Lawrence Brock

Lawrence E. Brock, age 95, died peacefully in Topeka, Kan., on Feb. 18, 2008. Funeral services will be held 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, at St. Thomas Episcopal Church in Wharton. Visitation will be today, Saturday, Feb. 23, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Wharton Funeral Home.

Born in Odessa, Mr. Brock was the son of Lawrence E. Brock and Beatrice Oldham Brock. The husband of Lorena Rowan Brock, he was a graduate of the University of Oklahoma with degrees in petroleum engineering and geology. He started his career with Gulf Oil in 1934 and subsequently specialized in unitization with Standard of Indiana Oil & Gas Company. Mr. Brock later became the vice-president of production with Amex Petroleum Company. In 1966 he and his wife, Lorena, established an independent oil and gas company, Brock Exploration Corporation, with the company headquarters in New Orleans, La. Brock Exploration expanded into 12 states as a developer and acquirer of oil and gas properties. His career in the oil and gas industry reflected his adventurous and explorative spirit, as well as his keen intelligence and business acumen. Mr. Brock was an active member of IPAA, the International Petroleum Association of America, and was committed to the advancement of petroleum engineering and geology through his support of the University of Oklahoma. He leaves a legacy of integrity and generosity to his family, friends and community.

In addition to his wife, Lorena, he is survived by his children, Lawrence R. Brock, Monet Brock, Susan Philbin and son, Stephen Philbin, deceased; grandchildren, Tom Brock and Robin Prewett and four great-grandchildren; sisters, Lou Brock Kerr and Martha Brock Schwitzer.

He was a unique individual who will be remembered for his honesty, his inquiring and incisive mind, his determination and resiliency, and his strong presence.

An active member of his church, a donation may be made to St. Thomas Episcopal Church, 208 Bob-O-Link, Wharton,TX 77488.

Funeral services are under the direction of Wharton Funeral Home.