Joseph Lawrence Pflugradt, 82, of Gower, MO passed away November 19, 2024.
He was born on September 13, 1942, to Andrew William and Lillie Mae (Simpson) Pflugradt in St. Joseph, MO where he grew up and attended Benton High School. Joe joined the United States Navy where he achieved the rank of Petty Officer 2nd Class during his first enlistment. He served on the USS North Hampton CC-1 known as the “Floating White House” and was part of the naval blockade for the Cuban Missile Crisis. After his honorable discharge he returned to the St. Joseph area.
On November 1, 1963, he was united in marriage to Sharon Kay Calloway. After their marriage they lived in Easton, MO for 27 years. In 1990 they moved to Gower, MO where he made his “Mountain on the Hilltop” home.
Joe worked for General Motors in Fairfax he built homes and later retired as a boiler operator from St. Joseph Light and Power after 42 years of service.
He enjoyed hunting, fishing and was an avid East Buchanan Sports fan, especially the Lady Bulldogs Softball Team. He was known for his many walks around the Gower area. Most of all he loved his family and being “PaPa Joe”.
Joe was preceded in death his parents Andy and Lillie; and his siblings Lillian Stevens, Andy Jr. Pflugradt, Henry Pflugradt, Sr., Dorothy Seevers, Larry Pflugradt and Mike Pflugradt; and his son Joseph “Little Joe” Pflugradt.
He is survived by his wife Sharon Pflugradt; daughter Cindy Gordan, Jody (Deron) Adkins and Andrea (Randy) Reiley; grandchildren Jarrod, Erica, Ashley, Hunter (Alex), Hannah Jo (Taylor), Nick (Kasey) and Kinna (Kyle); great- Theodore, Cassius, Logan Joseph, Vivian and Nolan; numerous nieces and nephews including Jay Pflugradt, other relatives and many friends.
Military Honors with Funeral Service 3:00 p.m. with visitation following the service until 6:00 p.m. Friday, November 22nd at Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Gower.
Inurnment will be held later at St. Jospeh Catholic Church, Easton, MO.
