Paul Martin Happel
September 6, 1925 - July 8, 2021

Paul Martin Happel, 95, of Hampton, passed away Thursday, July 8, 2021, at Franklin General Hospital in Hampton, Iowa. Paul was born September 6, 1925, on a farm in Linn County, Iowa, to Theodore and Clara (Clausen) Happel. Paul was baptized on September 20, 1925, at St. Stephens Lutheran Church in Atkins, Iowa. He attended parochial school there until age 12.

Paul moved with his family to a farm northwest of Latimer and attended St. Paul's Lutheran School. He was confirmed at St. Paul's Lutheran Church on April 2, 1939. Through the years, he served in various offices at St. Paul's. He attended high school in Latimer and graduated in 1943. In his younger years, he enjoyed roller skating and playing softball.

On September 17, 1950, he married Kathryn Folkerts in Greene. They adopted two children, Betty and Keith. Paul farmed all but three years of his life, retiring in 1991. He served his country in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict as a radio operator with the 52nd Field Artillery, 24th Infantry Division.

Through their married years, Paul and Kathryn enjoyed playing cards, going dancing, and taking bus tours throughout the United States. They moved to Hampton on August 30, 1999.

Paul is survived by his daughter Betty Hussey and granddaughter Christina Grimm of Omaha, NE, brother Lester Happel (Alma) of Cedar Rapids, sisters-in-law Norma Happel of Ankeny, Fern Lindval of Atlantic, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Kathryn, son Keith, infant brother George, brothers Richard and Alfred, sisters Elaine and Helen (Jorgensen), three brothers in law, and two sisters in law.

Visitation will be held from 12:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m., Monday, July 12, 2021, at St. Paul's Lutheran Church in Latimer, with the funeral service beginning at 2:00 p.m. Burial will take place in the St. Paul's Lutheran Cemetery in Latimer.

Memorials may be directed to St. Paul's Lutheran Church or School.

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