Robert Driskill's Unexpected Passing

On Thursday, July 21st, we were informed of an unimaginable loss to the TGP team. Robert Driskill, an integral part of Hess and TGP future, passed away unexpectedly while he was out on vacation with his family.

Robert Driskill joined our team in January of 2012. Before joining us, he worked on the drilling rigs in North Dakota as a mud logger and a carpenter in Washington state. Robert was a college graduate with a degree in Process Plant Technology, which he earned while in Washington. When working in North Dakota during the early 2010’s, he heard many good things about Hess and was eager for a chance to apply for a position in the TGP. When given the opportunity for an interview, Robert left a lasting impression with the entire panel with his knowledge of the company’s past, working displays of fractionation units, and confidence throughout. At the time Robert and his wife Leah were lifelong partners and had one small child. With no family in North Dakota but the opportunity to positively impact his growing family, they decided to take the leap to move half-way across the country. He and his family faced many adversities and at one time were living in a camper, as they tried to save money for the down payment for a home. They were able to do just that two years later and purchased a home in Tioga. Robert was extremely proud of the fact that he was a homeowner and providing for his family. While in Tioga, Robert and Leah were able to welcome two more children to their family. Upon arrival, he made friends quickly and meshed with the other work personnel. The team members he worked with all became more of a family rather than simply co-workers.

Robert enjoyed hunting, golfing, boating and riding skateboards (yes, skateboards!). But his all-time greatest passion was none other than fishing. He would spend any time he could with his kids teaching them the ins & outs of tying “just the right fly” to catch those Washington salmon. After connecting with the TGP crew, some became lifelong friends and melted into his family life, and lifelong friends were made. Depending on the time of year, you could often find Robert and his work friends enjoying one of his favorite pastimes.

At the plant, Robert was looked up to - and always a “go to” person for when times got tough. The knowledge and skills he passed along to other operators while training are irreplaceable. He was an invaluable part of the 2021 TGP Turnaround success, as he developed many procedures and became one of the leaders during night operations. Recently promoted to the Process Specialist position, his skillset was second to none.

Robert leaves behind his wife and lifelong best friend, Leah, along with three children – Keira – 14, Liam, age 9, and Gavin, just 6 years old. He was an amazing dad and husband, and a great friend to all that knew him. He will truly be missed. Please keep his wife, children and family in your prayers as they go through this tough time and learn to find a new normal in their daily lives.

With his passing, we would like to help the family out with any expenses incurred after his passing. A heartfelt thank you for taking the time to read this and for your continued support of any kind.