William Shackles

William H. "Bill" Shackles, 86, of St. Louis passed over Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011, to join his lovely wife, Sylvia, and many friends who have passed away before him.

He was born Jan. 26, 1925. He and Sylvia Moore from Henderson, Tenn., were married May 27, 1950 (61 years).

Preceding in death were his father, Paul Shackles; mother, Marie Shackles; brothers, Dick and Ben Shackles; sisters, Betty Shackles and Paula Freeman; cousins and nephews.

He was an enthusiastic flier, flying from Lambert Field with the UPML 68 Naval Squadron during his naval reserve tour. He was called to active duty to serve during the Korean conflict on the USS Grady.

Shackles attended O'Fallon Tech night school and learned aircraft maintenance and antique restoration of vintage aircraft. From a $300 pile of junk he rebuilt and flew his own so-called fishing buggy, a 75-horsepower continental U5 Piper that is still flying today in Texas.

He joined the Navy on Dec. 7, 1942, at age 17, and discharged to inactive duty in 1946. Most of his wartime experience was involved with anti-submarine warfare.

In 1947, he went to work as an organizer for Teamsters Union Local 618, retiring as president Dec. 31, 1981. He was a member and exalted ruler of Elks Lodge 9.

Visitation is from 5 to 7 p.m. today at Kutis Affton Chapel, 10151 Gravois Road, St. Louis.

The funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Entombment Sunset Mausoleum.

Contributions to Humane Society of Missouri appreciated.