Article Date
August 25, 2005
Dr. Albert J. Geiger, a longtime friend of OBU and an honorary alumnus of the University, died Thursday, August 25, in Tulsa. He was 89.
Geiger and his wife, the late Laura Belle Lawson Geiger, were supporters of OBU for several decades. The University's student union building was named the Geiger Center for University Life as a result of their generous financial support.
"OBU has truly lost one of its finest friends and honorary alums," said OBU President Mark Brister. "As a former chairman of OBU's board of trustees, Al served four separate terms on the board. He invested in our University in countless ways."
Geiger's relationship with OBU began through the courtship of his future wife. Mrs. Geiger was a 1938 OBU graduate. The couple married on July 14, 1940, in the parlor of WMU Memorial Dormitory. They celebrated their 64th anniversary in 2004. Mrs. Geiger died October 17, 2004.
A native Oklahoman, Geiger earned an associate's degree from Okmulgee Junior College and a bachelor's degree in petroleum engineering from the University of Oklahoma. He retired in 1990 after a successful career as an independent oil producer. Geiger's career and service to OBU were recognized in February 1996, when he received an honorary doctorate during Founders' Day ceremonies in the University's Raley Chapel.
The Geigers provided significant financial support to OBU, ranging from construction of the student center and the W.P. Wood Science Building to the renovation of the Mabee Learning Center, renovation of WMU Memorial Dormitory, and support of varied computer and equipment purchases for numerous academic areas throughout campus. They also supported numerous endowed scholarships and academic positions.
"No one loved OBU more than Al Geiger and no one gave more or worked harder to help OBU get support," said Dr. Bob R. Agee, OBU president from 1982-1998. "He was what every president hopes for in a trustee. One of God's great blessings to me in bringing me to OBU was the joy of the friendship with Al and Laura Belle."
"The Geigers' investment in OBU goes far beyond their exemplary financial contributions," said Dr. Brister. "They were vocal advocates for the University in their church and community. His strong support of the University earned Al the nickname "Mr. OBU" at the First Baptist Church of Tulsa.
A member of First Baptist Church of Tulsa for more than 50 years, Geiger taught Sunday School and was a Sunday School department director. He also was an active deacon for nearly 40 years.
The Geigers are the parents of four children: John (OBU '66), Gere (OBU ex '68), James and Janelle. Several of the Geigers' 12 grandchildren also attended OBU.
Funeral services were held Tuesday, August 30, at the First Baptist Church of Tulsa.