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Paul Draper Obituary

Dr. Paul E. Draper, 89

Paul E. Draper, 89, of West Lafayette, died at 2:23 AM Sunday, June 9, 2013 at St. Elizabeth Central.

He was born November 21, 1923, in Fairfield, IL, to the late Nolan and Gladys Church Draper.

On November 25, 1944 he married Hilda Ausenbaugh and she survives.

He served in the United States Navy in the Seabees and received a Purple Heart for his injuries sustained in the invasion of Normandy on D Day.

He did his undergraduate work at South East Missouri State College and graduated from Northwestern University with a DDS and MSD in Orthodontics.

Dr. Draper was an Orthodontist certified by the American Board of Orthodontics, practicing for 34 years, before retiring in 1988. He was a member of the American Association of Orthodontists, and was published in several orthodontic journals.

After retirement the Draper's lived on the Olympic Peninsula in Washington State, and enjoyed having the family for vacations while living there 10 years before returning to West Lafayette.

Surviving along with his wife are three sons Mark E. Draper (wife Marcia) of Carmel, Paul E. Draper (wife Melinda) of Dallas, TX, John S. Draper of Grand Rapids, MI; a daughter Mary Anne Schmidt (husband Reid) of West Lafayette; Six grandchildren, Brandon and Cory Schmidt, Amy Kraner, Mandy Kramer, Edward and Sean Draper and seven great grandchildren .

Private family services will be held.

In lieu of flowers those wishing may contribute to the Parkinson's Foundation.

You may sign the guestbook or leave memories at www.soller-baker.com

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Journal & Courier from Jun. 10 to Jun. 11, 2013.

Memories and Condolences
for Paul Draper

Not sure what to say?





Marion Dick

August 24, 2013

Hilda, I just happened to find the obituary for Paul I feel remiss that so many years went by without making contact. I remember you both so fondly and I want you to know that Faye died last November and i live alone in a very nice retirement home with many friends. God bless you and your family.
Marion [email protected]

Cindy Wiggs

June 25, 2013

Dear Mrs. Draper and family, I was saddened to hear of the passing of Paul, you are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Terry Vendley-McCutcheon

June 22, 2013

Dear Mary Anne, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your father.I remember the many visits to his office and his soft spoken demeanor. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

June 17, 2013

Dear Draper Family, I am one of Dr. Draper's "mouth studies". My front teeth came in horizontal instead of vertical and he made them look perfect after 7 years of work. My best present the first day of my junior year in high school was his telling me we had accomplished our task and my teeth were fixed. I am thankful for his expertise every time I look in the mirror. He is one of my heroes. He will be praised and missed by many! Thinking of you all, Madonna Feltner Bennett

Annie and Rob Lukes

June 14, 2013

Dear Mrs. Draper and Family, Just want you to know that it is never easy losing someone so special and important in the life of a family. Lean on each other for comfort and support and know that we send our love, our prayers for strength and peace, and our thoughts of comfort to each of you. The years of special moments created will fill your heart with smiles. Love, Annie and Rob Lukes and Family

Joe Olexa

June 13, 2013

To the Draper Family,
My sympathies. you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Stuart Bollock

June 12, 2013

I still owe my great smile to Dr. Draper after 32 years. From a patients point of view, he seemed to be a man of few words, but it was very obvious he was proud of his work! One's smile is an endearing tribute. My deepest sympathies.

June 12, 2013

Mary Anne, I pray that you are comforted by God's love as well as the precious memories of your dad.

Barbara Biel

June 12, 2013

TO my brother in law (younger) Paul Draper and his family,

Sending prayers your way. Love and peace to you all.
Barbara Biel

June 12, 2013

What a lovely man! It was an honor to know both Paul and Hilda. I have many fond memories of our times together. My love and sympathy to all of you. Kathy Bowker

June 12, 2013

Mary Anne, Reid and Family,
We are so sorry about the loss of your father. It's very difficult loosing a parent. Our heart and prayers are with you and your family. May the fond memories bring you comfort and peace throughout the years!
Sincerely,
Tom and Judy Shorter

Suetta Stokes

June 11, 2013

Mary Anne & Family, I am so very sorry for your loss. May all of the wonderful memories you have get you through this difficult time. God bless you and your family. My prayers are with all.

Terry & Mary Rardon

June 11, 2013

Mary Anne, Reid and family, we're sorry for your loss. You're in our thoughts and prayers.

Marcy Wastl

June 11, 2013

Mary Ann & family,
I am so sorry to hear of your Dad's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. May your lifetime of memories be a comfort to you today and in the months ahead. Heaven has gained a new beautiful Angel. Hugs to All

Julia Reeves

June 11, 2013

Mary Anne and Reid,
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Matthew 5:4 “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

Katie Lamb-Hickner

June 11, 2013

Mary Anne and family,
My thoughts and prayers are with you all. There will be another bright star looking down on you and your wonderful family.

June 11, 2013

Dr. Paul was a great mentor to me as a young dentist just out of the Air Force. I'll always remember the comradery with Lafayette dentists playing "Liars Dice" in his basement. Thanks for the memories. God Bless.

June 11, 2013

Thanks be to Mr. Draper for service his country and helping to protect our freedom.Sincere sympathy to his family and friends. May the memories help to comfort in the difficult times ahead. May he rest in peace now and forever.

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