Paul Chester Robertson, a man of great passion and dedication, has left an indelible mark on the lives of those around him.

Paul was born on January 20, 1946, to Chester and Angeline Robertson in Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, where he grew up and graduated from Valle High School. His early years laid the foundation for a life of purpose and dedication, which would only continue to grow in the years to come. Education and Service

Paul’s educational journey began at Southeast Missouri State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1967. He later pursued a Master of Education degree from Chapman College in 1975. These academic achievements not only equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in his chosen field but also instilled in him a sense of discipline and perseverance. Paul’s service in the United States Air Force was another defining aspect of his life. He joined the Air Force in 1967, graduating from Officer Training School and Navigator Training. His first assignment was as a navigator at Dover Air Force Base, flying in C-133s, and he later flew on AC-119K Stinger gunships, serving in Vietnam from September 1970 until September 1971. He remained in the USAF for 20 years, having many varied assignments, until he retired with the rank of Major in September 1987.

1. Throughout his military career, Paul demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a strong sense of duty.
2. His experience as a navigator and gunship pilot honed his ability to work well under pressure and make quick decisions in high-stress situations.
3. Paul’s service in Vietnam was a defining moment in his life, and he spoke fondly of the camaraderie and sense of purpose he felt among his fellow soldiers.

Paul’s love for gardening was not a new development, but rather a passion that had been simmering beneath the surface for many years. As an avid gardener, he maintained an organic vegetable garden for much of his adulthood, and in his retirement, he became a Master Gardener and was involved in several gardening organizations and clubs.

A Life of Gardening

Paul’s love for gardening was a source of great joy and fulfillment for him. He was an expert in succulent care and was particularly passionate about sharing his knowledge with others. In his retirement, he became a Master Gardener and was involved in several gardening organizations and clubs, including the Succulent Society of the Ozarks and the Springfield Organic Gardening Club. Paul was also the creative director and nurturer of the Succulent Garden skirting the southern faces of the Springfield-Greene County Botanical Center. He volunteered over 100 hours each year for more than a dozen years, taking meticulous care of the plantings and maintaining the associated database.

A Legacy of Love and Service

Paul’s love for the St. Louis Cardinals was a lifelong passion, and he was a dedicated fan. He last saw them in person, in the company of his loving family, on May 29, 2024, in Cincinnati, OH, when they beat the Cincinnati Reds 5-3. Paul is survived by his daughter, Lauren Robertson Garnier; son-in-law, JP Garnier; granddaughter, Kayla Louise Garnier Hall (Roy); sisters, Mary Alice Robertson-Corr and Faye Robertson Polillio (Raymond); brother, Stephen Robertson (Pat); and 6 nieces and nephews. Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services of Springfield, MO. In lieu of flowers, please direct donations “in memory of Paul Robertson” to the Succulent Garden at Springfield Botanical Gardens by visiting https://bit.ly/Succulent_Garden. A memorial service will be planned for a later date. A Final Tribute

Paul’s passing leaves a void in the lives of those who knew him, but his legacy of love and service will live on. His dedication to his family, his community, and his passion for gardening will be remembered for years to come. As we celebrate his life, we honor the impact he had on those around him and the countless lives he touched. Rest in peace, Paul Chester Robertson.