Robert Gordon Roenigk

Robert Gordon Roenigk, Sr., a beloved husband, father, and esteemed member of his community, peacefully departed this world, surrounded by his loving family on October 12, 2023.

He was born on April 23, 1926, in Houston, Texas, to Raymond John Roenigk and Mary Correne Roenigk (nee Daughtery). Robert's early years were spent in Johnstown, PA, where he resided with his grandparents after the loss of his mother. At the tender age of eight, he moved to Houston and attended school in the Missouri City area, where his exceptional academic talents shone.

In 1942, at the age of fifteen, he proudly graduated from San Jacinto High School.Following graduation, Robert worked for Hughes Tool Company before answering the call to duty by joining the Army Reserve in 1944. He was soon thrust into active service as an Infantry Replacement with the 84th Division, Company F, 333rd Infantry in Germany during World War II. On March 9, 1945, he received the CIB Medal for his bravery under hostile fire while serving in an Army Infantry Unit. Tragically, on March 21, 1945, he was wounded, earning him the Purple Heart Medal and the Bronze Star for his heroic actions in ground combat. Honorably discharged as a Sergeant in 1946, Robert swiftly returned to his pre-military employment at Hughes Tool Company.

Determined to pursue higher education, he enrolled at Carleton College in Northfield, Minnesota, in the fall of 1946. However, during his sophomore year, he contracted a service-related illness, compelling him to withdraw from school. Unfazed by this setback, Robert enrolled at the University of Texas in Austin in the fall of 1949, majoring in actuarial mathematics. It was during this time that he married his next-door neighbor, Georgie Law, in Houston. In June 1952, Robert graduated from UT with Summa Cum Laude honors and embarked on a successful career in employee benefits and retirement planning, working for a Houston-based firm.

In 1961, he relocated his family to Dallas, where he joined The Wyatt Company, an international firm of actuaries and employee benefit consultants. Eventually, Robert returned to Houston as the manager of their Houston office until his retirement. During his tenure with The Wyatt Company, he achieved the distinction of becoming an Enrolled Actuary and a member of several professional organizations.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Robert had a deep passion for sports, with a particular fondness for softball. In 1981, at the age of 55, he played a pivotal role in founding the Harris County Senior Softball League.

Over the next 35 years, Robert actively participated in the league, competing in tournaments and events across the country. He cherished the camaraderie of being part of a team and the thrill of competition. He continued to compete in the National Division of the HCSSL well into his late eighties, serving as a coach, player, and friend to many. In recognition of his outstanding contributions to senior softball in the state of Texas, Robert Roenigk was honored with induction into the Texas Senior Softball Hall of Fame in 2012.

Robert Roenigk was a man of integrity, kindness, and unwavering commitment. He adored his family and leaves behind cherished memories for his daughters, Melba Wolf (Cliff) of Sugar Land, and Laura Butterfield (Ken Frakes) of Los Angeles, as well as his son, Robert Jr. of Needville. Robert also leaves behind five granddaughters and one grandson, six great-grandchildren, one great-great-grandson, his brother-in-law, Gordon Law (Diane), and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father and mother, his wife, Georgie, along with his daughter-in-law, Marcia Hardin Roenigk, his brother Ray John Roenigk, and his sisters, Louanne Day (Ted) and Lyndell McDowell (Joe).

A Celebration of Life will be held at St. Matthew Lutheran Church, 5315 Main St., Houston, Texas 77004 on Saturday, October 28, 2023, at 11:00 a.m.