Carlton Puchbauer

Carlton Gene Puchbauer, 89, of Cape Girardeau passed away Thursday, May 8, 2026, at Providence Hospice at the Lutheran Home in Cape Girardeau.

Carl was born September 25, 1936, in Jackson to Henry A. and Frieda (Ludwig) Puchbauer. He grew up in Oak Ridge, Missouri, and was baptized and confirmed at St. John's Lutheran Church. He graduated from Jackson High School in 1955 and later received his associate degree in Auto Parts Retail.

Carl married Patsy Ruth Phelps on March 18, 1961 at Advance Baptist Church. They shared 61 years of marriage together.

Carl proudly served in the National Guard for nine years and spent much of his life in the automotive retail business. He worked for Brenneke Chevrolet and B & H before opening Delta Automotive in Cape Girardeau and Johns Auto Parts in Sikeston, Missouri. Throughout his career, he received numerous honors from MOKAN and other automotive industry organizations. Carl remained self-employed and actively involved in his work until the time of his death.

A lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church, Carl faithfully served his church through various committees, as an elder, and as a member of the Lutheran Men’s Club. He enjoyed farming, collecting and restoring antique tractors—especially Farmall tractors—coin collecting, and most of all, spending time with his family.

Survivors include his son, Eric Puchbauer of Calgary, Alberta, Canada; his daughter, Amy Worley (Jim) of Fenton, Missouri; eight grandchildren, Angela and Michaelle; Megan, Matthew, Jonathan, and Keira; and Luke and Lauren; one great-grandchild; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Patsy; his son, Michael; his sister, Lillian Palisch and his brother, Floyd Puchbauer. He was also preceded in death by his sisters- and brothers-in-law.

A memorial visitation will be held from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at McCombs Funeral Home in Cape Girardeau.

The Rev. Paul Short will conduct a memorial service at 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be made to Providence Hospice at the Lutheran Home.