Virgil Howard Wells

Virgil Howard Wells, 98, passed from this life on November 4, 2009. Virgil was born in Detroit, MI on July 30, 1911; the only child of Howard Wells, chemist, and Edna Wells, teacher. He earned BS and MS degrees in engineering from the University of Michigan. He then had a long and successful career with the National Carbon Division of the Union Carbide Corporation until his retirement in 1968. He has been married to his wife, Mary for 72 years. She survives him. Together they raised three children and resided in Ohio, West Virginia, New York and Connecticut. During WWII he contributed to the Manhattan Project, an achievement of which he was modestly proud. After retirement, Virgil and Mary moved to Florida which they enjoyed for 30 years. In 2000 they moved to Oklahoma City to be near their eldest son; Jim Wells, MD and his wife Mary. Virgil is also survived by son Robert S. Wells, MD and wife Barbara of Denver, Co; by daughter Margaret Shaw and husband Stanley of Bay Village, OH. Virgil also leaves 5 grandchildren, 3 with spouses, 3 step grandchildren and their spouses; 5 great-grandchildren and 7 step great-grandchildren. Despite a prolonged terminal illness, Virgil was blessed with intelligence and mental sharpness throughout his long life, and was a generous provider for his family. His family wishes to thank all his care givers, especially L. Scott Owen, MD, daughter-in-law Mary, Faith Hospice and his special friend Pam Chevez. Visitation will be Sunday from 8am to 5 pm, Monday from 8am until 9pm at Guardian West Funeral Home. The family will greet friends from 6 pm until 8 pm on Monday. Funeral service will be held 1:00 pm Tuesday, November 10, 2009 at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.