Maurice Aaron Schlesinger

"Sonny" Maurice Aaron Schlesinger 82 went to be with our Lord on February 13, 2021. Maurice was also a longtime resident of Willow, Alaska. He was born July11th 1938 in Wichita, Kansas to Harry Maurice and Marie (McIntosh) Schlesinger. He graduated East High class of “55. Soon after, he joined the Air Force in 1955. In the Air Force, Maurice was in Pararescue "Expert Markman” which brought him to missions around the world from Alaska and as far as Morocco in North Africa. Maurice liked telling stories about all the adventures he had. He served our country and received an Honorable Discharge.

     He was a faithful Christian and ordained Minister. He also received an engineering degree from Wichita State University.                 

   Maurice liked to hunt, shoot bow, and played guitar. When he was younger, he won many Yo-yo Championships and loved to roller skate as well. He custom painted cars and was highly sought after for his expertise skill. He also specialized in painting Cessna and Boing aircraft. He was a gun and ammo dealer and taught tactical shooting with his sons.

      While still in the service, he met his beautiful wife, Opal, whom he was with for 62 years. Maurice had 3 children who dearly loved him.

      He had a wonderful sense of humor that never let up and was always ready for a challenge to match wits, with a gleam in his eyes to see one’s reaction.

     Maurice will be deeply missed by all who knew him. He is survived by his wife, Opal (Rhine) Schlesinger of Willow Alaska, his 3 children; Daughter Becky (Schlesinger) Self of Wasilla Alaska; Sons Kent Schlesinger of Spotsylvania, Virginia, John Schlesinger of Willow, Alaska, his sister Rosetta Watkins of Phoenix, Arizona, eight grandchildren and many great grandchildren. Sisters Beverly Claridy and Sharon Wells passed many years ago.