Paulina Stadler McMillan

May 28, 1931 - November 22, 2019

Paulina Stadler McMillan, daughter of the late Friedrich and Pauline (Mauch) Stadler, was born May 28, 1931 in Verkauf, Austria where she grew up and attended school. At the age of 15, Paulina left home and worked for farmers and then began working in restaurants. Paulina worked for an Army family in Germany and while working for them she met another Army soldier by the name of Fred Albert McMillan. They were united in marriage on August 22, 1958 in Karlsruhe, Germany and shared over 44 years of marriage together before he preceded her in death on June 16, 2002. Paulina came to the United States in 1959 when Fred completed his tour of duty overseas. She was proud of the fact that she became a United States citizen in 1962. Paulina was a faithful Army wife and did volunteer work. After being transferred to the Fort Leonard Wood area, Paulina and Fred became charter members of Westside Baptist Church where she worked with children for over 25 years. She volunteered to keep children during different church activities. She loved the children she kept and taught in the nursery. She was also involved in the BASICS group at church. Paulina loved going to different places with them and participating in all of their activities. In her spare time, Paulina enjoyed bowling and visiting with friends. She also volunteered at the Life Care Center for many years and the residents and staff always looked forward to her visits. Paulina had made a profession of faith in her early years and on Friday, November 22, 2019 in the Phelps Health Medical Center of Rolla, Missouri, she went home to be with her Lord having attained the age of 88 years. Paulina will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered by all those who knew and loved her. She leaves to cherish her memory, her brother: Friedrich Stadler of Verkauf, Austria; nephew/caregiver: George McMillan and his wife, Tina of Lindsborg, KS; several other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. In addition to her parents and husband, Paulina was preceded in death by one sister, Maria. Funeral services were held at 2:00 p.m. Monday, November 25, 2019 in the Memorial Chapels of Waynesville with Pastor Lindell Shelden officiating. Soloist Mike Freeman sang “How Great Thou Art” and “In the Garden” and recalled his wonderful memories of Paulina. The song “Angel” by Sara McLachlan was also played. Jeannie King also gave a beautiful eulogy recalling her family’s memories of Paulina. Serving as escorts were family and friends. Burial followed in the Sunset Memorial Estates Cemetery of Waynesville. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of Paulina McMillan to the Westside Baptist Church Building Fund and may be left at the funeral home.