Kaya "Rocky" Erdil

Kind and affectionate were two words that were often used to describe Kaya “Rocky” Erdil who passed away at the age of 85 on Monday, September 26, 2011, in Houston, Texas. He was born in Izmir, Turkey to Cavit and Murside Erdil.

Kaya attended the University of Houston where he received his Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering. He continued his studies and went on to receive his Master's at Columbia University in New York City. It was while he was living in New York City, that he met his lovely wife Marleen, a former airline stewardess. Kaya loved to tell the story of how they met when he was a passenger on one of Marleen’s flights.

Working as a civil engineer for various engineering companies is what occupied most of his work life which he did enjoy. Among one of his projects was the 1964 New York World’s Fair. However, it was a true honor to him to have worked on the extensive renovation of the Statue of Liberty while at Amman Whitney. Kaya also spent several years working in Izmir with his beloved brother, Orhan.

Kaya had great love for his hometown of Izmir, Turkey where he would return summers to sit with friends and discuss life in the old world. He had a great love for all of his family. They meant so much to him. A phone call or visit from a family member was something he always treasured. It was those simple things that made him happy.

Later in life Kaya returned to Houston where he retired. He was happy to spend time with his family. He enjoyed Sunday drives and short trips with his wife and daughter. He also felt lucky to have met his good friend Mehmet in his golden years. Often they would sit in the backyard smoke cigars and solve the world’s problems.

Kaya or Rocky as he was affectionately known to friends was also known for that sparkle in his eye and always a smile on his face. This is what made him so loveable. He had a love for life and for people and it showed. He didn’t even have to know a person to make them feel welcome. Some store merchants would love to see Rocky coming as he was always kind to them and took the time to talk to them. He often volunteered to help take families around who had sick relatives in the hospital. These are just some of the few gestures that emanated from his kind heart. Even though he did have several business accomplishments, his greatest achievements were his gestures towards others and his daughter Deniz.

Kaya is survived by his wife, Marleen and their daughter Deniz, his sisters, Nebahat Erdil and Necla Ozpercin and brothers Altan and Orhan Erdil along with a loving extended family.

In Memory of Rocky Erdil, a Fund has been established at H.I.S.D. Parker School Music Department.

Anyone wishing to contribute please make the check out to:

H.I.S.D., Cinda Medlin, Pres. Foundations

ATTN: Parker School Music Department –Rocky Erdil

Mailed to: H.I.S.D. Foundation Dept.

44 West 18th Street

Houston, TX 7092

Attn: Gerri Sanchez