On May 16, 2025, more than 500 lots of tools, trucks, trailers and heavy machinery were sold during a retirement auction for XL Oilfield Services LLC.

The event at 1492 State Highway 97 E in Gonzales, Texas, was managed by Coleman and Patterson Auctioneers and marked the retirement of XL Oilfield Services company owners Paul and Melissa Prove. The sale drew more than 500 bidders both online and in person.

Founded in October 2011, XL Oilfield Services provided maintenance and construction services across the Texas oilfield sector for more than 14 years. The company specialized in setting up tank batteries, separators, flow lines and aerial tank work, along with emergency leak repairs. The business employed more than 100 people and operated 41 trucks and 23 trailers.

"We built this company from a single crew to more than 100 employees at one point," Paul Prove said. "We've been blessed, and now it's time to take a step back and retire."

The equipment fleet featured at the auction was powered almost exclusively by Case equipment, sourced from Nueces Power Equipment.

"NPE has always been our go-to. Their support is phenomenal. they're a service company's best friend," Prove said. "From the owner to every staff member, they treat you like family. That culture of appreciation is real, and it made a difference in how we operated."

"The last few years, I haven't been in the field due to health reasons," Prove said. "That's really what brought us to this decision. We're in a good place, and it's time to move on while we're ahead."

Prove said he's most looking forward to "peace of mind" in retirement.

The strong turnout at the sale reflected the company's respected reputation and the quality of its equipment, closing the chapter on a business that left its mark on the South Texas oilfield community. CEG

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Paul and Melissa Prove of XL Oilfield Services LLC welcome bidders to their yard in Gonzales, Texas. (CEG photo)

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