Paul Statler

PATTON, Mo. -- Paul Denzel Statler, 82, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., passed away Sunday, Feb. 2, 2003.

He was born June 8, 1920, son of Tivis and Mabel Seabaugh Statler. His mother preceded him in death when he was three years old. He then went to live with his great-uncle and aunt, Eli and Rada Thiele of Sedgewickville, Mo.

Mr. Statler was a self-employed carpenter and contractor. He was an avid fisherman and enjoyed sharing that pastime with loved ones.

He was a member of the Church of Christ. His faith and spirituality were of great importance to him. His Bible provided him with daily inspiration that translated into life characterized by humbleness and devotion to his Savior.

Mr. Statler served in the U.S. Navy during World War II from Jan. 20, 1942, until being honorably discharged Jan. 6, 1947. He was stationed aboard the USS Battleship South Dakota during that tenure. He was awarded the Pacific Theater Ribbon with 13 stars, Good Conduct Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, Victory Ribbon and Liberation Medal with two stars, as well as various other honors.

Survivors include a son, David Statler of Higgersville, Mo.; a sister, Geri Statler Reiminger; a brother, Charles W. "Jack" Statler; a stepbrother, Stan Richardson; and a stepsister, Hazel Ford, all of Cape Girardeau. Many loving nieces and nephews also survive.

He was preceded in death by five brothers, Chalmer, Burl, Claude, Tivis Jr., and Robert, and a sister, Pauline Statler Albano.

Visitation will be at 1 p.m. Thursday at Liley Funeral Home in Patton.

Funeral service will be at 2 p.m., with the Rev. Fred Ritter officiating. Burial will be in Sedgewickville Cemetery at Sedgewickville.