Athel Paul Sikes

Paul graduated from Central High School. He then served in the U. S. Army, with Basic Training at Camp Chaffey, AZ (aka Fort Chaffey), Medium Tank Battalion. As a member of the 7th Infantry Division, 8th Army, 707 Ordinance he was sent to serve in Korea with the 34th Engineers at Pusan.

Returning from Korea as a Specialist Third Class E-5, he was sent to White Sands Proving Grounds, New Mexico, where he served in Special Services as Recovery and Rescue Unit. Before his discharge he helped save several people in mountain army search and rescue missions.

He married Rosalee Harris on July 8, 1961. They had three children, Roxanne (Sikes) Jarvis (Greg), Paul Mason Sikes (Paula), and Robert Allen Sikes (Tracy).

Paul worked for National City Furniture and served as President of the Central Labor Union when he returned home from Korea. He later worked at and retired from Whirlpool, working on the Refrigeration line for 30 years. For many years he was active in the Evansville Astronomy Club. He raised a garden annually, always taking pride in having the first ripe tomato in the family. He loved camping, fishing, flea markets, and auctions when weather permitted.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his 1st wife Rosalee (Harris), and his 2nd wife, Susan (Cobb); and siblings, Aileen, Dorothy, Kathleen and Delbert.

Paul is survived by his children, Roxanne Jarvis (Greg), Paul Mason Sikes (Paula), Robert Allen Sikes (Tracy); grandchildren, Nathan Jarvis, James Sikes, and Brent Jarvis; great-grandchildren, Trevor Sikes, Gavin Hobdy, Guner Hobdy, Trinity Hobdy, Danika Graham, Danielle Young, Maddie Sikes, Preston Sikes; and great-great-grandchildren, Paisley and Hudson.

A private graveside service with military honors will be held at Alexander Memorial Park Cemetery.

Condolences may be offered at www.AlexanderWestChapel.com