Lee "Bud" Arthur Alders passed away on December 5, 2010 in Mountain Home, AR. He was born to Clyde and Opal (Robbins) Alders on April 4, 1930 in St. Joseph, MO. He lived in St. Joseph for most of his life, raising 4 children, starting his own business, and then retiring to Theodosia to live on the lake, spending time doing what he enjoyed most, hunting and fishing.

Bud attended elementary school in St. Joseph and when he turned 15, met his wife of 62 years, Polly Mann Alders. They were married on November 12, 1948 and had four children together, Garland Lee Alders, Kristi Lynn Alders Williams married to John F. Williams, Sandra Kay Alders Looney married to William Ray Looney, and Douglas Wayne Alders.

Though Bud had only an eighth grade formal education, he persevered and worked odd jobs until he raised enough money to buy his first dump truck in 1951 and start his own trucking business, Alders Hauling & Excavating. He was a successful businessman and worked the business, along with his son Douglas, until he retired 51 years later. During those years, he served as a member of the Moose and Eagle's Lodge and was a member of the local Teamster chapter in St. Joseph.

Bud's favorite past times were hunting and fishing. Some of his greatest stories involve trips he's taken over the years with family and friends on their great hunting expeditions. He was an accomplished hunter, being recognized on two separate occasions by Field & Stream magazine for his outstanding kills of deer and bear.

During Bud's life, he served as son, husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend. He was well respected by all who knew him as a hard-working man, fair, and willing to help anyone who called upon him.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents and one brother. He is survived by his wife, Darl Polly Jayne Mann Alders; all four children and in-laws; seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; one step grandchild; and three step great-grandchildren.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 8, 2010 in the Clinkingbeard Funeral Home chapel, Gainesville, MO with Ron Pinckney officiating. Burial will be in the Lutie Cemetery, Theodosia, MO. Visitation will be on Wednesday from Noon to service time at the funeral home.