of Harrison, AR
February 26, 2016
Leonard Francis 'Bud' Stahler, age 84, of Harrison, passed away Friday, February 26, 2016, at Hillcrest Home in Harrison. He was born January 29, 1932, in Pontiac, Illinois, the son of Leonard Francis and Mary Evelyn
(Houder) Stahler. Along with his parents, Bud was preceded in death by his sisters, Gayle Bohm, Linda Black, Sharon Farrell and Betty Ricketts.
Bud was a member of First Lutheran Church in Harrison, where he served as an elder and served on the church council. He was a veteran of the Korean War, having served in Special Forces in the 82nd Air Borne Division as a paratrooper. He was an independent insurance adjuster for many years. Bud enjoyed fishing, sailing, hunting, and horses. But most importantly, he enjoyed being with his family.
Bud is survived by his loving wife, Janet Gale (Bush) Stahler, of the home; his children, David Stahler and wife Tammye of Harrison, Robin Petrick of Jersey City, New Jersey, Darin Stahler and wife Bridget of Alma, Arkansas and Daniel Stahler of Chesapeake, Virginia.
Bud is also survived by ten grandchildren, Katie Stahler, Emily Petrick, Sarah Petrick, Andrew Petrick, Taylor Campbell, Jordan Campbell, Christian Stahler, Dax Stahler, Alexandra Stahler and Max Stahler; a host of nieces and nephews; and many dear friends.
The family wishes to express special appreciation to the staff of Hillcrest Home for the wonderful care given to Bud, and a special thanks to the boys of Crestview household.
Visitation was Sunday, February 28, 2016, at Roller-Christeson Funeral Home.
Funeral service was Monday, February 29, 2016, at First Lutheran Church in Harrison, with Rev. Michael Wanner officiating.
Interment was in Maple Leaf Cemetery.
Pallbearers were Bill Buhr, Jim Behrle, Brent Nelson, Brad Nelson, Mike Tate, and Randy Stull.
Honorary pallbearers were Crestview household and staff of Hillcrest Nursing Home, Darrell Greenhaw and Pastor Frank Zirbel.
Memorials may be made to First Lutheran Church Building and Grounds Fund, 1001 Gipson Road, Harrison, AR 72601, or to Boone County Senior Center, 1516 Rock Springs Road, Harrison, AR 72601.
I'm lucky to have grown up as best friends with Darin and my best wishes go out to the Stahler family. I remember Mr. Stahler well as he was my first coach, helped us as cub scouts, and was the first dad at the gym for a game and always there as we came out of the locker in support of his kids and the entire team.
He treated us all like his boys, taught us sportsmanship, and to enjoy the game. Our group of friends was lucky to have "extra dad's" we knew were watching us as if we were their own boys. Mr. Stahler was that and always present with a smile, friendly words of encouragement, and a handshake that swallowed your hand like a big bear.
RIP Mr. Stahler and thanks for being an important part of our development as young men. HHS '84
We are so sorry to hear of your families loss. Our thought and prayer will be with your family. We love you Katie. The McDougal family
I'm so sorry that I didn't make it down this weekend. Uncle Bud was a wonderful role model and a man I relished seeing whenever the chance came around.
I vividly and fondly think of him from visits long ago. I am sorry for everybody's loss, and I also envy you all for the time you had with him.
To all the Stahlers, we send our love.
Jack Sullivan (and Annmarie, Delaney, & Drew who have had to hear my Uncle Bud stories all weekend).
Deepest sympathy to you and your family
Karen, Britain, and Braeden Morris
Mena, AR
Sending my love to all of you. Thoughts and prayers are with you all. Uncle Buddy was one of a kind. Love you all.
David & Darin,
So sorry to read of your dad's passing this a.m. Reading his history in the obituary was an indication of, not only his service to our country, but also his love for his family. My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family over this trying time. Each of us grieve when losing a parent, however we take comfort in knowing, they are now in a better place.
Dear Stahler Family, Our thoughts and prayers are with each and everyone of you. In your sorrow know that God has all of you in the palm of his hand and has taken Bud home to be with him. May he rest in peace!
I'm so sorry to hear the sad news today. I have such nice memories of spending time with Bud and his family as a kid. He always had a smile and something funny to say. He was so proud of his kids. David and Darin, My thoughts and prayers are with you and your families during this time. The world lost a good man but the Lord called one of his children home. You and your families are in my prayers.