Henry F. Pohlmann

HENRY F. POHLMANN (HANK) was born on March 23, 1920 in St. Louis Missouri and passed away on July 1, 2009 in Farmington New Mexico. Raised by his loving grandmother and his strong willed uncle in a German immigrant community Hank learned the importance of hard work, creativity, ingenuity and tenacity at a very early age. These traits provided the foundation for the successful, caring, intelligent and insightful man he became. He was a sought after speaker on a variety of topics from art to oil and gas production and ran for governor of New Mexico. After completing his early education and working as a high lineman, Hank joined the Marine Corps and served four years during World War II at Guadalcanal and Saipan and continued his service in the reserves for two more years. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart. Serving his country was one of Hank's proudest moments. After completing his military service, Hank married Colette Cypher, mother of his children. Colette's father was instrumental in encouraging Hank to complete his college education and pursue the field of geology. Hank received an Engineering degree at East L.A. City College and a BA in Geology at Occidental College. Early in his career he worked for Long Beach Oil Development, Honolulu Oil and the Navajo Nation. He started his own independent consulting business in 1968 and continued working in the oil, coal, gas, and water exploration area well into the late 1990's. As an award-winning artist, Hank used his art to communicate powerful messages and feelings. He created comic strips for fellow service men and often used his art as a political commentary. During his tenure as Mineral Supervisor for the Navajo Tribe, Hank developed a deep appreciation for the Navajo people which inspired many of his works. When not painting Hank found time to read, ride his motorcycle and spend time with friends. Hank's connection to animals was profound. He often said he preferred their company to some people. Over the years Hank had many pets but was especially fond of his dogs, birds, and fish. While working in and around the Navajo Reservation Hank encountered many stray animals. Some lucky ones found their way home with Hank and lived a very blessed life while others received treats from the dog food he always kept in his truck. Surviving family members include daughter Penelope Fulton and granddaughter Camille Fulton of Bakersfield, California, daughter Lisa Hopkins and husband Mike and son Kevin Pohlmann and wife Julie of Houston, Texas. He is preceded in death by his brother Russell and parents Bertha and Henry Pohlmann, his grandmother Bertha Lietchen, his beloved aunt Emily Mitkos and his uncle Otto Lietchen. In lieu of the usual remembrances donations may be made in Hank's memory to the San Juan Animal League or a charity of your choice.