Tad Mathew Poutinen, 77, of Harleton, passed to his heavenly home on June 14, 2016. He was born May 26, 1939 in Henderson, Kentucky and reared in North Dallas, Texas, the son of Wayne E. and Elizabeth Whitfield Poutinen.  He earned a B.S. degree in chemistry and earth sciences from East Texas State University (now Texas A&M Commerce) in 1970. He married Janet Lois Newman of Harleton in January, 1970. Tad worked in petroleum production for several years and then made a career in quality control/inspection in the petro-chemical construction industry.

As a young man Tad was a championship bowler until family and career claimed his time. He enjoyed watching his children's activities and after retirement umpired youth baseball and softball.  Tad liked to work on his farm, especially using his dozer to clear the land.

Tad was a member of Harleton Baptist Church where he served as an usher and Sunday School secretary for many years. He was known for his outgoing, friendly personality.  He served several years on the Harleton ISD board and played a key roll in establishing the Harleton Water Supply Corporation.