04/24/2026
Paul Schildknecht
January 23, 1935 - April 21, 2026
Paul Edwin Schildknecht: A Life Remembered
Early Life and Family
Paul Edwin Schildknecht was born on January 23, 1935, at his family home located two miles northwest of Rea, Missouri, in Andrew County. He was the youngest of seven siblings, born to Lawrence Orley and Kathryn Ottonia (Weddle) Schildknecht. His brothers and sisters included Alice Irma (deceased at birth), Lawrence Ray, Margaret Leona (Birkenholz), Doris Marthalene (Dowis), Argyl Lewis, and Frances Rose (Clark).
Education
Paul attended Whitesville School for eight years before attending and graduating from Rosendale High School in 1953.
Marriage and Children
On May 4, 1958, Paul married Mary Louise Whitehead and they were married 68 years. Together, they had two daughters: Pamela Kate, born on October 13, 1960, and Paula Marie, born on October 4, 1962.
Church Membership and Community Service
From 1959 to 1970, Paul was a member of the Johnson & Dale Church of Christ in Springfield, Missouri. He later attended the North National Church of Christ in Springfield, where he was a member from 1970 to 1979. During the same period, Paul and his wife served as house parents at Fair Haven Children’s Home in Strafford, Missouri.
In 1979, Paul became a member and later an elder at Ozark’s Westside Church of Christ in Ozark, Missouri, serving in this capacity until 2006.
Professional Life
Paul’s professional journey included working at Hunter’s Variety as a manager from 1957 to 1974, owning and managing Ozark Variety from 1975 to 1992. After retirement, Paul also worked at Dick’s Variety from 1992 to 2002, New Millenium Pharmaceutical from 2002-2004, Roller Daniel Funeral Home from 2006 to 2009 and Dalton Funeral Home from 2009 to 2014. Additionally, Paul assisted with management with his wife at Cardinal Heights Senior Apartments from 2009 to 2014.
Later Years
Paul spent his final retired years in various locations in Arkansas: Mountain Home in 2014, Omaha in 2015, Springdale in 2023, and Lowell in 2024 and is survived by his wife, his two daughters, 4 grandchildren, 4 great grandchildren as well as a great number of nieces and nephews and family.
Surviving Family
Paul is survived by his wife Mary, and his daughters Pam and Paula, his grandchildren Sarah, CJ, Brandon and Casey as well as his great-grandchildren Zeke, Tommi, Zachary, Kira, and Miya. He will also be missed by many nieces and nephews and their families.
Personal Qualities and Legacy
Paul’s Character
Paul was known for his kindness and generosity. He approached life with a simple, genuine spirit, always ready to lend a helping hand to those in need. His warm smile and caring nature made him beloved among friends, family, and the community. His quick wit and jovial disposition endlessly entertained family, friends and strangers alike.
Heart for Children
Paul had a special heart for children, dedicating much of his time and energy to caring for and supporting them. Whether through his role as a house parent or his involvement in the community, he was committed to making a positive impact in the lives of young people.
A Lifetime of Caring
Throughout his life, Paul consistently demonstrated his love for people. His actions reflected a lifetime devoted to helping others and fostering meaningful connections. Those who knew him remember Paul for his unwavering compassion and his ability to make others feel valued and supported.
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