Francis Merle Moulder, age 81 of Springfield, Missouri, departed this life in his home, Saturday, June 19. Merle was born August 16, 1928, near Stockton, Missouri, to Emmett and Dora (Gannaway) Molder.
Merle graduated from Humansville High School, he entered the U.S. Army and served from 1950 to 1952, during the Korean War. He was employed by Safeway Stores until the last store closed in Springfield. He then worked as a Court Bailiff for Greene County Court system until retirement in 1990, he loved this work above all. Merle was a member of the Gate of the Temple Masonic Lodge, Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Temple and the Elks Lodge.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Emmett and Dora Molder. He is survived by his wife of 57 years, Jo Ann; daughter, Renna Moore; son, Randal Moulder and wife Linda; sister, Gwendolene and husband Elmer Tennis; granddaughters, Jamie Zerr, Lindsey Hood and husband Josh; grandsons, Ryan and Kyle Moulder; his relatives and a multitude of friends.
He and Jo Ann loved their retirement years on Tablerock Lake enjoying fishing with friends, fellowship on the dock and let’s not forget an occasional card game or two. He loved his grandchildren and always looked forward to their visits. He was also an avid Cardinals fan and rarely missed watching a game. Merle never met a stranger and all those who met him will never forget him. Merle will be loved, missed and remembered by all.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shriner’s Childrens Hospital.
Visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 23. Funeral services will be at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, June 24, in Greenlawn South. Masonic services will be given during visitation. Military services will be performed in Missouri Veterans Cemetery.