Chesley L. Shanks

Chesley L. Shanks, age 92, of Belle, passed away peacefully September 8, 2015 at Frene Valley South in Owensville.

Chesley was born March 20, 1923 in Maries County a son to the late George R. and Mary T. (Clark) Shanks. Both preceded him in death.

He attended the Rolla school system and in 1943 entered the United States Army. He proudly served during WWII receiving 6 bronze stars during the European campaign and had the privilege of being a driver for General Patton at one point. After returning from the service, on May 4, 1946, he was united in marriage to Florence Francis. She preceded him in death on October 6, 2005.

Chesley was employed at the International Shoe Company in Belle for over 30 years. After its closing, he worked for the Belle School district as a custodian and worked part time as a finish carpenter.

He was a lifelong member of Belle Church of Christ. Chesley enjoyed wood and tile working as well as traveling with his wife, Florence. His greatest joy though was spending time with his family.

Chesley is survived by: two daughters, Kay Lorts and her husband Sonny of Belle and Sue Shanks of Belle; grandchildren, Trae and Melisa Lorts of Jefferson City, Douglas Robertson and Paul Casart of Columbia, Curt Robertson and Tina Miles of Jefferson City, and Julie and Matt Badding of Centertown; Great-grandchildren, Jacob and Sydney Robertson and Ashten and Rylee Lorts as well as many extended family members and friends.

In addition to his parents and his spouse of 59 years, he was preceded in death by: two brothers, Stanley and Elmer Shanks.

A visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, September 12, 2015, at Sassmann's Chapel in Belle. Private family interment will be held in the Liberty Cemetery near Belle with full military honors.

Expressions of sympathy may be made to the American Cancer Society.