Paul H. “Shorty” Longaberger
Paul H. “Shorty” Longaberger, 93, of Williamstown passed away at 11:28 pm Saturday, November 15, 2014, at Marietta Memorial Hospital. He was born on November 4, 1921, in Dresden, Ohio, a son of Gerald A. and Mary Marcy Farnsworth Longaberger.
He was a graduate of Marietta High School. Paul and his father, Gerald, were inducted into Army service in July 1942, the early beginning of World War II. This was a first such induction in the State of Ohio. It was not their good fortune though to be able to stay together for any length of time. However, they both finally served over 3 years of service in the South Pacific Theatre. Gerald in an Army port battalion in the New Guinea area, and Paul served in an infantry battalion from Guadalcanal to the Japan Occupation. The 2 soldiers finally had a short meeting in the Philippine Islands. From there it was time to come home for “Dad” while Paul stayed behind to witness the surrender at Tokyo Bay. Paul had been employed as a salesman for Pioneer Chevrolet retiring in 1979.
On September 12, 1946, he married Thelma V. “Timmie” Francis who preceded him in death on February 26, 2914.
He is survived by one son and one daughter, Kevin Longaberger and Deborah (Michael) Latstetter; both of Williamstown, 4 grandchildren: Brian (Chrissy) Latstetter and Kerri (Ed) Schaad, Casey Longaberger, Jesse Longaberger; 5 great grandchildren, Jaynah, Johnny and Jamey Latstetter and Owen and Karli Schaad. and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, wife “Timmie,” son Donnie.
A memorial service will be held 1 pm Friday November 21st at McClure-Schafer-Lankford Funeral Home with Pastor Chad Mugrage officiating. Friends may call at the funeral home 1 hour prior to the service. Messages of sympathy may be sent at www.Lankfordfh.com.