Harold L. Runnels facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Harold L. Runnels
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| Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from New Mexico's 2nd district |
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| In office January 3, 1971 – August 5, 1980 |
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| Preceded by | Ed Foreman |
| Succeeded by | Joe Skeen |
| Member of the New Mexico State Senate | |
| In office 1960–1970 |
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| Personal details | |
| Born |
Harold Lowell Runnels
March 17, 1924 Dallas, Texas, US |
| Died | August 5, 1980 (aged 56) New York City, US |
| Resting place | Rest Haven Memorial Gardens in Lovington, New Mexico, US |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Dorothy Runnels |
| Profession | Businessman |
| Military service | |
| Branch/service | United States Army Air Forces Reserve |
| Years of service | December 1942 – July 1943 |
| Rank | Private |
Harold Lowell Runnels (born March 17, 1924 – died August 5, 1980) was an American businessman and politician. He represented New Mexico in the United States House of Representatives for five terms, from 1971 until his death in 1980.
Contents
Harold Runnels' Early Life
Harold Runnels went to public schools in Dallas, Texas. He later attended Cameron State Agricultural College in Lawton, Oklahoma. This school is now known as Cameron University.
Starting His Career
In 1942, Harold Runnels worked for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Washington, D.C.. After that, from 1945 to 1951, he managed the Magnolia Amusement Co. in Magnolia, Arkansas.
In 1951, he moved to Lovington, New Mexico. The next year, he became a partner in a company called Southland Supply Co. He then started his own businesses: Runnels Mud Co. in 1953 and RunCo Acidizing & Fracturing Co. in 1964. In 1960, he also helped start the Permian Basin Petroleum Association.
Serving in the State Senate
Harold Runnels was a member of the New Mexico Senate for ten years, from 1960 to 1970. During this time, he also attended New Mexico State Democratic conventions. He was a delegate at these meetings from 1960 to 1979.
Time in Congress
Runnels was elected to the United States House of Representatives as a Democrat. He served in Congress starting on January 3, 1971. He was re-elected four times, serving until his death.
His Passing and Burial
Harold Runnels passed away in New York City on August 5, 1980. He died from breathing problems while being treated for lung issues and cancer. He was buried at Rest Haven Memorial Gardens in Lovington, New Mexico.
Harold Runnels' Legacy
Harold Runnels left behind important records from his time in the U.S. Congress. These are called the Harold Runnels Papers (1971-1980) and are kept at Eastern New Mexico University. The university also has an art gallery called the Runnels Room. It was named in his honor because he left a part of his estate to the university.
His Family
Harold Runnels had a son named Mike Runnels. Mike followed in his father's footsteps and also became a politician. He served as the Lieutenant Governor of New Mexico from 1983 to 1987.
See also
- List of United States Congress members who died in office (1950–99)
