Henry Ransom Mehler

Henry Ransom Mehler, 93, of Hutsonville, died at 12:20 a.m. on Sunday, May 6, 2012 in the comfort of his home. He was born January 8, 1919 in Hutsonville Township, the son of Henry Christopher Mehler and Molly (Miller) Mehler. Ransom was a veteran, serving his country in the United States Army in the European Theatre during WWII, earning (among other decorations) four Bronze Battle Stars and four Overseas Service Bars. Over the course of 38 years, he worked his way up to become a supervisor at Marathon Oil Refinery until retiring in 1982. Ransom enjoyed beekeeping and woodworking, a skill he employed when he helped construct the Hutson Cabins outside of Hutsonville. He was a member of the Hutsonville Christian Church.He married Dana Dean Boyd on December 24, 1941 and she survives. He is also survived by his two sons and daughters-in-law, Gale & Glenda Mehler (West York, IL), Marvin Ray & Martha Mehler (McPherson, KS), Libby Mehler (West York, IL); his daughter and son-in-law, Sara & Robert Rayhel (Trimble, IL); five grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother-in-law, Norman L. Boyd; and his son, Stephen Boyd Mehler.Graveside services will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 12th at the Oak Grove Cemetery in rural Palestine with Bro. Joe Griffith officiating. Memorials may be made to the Hutsonville Historical Society or to the Ronald McDonald House. The Goodwine Funeral Home in Robinson is in charge of services.