Charitable Friends of Ashley Valley is excited to announce the commissioning of our talented local sculptor and artist, Arnie Gray. Being funded completely by you, our community, your charitable donation will make this project possible. This project aims to pay tribute to our rich oilfield history and the remarkable individuals who played a vital role in its development. We look forward to celebrating their legacy through Arnie's artistic vision.
Charles Ross Rooks
Equity Oil & Gas
Charles Ross Rooks is the son of Archie and Mary Belle Rooks. He married Venice Merkley on December 24, 1933. He worked for Equity Oil for 46 years as a supervisor. He died May 15, 1995.
Four Vernal men who were killed late last week in a dynamite explosion at an isolated oil well site southwest of Meeker, Colorado. The victims were Charles M. McConkie, 35, and his son, Duane, both of 122 East 5th South; Robert Hatch, 37; and Howtz Ross, 42.
The bodies were discovered Sunday morning, and it was believed that the explosion had occurred Friday, two days previous.
The four had left Vernal together Thursday of last week, stopping in Rangely, Colorado to borrow a welder from Equity Oil Company. They were found Sunday by Ross Rooks of Equity Oil who went to the campsite to find out why the welder had not been returned.
Vernal Express, August 27, 1964
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Photo: 1929 or 1930
Uintah County Library Historical Society. Photographer: Leo Thorne
