Louis J. Appel

Louis John Appel III, 37-year employee of National Lead Co., died Thursday, February 23 at the age of 96. He is survived by two sons, Louis J. Appel IV (Gayle) of Boca Raton, FL, and Gary S. Appel of St. Louis; his sister, Mrs. Eunice M. Lampert of St. Louis; three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

Mr. Appel was born in Chicago, raised in Highland, IL and moved to St. Louis in 1931. He performed as pianist in traveling groups around the Midwest, was employed by National Lead (NL Industries) in Lemay, then entered the army in 1941. In 1945 as an officer in the 89th Infantry Div., he crossed the Rhine with his unit, which later liberated the Ohrdruf concentration camp and helped end the war in Europe. In Korea he served as a communications officer in the 7th Infantry Div. and in 1952 was awarded the Bronze Star.

Mr. Appel returned to National Lead and retired in 1978 as plant office manager. During this later period he continued his music avocation, performing with the Buddy Kay Orchestra and working with many other groups, including the Johnny Polzin and Herb Mahler orchestras. He was a member of the Eagle Scout Association, the Korean War Vets Association and for 72 years the Musicians’ Association of St. Louis Local 2-197.

Funeral Service: Wed., Feb. 29 at 10 a.m. at St. Lucas United Church of Christ, 11735 Denny Rd., St Louis MO 63126. Interment will follow in Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Memorials appreciated to Paralyzed Vets of America, 1311 Lindbergh Plaza Center, 63132.