Gerald F. Shadley

Gerald F. Shadley, 80, of Waldron, died Friday, March 17, 2006. Born Oct. 4, 1925, in Boggstown, he was the son of Earl and Leafie Gertrude (Christian) Shadley. He married Mary L. McVey on June 10, 1944, and she survives. Other survivors include one daughter, Rebecca L. ?Becky? Cox of Waldron; one son, Ronald W. (Jodi Hand) Shadley Sr. of Columbus; one sister, Dorothie Rhoades of Waldron; one sister-in-law, Jean Hunter Shadley of Vandalia, Ohio; five grandchildren, Aaron L. Cox, Jesse W. Shadley and Ronald W. ?Ronnie? Shadley Jr., all of Columbus, Tyler R. Shadley and Travis O. Shadley, both of Evansville; and his mother, of Waldron. He was preceded in death by his father; one brother, Dallas Shadley; and one grandson, Patrick Leon Shadley. Mr. Shadley had been a tool maker for Allison Gas Turbine for 40-1/2 years, retiring in 1991. During the 1960s and 1970s he was employed with Tokheim Manufacturing and also shuttled cars for various auto dealers. He was instrumental in designing and making tools for engine production for various military aircraft, including the Hercules C-130, the Harrier VTOL and the Osprey. He also had assisted in the wood shop classes at Waldron High School for many years. He was a U.S. Army veteran, serving during World War II in the European Theatre. He received a Purple Heart, American Theatre Ribbon, the European American Theatre Ribbon with two Bronze Stars, Good Conduct Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. Mr. Shadley graduated in 1943 from Waldron High School. He was a member of Blue Ridge Christian Union Church, American Legion Post No. 70, United Auto Workers Local No. 933, and charter member of Waldron Volunteer Fire Department and Community Club. He also attended Waldron Baptist Church. Mr. Shadley enjoyed fishing, woodworking, square dancing and aircrafts. He was known as the popcorn man for many years at the Waldron Fourth of July celebrations and was co-owner of Faithful Friends in Passing. Visitation will be from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday at Freeman Family Funeral Homes, Carmony-Ewing Harrison Street Chapel, 819 S. Harrison St. Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Steve Holland and Chaplain Bryan Trotter officiating. Burial will be in Van Pelt Cemetery, with military rites conducted by local veterans organizations. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Shelby County, 110 S. Harrison St., Shelbyville, IN 46176. Online condolences can be sent to www.carmony-ewing.com.