Vernon "Dale" Cox, age 75, passed away on Saturday, November 14 surrounded by his family. He was born in Woodward, OK and was one of six children of Bill and Mariam Cox. He graduated from Camargo High School in Camargo, OK.

After high school, he went to Southwestern Oklahoma State University. He married his wife Elaine (Burton). Upon graduation with his Bachelor of Science in Physics and Mathematics, he began attending the University of Texas in Austin, TX to pursue his Ph.D. in Physics.

He took a break from his studies to serve in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War. He was stationed at Colorado Springs, CO. He quickly rose to the level of Staff Sargent before completing his term.

He then returned to his studies in Austin and completed his Ph.D. After graduation, he began as a professor at Sul Ross State University in Alpine, TX teaching physics, math and astronomy. He later moved to Tahlequah, OK to teach at Northeastern State University. He ended his career working at Conoco as a senior geophysical scientist specializing in 3D downhole seismology.

Dale was a gifted educator, avid reader and life-long learner. He taught himself at least four different computer languages along with tutoring advanced mathematics to whoever needed it.

Dale and Elaine have two daughters, Laura Clark and Melissa Potter. Laura married Paul Clark and have two children, Sydney and Sam. Melissa married Wes Potter and have two children, Elizabeth and Grace. Dale served as a surrogate father to his nephew Chris Cox and gained additional grandchildren, Kassidy and Dawson.

He was a beloved husband, grandfather, father, brother, uncle and son. He was known by many as a kind and brilliant man.

Memorials may be made to the Alzheimer Research in care of Shaw Funeral Home, P.O. Box 276, Vici, OK 73859.