John Pachl 1941 - 2006

John Thomas Pachl, of Willard, age 65, died at home Tuesday, January 31, 2006, after battling a debilitating lung disease for nearly 20 years. John was born in Springfield on January 24, 1941, to parents Arlie "Tom" and Lorena (Akridge) Pachl, and spent his early years in Buffalo, Missouri. After moving to Springfield as a boy, John attended Pepperdine Elementary and graduated from Central High School in 1959. Upon graduation, John joined the U.S. Air Force, where he served as a medic for SAC both at McConnell Air Base in Wichita, Kan., and Vandenberg Air Base in California. He was honorably discharged in 1963, having earned his Airman First Class stripes and two commendations. He attended Drury College. John married his high school sweetheart, Leah Mims, on July 22, 1960, in Springfield. Two children followed, son Jeff in 1962 and daughter Kristen in 1968. John was happiest when surrounded by friends and in the middle of a great story. A car aficionado his entire life, his most recent vehicle was a 1948 Chevrolet Fleetline, but his fondest memories were of his 1953 Studebaker Starlight Coupe. John's natural love of people led him to a career in food sales throughout the Midwest, and to offer his time and talent in service to others. He worked for Hunt-Wesson for 37 years. He was very active as a Boy Scout leader for many years, and accompanied two crews hiking in the mountains of Philmont, New Mexico. Later in life his call to service found him active at Willard Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church including the Presbyterian Men's Group, President of the Willard Lion's Club, founding member of the Fifty-Niners Old Boys Club, and active in organizing reunions for the Class of 1959. John is survived by his wife, Leah; children, Jeffrey and Tina Pachl, of Holt, Mo., and Kristen and Jim Malachowski, of Enid, Okla.; grandchildren, Alyxandria, Stephen, Robbie and Samantha Malachowski, and Corinne and Alanna Pachl; his sister, Arleene Sweet, of Arden Hills, Minnesota; and his uncle, Max Pachl, of Springfield. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister, Betty Lyons; and a granddaughter, Emily Malachowski. We who are left will remember him as he was, strong, witty and sentimental; a friend to all. Celebration of Life services were Friday, February 3, 2006, at 2 p.m. in Missouri Veteran's Cemetery. Visitation was Friday evening at 6 until 8 p.m. at the funeral home, 5234 W. State Hwy EE, Springfield, MO 65802. Memorial services were held on Saturday, February 4, 2006, at 1 p.m. at Willard Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church with Pastor Lorraine Dill and Pastor Richard Menzel officiating. Services were under the direction of Thieme-Shadel Funeral Service at White Chapel. Memorial donations may be made to Willard Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church or left at the funeral home.