Maury E. Stiver, one of Texas’ leading, most knowledgeable civil and structural engineers, who in partnership with his wife designed and built a wide range of commercial, industrial, and technical facilities, has died. He was 78.
Stiver, P.E., F.ASCE, and his wife Sharon founded Stiver Engineering Inc. in 1980, and with 43 years of experience, it is among the most experienced and responsive structural and civil engineering firms in Houston, and provides its services throughout the United States and Canada.
His career began in Austin with Engineering-Science Inc. While there he served in the Army Reserves and trained in military intelligence. This integrated work saw him transfer to Washington, D.C., where his office was in the Watergate complex.
Returning to Texas three years later, Stiver and his wife not only founded and led their eponymous firm, he served multiple terms on the Houston Contractors Association board. He also taught engineering at the University of Houston. Many clients and colleagues became lifelong friends.
The Stivers were gratified to see their son John, P.E., M.ASCE, graduate from Texas Tech as a civil engineer in 2005 and join the family firm, where he now serves as president.
When Stiver met his wife-to-be, he joined her at the University of Texas in Austin. While Sharon earned a bachelor of science degree, Maury earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and a master of science in environmental health engineering with honors.
Stiver had a passion for work, whether it was rebuilding a pier, pushing cedar on his dozer, clearing brush with a chainsaw, picking up rocks, or planting the native pastures on his tractor.
He was community minded as well, serving for a number of years on the State Bar of Texas Grievance Committee. He also served on the board of directors of the Flint Creek Cemetery and of the Flat Water Supply Company.
