CLAFLIN — Paul L. Oberle, Sr., died May 9, 2023, at Monarch Rehab Behavioral Health Unit, Cameron, Mo. He was born July 28, 1932, on the family farm near Bushton, Kan., the son of Anton and Lena (Feist) Oberle.
On May 14, 1957, he married Ann Marie Wondra at Holy Family Catholic Church, Odin, Kan. She preceded him in death on March 17, 2016.
Paul was a longtime resident of Claflin. He worked for the city of Claflin for 26 years, retiring in August of 1994. He was a member of the Claflin Fire Department and the Ambulance Service for 36 years, serving as Fire Chief and Ambulance Service Founder. Other memberships include the Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, St. Joseph Council #1187 Knights of Columbus of Ellinwood, American Legion Post #0200 of Holyrood, and the Eagles Lodge of Great Bend. Paul served in the United States Army from 1955 to 1957.
After retirement Paul enjoyed woodworking and his morning trips to the coffee shop. He also enjoyed fishing and camping with his family and friends at Lake Wilson.
Survivors include three children, Kathleen Miller (Tom) of Lenexa, Paul Oberle, Jr. (Terri) of Shawnee, and Karla Fimple (Bob) of Wichita; grandchildren, Jessica (Nick) Gay, Ryan Miller, and Kristin Fimple; great-grandsons, Trenton and Carson Gay. He was preceded in death by his wife Ann; parents; seven brothers, George, Joe, Tony, Oscar, Elmer, Victor, and Robert Oberle; and a sister, Agnes Hickey.
Visitation will be 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday, May 12, 2023, at the funeral home. Family will greet friends from 6-8 p.m., Friday at Immaculate Conception Church, with a Vigil and Knights of Columbus Rosary to begin at 7 p.m.
Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m., Saturday, May 13, 2023, at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Claflin, Kan., celebrated by Father Terrance Klein. Burial will follow in Pleasant View Cemetery, Claflin, Kan. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church or Claflin Ambulance Fund, in care of Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home, PO Box 146, Hoisington, KS 67544. Notices may viewed and condolences sent at www.nicholsonrickefh.net
Funeral arrangements provided by
Nicholson-Ricke Funeral Home
PO Box 146
Hoisington, KS 67544
Great Bend (Kan.) Tribune, May 11, 2023
