George Draper
Bethalto |
George Marvin Draper, age 81, passed away on Thursday, September 25, 2014 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis MO.
George was born on January 12, 1933 in Anamosa, Iowa, son of the late Lon & Icye (Gholson) Draper. He married Patricia A. (Durham) Draper on October 20, 1951 in Alton.
George graduated from Civic Memorial High School in 1951, and served in the U.S. Air Force from 1953-1957. He worked for Laclede Steel in Alton from 1951-1997, starting as a laborer and retiring as Manger of Labor Relations. He was a member of St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton and formerly had been a member of Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Bethalto for over 25 years. George was also a member of the Bethalto Knights of Columbus Council # 4688 where he was a 3rd degree Knight, past Chancellor, and Grand Knight. He served on the Bethalto School Board for over 15 years.
George enjoyed hunting, fishing, farming and gardening. He also enjoyed sports, whether it be a Cardinal game or Little League, the Rams or a Friday night high school game. He loved flying out West and to Alaska and Canada with his brother, Jim, and always looked forward to their annual trips. However, his greatest joy was spending time at home with family and close friends. He was also a great animal lover.
George is survived by his wife, Patricia, as well as their daughter, Melissa, son-in-law, Jim Lynch, and grandson, Daniel Draper Lynch of Alton. He was preceded in death by his parents, Lon and Icye Draper, and brother, James M. Draper.
Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm on Monday, September 29, 2014 at Elias, Kallal and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto.
Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am, Tuesday, September 30, 2014, at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton with Fr. Jim Walther O.M.V. celebrating.
Memorials may be made to Hope Animal Rescues, Alton 5A’s, and The Tree House.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
