Jim Norbert Stech, of Houston and Rockport, Texas, passed away peacefully surrounded by family. He was 86 years old.

Born in Weimar, Texas, Jim was the son of Norbert and Henrietta Stech. He grew up alongside his brother, Otis Stech, sister, Donna Tune, and enjoyed a large extended family with many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Jim was a gifted athlete during his high school years, playing most varsity sports and excelling in tennis, football, and basketball. His athletic ability led him to attend Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, where he played collegiate basketball as a freshman before transferring to Southwest Texas State College, now Texas State University. He graduated in 1963 with a Bachelor of Business Administration degree.

On July 6, 1963, Jim married Patricia “Pat” Galyean. Their marriage spanned more than six decades and was marked by devotion, partnership, and a deep commitment to family.

Following graduation, Jim built a career in accounting and finance. Early in his career, he served as Chief Accountant for Foley’s Department Stores in Houston. He later joined Gowan, Inc., a Houston-based mechanical and sheet metal contractor, where he spent 32 years and ultimately served as Chief Financial Officer. Throughout his professional life, Jim earned the respect of colleagues for his integrity, sound judgment, and steady leadership.

While proud of his professional accomplishments, Jim’s greatest joy came from his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He is survived by his wife, Pat; sons Todd Stech and his wife Kimberly of Houston, and Brock Stech and his wife Carla of Rockport; grandchildren Caroline Stech of Houston, Elizabeth Matthews and her husband Luke of Katy, Olivia Stech of Houston, and Allison Stech of Denison; his brother, Otis Stech of Rockport; and his sister, Donna Tune and her husband Tom of Big Spring.

Jim had a lifelong passion for fishing, particularly along the Texas coast in Rockport, where he enjoyed countless days on the water with family and friends. In addition to catching fish, Jim was an accomplished fishing rod builder. Starting in the 1970’s, Jim built graphite rods for saltwater coastal fishing at a time when most rods were built for bass fisherman. He was well known amongst the Houston fishing tackle community and his rods were prized by friends and those who won them in fishing tournaments.

He was also an accomplished bridge player and achieved the distinction of American Contract Bridge League Life Master, a testament to his competitive spirit and intellectual curiosity. He enjoyed traveling and creating lasting memories with those he loved.

Those who knew Jim will remember his quiet strength, sharp mind, unwavering character, and deep dedication to his family. His life was one of service, hard work, friendship, and love. He leaves behind a legacy that will continue through the many lives he touched.

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to the Coastal Conservation Association (CCA) Texas, Aransas Bay Chapter.

Guestbook available online at www.resthavenfunerals.com

Arrangements and care entrusted to Resthaven Funeral Home, Aransas Pass.