Gary was born September 6, 1952, in Austin, Texas, to Roland and Myrtle Childress. He graduated from Lanier High School in 1970, where he met his beloved, Alice Pittsford, in German class, and they were married in 1973 at Redeemer Lutheran Church. Gary earned his Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Engineering and Master of Science in Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin.
Gary began his career with Quintana Petroleum in Refugio, and he and Alice settled in Victoria, where they lovingly raised their family. After 25 years with Quintana, he joined TC Oil, a position that seemed tailor-made for his experience, knowledge of the land, and the family’s rich history. Gary truly loved the work he did, and his colleagues and peers respected him deeply. He dedicated 23 years to TC Oil, working full-time until the time he got sick.
He and Alice shared a beautiful life together, raising three children, welcoming eight grandkids, and celebrating 48 years of marriage just before her courageous journey with cancer came to an end. Gary’s passions reflected the fullness of his spirit—he was an avid supporter of the University of Texas, especially Longhorn football, and he loved hunting and fishing and cherished the relationships that enriched those experiences. He had a deep appreciation for music and the fine arts, and he championed their importance in Victoria. Gary’s faith was a cornerstone of his life, and First English Lutheran Church was a source of strength and community to him.
Gary was blessed to find love again with Doris Shorck Wuensche, a partner who shared his faith, his season of life, and a deep devotion that bound them together. In their nearly three years of marriage, they wove their families and friendships together and found joy in each other’s company.
Gary was preceded in death by Alice. He is survived by his wife Doris; daughter Kristen Hendrix and husband Carlton of San Antonio; son Stephen Childress and wife Gina of Klein; and daughter Bethany Hanson and husband Joe of Austin. He is also survived by his sister Carrie Prudhomme and husband Tom of Katy; brothers-in-law, Glenn Pittsford and wife Wanda of College Station, and Gordon Pittsford and wife Linda of Austin; and eight grandchildren – Sarah, Julia, and Caroline Hendrix; Carter, Jack, and Grace Childress; Harrison and Rose Hanson; as well as numerous beloved nieces and nephews.
There will be a visitation at First English Lutheran Church on Saturday, September 20, from 9:00 to 10:30 a.m., followed by a Celebration of Life service at 11:00 a.m. and a graveside service at 2:00 p.m. at Memorial Park Cemetery. Pastor Chip Reynolds will officiate.
Memorials can be made to First English Lutheran Church (516 N Main St, Victoria, TX 77901), the Victoria Symphony Endowment Fund (405 E Loma Vista, Victoria, TX 77901), or the Victoria Bach Festival (PO Box 1086, Victoria, TX 77902).
Words of comfort may be shared at www.rosewoodfuneralchapel.com
