Edward Durham

TROY, Mo. -- Edward "Ed" Franklin Durham, 96, of Troy passed away Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2013, at the Elsberry Health Care Center in Elsberry, Mo.

He was born Aug. 31, 1917, in Hiram, Mo., a son of the late Sidney and Sarah Fronabarger Durham. Edward was united in marriage to Wanda M. Haynes on Nov. 20, 1942, in St. Louis, and they had many happy years together.

He enlisted in the Army Infantry on April 6, 1943, at Jefferson Barracks and served 3 1/2 years during World War II. While at war, he was wounded Dec. 25, 1944, and received a Purple Heart and other numerous medals. Mr. Durham was honorably discharged Jan. 4, 1946, as a P.F.C. at Jefferson Barracks. He retired from Laclede Gas Co. in St. Louis after 29 years of service as a service foreman. Wanda and Ed spent many enjoyable years together, traveling, gardening, quilting, fishing and just living life together.

Mr. Durham is survived by his wife of 71 years, Wanda Durham of Troy; sister, Lydia Withers and husband, George, of St. Louis; nieces; nephews; cousins; numerous relatives; and many friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, 11 siblings, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

Funeral service was at 11 a.m. Saturday at Kemper-Marsh-Millard Family Funeral Home/Troy Chapel, with the Rev. Gary Berry officiating. Interment will be in Troy City Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the Cowan Cemetery, in care of Kemper-Marsh-Millard Family Funeral Chapels, P.O. Box 222 Troy, MO 63379.

Online condolences may be made at kempermarshmillardfamilychapels.com.