WorldWide Drilling Resource

22 OCTOBER 2025 WorldWide Drilling Resource® In Memoriam John Clifton Taylor (1947~2025) The Texas Groundwater Association (TGWA) is mourning the loss of John Clifton Taylor of Friona, on August 10, 2025. Born in Hereford, he graduated from Friona High School in 1965, and from West Texas State University in 1969. He farmed in the Friona community for a number of years before becoming co-owner of 4-Way Pump Service, which lasted 40 years. John was honored with TGWA’s Owen F. Jensen Contractor of the Year award in 2014, and named an Honorary Life Member in 2022. With a servant’s heart, John showed love for his community by joining the Friona Volunteer Fire Department in 1983, serving in various capacities for 40 years, retiring in 2023. He was also an officer in the Friona Police Department, serving for several years before becoming the Chief for four years. After this, John continued by serving on the Friona City Council for six years and as Mayor from 2002-2010. John also loved serving in his church, providing a helping hand to others, whether taking communion or food to the homebound, or mowing at the church and cemetery. He enjoyed woodworking and leather working and loved sharing his work with family and friends. John is survived by his wife Sherri, and daughters Carolyn (Gary) and Teresa (Kelly). He was so proud of his grandsons Andrew (Emily), Blake, Jared (Emmy), and Tyler, and great-grands Rylee, Layla, Payson, Ellie, Cohen, and Wayde. He is also survived by his sister Dianna (Dale), brother and lifelong best friend Jim (Amelia), and numerous nieces and nephews. Ronald L. “Ron” Askin (1942~2025) With deep sorrow, the Montana Water Well Drillers Association announced the passing of member Ronald L. “Ron” Askin on July 23, 2025. Born in Miles City, Ron spent his younger days on the family ranch near Ismay, where he attended Cottonwood School. In 1956, the family moved to Miles City where Ron attended Custer County High School and he met the love of his life, Beverley. Growing up, Ron worked alongside his father in the family water well drilling business. From the early age of 14, he was running crews on 12-hour shifts. In 1967, Ron purchased the company from his father. Over the years, he worked alongside his brothers, brother-in-law, sons, and eventually even a grandson. Ron had a profound appreciation for his family, especially those who came before. He told anecdotes in such an engaging and entertaining way the listeners felt they were right there with him. While listening to their father’s memories, his children felt their ancestors were real-life heroes jumping straight out of an old western movie. Whether sitting by the riverside or at a family cabin on the lake, Ron enjoyed the opportunities fishing brought - the main pleasure coming from the experience itself, with catching fish simply a bonus. He was also always open to a game of cards - also to spend time with those he loved. He and Beverley both looked forward to evenings of dining and dancing. He also took time to teach each of their children to dance, which created fond memories of getting dressed up and heading to the Red Rock Supper Club for dinner and an opportunity to join their parents on the dance floor. Ron is survived by his children Douglas (Tami), Kathleen (Mark), and Ronald C. (Celeste); brothers Gary (Bobbi) and Frank (Laray); sister Rayanda; nine grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his wife of 56 years, Beverley, daughter Colleen, and son Daniel. David Brice Robison (1946~2025) The South Carolina Ground Water Association (SCGWA) sadly reported the loss of David Brice Robison, of Roebuck, on August 5, 2025. An only child, David or “Rat” as he was known to so many, lived a life rooted in faith, community, and kindness. For more than 50 years, he worked alongside his family as co-owner and employee of W.S. Gowan Well Drilling, building relationships as deep and lasting as the wells he drilled. He never met a stranger, and those who crossed his path were greeted with his warmth, humor, and generosity. A proud graduate of the last class of Roebuck High School in 1964, David went on to attend Spartanburg Methodist College, where he could often be found on the tennis courts with friends. He was voted “Best Dressed” in high school - a title he carried with charm throughout his life. David’s roots in Roebuck ran deep. He served his community in countless ways - on boards including the Roebuck Improvement Association, as past President of the Roebuck Community Festival, and as an active member of the SCGWA. From 2007 to 2010, he served on the SCGWA Board of Directors, later leading as President from 2010 to 2011. In recognition of his outstanding dedication and service, he was recently awarded the prestigious George McCall Award. For more than 20 years, David was a faithful member of Roebuck Baptist Church, serving as an usher and money counter. His green thumb was well-known, and his yard was always alive with the roses, azaleas, and shrubs he loved to nurture. David is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Elizabeth “Libby”; daughter Jane; and his beloved grandsons Dashiell and Duncan. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. Lest we forget . . .

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