Harold Gardner Wolf

Harold Gardner Wolf, died at his home in San Antonio on Thursday, August 9, 2007, at the age of 92. "PawPaw," as he was known and beloved by his family, friends, grandchildren and great grandchildren, was born in Fort Worth on June 14, 1915, the eldest of three children, to Blanche Gardner and I. A. Wolf. He is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Virginia Brosset Wolf, daughters Barbara Kincaide Todd of San Antonio, Carolyn Forney Billy of Houston, and Peggy Blair Jim of Katy, nine grandchildren, seven great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and by his sisters Pauline Rae Krumholz and Barbara Wolf. Raised in Breckenridge, Texas, Harry attended the Breckenridge School System, where in high school he played varsity football, baseball, track and tennis, becoming a state tennis champion. After high school, Harry attended the University of Texas at Austin, where he majored in mechanical engineering and remained an avid Longhorn fan. He then served as a detective on the homicide squad of the San Antonio Police Department. In 1940, Harry met the love of his life, Virginia, whom he married in 1943. After leaving the police department he enlisted in the United States Air Force in June of 1942, following the raid on Pearl Harbor. As an Air Force pilot during the war, Harry flew the Burmese Hump, a dangerous route over the Himalayan Mountains between India, Burma and China, carrying troops and supplies. Despite the frequent loss of airplanes and pilots over the "Hump," Harry successfully completed 89 flights, for which he received numerous commendations. After the war, he was employed as a pilot for Slick Airways, the first nationwide air freight business, founded by the late Earl Slick. He completed over 20, 000 flight hours without incident. After retiring from the airline, Harry went to work for local oilman, businessman and philanthropist Charles F. Urschel, Jr., serving as his private pilot, trusted assistant, and advisor. Harry later worked for Forney Oil, managing its hill country ranch near Blanco, Texas. Following his retirement in 1982, Harry enjoyed spending time with his wife Ginny, and attended countless school concerts, plays and sporting events involving his grandchildren and great grandchildren, all of whom he adored. Harry was a Master Mason of Harlandale Masonic Lodge Number 1213 and a Shriner 32nd degree with the San Antonio Scottish Rite Temple. Harry never met a stranger, and had a story to tell for every occasion. He led a full and exciting life, remaining active until a week prior to his death. PawPaw will be sorely missed, but never forgotten as a father, grandfather, great-grandfather and a passionate envoy of the human spirit.