Ralph Cecil Pendarvis

Born in Houston, Texas, in 1932, Ralph graduated from Charles H. Milby High School in 1950. Shortly after, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy and was stationed in Guam. From 1952 to 1953, during the Korean Conflict, he served aboard the U.S.S. Oriskany as a Mechanic 2nd Class.

Following his military service, Ralph returned to Houston and began working as a draftsman for Transco Gas Pipeline Corporation. By 1971, he had advanced to a professional engineering role with Associated Pipe Line Contractors, a career that took him and his family to Fairbanks, Alaska, during the construction of the TransAlaska Pipeline in the 1970s. His employment with various companies, including Reading & Bates and Michael Curran & Associates, led him to other projects across the U.S. and internationally, and though his job often required travel, he always returned to Houston, remaining deeply connected to his roots. He retired as Executive President of Associated Pipe Line Contractors in 2012 at the age of 80 and began his own consulting firm, ArPee Pipeline Consulting Associates. In 2015, he took a position as Manager of Engineering at MPG Pipeline Contractors, where he worked until fully retiring at the age of 90. He was a member of the Texas Pipe Line Contractors Association and the American Pipe Line Contractors Association.

In 1955, Ralph married Billie Joyce Allison, the love of his life. They shared nearly 58 years of marriage until her passing in 2013. A devoted family man, he was a dedicated husband, father, and role model. He coached Little League baseball, attended school events, and most recently, cherished time spent with his great-grandsons. His home was the gathering place for joyous holidays and family celebrations.

Ralph had many interests outside of work. He enjoyed creating stained glass art, watercolor paintings, and pen and ink drawings. A skilled cook and an avid golfer, he also had a passion for University of Houston sports and restoring classic cars. In his later years, he found joy in attending swap meets and estate sales and being a life member of Katy VFW Post 9182. Known for his sharp wit and storytelling ability, he had a knack for delivering jokes in a way that made them feel like his own experiences—only revealing the humor at the very end.

He is survived by his children: Randall Pendarvis, Lisa Gonzales and her husband Ray, and Jodi Pendarvis, all from Katy, Texas. His grandchildren: Lindsay Hanson Lee and her husband Brian, Christina Hanson, Jacob Zawadzki. Step-grandchildren: Steven Gonzales, Jessica Moreno, Michael Gonzales, Rene Gonzales and Alexis Gonzales. His great-grandchildren: Roman, Cesar, Trinity, Martha, and Parker. Step-great-grandchildren: Kim, Steve, Logan, Layla, LeighAnn, Cheyenne, Chloie, Zeniyah, Marlene, and Zade. His sisters: Jacquelynn Earles and Linda Binion, along with several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Billie, and his parents.

Services will be held at Katy Funeral Home, 23350 Kingsland Blvd., Katy, Texas 77494:

● Visitation: Friday, March 7, from 4-8 p.m.

● Funeral: Saturday, March 8, at 11 a.m.

● Graveside Service: To follow at Katy Magnolia Cemetery, 6801 Franz Rd., Katy, Texas 77493

Afterwards, his immediate family plans to gather from 1-3:30 p.m at Midway Barbecue, 6025 Hwy Blvd, Katy, Texas 77494. Everyone is welcome to join.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The 100 Club, Ronald McDonald House, or VFW Post 9182.