Age: 101
HAEFNER, Richard L.
Paw Paw
Richard passed away Friday morning, December 21, 2012 at White Oaks in Lawton with his loving family at his side. He was born July 22, 1911 in Volinia Township, Michigan the son of the late Leslie and Mary Edna (Ball) Haefner. Richard was the Chief of Police for the Village of Paw Paw during World War II and later owned and operated Gamble's Store, which is now the Do-it-Center. In the 30's he obtained his pilot's license and built his first airplane. He enjoyed hunting, fishing and was known on the lakes as the Paw Paw Fisherman. He was employed as the parts manager by Hagen Tractor Sales in Paw Paw until his retirement. After retirement Richard with his wife, Edythe spent over 30 years during the winter months in Bradenton, FL. Richard was a member of the Paw Paw-Lawton Lodge # 25 F&AM and the First Presbyterian Church, Paw Paw where he served as a Deacon, Elder and Treasurer. On December 27, 1934 in Dowagiac, MI Richard was united in marriage to Edythe M. Washburn who preceded him in death on May 10, 1997. Surviving are a son, Royal (Judith) Haefner of Paw Paw; two granddaughters, Deborah (Gary) Goodman of Prattville, AL and Kimberly (Christian) Gaedeke of Plymouth, MI; two great granddaughters, Brianna Goodman of Prattville and Sophie Gaedeke of Plymouth. Funeral services will be held Friday, December 28th, 11:30 a.m. at the First Presbyterian Church, Paw Paw with Rev. Richard Cushnie officiating. Interment will be in Wildey Cemetery, Paw Paw. Memorial contributions may be made to the First Presbyterian Church or Hospice of Southwest Michigan.