Texas A&M University-Kingsville is mourning the loss of Jerome Tymrak, lecturer in agricultural science, and William Edward Renfrow, longtime art professor.
With decades of experience in education both individuals leave a legacy at TAMUK and the students they taught.
Renfrow was born on Dec. 26, 1935, in Cooper County, Mo. He was a graduate of Kansas City Art Institute, where he received a degree in the Masters of Fine Arts. Renfrow was a Professor of Art and part of the Department of Art, Communication and Theatre where he shared his passion for art, especially painting for 43 years. Renfrow passed on Aug. 29, in Kingsville, Texas
“As he taught over the years, he grew to love teaching art history. In the 1960s, Renfrow fought discrimination against Chicano students. Out of his and Ben Bailey’s dedication to their students, today there are a number of well-known artists who graduated from Texas A&I including Amado Pena, Carmen Lomas Garza, Jose Riviera and Cesar A. Martinez,” according to press release by the university.
A private service was held in Renfrow’s memory.
Tymrak, 73, was born on Sept. 30, 1946 in Jourdanton, Texas, and passed away on Aug. 31. He was a graduate of Texas A&I, where he received his bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education and his master’s.
Tymrak had a passion for teaching. He worked at the university for 20 years, and prior to that he spent 27 years as an ag science teacher at Banquete High School.
According to his obituary, Tymrak received the TAMUK College of Agriculture Advising Award twice and was a five-time recipient of the Texas A&M University System Chancellor’s Outstanding Teaching Award.
Tymrak was known for his dedication in helping his students succeed.
“In my 10 plus years as Department Chair, I cannot recall one challenge that Mr. Tymrak was not able to resolve on his own,” Dean of Agriculture Dr. Shad Nelson said. “Students, both young and old, looked to Mr. Tymrak not only for education, but he demonstrated to them how to be a better person along the learning process.”
Friends, family and colleagues of Tymrak gathered Sunday, Sept. 13, at the Richard M. Borchard Regional Fairgrounds in Robstown, for a Celebration of Life.