Paul J. Dapron

Paul J. Dapron of Rolla, Mo. passed away on July 18, 2017 at his home.  He was 85 years, 4 months and 24 days of age.

 

Paul J. Dapron was born on February 23, 1932 to his parents: George and Mary Jane Ramsey Dapron in St. Louis, Mo.  He was united in marriage to Bernice E. Hemme  on November 15, 1967 in Oklahoma.

 

Paul is survived by one daughter:  Marilee Dapron of Rolla, Mo. two daughter-in-laws:  Susan Dapron of California adnd Wanda Dapron of  Idaho; twelve grandchildren; twenty-nine great-grandchildren; and nine great-great grandchildren.

 

Preceding Paul in death is his parents: George and Mary Jane Ramsey Dapron; wives: Geraldine Kelly Dapron in 1970 and Bernice Hemme Dapron on May 12, 2006;  three sons: Danny, Michael and Jerry Dapron; one brother: Harry Dapron and one sister Lehah May Derpon and wives: Geraldine Kelly Dapron in 1970 and Bernice Hemme Daprone on May 12, 2006. 

 

Paul was a hero, a mentor. best friend, father, grandfather, great grandfather and great great grandfather.  Paul lost his father when he was eight years old.  He grew up in the poor section of East  St. Louis before moving to Rolla, Mo.  He knew nothing but hard work since he was a young man.  Paul only  had a seventh grade education and he had several jobs through out his life.  He got a break when a man showed him how to weld. Then he became a pipefitter welder for over fifty years.  Not only did he work as a pipefitter he and his wife opened MidWest Auto Sales and MidWest Auto Salvage in 1975.  Paul succeeded and became more successful than most people with several college degrees.  Most would have a hard time walking in Paul's shoes because he done  wore them out.  Paul"s withered hands with calluses tells the story of his life. He worked until he couldn't work anymore even on his death bed.  He would order the family to run the businesses how he liked it.  Paul would help anyone with something that needed fixing whether it be friends, neighbors, or strangers.  He was the type of man you were proud to call your friend.  Rest assured Paul has entered heavens gates with welcoming arms.  He told his life legacy with all the stories he told.  May these stories provide a peaceful feeling to those who had the privilege to know him well.  No other man other than God told true stories quite so well.  We know you are now with Jesus.  How we will miss you, but we know you have found love, peace, comfort and eternal life as you passed through this  world into heavens land.  God took awhile trying to come up with a plan to keep you busy as you entered your heavenly home.

 

Paul's family has made a request:    In honor of Paul may we all go forward and create our own legendary stories of our lives.  These will forever be timeless keepsakes for your family and friends. Would also like to thank hospice for treating him so good.  If anyone can help donate to Phelps County Reginal Hospice in Paul's memory would be truly grateful. No one knows how their journey may end.  Giving to Hospice makes that journey more pleasant for a loved one and comfort for their family.

 

Visitation for Paul Dapron will be on Thursday, July 20, 2017 from 6 to 8 PM at the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Mo.

 

Graveside services will be conducted on Friday, July 21, 2017 at the Ozark Memorial Hills Cemetery in Rolla, Mo. with Mark Johnson officiating. Pallbearers will be: Kenny Enlow, Dillon Enlow, Kyle Depron, Christopher Dapron and Don Smith. Burial in the Ozark Memorial Hills Cemetery in Rolla, Mo.

 

Those wishing to leave condolences may do so at www.jonesfuneralhome.com.  Memorials may be given to the Phelps Regional Hospice.  Cards are available at Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Mo.

 

All arrangements are under the direction of the Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Mo.