Clifford William Pearce

Clifford William Pearce, age 91, of Paola, Kansas, passed away Friday, August 28, 2020 at his home surrounded by his family. Clifford was born September 4, 1928 at Hillsdale, Kansas. He was the son of Carl and Anna (Judd) Pearce. He grew up and attended school at Hillsdale. One of his first jobs was at Shumate's Hatchery in Paola. This is where he met the love of his life, Melvina Christopher. Rumor has it that on an occasion, you might find them sneaking a little smooch behind the stacked bags of feeds. (By her mom no less, who also worked there.) On August 6, 1946, Clifford joined the Army. He served in North Korea as a jeep driver. He was in charge of 6 jeeps and 7 drivers. It was his responsibility to see that the jeeps were properly serviced and repaired. He was honorably discharged on Christman Eve, December 24, 1947. On February 28 of the following year, he married Melvina. He then worked at Montese's in Paola rebuilding generators and General Motors for a short time. He worked for Ed Plummer at his Service Station for 8 years. Finally, in December of 1959, he opened his own Skelly Service Station. The name changed several times, but the quality of service his customers received didn't. He was called "Lil Abe" by many, because of his honesty, integrity, and the loyalty he showed them. He retired from the Service Station and tire repair after 32 years. The business was passed down to his grandson Dustin Medlen and then on to his great grandson Ethan Medlen. Clifford didn't stay retired long. He worked for G.K. Smith & Sons for 12 years until he finally retired for good. He never missed one day of work. Clifford was always busy. There were numerous remodeling projects either for himself or his family. He loved going to the lake house in Grove, Oklahoma. He enjoyed making wine, not for him to drink, but to share with loved ones that came to visit. There was always a cat (or cats) looking for his attention. He spoiled them as much as he did his kids. He enjoyed camping, growing flowers and making garden. He took every opportunity to use his little John Deere Garden tractor whenever he could. He even rode it to the mail box. In his later years, he became a pretty good cook. The house would light up around 8:00 in the evening as that is when he would start making cookies or his zucchini/chocolate chip bread. Oh, we don't want to forget to mention his love of ice cream, cheese balls, and duct tape. Clifford was a member of the First Baptist Church in Paola where he served as a deacon for many years. He had a deep love for God and his family. He had the kindest, most genuine soul that anyone could wish for. He was a wise man. He used to tell us "The things you worry about the most usually don't happen." He has been right on so many occasions. He was preceded in death by his wife, his parents, five brothers, one sister, and two sets of twin great grandchildren. He is survived by three daughters Sharen (LeRoy) Shoemaker of Richmond, MO, Kathy Jo (Don) Robertson of Paola, and Carol (Randy) Medlen of Paola; 8 grandchildren; 30 great grandchildren; 18 great-great grandchildren; many other relatives and friends. So Dad, Grandpa, Pops, Cookie, you will be forever in our hearts. We will miss your cute smile. We love you! A graveside service will be held by the family Sunday, September 13, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. at the Paola Cemetery. Contributions in memory of Clifford are to Crossroads Hospice and can be sent in care of Dengel & Son Mortuary - Crematory, 305 N. Pearl St., Paola, KS, 66071. Family and friends are encouraged to post their memories and condolence on Clifford's Tribute Wall.