George Edward Gries

OZONA George Edward Gries, 58, of Pandale, went home to the Lord Friday, Jan. 31, 2014, following a sudden illness. Val Verde County rancher, loving and devoted father, George was noted for his extraordinary photography, which captured the vastness, grandeur and details within the isolation of far West Texas, particularly the Gries Ranch. George attended Southwest Texas State University in San Marcos, where he was the president of Theta Xi Fraternity before transferring to Texas A&M and earning his Bachelor of Science degree. After working in Houston, Dallas and Wyoming, George returned to the family ranch established by his grandfather, Elmo Arledge, where he managed Angora goat operations, Angus cattle operations and exotic hunting leases. George's intense fondness for and knowledge of the ranch and this region were evident in his ability to identify the local plants, trees, cacti, insects and wildlife - most of which he captured photographically. At the time of his death, George was collaborating on a project for an upcoming feature in Texas Highways Magazine. His marriage to Elizabeth produced his daughter, Aaryn, who attends Texas State University and shares his love for the family ranch and nature. George is survived by his daughter, Aaryn Gries, of San Marcos; father Terry Gries of Ozona; brothers Brian Gries and Thomas Gries of Houston; cousin Dennis Rowland of Pandale; several nieces and nephews; and countless friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, Martha Arledge Gries. Pallbearers are Dennis Rowland, Terry Tex Toller, Corey Paige Rowland, Chuck Cade, Garrett Rowland and Carl Dean. Service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014, at Ozona Church of Christ. Burial will follow in Cedar Hill Cemetery. Pastor Johnnie Perkins officiating. Arrangements by Kerbow Funeral Home.