William Lee Shy

William Lee Shy, son of the late William Earl and Opal M. (Sheridan) Shy, was born April 23, 1932 in Ollie, Iowa where he grew up and attended school. As a young man, William entered the United States Army and served his country faithfully for 20 years, 3 months and 11 days. He had attained the rank of Specialist 6. For his faithful service he earned several awards and commendations; some of which include: the Purple Heart, Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal w/device, 6 Overseas Service Bars, Occupation Medal (Japan) Combat Infantry Badge, Korean Service Medal w/3 Bronze Service Stars w/Oak Leaf Cluster, National Defense Service Medal, and Good Conduct Medal w/3 Bronze Loops. William was honored to be named Retiree of the Year at Fort Leonard Wood where he spent his entire military career. After retiring from the military, William was able to spend time volunteering for different organizations, which he loved to do. In his spare time, he enjoyed being outdoors, whether it was mushroom hunting or taking care of his yard. He loved spending time with his fellow veterans and was a member of the Disabled American Veterans, Korean War Association and Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was also a 50 year member of the Masonic Lodge in Iowa. On June 4, 1953, William was united in marriage to the love of his life, Edna Arlene Conger in Matha, Kansas. They shared over 59 years of marriage together and many wonderful memories. They were blessed with three children: Randy, Diana and Larry. William was truly a family man and loved spending time with his family. He was a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. His family will miss him dearly, but will hold him in their hearts forever. William passed away Saturday, Dec. 22, 2012 in Phelps County Regional Medical Center, of Rolla, Missouri having attained the age of 80 years. He will be sadly missed by all those that knew and loved him. William leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife, Arlene of the home; a son, Randy Shy of St. Robert, MO; a daughter, Diana Brownfield and husband, William, of St. Robert, MO; 4 grandchildren: SrA Kyle Shy (Air Force), William Angela and Jennifer; 5 great-grandchildren: Alexis, Abbigale, Rebecca, Mariah and Brayden; a brother, Donald Keith Shy of the State of Iowa; a number of nieces and nephews; as well as a host of other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, William was preceded in death by his son: Larry Lee Shy and one sister: Betty Lou Wonderlick. Funeral services with military honors were held at 1:00 p.m. Thursday, December 27, 2012 in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert with Chaplain Mark Mortensen officiating. The song “The Old Rugged Cross” was played. Military honors were provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of William Shy and may be left at the funeral home.

William Lee Shy

April 23, 1932 - December 22, 2012