Dr. Robert Bretz

February 8, 1941 - April 28, 2021

 NMT professor emeritus Dr. Robert “Bob” Bretz, 80, passed away in his home in Socorro, N.M., on Wednesday, April 28, 2021, surrounded by his family.

Bob was born to Robert Marion Bretz and Ada Belle Shipp in Bartlesville, Okla. He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Shirleen Bretz. Bob had four surviving sisters; Judy Ross and husband John, Betty Langston, Marilyn Wilson, and Kathy Bretz. He was also survived by his children: Suzanne Surratt and husband, Rusty; and David Hicks and wife, Michele. He was preceded in death by his son Kerry Hicks. Bob will be dearly missed by his grandchildren; Brianne Sykes and husband, Jared; Trevor Surratt and wife, Ashleigh; Teryn Surratt, Payson Hicks, Lucas Lucero, and Rylan Hicks. 

Bob enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1963 to serve in Vietnam.  He entered as a 2nd Lieutenant after receiving his bachelor’s in chemical engineering from Texas A&M. After an honorable discharge in 1965, he pursued his Ph.D. in biomedical engineering from Texas A&M. He taught at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology in Socorro for many years. Bob retired in 2011 and was awarded emeritus status by NMT for his contributions to the Chemical and Petroleum Engineering Departments.

Not only a great intellect, Bob was an amazing family man with a huge heart. He was a devoted husband, and enjoyed every opportunity he had to travel and experience new places and things with his wife, Shirleen. Bob was a very loving and supportive Father, who loved unconditionally.  Better known as “GrandBob” to his grandchildren, he took advantage of every moment he had with them.  Whether it was taking them fishing, building ponds, or planting a garden of vegetables, he cherished every minute. GrandBob was an avid Warrior fan, making it a point not to miss a game, home or away. He was always in the stands; he was there for football, baseball, basketball and soccer, rain or shine. His presence will be missed.

The family encourages friends of Bob to plant a tree in his memory.

Click here to see the obituary at the Daniels Funeral Home website.