Robert Dale ‘Jack’ Okerson, age 87, Duquesne, passed away at 3:47 a.m. Saturday, February 08, 2014 at his residence after an illness.
Jack was born September 7, 1926 in Madison, Kansas to the late Armond Okerson and Mary Vail Okerson and had lived in the Joplin area most of his life.
He was a veteran of the United States Army and served his country in both World War II and the Korean War. He was among the top graduates of his parachute jump school. As SSgt. First Class, he was a member of the expert infantry and served duty for the 82nd Airborne Division. He received several medals and citations.
Jack worked briefly for Springfield White Truck, but spent most of his career at Joplin Freightliner in both the parts and warranty departments. He later retired from Peterbuilt.
Following his retirement, he opened a small business and would spend his free time selling appliance parts.
He married Patsy Patterson in 1947 in Joplin. She survives at the home.
Additional survivors include a daughter, Lana Bibee, Joplin; two sons, Michael ‘Mike’ Okerson and Patric Lee Okerson, both of Joplin; two brothers, Raymond ‘Corky’ Okerson, Indianapolis, Indiana, Paul Lee Okerson, Seattle, Washington; several grandchildren; several great grandchildren; many nieces; nephews and many good friends.
Jack was preceded in death by a daughter, April Allen in 2005; and two sisters, Lelia Reynolds and Faye Jessop.
Memorial services are planned for Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. at Parker Mortuary. Full military honors will be provided at the mortuary.
Arrangements are under the direction of Parker Mortuary.
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