Gary Willison

Gary W. Willison, P.E.

Gary W. Willison, 66, of Rockport passed away Friday, December 30, 2023, following a brief illness. Gary was born March 2, 1957 to the late Viola Sicher Willison and the late Clyde Owen Willison and grew up mostly in Baytown, Texas graduating from Sterling High School. He graduated from University of Houston, Central Campus with a Bachelor's of Science in Electrical Engineering, Magna Cum Laude in December, 1980.

His career included working for Stewart and Stevenson, Mars, Inc. including Uncle Ben's, Inc, in Houston, and Kal Kan Foods in California, but his favorite job was owning his small engineering company, Coastal Bend Consultants, Inc. His company designed and completed many municipal projects in Houston and surrounding areas. He also received a United States Patent as an inventor in 2002.

He married Frances Starnes ("Cisco") in 1980, and they had one daughter, Nicole Willison in 1984. The family resided in Houston for over 30 years, and many memories were made spending weekends at their second home in Port O'Connor to escape the big city life when possible.

Gary is best described as a very caring, fun loving, humorous person who loved being outdoors and helping people. His professional interests ranged from engineering to real estate investing, and he enjoyed many hobbies including hunting, fishing, raising rabbits, quail, honeybees, and working at his 14- acre farm. He mentored many young engineers by sharing his knowledge and skills and was very enthusiastic about encouraging these new leaders.

Gary was a very generous supporter of the arts, local summer camps, and children's activities. He used his tractor to help many local residents "pick up the pieces" in the aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. He truly enjoyed helping others.

Gary is survived by his loving wife of 43 years, Cisco Willison, daughter, Nicole Willison, partner, Drew Lunsford, sister, Karen Hutchison and numerous nieces, nephews and great nieces, and great nephews. Gary was preceded in death by his parents who resided in Houston.

His Celebration of Life event will be held in Port O'Connor at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to your favorite local charities or helping out a neighbor who may need some help. Both would honor him and further the values he stood for.

You may sign the guest book or send condolences www.charliemarshallfuneralhomes.com