Charles Edward "Chuck" Bondurant

1939 - 2010

(January 31, 1939 - September 6, 2010)
Charles Edward "Chuck" Bondurant passed away Monday, September 6th, at the age of 71. Chuck is survived by his wife, Bonnie Schrum Bondurant of Fredericksburg; his father John Bondurant of Bartlesville, Oklahoma; children Bruce Bondurant and wife Jolanta of Houston, Debbie Schmutz and husband David of Tucson, Arizona, and Scott Bondurant of Nebraska; stepchildren Laura Schrum and husband Charlie Gaevert of Pearland, Susan Kopinitz and husband David of Spring and David Schrum of Fredericksburg; sister Marilyn Anderson and husband Chris of Basehor, Kansas; as well as five grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and two nephews.
Chuck was born to John and Amelia Bondurant in Galveston, Texas in 1939. He lived in Alvin and then moved to Bartlesville, OK, at age 10 where he spent most of his youth. A graduate of Bartlesville High School, Chuck was an Eagle Scout. He received his Bachelor of Science and Master's degrees in geology at the University of Kansas. At KU he was awarded the Erasmus Haworth Graduate Honors in Geology in 1963. Chuck was a member of the Society of the Sigma Xi--devoted to the Promotions of Research in Science, the Society of Independent Professional Earth Scientists and the American Association of Petroleum Geologists. He worked with small oil companies throughout Texas and was employed as a geologist by Garrison Oil and Gas in San Antonio at the time of his death.
Bonnie and Chuck were married on September 21, 1985. They enjoyed vacationing in the Hill country so much, that in 1998, the couple bought land in Gillespie County. Chuck and Bonnie left Houston for Fredericksburg in 2001, and the next year they settled into the Hill Country home they designed themselves. Their property is a Certified Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Association.
They both felt at home in the Hill Country. An accomplished gardener, Chuck was fondly called the Asparagus King. Driving his tractor brought out the kid in this fun-loving, gentle man, and he enjoyed spending his weekends tending to his garden and their land. He enjoyed watching the progress of his fruit trees and tending to the native Texas plants on their property.
Chuck enjoyed reading, sharing his knowledge of geology and delving into history. He was proud to say his great-great grandfather fought in the Civil War. Growing up in Oklahoma, Chuck learned a lot about the Native American culture and his office at home is decorated in the theme of this culture with things he has collected throughout the years. He also enjoyed cooking and trying new foods.
Chuck became an avid Jayhawk fan while in college. He used to say that the Jayhawk was the most intimidating mascot of all, and he never missed an opportunity to show his Jayhawk pride by wearing his UK ring or apparel. After moving to Fredericksburg, Chuck became a fan of the Battlin' Billies. He and Bonnie had season tickets and he attended all the Billies' games. The town's German heritage held a strong appeal to Chuck. He wore his German hat and lederhosen when he worked at October Fest. He looked forward to every parade and never missed one in town. A sociable man, he enjoyed entertaining and making his guests feel welcome.
After moving to Fredericksburg, the couple involved themselves in numerous community activities to help promote the area's lifestyle and keep its culture alive. He was a faithful member and ruling elder at Memorial Presbyterian Church, a member of PCAA, Newcomers Club, the Gillespie County Historical Society, the Friends of the Fredericksburg Nature Center, and the Augusta All-Men's Garden Club.
Chuck often said he never met a man he didn't like. He was a loving husband, father, son and friend, a thoughtful, soft-spoken man who wore an ever-present smile. He was dedicated to his beloved wife, Bonnie.
On Monday morning, after working around the yard, Chuck sat down on the back porch to rest as he often did. He peacefully left this Earthly life and entered life Eternal. So many will miss him.