Edward Proffer

Edward Proffer, 91, of Cape Girardeau passed away Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2015, at his home.

He was born July 4, 1924, the son of Elvis and Amelia Fiesler Proffer in St Louis. He and Charlotte Watson were married Jan. 8, 1949.

Proffer enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1943 and proudly served his country until he retired in 1968. He began his military career stationed with a rifle company in the South Pacific Theater during World War II. During the Korean conflict, he was assigned to an F4U Squadron. In 1961, he was a crew chief in a search-and-rescue squadron in Japan, and received a meritorious commendation from the Japanese government. Later, he served with a rifle company during two tours in the Vietnam War. He was a licensed pilot and was honorably discharged, achieving the rank of first sergeant. He was awarded numerous citations and commendations during his military career.

After his service in the Marine Corps, Proffer owned a refrigeration, heating and air-conditioning company in Cape Girardeau.

He was an active member of Lynwood Baptist Church in Cape Girardeau, where he served in various capacities. He was a deacon and volunteered for numerous mission trips and building projects. One of his proudest accomplishments was helping to restore Old Bethel Church in Jackson.

Proffer's life was one of service, and he will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to helping others. He will be greatly missed by family and friends.

Loving survivors include his wife of 66 years, Charlotte Proffer of Cape Girardeau; a son, Chuck (Gretchen) Proffer of Apex, North Carolina; two daughters, Charlene (Fred) Williams of Fruitland and Carla (Bruce) Fee of Cape Girardeau; seven grandchildren, Natalie Proffer, Kristina (fiance, Ben Maultsby) Proffer, Amanda (Chris) Veatch, Michael (Gail) Williams, Josh and Danielle Fee and Sarah (fiance, Bryan English) Fee; and a great-granddaughter, Emma English.

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

Visitation will be from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at Lynwood Baptist Church.

The funeral service will begin at 11 a.m., with Brother Kevin Coffee officiating. Private burial will follow with graveside military honors.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to Lynwood Baptist Church, Dongola Cemetery Association or Wounded Warrior Project.

Online condolences may be sent to the family by visiting www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.

McCombs Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau was in charge of arrangements.