BENJAMIN CURTISS MAHANAY
April 30, 2022
On April 30, 2022, Benjamin Curtiss Mahanay peacefully left the confines of earth at his home, surrounded by friends and family. Curtiss was born on February 21, 1933, in Electra, TX as the second of three children born to Bert Mahanay and Leona Geraldine Mahanay. He attended Electra public schools, graduating high school in 1950. Following high school graduation he enrolled in Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, TX.
After one semester he followed his calling and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During the course of three years of active duty he spent one year on the Korean front, first as an infantry man and second in the tank battalion as a gunner and driver. He was decorated with two Purple Hearts through acts of bravery and valor.
After separation and honorable discharge from the Marines, he located in Sundown, TX where he met and married the love of his life, Melva Don Tipping. The shared their vows June 24, 1955, a marriage that endured 66 years until the day of his death. While living in Sundown, he joined the Sundown Masonic Lodge and maintained membership until he passed.
Curtiss and Melva relocated to Lubbock, TX where he enrolled at Texas Tech University, graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1958. While a student there, he began employment for Great Western Drilling Company as a rough neck during the summers. Upon graduation, he began full time employment for them and continued to work for this organization until his retirement in 1993 after 35 years of continuous devotion and employment. During the course of his employment, he climbed the company ladder through all the engineering positions, transferring back and forth between Lovington, NM, and Midland TX. The family moved permanently to Midland in 1978 where Curtiss accepted the Production Engineer position for Great Western. A highlight of these years was the design, installation, and operation of several very successful waterfloods. Finally, he held the position of General Superintendent where he remained until retirement.
During their 39 years in Midland, TX, He was a proud member of the Petroleum Club, Midland Country Club, Ranchland Hills Country Club, Plaza Club, PBPA (Permian Basin Petroleum Association) and the Oil Show Board of Directors.
After retirement Curtiss and Melva remained in Midland where he thoroughly enjoyed working on antique clocks, pocket watches, slot machines and generally anything that needed repairs, as well as traveling and spending time with friends and family. The den and often the kitchen table was often an array of tiny parts and intricate tools of the trade. His skills were often sought out as he demonstrated and attained expertise in these lost arts, although he simply considered them challenging hobbies. Ultimately Curtiss and Melva moved for the final time to Robert Lee, TX in 2017, joining their son in his final years. The Mahanay's were welcomed members The Forgiven Ministries in Bronte, TX & Bible Baptist Church in Robert Lee.
Anyone who was fortunate to meet Curtiss would not walk away without having formed a strong opinion of him, as he possessed great intelligence, quick wit, honestly, tenacity and larger than life personality. He was beloved by his friends and family who will always remember his belly laugh, love of entertaining, hardworking drive, devotion to his family and steadfast compassion he extended to everyone whose path he crossed. He also revered all the dogs and cats that were blessed to have he and Melva as their pet parents, a love that his children and grandchildren inherited and carry on to this day.
Curtiss was proceeded in death by his parents, sisters, uncles, and aunts. He is survived by wife, Melva Mahanay of Robert Lee, TX, Son Curtiss Lee Mahanay of Robert Lee, Daughter Donna Kay Paul (Greg) of Robert Lee, TX, Grandson Nathaniel Curtiss Paul (Alys) of Midland, TX, Granddaughter Sarah R'Chelle Paul (Seddrick) of Gaylord, MI, Great Grandson Nigel Eon Paul of Midland TX; as well as several cherished nephews Robert and Dean Vinyard, Michael Coffman, niece Debra Hutchins, cousins, extended family and beloved friends.
The family would like to extend their greatest appreciation to friend of the family, Paula Telford, who tirelessly helped them through the difficult end of life experience with her steadfast loving care and grace. Accolades also belong to High Plains Hospice, Texas Home Health Care, and the Veteran's Administration; each of these organizations were invaluable providing caring for Curtiss as he made the great egress.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donation to your favorite charity in his name. More importantly, remember Curtiss and the family in your thoughts and prayers, and have a big belly laugh in his honor.
Online condolences can be made at www.shafferpioneer.com. Services are under the direction of Shaffer Funeral Home.
April 30, 2022
On April 30, 2022, Benjamin Curtiss Mahanay peacefully left the confines of earth at his home, surrounded by friends and family. Curtiss was born on February 21, 1933, in Electra, TX as the second of three children born to Bert Mahanay and Leona Geraldine Mahanay. He attended Electra public schools, graduating high school in 1950. Following high school graduation he enrolled in Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, TX.
After one semester he followed his calling and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During the course of three years of active duty he spent one year on the Korean front, first as an infantry man and second in the tank battalion as a gunner and driver. He was decorated with two Purple Hearts through acts of bravery and valor.
After separation and honorable discharge from the Marines, he located in Sundown, TX where he met and married the love of his life, Melva Don Tipping. The shared their vows June 24, 1955, a marriage that endured 66 years until the day of his death. While living in Sundown, he joined the Sundown Masonic Lodge and maintained membership until he passed.
Curtiss and Melva relocated to Lubbock, TX where he enrolled at Texas Tech University, graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1958. While a student there, he began employment for Great Western Drilling Company as a rough neck during the summers. Upon graduation, he began full time employment for them and continued to work for this organization until his retirement in 1993 after 35 years of continuous devotion and employment. During the course of his employment, he climbed the company ladder through all the engineering positions, transferring back and forth between Lovington, NM, and Midland TX. The family moved permanently to Midland in 1978 where Curtiss accepted the Production Engineer position for Great Western. A highlight of these years was the design, installation, and operation of several very successful waterfloods. Finally, he held the position of General Superintendent where he remained until retirement.
During their 39 years in Midland, TX, He was a proud member of the Petroleum Club, Midland Country Club, Ranchland Hills Country Club, Plaza Club, PBPA (Permian Basin Petroleum Association) and the Oil Show Board of Directors.
After retirement Curtiss and Melva remained in Midland where he thoroughly enjoyed working on antique clocks, pocket watches, slot machines and generally anything that needed repairs, as well as traveling and spending time with friends and family. The den and often the kitchen table was often an array of tiny parts and intricate tools of the trade. His skills were often sought out as he demonstrated and attained expertise in these lost arts, although he simply considered them challenging hobbies. Ultimately Curtiss and Melva moved for the final time to Robert Lee, TX in 2017, joining their son in his final years. The Mahanay's were welcomed members The Forgiven Ministries in Bronte, TX & Bible Baptist Church in Robert Lee.
Anyone who was fortunate to meet Curtiss would not walk away without having formed a strong opinion of him, as he possessed great intelligence, quick wit, honestly, tenacity and larger than life personality. He was beloved by his friends and family who will always remember his belly laugh, love of entertaining, hardworking drive, devotion to his family and steadfast compassion he extended to everyone whose path he crossed. He also revered all the dogs and cats that were blessed to have he and Melva as their pet parents, a love that his children and grandchildren inherited and carry on to this day.
Curtiss was proceeded in death by his parents, sisters, uncles, and aunts. He is survived by wife, Melva Mahanay of Robert Lee, TX, Son Curtiss Lee Mahanay of Robert Lee, Daughter Donna Kay Paul (Greg) of Robert Lee, TX, Grandson Nathaniel Curtiss Paul (Alys) of Midland, TX, Granddaughter Sarah R'Chelle Paul (Seddrick) of Gaylord, MI, Great Grandson Nigel Eon Paul of Midland TX; as well as several cherished nephews Robert and Dean Vinyard, Michael Coffman, niece Debra Hutchins, cousins, extended family and beloved friends.
The family would like to extend their greatest appreciation to friend of the family, Paula Telford, who tirelessly helped them through the difficult end of life experience with her steadfast loving care and grace. Accolades also belong to High Plains Hospice, Texas Home Health Care, and the Veteran's Administration; each of these organizations were invaluable providing caring for Curtiss as he made the great egress.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donation to your favorite charity in his name. More importantly, remember Curtiss and the family in your thoughts and prayers, and have a big belly laugh in his honor.
Online condolences can be made at www.shafferpioneer.com. Services are under the direction of Shaffer Funeral Home.
BENJAMIN CURTISS MAHANAY
April 30, 2022
On April 30, 2022, Benjamin Curtiss Mahanay peacefully left the confines of earth at his home, surrounded by friends and family. Curtiss was born on February 21, 1933, in Electra, TX as the second of three children born to Bert Mahanay and Leona Geraldine Mahanay. He attended Electra public schools, graduating high school in 1950. Following high school graduation he enrolled in Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, TX.
After one semester he followed his calling and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During the course of three years of active duty he spent one year on the Korean front, first as an infantry man and second in the tank battalion as a gunner and driver. He was decorated with two Purple Hearts through acts of bravery and valor.
After separation and honorable discharge from the Marines, he located in Sundown, TX where he met and married the love of his life, Melva Don Tipping. The shared their vows June 24, 1955, a marriage that endured 66 years until the day of his death. While living in Sundown, he joined the Sundown Masonic Lodge and maintained membership until he passed.
Curtiss and Melva relocated to Lubbock, TX where he enrolled at Texas Tech University, graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1958. While a student there, he began employment for Great Western Drilling Company as a rough neck during the summers. Upon graduation, he began full time employment for them and continued to work for this organization until his retirement in 1993 after 35 years of continuous devotion and employment. During the course of his employment, he climbed the company ladder through all the engineering positions, transferring back and forth between Lovington, NM, and Midland TX. The family moved permanently to Midland in 1978 where Curtiss accepted the Production Engineer position for Great Western. A highlight of these years was the design, installation, and operation of several very successful waterfloods. Finally, he held the position of General Superintendent where he remained until retirement.
During their 39 years in Midland, TX, He was a proud member of the Petroleum Club, Midland Country Club, Ranchland Hills Country Club, Plaza Club, PBPA (Permian Basin Petroleum Association) and the Oil Show Board of Directors.
After retirement Curtiss and Melva remained in Midland where he thoroughly enjoyed working on antique clocks, pocket watches, slot machines and generally anything that needed repairs, as well as traveling and spending time with friends and family. The den and often the kitchen table was often an array of tiny parts and intricate tools of the trade. His skills were often sought out as he demonstrated and attained expertise in these lost arts, although he simply considered them challenging hobbies. Ultimately Curtiss and Melva moved for the final time to Robert Lee, TX in 2017, joining their son in his final years. The Mahanay's were welcomed members The Forgiven Ministries in Bronte, TX & Bible Baptist Church in Robert Lee.
Anyone who was fortunate to meet Curtiss would not walk away without having formed a strong opinion of him, as he possessed great intelligence, quick wit, honestly, tenacity and larger than life personality. He was beloved by his friends and family who will always remember his belly laugh, love of entertaining, hardworking drive, devotion to his family and steadfast compassion he extended to everyone whose path he crossed. He also revered all the dogs and cats that were blessed to have he and Melva as their pet parents, a love that his children and grandchildren inherited and carry on to this day.
Curtiss was proceeded in death by his parents, sisters, uncles, and aunts. He is survived by wife, Melva Mahanay of Robert Lee, TX, Son Curtiss Lee Mahanay of Robert Lee, Daughter Donna Kay Paul (Greg) of Robert Lee, TX, Grandson Nathaniel Curtiss Paul (Alys) of Midland, TX, Granddaughter Sarah R'Chelle Paul (Seddrick) of Gaylord, MI, Great Grandson Nigel Eon Paul of Midland TX; as well as several cherished nephews Robert and Dean Vinyard, Michael Coffman, niece Debra Hutchins, cousins, extended family and beloved friends.
The family would like to extend their greatest appreciation to friend of the family, Paula Telford, who tirelessly helped them through the difficult end of life experience with her steadfast loving care and grace. Accolades also belong to High Plains Hospice, Texas Home Health Care, and the Veteran's Administration; each of these organizations were invaluable providing caring for Curtiss as he made the great egress.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donation to your favorite charity in his name. More importantly, remember Curtiss and the family in your thoughts and prayers, and have a big belly laugh in his honor.
Online condolences can be made at www.shafferpioneer.com. Services are under the direction of Shaffer Funeral Home.
April 30, 2022
On April 30, 2022, Benjamin Curtiss Mahanay peacefully left the confines of earth at his home, surrounded by friends and family. Curtiss was born on February 21, 1933, in Electra, TX as the second of three children born to Bert Mahanay and Leona Geraldine Mahanay. He attended Electra public schools, graduating high school in 1950. Following high school graduation he enrolled in Midwestern State University in Wichita Falls, TX.
After one semester he followed his calling and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. During the course of three years of active duty he spent one year on the Korean front, first as an infantry man and second in the tank battalion as a gunner and driver. He was decorated with two Purple Hearts through acts of bravery and valor.
After separation and honorable discharge from the Marines, he located in Sundown, TX where he met and married the love of his life, Melva Don Tipping. The shared their vows June 24, 1955, a marriage that endured 66 years until the day of his death. While living in Sundown, he joined the Sundown Masonic Lodge and maintained membership until he passed.
Curtiss and Melva relocated to Lubbock, TX where he enrolled at Texas Tech University, graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Petroleum Engineering in 1958. While a student there, he began employment for Great Western Drilling Company as a rough neck during the summers. Upon graduation, he began full time employment for them and continued to work for this organization until his retirement in 1993 after 35 years of continuous devotion and employment. During the course of his employment, he climbed the company ladder through all the engineering positions, transferring back and forth between Lovington, NM, and Midland TX. The family moved permanently to Midland in 1978 where Curtiss accepted the Production Engineer position for Great Western. A highlight of these years was the design, installation, and operation of several very successful waterfloods. Finally, he held the position of General Superintendent where he remained until retirement.
During their 39 years in Midland, TX, He was a proud member of the Petroleum Club, Midland Country Club, Ranchland Hills Country Club, Plaza Club, PBPA (Permian Basin Petroleum Association) and the Oil Show Board of Directors.
After retirement Curtiss and Melva remained in Midland where he thoroughly enjoyed working on antique clocks, pocket watches, slot machines and generally anything that needed repairs, as well as traveling and spending time with friends and family. The den and often the kitchen table was often an array of tiny parts and intricate tools of the trade. His skills were often sought out as he demonstrated and attained expertise in these lost arts, although he simply considered them challenging hobbies. Ultimately Curtiss and Melva moved for the final time to Robert Lee, TX in 2017, joining their son in his final years. The Mahanay's were welcomed members The Forgiven Ministries in Bronte, TX & Bible Baptist Church in Robert Lee.
Anyone who was fortunate to meet Curtiss would not walk away without having formed a strong opinion of him, as he possessed great intelligence, quick wit, honestly, tenacity and larger than life personality. He was beloved by his friends and family who will always remember his belly laugh, love of entertaining, hardworking drive, devotion to his family and steadfast compassion he extended to everyone whose path he crossed. He also revered all the dogs and cats that were blessed to have he and Melva as their pet parents, a love that his children and grandchildren inherited and carry on to this day.
Curtiss was proceeded in death by his parents, sisters, uncles, and aunts. He is survived by wife, Melva Mahanay of Robert Lee, TX, Son Curtiss Lee Mahanay of Robert Lee, Daughter Donna Kay Paul (Greg) of Robert Lee, TX, Grandson Nathaniel Curtiss Paul (Alys) of Midland, TX, Granddaughter Sarah R'Chelle Paul (Seddrick) of Gaylord, MI, Great Grandson Nigel Eon Paul of Midland TX; as well as several cherished nephews Robert and Dean Vinyard, Michael Coffman, niece Debra Hutchins, cousins, extended family and beloved friends.
The family would like to extend their greatest appreciation to friend of the family, Paula Telford, who tirelessly helped them through the difficult end of life experience with her steadfast loving care and grace. Accolades also belong to High Plains Hospice, Texas Home Health Care, and the Veteran's Administration; each of these organizations were invaluable providing caring for Curtiss as he made the great egress.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you consider donation to your favorite charity in his name. More importantly, remember Curtiss and the family in your thoughts and prayers, and have a big belly laugh in his honor.
Online condolences can be made at www.shafferpioneer.com. Services are under the direction of Shaffer Funeral Home.
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