christabel, and Stacey; close extended family Jane, Bill, Jodie, William, and Carissa Sigler, as well as many lifelong friends and neighbors.

A viewing will be held on Friday, May 9, 2025, from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at American Heritage Funeral Home, 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas, followed by a Celebration of Life service on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 12:00 noon, same location, with a reception to follow. Family and friends are warmly invited to celebrate Jim’s remarkable life, unwavering service, and the legacy he leaves in the hearts of all who knew him. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Jim’s honor to a veteran’s charity of your choice.