WorldWide Drilling Resource

In Memoriam Robert K. Crews (1958~2016) The Arizona Water Well Association reported the passing of Robert K. Crews of Glendale, Arizona, on March 10, 2016, doing what he loved. During his career, Robert worked for various companies including Christensen Boyles, Layne Christensen, Drilling Services, Far West, and most recently Cascade. He had an eclectic range of interest and hobbies like playing the ukulele, riding dirt bikes, collecting pocket knives, outfitting his Jeep, and crocheting. He was a great guy who will be missed by many. His family wishes to express their heartfelt thanks to his drilling brothers for all they did for him. Robert is survived by his wife Jeanne; children Nikki, Chantell (David), and Brandon; grandchildren Lance, Promise, Laila, Logan, and Ellie; his mother Connie, and brothers Roger and Mike. The management and staff of WWDR extend their condolences to Robert’s family, friends, and colleagues. Jesse Merwin Odom (1926~2016) The Arizona Water Well Association also reported the loss of Jesse Merwin Odom on March 14, 2016, at his home in Buckeye, Arizona. He was 89. Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, Jesse had an identical twin, William. They did everything together, in- cluding joining the U.S. Navy in 1944. He married Harriett in 1949. He was in the drilling and pump service business for most of his life, owning Odom Drilling for about 30 years. He was past president of the Arizona Water Well Association and an active member for many years. Jesse’s interests were roping, working in his wood shop, and telling stories about the past to all who would listen. He was a giving man and a great friend. Gary is survived by his wife Harriett. He was preceded in death by his parents, brother William, sister Dean, and his son Gary. The management and staff of WWDR express their sympathies to Jesse’s family and friends. Richard “Dick” Washburn The New England Chapter of the International Society of Explosives Engineers gave the sad news Richard “Dick” Washburn passed away suddenly on March 21, 2016, in Port Charlotte, Florida. He retired in 2007 from a career in the commercial explosives industry, and was the president of Patriot Explosives, Inc. of Kingston, New Hampshire. After retiring, he moved to Florida, where he enjoyed many warm winters and new friendships. Summers were spent in a cottage on the shore in New Brunswick, Canada. His big loves were history, politics, golf, and being outdoors. He was outgoing, friendly, and honest. Dick is survived by his wife of 44 years, Frances; sisters-in-law Sue and Judy (Richard); nephews Michael and Johnathan; and extended family throughout Canada and the U.S. The management and staff of WWDR express their sympathies to Dick’s family and friends on his loss. Eugene W. “Gene” Mattila (1951~2016) W W D R w a s saddened to hear Eugene W. “Gene” Mattila passed away April 5, 2016, after a short illness. He lived in Wheatridge, Colorado, and was the business line manager for Atlas Copco Rock Drilling Tools, Mining, Rock Excavation, and Construction LLC. After graduation from Wakefield Michigan High School, he achieved a degree in engineering from Houghton University. Gene is survived by his wife Geralyn, sons Derek and Martin, and daughter Amy. Lest we forget... 59 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® JUNE 2016