William Kaplan
March 4, 1921 ~ November 20, 2008
William "Bill" Kaplan went home to be with the Lord on November 20, 2008 at the age of 87. Bill was born on March 4, 1921 on a farm near the Linn Grove Church, Mt. Vernon, IA, the son of William and Leitha Lentz Kaplan. He graduated from MVHS and shortly thereafter enlisted in the United States Army. Bill was placed in the "Intelligence Recon Unit" of the 3rd Battalion, 315th Infantry, and 79th Division. He was appointed Battalion Operations Sgt before going overseas. Bill received Good Conduct medal, 2 Bronze Stars, a Silver Star for battle operations, one, Presidential Unit Citation, two French medals, and many Sharpshooters Medals for all weapons he touched. Bill also took Ranger Training in Georgia, as well as desert training in Arizona, winter training in Kansas, and mountain training in Tennessee. His division was the best attack unit in Europe. He rode on General Patton's tanks from Cherbourg to Paris. His battalion of 2,000 men was depleted to under 300 men three times, 5 of his squad were killed, and all sustained terrible injuries. He had great reason to hate war. Though he said that he loved everyone, even his enemies. He was honorably discharged on October 6, 1945 after 3 years in service to his country. He came home on leave July 19, 1943 and married his only sweetheart, Lillian Marie Laing on the Wolfe farm south of Ivanhoe. They lived on the family farm west of Mount Vernon for 65 years and raised 3 sons: Clifford (Terry), Cedar Rapids, Don (Cathy), Ely, and David, Center Point. They gave him 10 grandchildren , 6 great-grandchildren, and lots of love. He was preceded in death by his parents, two brothers Harold and Kenneth, and one grandson Todd. Bill joined the Presbyterian Church in his early years, served on the Board of Trustees, was a Deacon, and an ordained Elder. He was also on the Cub Scout Board from the church, and Clerk of Session for five years. He was an avid hunter and fisherman and was very good at it. He loved his family more than life itself. Bill's funeral will be 10:30 a.m., Tuesday at Morgan Funeral and Cremation Choices, Mount Vernon Chapel. Friends may call Monday from 4:00 until 7:00 p.m., in the chapel. Burial in Mount Vernon Memorial Cemetery with military rites. A memorial fund has been established.
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Lillian, Cliff, Terry & family, So sorry to hear about Bill. The pharmacy staff will miss seeing his bright smile & hearing about his latest fishing adventure. We are truly sorry for your loss.