Walter James ‘Ax’ Dierlam, 82, of Seadrift, TX passed from this life on November 1, 2015. He was born on August 28, 1933 in Seadrift, TX to the late Gilbert L. ‘Gib’ and Naomi Dierlam.

He is survived by his wife, Mignon Morgenroth Dierlam; sister, Evelyn Williams; brother, Freeman Dierlam; sons, Ricky and Danny; grandson, Derek; granddaughters, Darcie and Kristin; numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded into death by his parents, sons Jerry and Randy Dierlam, sister Mary, and brother Buck.

The community lost a wonderful father, long-time friend and accomplished life-long cattleman and horseman. An army veteran, he served our nation proudly. He retired after a 40-year career from Union Carbide. He loved being horseback, working cattle and being a pickup man for many years in support of Rodeo. His love for the sport of rodeo and dedication and support for the youth of our county kept him active throughout his life in the Calhoun County Youth Rodeo Association, serving as president of the CCYRA and numerous years as a director of the Texas Youth Rodeo Association. He served many years on the Calhoun County School Board and was also a member of the First United Methodist Church in Seadrift. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Calhoun County Youth Rodeo Association or the charity of choice.

Funeral Services were held on Wednesday, November 4, 2015 at First United Methodist Church in Seadrift. Burial followed at Seadrift Cemetery.

Pallbearers were John Shaw, Stanley Dierlam, Ted Morris, Tommy Henderson, Jr., Tommy Stanfill, and Robert Sanders. Honorary Pallbearers were Harold Evans, Tommy Henderson, Sr., James Morgenroth, Jack Phillips, Barry Dierlam, and Kenneth Finster.