EMIL J. MATEKER1931-2016Emil Joseph (Buck) Mateker, 85, passed away, Friday, September 30, 2016, peacefully at his home in Houston. Buck was born on April 25, 1931, in St. Louis Missouri, to Lillian Broz Mateker and Emil J Mateker, Sr. Buck grew up in St. Louis, working in his family 's grocery business while attending school. He graduated from St. Louis University High School in 1949. He enlisted in the service in 1952 and served in the U.S. Army until 1954.Buck attended St. Louis University, where he received his B.S degree in Geophysical Engineering, his M.S. in Geophysics, and his Ph.D. in Seismology. He was an Associate Professor of Geophysics at Washington University until 1969 when he moved his family to Houston where he had a distinguished career with Western Geophysical Company, initially serving as Manager of Geophysical Research. His later roles included Vice President of Research and Development and Vice President of Operations. He served as President of Aero Service Division from 1974-1990, and when he retired in 1997, was President of Western Atlas Software and Vice President, Technology, Western Geophysical, divisions of Western Atlas International, Inc.Buck contributed throughout his life, using his many talents and gifts. He was active in his profession, a life long member of the Society of Exploration Geophysicists, an active alumnus of St. Louis University, served on the Board and Dad's Club of St. Agnes Academy, was President of the Nottingham Forest Civic Association, and was active in his parish of St. John Vianney, serving on the finance council.Buck's greatest love was his family. He was married for over 61 years to his true love, Lolita Ann Mateker. It was evident to all who knew them, how much he loved Lolita. They spent all their time together, and cherished time spent with children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They enjoyed their travels together, family vacations and gatherings, and especially treasured their time collecting for, decorating their home, and sharing at Christmas. Buck also enjoyed backyard cookouts and was famous for his ribs. He was gracious and caring, but also playful and fun loving. We can still hear his laughter.Buck is remembered by his children as a wonderful father and role model. And he was very proud of his children, Mark, Anne, and John. Despite having a demanding career, he was present in their lives and the lives of their children. Together with Lolita, his life was a legacy of steadfast faith in and love for God.In addition to his loving wife, Lolita, Buck is survived by: his sister, Shirley Gilson and his brother, Charles Mateker and wife, Carol, his son, Mark and wife, Joan (Houston), and their daughters, Louisa Hamlin, Laura Hamlin Oates (Will), Elise Mateker Campagna (Chris); his daughter, Anne Miller and her husband Robert (La Marque), and their children, Ray Miller (Sarah), Tori Miller; and son, John and wife Cindy (Atlanta), and their children, Billy Mateker and Kelliann Mateker Hebert (Shawn). He also leaves behind the smallest twinkles in his eyes, great-grandchildren: Fred, Alice and Jane Oates; Nicholas and Megan Campagna; Abigail and Katherine Miller.Buck was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Marilyn Hampel Rhodes, and daughter-in-law Deborah Wall Mateker, and great-granddaughters, Maggie and Ellen Miller.The family appreciates his compassionate caregivers from Assisting Hands of West Houston. We are also grateful to Houston Hospice for their expertise and gentle care.Visitation will be held on November 3, from 5:30-8p, Rosary at 7p at Forest Park Funeral Home, 12800 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77077. Mass will be held on Friday, November 4, 2016 at 10:30a at St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 625 Nottingham Oaks Trail, Houston, TX 77079. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations to the Dominican Sisters of Houston, or Houston Hospice.