Garrol Leo Dockum

Garrol Leo Dockum, 77, came into this world in Wichita, Kansas, on November 30, 1947. He left for Heaven on September 15, 2025. He was the son of Freda Arlene (Hinkle) Dockum and Arthur Harlen Dockum, and brother to Arlys Harlene Dockum Ward, Glenda Rhae Dockum Newton, Nancy Carol Dockum Davis, and Donald Lee Dockum.
He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister Arlys.
Garrol grew up in a loving Christian family. While putting himself through college at Wichita State University during the Vietnam War, he chose to leave school and enlist in the U. S. Army. He served honorably in Vietnam as a Sargeant leading an armored personnel carrier unit in combat zones. Upon his return stateside, he chose to finish his college education at Bethany Nazarene College, now SNU, on the GI Bill. He remained on active reserves for the next five years.
Garrol graduated from BNC with a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics. His first job after graduation was in the Data Processing Department of Oklahoma City Public Schools, eventually becoming Director of Data Processing for the district. He moved on to Information Technology Management in the private sector, beginning at ITT-Eason, then Electronic Data Systems (EDS), and eventually retiring from Hewlett-Packard. He LOVED the work he did, the projects he managed and the teams he led. His was a very interesting career of unusual and noteworthy projects – from developing the MetroCard system for the New York City Transit Authority, to developing the computer systems for the Central Bank of The Bahamas, to his final projects with the U.S. Navy and the U.S. Marines.
While a student at BNC, and then after graduation, Garrol actively attended Bethany First Church of the Nazarene, where he remained a member until his death. So many lasting friendships! So many wonderful memories! It was in the Becomers Sunday School Class in the Floyd Center where Garrol met the new visitor in the yellow dress, sitting with Darlene Poteet and Gwen Bates. Eventually, Garrol and Bobbye Vinson began dating, then married. They remained happily married, living the lives laid out for them until Garrol's death. Five years into their marriage they welcomed their only child, Melissa Tate Dockum – a blessing in every way and so adored by her dad.
There were many activities that Garrol enjoyed for as long as he could. As a young adult, he earned his Private Pilot Certificate, a general aviation pilot's license, and was a longtime member of AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association). He loved to fly! He also loved playing golf, although he readily admitted he wasn't very good at it. He loved to snow ski, and patiently taught many friends and family to ski as well. And singing – his was a rich tenor-to-baritone voice. He loved being in BFC's choir and several singing groups through the years.
Most importantly, Garrol loved the Lord. He wanted everyone to know Jesus! He was a devoted husband, father, and a loyal friend. He was a good man – already missed here on earth.
Viewing at Mercer-Adams is Thursday, 9am-8pm with family present from 5-7pm. A funeral service is planned for 10:00am on Friday, September 26 at Bethany First Church of the Nazarene. The service will be livestreamed and may be viewed on this obituary page.