Dr. Macmillan “Mac” Morgan Wisler passed away peacefully on October 5, 2025 surrounded by his loving family.
Mac was born on December 3, 1943, in Pinehurst, North Carolina in the midst of a blackout during a World War II air raid drill. He enjoyed an idyllic family life in the Sandhills of North Carolina and later a joyful, adventure-filled childhood in Welch, West Virginia, where he and his brother BB became well known for their good-natured mischief and endless teasing of their sister Nell.
After a lively freshman year at West Virginia University, where he proudly swam on the university’s swim team, Mac set his sights on a new challenge, pursuing engineering and physics at North Carolina State University. There, he not only earned his doctorate, but also met the love of his life, Tanya Camille Cottle. The two were instantly smitten and went on to share 55 beautiful years together filled with laughter, love, and countless adventures that brought the family to Virginia, Louisiana, Connecticut and ultimately, Texas.
A brilliant and innovative mind, Mac became an accomplished scientist and engineer, traveling throughout the world and earning several patents for his groundbreaking work in the oilfield industry. Over his distinguished career, he served as a research physicist and principal scientist with many respected organizations, including the Research Triangle Institute in Raleigh, NC; Naval Research Labs in Washington, DC; Adams and Rountree in Lafayette, LA; Teleco in Durham, CT; NL, Weatherford, and Baker Hughes in Houston, TX; and most recently, APS Technology. His work helped shape modern offshore drilling practices and earned him recognition as a “legend” in the energy sector.
But while his professional accomplishments were remarkable, Mac’s greatest pride was always his family. He was a devoted husband, father, and friend. He was the kind of person who could fix just about anything, make you laugh when you needed it most, and always had time to listen. His quick wit and sharp sense of humor were his trademarks; he could find levity in any situation and leave a room smiling with just a few words.
Mac’s passions throughout his life were science, math, fishing, classic cars, and golf. He could often be found on one of the courses at Kingwood Country Club, where he spent many happy hours perfecting his swing, celebrating not one, but 2 holes-in-one, and enjoying time with friends.
Mac is survived by his devoted wife, Tanya Camille Wisler; his children, William Wisler (Sheila) and Jennifer Wisler (Matt Maloney); his brother, Benjamin Beamer Wisler, of Cabin John, MD; his sister, Nell Wisler Johnson, of Portland, OR; and many loving extended family members and friends who were lucky enough to know and love him, including his team members at APS Technology. He is preceded in death by his parents Benjamin and Joyce Wisler of Southern Pines, NC.
A memorial service celebrating Mac’s extraordinary life will be held on Thursday, October 16th from 2 pm until 4 pm at Kingwood Funeral Home in Kingwood, TX.
