Robert Alvin Doak, Jr. was born on February 5, 1928 in Canyon, Texas to Robert and Thelma Doak.
He spent his youth in Trinidad, Colo., and then moved to Eugene, Ore., where he graduated from Eugene High School in 1946. After graduation , he entered the Army and served his country from 1946-1948. He served in the 55th Battalion Battery ‘B’, achieved the rank of Sargent while leading a Unit of Honor that recognized the ultimate sacrifices made by servicemen for the nation. After his enlistment ended, Robert entered the University of Oregon on the GI Bill where he earned both his Bachelors of Science and Master’s degrees in geology.
Throughout a long and successful career in the petroleum industry, Robert traveled the world extensively and made numerous oil and gas discoveries that have been the basis for the economic expansion and success in the American economy. He was known as a visionary leader, and expert consultant, pioneering new prospects internationally, as well as reopening the Southern Colorado coal and gas prospects that have been so important in the regional economy over the past twenty years.
In 1950 he married Elizabeth Pearson and together they raised four children. Elizabeth and Robert divorced in 1971.
On July 5, 1972 he married Frances L. Paradiso, and together they raised a combined family that grew to thirteen children. Robert and Frances lived in New Mexico and in the Trinidad, Colo. area throughout their marriage.
Robert is survived by his beloved spouse Frances and grandsons Nicholas and Joshua Paradiso of Trinidad, nine surviving children, and numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
He is preceded in death by his parents his brother Donn, two sons and one grandson.
Robert passed away peaceably at home in Trinidad on May 16, 2015 after suffering through a long illness.
A private memorial service will be held to remember his accomplishments and to honor his leadership over the combined family he so lovingly supported throughout his life.
Arrangements made under the direction of the Comi Funeral Home.
Grandpa,
I miss you and love you so much. I know your now at peace, and yet still “working” from above. Looks like we all still need you to take care of us, like you always have even from Heaven, I don’t know if your work there will ever end, But until we meet again, I am satisfied with all my sweet memories we shared together. I love you Gramps!! xoxo