John William Draper, 85

Pullman, WA: John William Draper, age 85, a resident of Grangeville, died Monday, February 28, 2005 at the Avolon Care Center in Pullman where he has resided for the past one and a half years.

John was born on May 10, 1919 at Tammarack, Idaho to Nute and Carrie Madison Draper. He attended school at Tammarack and after completing the 8th grade he went to work at the sawmill in Tammarack.

On May 12, 1942 went in to the Service. He was in the 10th Mountain division. He served in 3 theaters of the War. He was discharged November 7, 1945.

He and Wanda Lorraine Paradis were married on February 24, 1950 at Council, Idaho. They moved to Grangeville in the summer of 1951. He worked at the area sawmill and retired from Idapine Mills in 1984. After his retirement he enjoyed his garden, home, fishing and bowling. He loved playing with his grandchildren and great grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife at the family home. One son, David Paradis and wife Bev and one daughter, Phyllis Gilmore and husband Lyman of both of Grangeville. 6 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren. One brother, Doug Draper in Ill. and one sister, Betty Draper in Montana. He was preceded in death by 2 brothers and 1 sister.
John touched the lives of many people with his friendly smile and howdy. He will be missed by all.

Memorial services will be held Saturday, March 5, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. at the Grangeville Christian Church with Rev. Harold Gott officiating. Inurnment of his ashes will be held at a later date at the Council Cemetery. Services under the direction of the Blackmer Funeral Home, Grangeville.