Earl Charles Gossett of St. James, Missouri passed away on Friday, May 1, 2009, at the Gibbs Care Center in Steelville, Missouri. He was 86 years, 4 months, and 15 days of age.

Earl Gossett was born on December 16, 1922 to his parents: Charles F. and Sophia (Ludwig) Gossett in Detroit, Michigan. He was united in marriage to May Brown Lang on July 8, 1944 in Dearborn, Michigan.

Earl Gossett served in the US Army in WWII for three years. He was employed by Sinclair Oil (now BP) for 35 years as a chemical engineer. He had a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from Michigan State University (Phi Beta Kappa) and M.B.A. from University of Chicago. He did community service for South Holland Village Board for twelve years; South Holland Little League Coach for thirteen years; and Lions International for over 40 years. He was an Elder of Presbyterian Church; member of American Legion; ARCO-Illiana Retiree Club as treasurer for 15 years; and Square Dance member in South Holland, Illinois.

Surviving Earl Gossett is his wife: May Brown (Lang) Gossett; one son: Charles W. Gossett of San Dimas, California; two daughters: Patricia E. Voss and husband Curt D. of St. James, Missouri; and Barbara J. Gossett of Glen Ridge, NJ.; three grandchildren: Melanie Earney and husband Eric; Eric Voss and wife June: and Bryan Reynolds; two great-grandchildren: Hailey Earney and Cammie Earney; one sister: Betty Joelson of Metamora, Michigan; along with other family members and a host of friends. Earl will be greatly missed by those who knew and loved him.

Preceding Earl Gossett in death are his parents: Charles F. and May Brown (Lang) Gossett.

Services
Burial will be in the Abraham Lincoln Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.

Those wishing to leave online condolences may do so at www.jonesfunerals.com.

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