Paul Stanko, 92, of Grand Blanc Twp. and formerly of Hazel Park died Thursday, July 26, 2007, at Grand Blanc Convalescent Center. He. was born July 15, 1915, in Bethleham, Pa. to Michael and Julia Stanko. In 1934, at age 19, he joined the Civilian Conservation Corps, President Roosevelt's peacetime army. Paul served for one year and was stationed in Maryland where he helped to build roads, bridges and plant trees. In 1941, he enlisted in the Army Air Force. He was a Sergeant and Duty NCO for the 805th Technical School Squad. During World War II, as an aerial gunner, he operated the lower ball turret on the B-17 aircraft, operated 50 caliber aerial guns and made minor repairs on the same. He was awarded the following: The World War II Victory Ribbon, American Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Sharpshooter, Pistol D, Rifle, Submachine and Flexible Gunnery. While on layover in Tennessee he met Kathleen Toon whom he married three years later. They shared 56 wonderful years together. Mr. Stanko was predeceased by his lovely wife, Kathleen; parents, Michael and Julia Stanko and brothers, George and Michael. Surviving are daughters, Cheryl Stanko of Flint, Paula Reidel of Grand Blanc and Judith (Shane) Wheatley of Flint; stepson Charles B. (Kathy) Toon of Texas; grandchildren,Charlie, Yvonne, Christopher, Mathew, Sean, Jeff, Katie and Hannah; five great-grandchildren; sister, Julia Zigon of Pennsylvania; cousin Mary Boren of Pennsylvania and close personal friend, Anita Joyce Laga. The family wishes to thank the friends and staff at Alterra Wynwood, Grand Blanc Convalescent Center and Genesys Hospice for their care, support and many kindnesses shown to Paul and his family. Visitation, 3-8 p.m. today at Hill Funeral Home, 11723 S. Saginaw Street, Grand Blanc; funeral service 11 a.m. Monday funeral home with Pastor Chris Tenneriello of Bethany Baptist Church officiating; burial will follow a White Chapel Memorial Cemetery; memorial contributions to Bethany Baptist Thurch, Genesys Hospice, Disabled American Veterans or the charity of donor's choice.
Published in The Daily Tribune on July 29, 2007.
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