Bobby R. Compton passed away early Friday morning May 25, 2018 in Fort Worth, Texas. He was 77 years young. His memorial service will be held at 2:00pm, Saturday, June 9, 2018 at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Chapel in Midland, Texas.Bobby was born on April 9, 1941 to Lilly and Clarence Compton. His birthplace was Alec, Oklahoma. He was the third child born to the couple. His early education through high school was in May, Texas. Bobby excelled in all sports including football, basketball, track, and rodeo. He attended Ranger Junior College for a year on a basketball scholarship. Bobby joined the Army National Guard and served until 1969. Living in Lovington, New Mexico, in 1966, Bobby met a friend’s former college roommate who was visiting for the weekend. Long story short, Bobby and Nona were married two years later in July of 1968. Proof that blind dates can have a happy ending! Karin Shea Compton was born in Hobbs in March, 1971. It was with the birth of his daughter that Bobby began his oilfield career. Bobby first worked in the steam room at Star Tool Company, then graduated to a pressure pump, and then to a “fisherman.” There was no department at Star that he could not handle. “You’ve got to be able to do it all!” was his motto.Bobby worked long hours and was away from home for weeks at times. Thus, the oil industry became his passion. He was at his best when there was a problem to troubleshoot in the field. In the late 1990’s, Bobby became part owner of Star Tool Company. He also became a grandpa in 1992. By this time, Shea had married Jodie Lucero who also worked for Star Tool. Kana Tai Lucero was, until Papa passed, the “apple of his eye.” Bobby’s biggest regret was dying before Tai could complete medical school. He will be there in spirit.In 2002, Bobby joined with Smith International and then ultimatelybecame part of the Schlumberger corporation. Now his time was spent with a computer, but he was still a genius as a hands-on trouble shooter. He was well known for his excellent work ethic and superior customer service relations. He loved mentoring the many young engineers who were sent his way. So many would call him to ask his advice – he loved it! Bobby served the oilfield industry for 46 years and 1 month. His knowledge and presence will be deeply missed.Bobby was a family man. Family was first in his life. He loved traveling, fishing, camping, cruising, and watching Dallas and UT play football. Bobby attended all of Shea’s sporting events and loved watching Tai play tennis from elementary school through college in Iowa.Bobby is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Nona; daughter, Shea and husband Jodie Lucero; grand-daughter, Tai Lucero; and younger sister, Gail Clayton. He loved them all dearly.Bobby was preceded in death by his parents, Lilly and Clarence; sister, Mae Palmore; and brother, Don Compton. All were from May, Texas.Honorary pallbearers will be David Carrell, Gary Pfannenstiel, Brad Van Cleave, Kelly Blankenship, Ronnie Burnett, and David Botkin.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com.,
