Walter Hedrick

SIKESTON, Mo. -- Walter N. Hedrick, 89, of Kansas City, Mo., formerly of Sikeston, died Monday, July 18, 2005, at his home.

He was born May 13, 1916, in Davis, W.Va., son of Rose Belle and Samuel L. Hedrick. He and Lois Williams were married Oct. 10, 1942. She died Oct. 7, 2003.

Hedrick graduated from Frostburg State Teachers College in Frostburg, Md., and taught in Luke, Md., before serving as a lieutenant commander in the U.S. Navy during World War II.

He received a master's degree in business administration from the University of Michigan and then returned to Cumberland, Md. He founded Hedrick Concrete Products in Sikeston in 1964, and was president until retiring.

Hedrick was a member of First United Methodist Church and had been a Sunday school teacher, choir member and lay leader. He was a member of Sikeston Rotary Club and a Paul Harris Fellow. He was a former president of Southeast Missouri Boy Scout Council and a recipient of the Silver Beaver Award.

Survivors include two daughters, Suzanne Hedrick of Kansas City, Janet Hunter of Fairfax, Mo.; a son, Thomas Hedrick of Sikeston; eight grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.

Friends may call at First United Methodist Church in Sikeston from 9:30 a.m. until time of service Saturday.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the church, with the Rev. Geoff Posegate officiating.

Ponder Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.