Muncie Times, Muncie, Delaware County, 18 June 1992 — Page 17

The Muncie Times, Thursday, 18 June, 1992, Page 17

The Muncie Times Salutes Fathers Everywhere

A Tribute on Father’s Day My father was born Clarence Richard Olden on May 29, 1917. He was one of six children, three girls and three boys born to Joseph and Lucile (Lucy) Olden.

This article is about my memories of my father. I choose not to write what others have told me about theirmemories of him. Though I have never heard anything bad, I’m sure he was not perfect. This article is, however, my memories.

My first memory was the news that my father was killed in the service. My age at that time was 5 years, seven months. The date of his death is recorded in military records as March 12, 1943. Holding the rank of staff sergeant, he worked with the quarter-

master corps in the European Theater during World War II. The arrival of his body from overseas was not very traumatic as one might imagine. There was more awe in the big train and the doors to the mail car open-

ing...and an armed soldier appearing from within. He was guarding my father’s body from any more harm. A huge crate was rolled from the rail car and taken...somewhere...to be opened later.

It was the Patterson Funeral Home (where Gill funeral Home is now) that handled all matters. Instrumental in handling the military red tape was the late Mr. Clay C. Elmore. God bless him and Mrs. Elmore.

Funeral details are lost in my memories-except one--the playing of taps (it’s so mournful) and the 21-gun salute. They are etched in my mind forever.

God bless all fathers, living or deceased, on Father’s Day and always. —Son, Robert Olden

Son Robert Olden

TO: My grandfather, Radford H. Jones, Sr. I was only 3 years old when my mother passed away. But now I am 15. My grandparents have been taking care of me. My grandfather has been like a father to me and I am glad he has been there every time I needed money, help and someone to talk to. He has been stressing to me about doing the best at anything I do in athletics and academics. So now that I am older, I can help him with things around the house. That’s why I wish him a happy Father’s Day. -by Shawn Smith

Radford H. Jones, Sr.