One from the greatest generation left this world for his eternal home in heaven November 10, 2022 surrounded by his loving family.

Gaylord "Pete" Dye was born on March 25, 1924 in Chestnutridge, MO to Randolph and Odessa (Stewart) Dye and youngest sibling of Erma and Burless.

He was a man of integrity and trust. He could make you laugh with his witty and quirky comments and facial gestures

Most of all, he was a believer of the Lord and loved his family as we loved him.

He was a veteran of WWII, serving in the Army under the 17 ^th and 82 ^nd Airborne Division. He was proud of his country and the sacrifice he made for our freedom. He served in the European Theatre Campaign in the Battle of the Bulge, Rhine River Jump and Battle of Bastogne.

In his 98 years, he survived World War II, married an auburn-haired lady, raised four children, and loved his grandchildren.

Pete made many sacrifices in his lifetime. He was a plasterer by trade and the hardest, most conscientious plasterer that was noticed by all. Every superintendent on a project requested him. He was a dedicated provider to his family that always had what they needed.

He married the love of his life, Wanda Goodin, on June 29, 1946. He missed her dearly after her passing in 2011. To this union, Kenny, Larry, and Gary were born. Cora was born eight years later.

Daddy leaves a legacy of love and will forever be in our hearts. He is survived by his four children, Kenny (Janie), Larry, Gary (Joretta) and Cora (Brad). Ten grandchildren were added, Shawn, Melissa (Lee), Brian (Kara), Amie (Tom), Tracy (Bryan), Nikki (Jason), Jason, Katrina (Joey), Joshua (Emily) and Brandon (Erin), plus one step-grandson, Darren (Niesje). Twenty-five great grandchildren came along, Austin, Ryan, Amanda, Allison, Alissa, Paige, Tripp, Taylor, Kaylie, Hannah, Bryant, Christian, Makaylee, Landen, Jaiden, Rilynn, Ashton, Reese, Gavin, Carsen, Zeke, Jovie, Hazen, Gunnar, and Elle. Last but not least, two great-great grandchildren, Dexter and Everleigh.

He leaves behind many other family and friends including special friends, Dwight and Debbie Pursley and Jim and Carla Brandt. Pete loved attending Sac River Cowboy Church and developed special bonds with many there. He enjoyed eating at Cafe` B-29 in Ozark. Chaz always had a warm welcome for him.

He is preceded in death by his mother, father, step-brothers, Roy and Doyle, wife Wanda, sister Erma, half-sister Shirley, brother Burless and daughter-in-law Janet. Along with these, many other family and friends welcome him into heaven.

Pete "Daddy, Papo" served many roles in his lifetime. He was a son, brother, believer in God, soldier, friend, veteran, husband, father, hard worker, provider, singer, jig dancer, and bucket player. Daddy taught his children and grandchildren to be honest, trust-worthy, and love God and one another.

We are sure he is dancing in heaven with this new body. We loved because he loved. He will be missed dearly.

Until we meet again, we will keep faith. Forever in our hearts, love you so much.

I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

2 Timothy 4 (NIV)

Please know our daddy loved each and every one of you. We hope his memories put love in your heart and a smile on your face. When you hear a hoe down remember to tap along. Dance like nobody is watching. Keep God in your heart.

Pete's visitation will be held on Monday, November 21, 2022 from 5:00-7:00 pm at Sac River Cowboy Event Center, 6448 W. State Highway EE Springfield, MO.

His celebration of life will be Tuesday, November 22, 2022 at 10:00 am at Sac River Cowboy Church Event Center, 6448 W. State Highway EE, Springfield, MO.

Graveside following at White Chapel Cemetery after services.