Joe Forest Bourn Sr. Col (Ret.)'s Obituary
Born in Rockwall to John Forest and Alta Lea Bratcher Bourn, Joe Forest Bourn died at age 92. He was married for 50 years to Mary Katheryn Watson Bourn who died in 1992. He is survived by sons, Joe Forest Bourn Jr., Steven Lee Bourn and daughter, Kathy Lynn Bodie; eight grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Texas A&M Class of ’41, graduating with a degree in Architecture, he was an Aggie’s Aggie; when his A&M ring became too worn to be recognized, he purchased another so he could continue to display his pride in being an Aggie. Enlisting in the Army in 1942, he was recommended of OCS, graduating #1 in his class. After serving in the Pacific, he remained in the corps of Engineers in a reserve status, eventually being promoted to full Colonel. He was a pioneering and published mid century modern architect of residences and light commercial buildings; and an innovative national builder of apartment, residential and resort developments. He was head of construction at Holley Lake Ranch in east Texas at the time of his retirement. He found great enjoyment giving gifts; pocketknives, letter openers, flashlights, candy mints, and other trinkets. He loved telling stories. If his quiver of yarns didn’t include one that ‘fit’ he was quick to add enough ‘sparkle’ so he could make the point or emphasize the issue desired. He was a 32nd Degree Mason and a member of The First Community Church of Mockingbird Lane for more than 45 years. He was active in Scouting and was Packmaster at Stonewall Jackson school for several years. The family would like to express their special thanks to the Staff at Walnut Place and Hospice V.N.A. for their kindness and professionalism. Memorials may be made to the Scottish Rite Children’s Hospital (www.tsrhc.org) or a charity of your choice.
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