Gilbert Theiss

WITTENBERG, Mo. -- Gilbert A. Theiss, 83, of Wittenberg died Friday, Oct. 6, 2006, at the Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau.

He was born May 16, 1923, at Wittenberg, son of Paul J. and Clara M. Hilpert Theiss. He and Viola F. Gerler were married Dec. 26, 1942.

Theiss was a saw filer 15 years at Perry Crating in Frohna. After retiring he was a landlord.

He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Altenburg, Mo., Perry County Lutheran Historical Society, National Association of Retired Federal Employees, Perry County Historical Society, Missouri State Historical Society, Altenburg Lions Club and American Legion Post 133 in Perryville, Mo.

Theiss was a former member of Perry County Library Board, Riverside Regional Library Board, New Bourbon Regional Port Authority, and Perry County Chapter of American Red Cross.

He was a U.S. Army veteran of World War II, serving with the 351st Combat Infantry. He received three Bronze Battle Stars, Combat Infantry Badge and a Bronze Star.

Survivors include his wife; two daughters, Kathy Schoenherr of Frohna, Nancy Ponivas of Alton, Ill.; a son, Gilbert Theiss Jr. of Detroit; three brothers, Paul and the Rev. Louis Theiss of Perryville, the Rev. Harry Theiss of Glen Ullin, N.D.; eight grandchildren; and a great-granddaughter.

Visitation will be from 4 to 9 p.m. Sunday at Trinity Lutheran Church in Altenburg, and Monday from 8 a.m. until time of service.

The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Monday at the church, with the Rev. Steven Dressler officiating. Burial will be in the church cemetery, with military graveside rites provided by American Legion Post 133.

Young and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.