OBITUARY: M.J. Wootan, 88, dies Dec. 5, 2013
M.J. Wootan was born July 5, 1925, in Field Creek, Texas, and passed with dignity Dec. 5, 2013.
He proudly served our country in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
M.J. was a purpose-driven businessman with courage and integrity. His active involvement in agribusiness and land development established him as a pioneer in his community. M.J. was instrumental in founding Llano National Bank and served on the board of directors. In 2010, he received the honorary Hall of Fame Award for Llano County.
He was a beloved husband, proud father, loyal friend, mentor and a cherished Papa J.
Much time was enjoyed hunting and fishing with his dear departed, childhood friend and lifelong business partner, Fay Miller. His life of 88 years touched many hearts with love, humor, admiration and respect.
He was preceded in death by parents Joseph and Lula Wootan; brothers Jack and Rex Wootan; sister Fay Owens; and the mother of his sons, Peggy Knatcher Wootan.
He is survived by wife, Edna Wootan; sons, Billy Wootan and wife Addie and Terry Wootan and wife Karen; grandchildren, Chad Wootan and wife Darla, Jason Wootan and wife Megan, William Wootan and Sarah Goodson and husband Keith; great-grandchildren, Blaine, Kalen, Kennedy, Payton, Seth, Tyler, Emma, Alex and Addlyn; close extended family Roger Beasley, Nelda Dukes, Kay Bilrouth and Shirley Wootan; and Edna’s loving daughters, Mitzi Salmon, Alexus “Wren” Raney, Le Robinson and Kuri “T” Johnson.
Visitation is 5-7 p.m. Dec. 6 at Waldrope-Hatfield-Hawthorne Funeral Home, 307 E. Sandstone in Llano, (325) 247-4300. A funeral service is 2 p.m. Dec. 7 at the funeral home.
Pallbearers are Chad Wootan, Jason Wootan, William Wootan, Keith Goodson, Roger Beasley, Frosty Miller, Marc Miller and David Willman. Honorary pallbearers are John Buttery, William Buttery, Jimmie Stewart, Jimmy Hoerster, Dick Hoerster, Dr. Steve Hoerster, Steve Haverlah and George Rogers.
Memorials may be made to the Special Opportunities School or to Hope Haus in Llano.
Email whhfuneral1@verizon.net with condolences.