Morris M. Driesler

Morris Matthew Driesler, 86, of 2456 Spencer Drive, Owensboro, passed away Thursday, December 4, 2008, at his home after a short illness. He was a retired salesman and supervisor for the L.M. Berry Company, where he sold ads for the Bell South Yellow Pages. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Dora Driesler of Danville, KY.

He served with distinction in World War II as a P-47 fighter pilor, 9th Air Force, 366th Fighter Group, flying more than 50 missions over Europe and shooting down a German Messerschmitt on his first combat mission. For his service he was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross and the Air Medal, and was recommended for the Silver Star. Before enlisting he attended Western Kentucky University, where he met Roberta Collins, his wife of sixty-two years.

He was an avid fisherman and hunter and enjoyed archery and raising tropical fish. He was a long time member of First Baptist Church. In retirement he began collecting and restoring antique clocks. He enjoyed many hours in his workshop refinishing and making furniture and clocks for his family.

Survivors include his wife, Roberta Collins Driesler; his two children, Stephen Driesler of Washington, DC, and Rebecca Farris (Chip) of Lexington, KY; his brother, Joe Driesler, (Mary Jane) of Bartow, FL; three grandchildren, Stephen Driesler II of Louisville, KY, Amy Driesler of Brooklyn, NY, and Frank Reaves III (Jodi) of Beattyville, KY, in addition to three step-grandchildren and several step-great-grandchildren.

Services will be 4:00 PM Monday at Glenn Funeral Home, conducted by Dr. Paul Strahan and Dr. David Nelson, with visitation from 2:00 PM until 4:00 PM Monday. Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice and Palliative Care of the Ohio Valley, 723 Harvard Drive, Owensboro, KY 42301.