Charles Clippard

Charles Richard Clippard, 85, of Cape Girardeau died Thursday, Nov. 11, 2010, at the Missouri Veterans Home.

He was born June 29, 1925, in Cape Girardeau, to Charles Noble and Eva Ulla Braden Clippard.

Charles was a graduate of Central High School and Southeast Missouri State University with a B.A. in social science and history.

He served in the Army during World War II as an Army Ranger in the 6th Battalion, Company B. He also served during the Korean War. He was awarded three Bronze Stars for the campaigns in New Guinea, Luzon and Philippines.

He was a salesman for KitchenAid. After retirement, he was an independent contractor.

Charles was very active at the Missouri Veterans Home. He served as President of the Residents Association and volunteer for many activities.

He was involved in Senior Olympics and earned numerous gold and silver medals, both regionally and nationally. In 1996, Charles participated in carrying the Olympic torch during the relay through Cape Girardeau.

He loved boating and camping and was a certified Chrysler outboard mechanic.

Survivors include two sons, Randy (Shelly) Clippard of St. Charles, Mo., Scott (Sally Welker) Clippard of Cape Girardeau; one sister, Melba (Richard) Lipscomb Sr. of Memphis, Tenn.; two grandchildren, Ellen and Nick Clippard; a niece, Marcia Jack; and a nephew, Richard Lipscomb Jr.

He was preceded in death by his parents.

Friends may call from noon to 2 p.m. Tuesday at Ford and Sons Mount Auburn Funeral Home.

The memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Tuesday at the funeral home, with the Rev. John Nimmo officiating. Military honors will be provided by Missouri Honors Team at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Missouri Veteran's Home, 2400 Veterans Memorial Drive, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.