Gary D. Statler, 82, passed away Friday, December 1, 2023 at his home in Dardenne Prairie, MO.
He was born Nov 2, 1941 in Perry County, MO to William (Ray) Statler and Lonneta (Boxdorfer) Statler.
He and Beatrice (Betty) Buchheit were married June 1, 1963 at St. Joseph Church in Apple Creek, MO and were blessed with 60 years of marriage and three children.
He served in the United States Navy and graduated from Southeast Missouri State University.
He taught at Perryville District 32, worked at Rockwell International, Sabreliner (during which time he was sent to Pakistan to work with their Air Force on special projects), and E-Systems. With his wife he owned / operated a restaurant at Lake of the Ozarks and ran an upholstery business and taught it in adult education.
Gary was known for his easy laugh, abundant story telling, respect and appreciation for family and friends. He greatly enjoyed his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. One of his favorite pastimes was fishing in various ponds & lakes, and often recalled the days of seining for minnows & trudging along Apple Creek. He and his wife enjoyed travel, visiting many states as well as various countries.
He is survived by a daughter, Jan Jeanis (David) Wrone, and two sons, Jeffrey (Sherry) Statler, and Kerry (Jill) Statler; six grandchildren, Audrey (Sam) McCarty, Hannah (Matthew) Newman, Cole Jeanis, Luke Statler, Aaron Statler, Dakota Statler; four great-grandchildren, Olivia McCarty, Henry McCarty, Parker Newman, Vivian Newman; two sisters, Velda (Gene) Haertling and Violet (Michael) Kurtz, and numerous nieces, nephews and cousins.
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother & grandson.
Memorial gathering on Dec 28, 11 am – 1 pm at Paul Funeral Home, 240 N. Kingshighway St., St. Charles, MO, followed by interment of ashes at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. A Celebration of Life (date to be announced later) will be held in Perryville.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The American Kidney Foundation, SSM Hospice (givetoSSMHealth.org), or any charity, church, or school of your choice.
