Recurring Themes of Superlatives

Oil finder John Masters had this to say about Lawrence W. Funkhouser, the 2004 Sidney Powers Medalist:

"A geologist's geologist, a man of vision and imagination and a leader characterized by both decisiveness, aggressiveness and good judgment."

Master's words were joined by a host of fellow nominators who nominated and supported Funkhouser for consideration as the recipient of AAPG's highest honor.

The words "a geologist's geologist" appear at least a half-dozen times from the individual nominators.

Another recurring theme among the nominations was, as Robert Hackler wrote, "Larry created within Chevron an atmosphere very conducive to successful oil and gas exploration throughout the world."

In becoming a lion of the profession, Funkhouser got the start of an internationally recognized career by taking heed of the advice given by other lions — and he credits AAPG for much of his success.

Funkhouser will receive the Powers Medal on April 18 during the Opening Session at the AAPG Annual Meeting in Dallas.

The Gift of Guidance

His interest in the science began when his older brother (by six years) Harold would bring home fossils and maps from the University of Miami (Ohio) and talk about his studies when Larry was still in high school.

Harold, after graduating with a master's and launching an also-impressive career, immediately went to work for Gulf Oil in Venezuela for renowned geologist Hollis Hedberg.

"Hollis would come by the house and visit the family," Funkhouser recalled. "He took personal interest in the people who worked for him."

Funkhouser, interest piqued, graduated with a degree in geology from Oberlin College, where he met his future wife Jean, whom he married after three years service in the U.S. Air Force.

While in the Air Force, Funkhouser knew he wanted to proceed with a career in the science he loved and in the profession with which he was enamored. He wrote to Hedberg, still his brother's boss, and asked for guidance.