Lorianne Willett

1947-2024
Staff member of Mechanical Engineering department within the Cockrell School of Engineering from 1969 to 2004.

John Patrick Pedracine died at 76 years old on April 23, 2024, on his small property near Florence, Texas. Born in San Antonio to Pat and Marie Pedracine, the family traveled the world with his father’s U. S. Airforce assignments until they settled in Austin in 1962. John graduated from Austin High School in 1966.

His 36-year career at the University of Texas in the Mechanical Engineering department was filled with so much variety. As a scientific instrument maker, he had the opportunity to work on prototypes and research projects of every kind, from early space shuttle wind tunnel testing to crafting an award statuette that included a fulgurite for author James Michener. He loved teaching the introductory shop class and mentoring students who wanted to learn the practical application of their course work. The class included use of mills, lathes, foundry techniques, and welding styles & methods. He loved partnering with professors, graduate students, and on occasion, art students on their unique projects. In fact, no assignment was too tough to build for John even when he had to custom make the tools as well.

Fishing was his passion from childhood. He loved to fish and relished the sport in his spare time. In retirement, he designed and fabricated his own freshwater fishing lures. He constantly refined the tools, the materials, and the methods for catching (and releasing) every kind of fresh and saltwater fish.

He is survived by his wife of 44 years, Melissa Waggoner, his son, Chris Pedracine, grandson Christopher Pedracine, brother Frank Pedracine and sisters Ann Cleverley & Lisa Eddins.