ALFRED GRATZ

BERNIE, Mo. -- Alfred Ray Gratz, 70, of Bernie died Wednesday, Oct. 18, 2000, at his home.

He was born Sept. 13, 1930, at Parma, Mo., son of Elmer and Letha Leona Brown Gratz.

Gratz lived in Parma many years. He moved to Bernie 10 years ago. He owned and operated a furniture store at Parma prior to retiring. He was a member of Parma United Methodist Church.

In earlier years, Gratz was a scoutmaster for Boy Scouts of America. He was also a pilot with the New Madrid County Civil Defense and involved with various aircraft and pilot clubs.

He served in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean War.

Survivors include a son, Alan Gratz of Dexter, Mo.; a daughter, Teresa Gratz of Alamogordo, N.M.; and a sister, Eloise Alvis of San Diego, Calif.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a sister.

Friends may call at Watkins and Sons Funeral Home in Parma after 9 a.m. Saturday.

Funeral will be at 11 a.m. Saturday at the funeral home. The Rev. Bill Reid will officiate. Burial will be in Memorial Park Cemetery at Malden, Mo., with full military honors conducted by the Veterans Honor Guard of Poplar Bluff, Mo.