HOWARD HARDIN

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Howard "Boats" Hardin, 76, of Sikeston died Tuesday, July 4, 2000, at Missouri Veterans Home in Cape Girardeau.

He was born Jan. 6, 1924, in Camden, Tenn., son of William and Gertrude Sterling Hardin. He and Lucille Howell were married July 7, 1972. She died Feb. 16, 1994.

Hardin retired from General Motors Parts Division in Hazelwood in 1986. He moved to Sikeston five years ago from St. Louis.

He was a member of VFW Post 2066 in St. Charles, American Legion Post 556 in Chesterfield, United Auto Workers of America Local 25 in St. Louis, NRA, and Fleet Reserve Association.

Hardin served with the U.S. Navy in the South Pacific during World War II and received six Good Conduct Medals and commendations during the Okinawa Campaign. He also served during the Korean War and was discharged in March 1962.

Survivors include a sister, Nadine Hampton of Sikeston.

He was preceded in death by a brother.

Friends may call at Shelby Funeral Home in East Prairie after 5 p.m. today.

Funeral will be at 3 p.m. Friday at the funeral home, with David Dowdy officiating. Burial will be in East Prairie Memorial Park Cemetery, with military rites by Missouri Honors Program.