George McLaughlin Tope passed away in Midland, TX on Saturday, July 2.He was born on January 5, 1926 in Casper, Wyoming to Flora L. and Joseph E. Tope. He was raised and educated in Casper, Wyoming and graduated from Natrona County High School in 1944.After graduation, George served in the United States Navy during World War II as a Signalman Third Class on a merchant marine ship in the Pacific Ocean. After discharge, he attended the University of Wyoming on a track and football scholarship. He was the President of Alpha Tau Omega fraternity and was also named Most Popular Man on Campus. George married Marjorie E. Hejde on September 15, 1951 and received his BA in Zoology in 1952. He was drafted into the United States Army in 1952 where he served as a 1st Lieutenant and instructor at Fort Benning, Georgia.Following his military career, George worked in the steel and oil business as a sales manager for Republic Steel, Kilby Steel, Plastic Applicators and Schlumberger. The couple resided in Denver, CO, Oklahoma City, OK, Anniston, AL, and Houston, Texas before moving to Midland in January, 1970. George started his own business, George Tope Co, as an independent pipe broker in 1974.George was an active member and avid golfer at Midland Country Club for many years. He was also instrumental in helping build the original City of Midland Swim Team pool on A Street.He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marge, on January 25, 1989. George had the honor of marrying Martha C. Norris on April 12, 1997. He is survived by his wife, Martha Tope, of Midland, TX; two daughters, Lindy Fox and husband, Rick, of Rockwall, TX; Jani Stewart and husband, Doug, of Arlington, TX; 3 grandchildren, Gregg Fox of St. Louis, MO; Margo Stewart of Arlington, TX and Jake Stewart of Arlington, TX; and sister, Mary Taylor of Seattle, WA.Memorial services have been scheduled for 10:00 AM, Saturday, July 9, 2016 at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Chapel, 3800 N. Big Spring St., Midland, TX 79705.Memorials may be directed to a charity of your choice.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made at www.npwelch.com. ,
