William Wilson

HARVIELL, Mo. -- William "Duggie" Wilson, 82, of the Harviell area passed away Thursday, Oct. 16, 2003, at Three Rivers Healthcare North Campus in Poplar Bluff, Mo. He had been in declining health the past year.

Mr. Wilson, son of John D. and Willa Ella Roberts Wilson, was born June 28, 1921, at Cline's Island, near Essex, Mo.

Employed by Missouri Pacific Railroad as a supervisor and lead welder, he retired in 1981 after 33 years of service.

In June 1940 he joined the U.S. Navy and served with distinction in the South Pacific during World War II. After training at Great Lakes Naval Training Center, he was assigned to the heavy cruiser, USS Minneapolis, where he remained as one of 53 original men during its battle cruise.

Mr. Wilson served as chief petty officer/shipfitter. He was awarded 19 battle stars, including the Asiatic Pacific Medal, Philippine Liberation Medal, American Defense Medal, Victory Medal, and Chinese Liberty Medal. He earned the Good Conduct Medal with a star, Commendation Ribbon, and several letters of commendation. He was honorably discharged from the Navy in June 1946.

Mr. Wilson was a member of the USS Minneapolis Association, National Rifle Association, and National Association of Retired Veteran Railroad Employees.

Survivors include his wife of 54 years, Wilma Lee Hager Wilson of the home; four children and their spouses, Carol and Ken McManaman of Jackson, Jerry and Susan Wilson of Poplar Bluff, Nancy and Dr. Taylor Bahn of Cape Girardeau, Peggy and Dennis Hankins of Poplar Bluff.

Also surviving are 10 grandchildren, Evan John McManaman of the U.S. Marine Corps, Kinsey and Kierin Rose McManaman of Jackson, Caitlin, Jackson and Carsen Bahn of Cape Girardeau, Jessica and Davis Wilson of Poplar Bluff, Kelly O'Connor of St. Louis, Mellany Myers of Poplar Bluff; two great-grandchildren, Mary Katherine and Ian Myers of Poplar Bluff.

Three brothers, Eugene, John Jr. and James Wilson, preceded him in death.

Visitation will begin at 5 p.m. Sunday at Cotrell Funeral Chapel in Poplar Bluff.

The funeral will begin at 10:30 a.m. Monday at the chapel, with the Rev. Tommy Knodell officiating. Burial will be in Cochran Cemetery with full military honors.

Memorials may be made to Harviell Baptist Church, Harviell, Mo.