Eldon Ketter

Lewis Eldon Ketter, 86, of Columbia, formerly of Mexico, died early this morning, Feb. 2, 2006, at Boone Hospital Center in Columbia.

Mr. Ketter was born on April 12, 1919, in Mexico, a son of Lewis Oscar and Emily Mary Blum Ketter. On June 22, 1946, in Canton, he married Martha Lucile Frye, who survives at the home. He was a graduate of Mexico High School and a member of the First Presbyterian Church in Mexico. He and his wife farmed near Mexico until they retired and moved into town. He served in the U.S. Army during World War II, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant.

In addition to his wife, survivors include one son, James L. Ketter, two daughters, Martha Kay Jochum and Helen Ann Hurst, one sister, Doris F. Henry, six grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

One daughter, Lois Jane Ketter, a sister Eleanor, brother Edward, and his parents preceded him in death.

Funeral services will be held on Monday, Feb. 6, at 10 a.m. at Pickering Funeral Home with the Rev. Terry Kukuk officiating. Visitation will be on Sunday from 2 until 4 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will be in Elmwood Cemetery.

Memorial gifts may be made to the American Diabetes Association and may be sent in care of Pickering Funeral Home, 403 N. Western, Mexico, MO 65265.