In reply to message posted by cmpjnk:
our hot water heater will light stay lit for a short time and then will go out i was wondering if someone out there might know an answer to the question
When you light the pilot it stays on BUT when it cycles it does not stay lit This sir is a classic case of a defective thermocouple which is a flame positive safe guard.
Now that you have an idea what is wrong call a licensed professional before someone gets really hurt so they can also test for spilage and check your safety relief valves operation