Irvin Walker

Irvin Cletus "Clete" Walker, 88, of St. Peters, Mo., passed away Tuesday, Aug. 10, 2010, at his home.

He was born Jan. 17, 1922, at Neelys Landing, son of Irvin L. and Barbara C. Craft Walker.

Clete served in the Civilian Conservation Corps in Wentzville, Mo., 18 months. He was inducted into the U.S. Army May 27, 1941, proudly serving in the Infantry Division during World War II in the Asiatic Pacific Theater. He was awarded a Purple Heart and was honorably discharged Oct. 5, 1945.

He was a machinist 23 years at the former Wagner Electric in St. Louis, and was a plumber and all-around handyman during the 25 years he lived in Doniphan, Mo.

He was a devoted father and "Papa," and was loved by everyone who knew him. His kindness, encouraging words and contagious smile will be greatly missed.

Loving survivors include four children, Keith (Kathy) Walker of Glendale, Mo., Sandra L. ("Nick") Nichols of St. Charles, Mo., Sharon R. (Mike) Langhammer of Crestwood, Mo., Jettie A. (Glenn) Siesenop of Decatur, Ill.; a sister, Helen Sides of Independence, Mo.; 12 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews, extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, a grandson, a sister and two brothers.

Friends may call from noon until service time Saturday at the chapel of McCombs Funeral Home and Cremation Center in Jackson.

The funeral will be at 2 p.m. Saturday at the funeral home, with the Rev. John Rhodes officiating. Interment will be in New Bethel Cemetery near Pocahontas, with military honors provided.

In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate memorials made to New Bethel Baptist Church, 6137 County Road 525, Jackson, MO 63755.

Sympathy messages may be sent to the family online at www.mccombsfuneralhome.com.