Jerald Daniel Markman

He was born on October 22, 1940, in Meridian, Texas, to Phillip and Ruby Markman. Dan graduated from Meridian High School in 1959, where he was tri-captain of the 1958 football team, and active in the 4-H Club. In addition, he somehow found time to work in his father’s Purina Feed Store & Hatchery.

Dan earned a collection of degrees including a BS in Political Science from the University of Houston in 1965, a BS in accounting from Southern Methodist University, and an MBA from the University of North Texas in 1971.

For 30 years Dan served in the United States Air Force Reserve, retiring with the rank of Lt. Colonel. He was also a liaison officer recruiting for the Air Force Academy and was active with the Selective Service, helping mold the next generation of service members. Dan was stationed at Elmendorf AFB in Anchorage, Alaska, and later at Ellington Field in Houston. He also attended meetings at the Pentagon and the Strategic Air Command.

In 1974, after a successful career in real estate investment, Dan entered the insurance business in Houston and earned his LUTCF and ChFC designations. He taught accounting and economics part time at the University of Houston, and later taught business courses at Houston Community College. In 1986, in need of another challenge, he ran for the Texas State Legislature.

Dan was a lifelong Texas high school and University of Texas Longhorn football fan. He often watched games from the comfort of his favorite chair at his farm in Meridian, Texas. The farm was home to a flock of Delaine Merino fine wool sheep and Maggie, one of his champion Wire Fox Terriers, who loved to chase the sheep. Dan also hosted car club meetings which showcased his collection of classic and antique cars, including a 1948 Frazer and 2019 Bentley. His favorite music, 1950s rock and roll, would play in the background.

Dan was a serious history buff, with a particular interest in the Civil War, and he toured every major battlefield. Dan traveled extensively including every state in the United States as well as multiple countries in Europe, Canada, Mexico, Peru, and China.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents, his brother Mickey, and his sister Marilyn. He is survived by his cherished wife, Doylene, who shared his later adventures; sons, Samuel, Robert and Jeffrey, who inherited his sense of humor and intellect; his brother Jack; nieces, Amy and Shelli; as well as numerous cousins, two stepsons, two stepdaughters, 16 step grandchildren and 2 step great grandchildren.