Robert Terry Coomes

Terry Coomes was born in Moberly, Missouri to Charles Coomes and Lois Cooper Coomes. His father died when he was young and later, his mother married Kester E. May. Terry graduated from Moberly High School and received a degree in Civil Engineering from The University of Kansas. Terry married Patsy Ann Kreeger on January 25, 1959, in Topeka, Kansas.

Terry spent his career working for the U.S. Government, first as a “stream gauger” for the U.S. Geological Survey, and soon after for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In 1969, Terry’s work brought the family to Texas, where they started a new adventure as Dallas Cowboys fans. After a short time in Little Rock, he advanced to Chief of Engineering for the Fort Worth office of the Corps of Engineers, a position he served in with distinction until his retirement.

Terry provided unwavering support and encouragement for his family, including standing side by side with Pat as she completed her Master’s and Doctoral degrees. He was very active in his church, and had an endless variety of hobbies. His favorite activities were woodworking, gardening, cooking, and traveling with Pat, with their favorite destination being the California wine country, and especially the Mendocino coast. He loved playing tennis and golf. He especially loved spending time with his four grandchildren.

Terry was modest about his accomplishments, but those who were closest to him knew him to be loving, creative, and supportive, qualities that he honed throughout his entire life. He loved people and was always willing to jump in and share his gifts and talents wherever needed.

Terry is survived by his spouse of 58 years, Pat, his children Jill Coomes, Terri and Steve Stigler, Mark and Brenda Coomes, and four grandchildren: Maddie, Abby, and Robby Stigler, and Katy Coomes.