John Wilcox Bundren

John Wilcox Bundren, 91, retired analytical chemist in Research and Development at Phillips Petroleum in Bartlesville, died April 23, 2017 at Oklahoma Methodist Manor in Tulsa surrounded by his beloved family. John was born to Fred and Frances Bundren on Nov. 29, 1925, and raised in Enid, OK. His grandfather, Pat Wilcox, was an Oklahoma Pioneer and prominent banker. After graduating from Enid High School in 1943 John decided not to go into the banking business with his father and grandfather. Instead he pursued science and chemistry. At the age of 18 he was drafted to serve in WWII one month before his freshman year ended at Phillips University in Enid. During his service in the U.S. Army, which included combat in the European Theatre, he received a Bronze Star, Distinguished Unit Badge, a Combat Infantryman Badge and a Good Conduct Medal. The war changed John forever and when he returned he wanted nothing more than to live a simple, stable life surrounded by family. In that pursuit, John returned to Phillips University to complete his studies and met Betty Lou Clark, also of Enid. They were married on May 31, 1949, the day after they graduated from college. John and his new bride moved to Stillwater where John received his Master’s Degree in Chemistry in 1951 at Oklahoma A & M. He began work at Phillips Petroleum Company, where he worked for the next 34 years. He was a member of the American Chemical Society, American Legion, VFW, competed on a Phillips 66 Bowling League, played in bridge clubs with Betty and was a member of First Christian Church of Bartlesville for over 60 years where he served as a deacon. John was known for his kindness to his employees, his humility and concern for others. John’s source of pride was his family. He was an involved father of Clark and MaryPat, attending countless scout meetings and science fairs. In 1985 he retired from Phillips, and he and Betty became avid golfers and even more avid grandparents of their four Tulsa grandchildren. Two years ago he moved to Oklahoma Methodist Manor to be near family and delighted in the stories and accomplishments of his grandchildren and great grandchildren who visited often. John was predeceased in 2004 by Betty Bundren, his wife of 55 years. Survivors include two children: Dr. Clark Bundren and wife, Mary; and MaryPat Fennema and husband, Steve, all of Tulsa; grandchildren: Johnathan Bundren and wife Lauren, of Tulsa; Dr. Michelle Bundren and fiancée James Teeter, of Ft. Worth, TX; Kara Bundren of Oklahoma City; and Dr. Gary Fennema and wife Kristen, of Tulsa; and two great grandchildren, Jackson and Claire Bundren, of Tulsa. A graveside service was held on April 25, at Memorial Park Cemetery in Bartlesville. A memorial service is scheduled for 2 p.m., May 11, 2017 at the chapel at Oklahoma Methodist Manor. The family wishes to thank the loving and professional staff at OMM. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Generation to Generation Campaign at Oklahoma Methodist Manor, 4134 E. 31st Street, Tulsa, OK 74135.

John Wilcox Bundren

November 29, 1925 - April 23, 2017