Willard W. Dugger

Willard W. Dugger, 93, of Independence, MO, died Monday, August 15, 2005, at Rosewood Health Center. He was the son of John A. and Eva (Smith) Dugger born July 11, 1912 in Webb City, MO. Willard spent his early childhood years in Kansas. He had many careers including coal mining, farming and blacksmithing in Kansas, but spent the majority of his life as a welder in Independence at Union Wire Rope, Lake City Arsenal & Bendix Corp. where he retired after 30 years of service. In April of 1934 Willard and Lucile Mason began their 65 year marriage. To this union, 5 children were born. After the death of his first wife Lucile, Willard married Arlene Johnson in 1999. He was a long time member of the Second Church Congregation, later Cornerstone Church, of the Community of Christ. He was baptized on June 8, 1952. He served as solicitor and was ordained a deacon in 1956, a priest in 1958 and a elder in 1964 and was superannuated in 2001. He and his wife Lucile were very active with Zion�s league, Young Adults and were instrumental in developing the In-betweeners while member of Second Church. Willard had a lifetime passion for baseball, bowling, fishing and boating. The Dugger family spent many wonderful hours enjoying the recreational joys of their cabin at the Lake of the Ozarks. Willard was preceded in death by a brother, Howard, his first wife, Lucile & a son, Wayne Dugger. His survivors include; his wife Arlene, children, Betty Graybill and her husband Dr. Bruce Graybill of Lamoni, IA, Dr. Donald Dugger and wife Susie of New Port Richie, FL, Irene Dugger of Arlington, TX & Geri Bowen and husband Spencer of Edmond, OK, 9 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.. Funeral services will 10:00 a.m, Friday, August 19, 2005 at the Carson-Speaks Chapel. Burial will be in Floral Hills East Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 7 to 8:30 p.m., Thursday evening at the chapel.