Wilbur O. Diehl (1924- 2008) BUTLER,IN. - Wilbur O. Diehl, age 84, died Friday at Betz Nursing Home, Auburn. He was born October 3, 1924, in Butler to James G. and Lana (Dirrim) Diehl. Wilbur dropped out of high school to join the U.S. Navy during World War II. He served in the defenses of Attu Island, Alaska, and later in the cleanup of the South Pacific, where he piloted an LCT between Guam, Saipan and Tinian. After the war he returned to Butler and graduated in 1950. Wilbur married Joyce Cook on June 1, 1946, in St. Joe. He was a letter carrier for the Butler Post Office, retiring January 16, 1981, after 35 years of service. Wilbur was a member of the VFW since 1944, last surviving charter member of the Butler Eagles, and the Butler American Legion since 1947, serving as commander in 1970. He also served as an Assistant Boy Scout Leader and was a member of New Hope Christian Center. Survivors include his wife Joyce, two sons and daughters-in-law, Pastor Ralph and Anita Diehl of Waterloo and Thomas and Darlene Diehl of Butler; four daughters and sons-in-law, Nancy and Mike Mickelson of Stryker, Diana and Rex Bartlett of Marysville, Washington, Penny and Bob Slone of Auburn, and Pamela and Dave Helton of Auburn; 22 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; and 2 great-great grandchildren. He was preceded in death by two brothers, James and Marion Diehl; a sister Colista Gnagy; his parents; and two grandchildren. Funeral services for Wilbur O. Diehl will be Tuesday, December 16 at 11 a.m. at New Hope Christian Center, Waterloo, with Pastor Ralph Diehl officiating. Burial will be in the Butler Cemetery with military honors being given by American Legion Post 202 Butler. Calling will be from 2-4 and 6-8 Monday at H.E. Johnson & Sons Funeral Home, Butler, and one hour prior to the funeral at the church. Preferred memorials are to New Hope Christian Center. Condolences may be left at H.E. Johnson & Sons Funeral Home : Angola, Indiana (IN).
