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The Reporter covers Miller, Morgan and Camden County in Central Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks and is published once per week on Wednesdays.
Obituaries
Published February 12, 2025
Mary Lou Bouck, 86
Mary Lou Bouck, born March 10, 1938, in St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2025, at Lake Regional Health System in Osage Beach, Missouri. She was the daughter of Loyal H. Gibbs and Lucille (Niedert) Gibbs.
Mary Lou was raised and graduated High School in Valley Park, Missouri. On March 30, 1957, she married the love of her life, John “Jack” Bouck. Together, they built a life filled with love as they raised a family in Affton, Missouri, before relocating to the Lake of the Ozarks in 2003 to be closer to their loved ones. Jack preceded her in death on January 15, 2015.
Mary Lou is survived by her sister Sheri Brooks of Florida; her sons Steven Bouck (Becky) of Linn Creek, Missouri; and Gary Bouck of Texas; three grandchildren, Jeremy, Monica, and Zachary; and a great-grandson, Keyten. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband Jack; her sister Joan.
Mary Lou had a passion for sewing and excelled in professional tailoring, embroidery, and alterations. She also enjoyed cooking and baking-her cherry pies were especially cherished by those who knew her. Gardening and growing herbs brought her joy as she created a warm and beautiful home for her family. She loved traveling with her husband, her aunt and close friend and spending time with close friends and family.
Throughout her life, Mary Lou balanced work inside the home with providing alterations and secretarial services while also assisting in her family’s insurance agency and then corporate customer support roles.
She was a devoted member of St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Camdenton, Missouri. She was a member of Lake Area Parkinson’s Support Group.
Mary Lou’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. May her legacy of love and care bring comfort to those she leaves behind.
Mass of Christian Burial was held Monday, February 3, 2025 at St. Anthony’s Catholic Church in Camdenton, Missouri, followed by graveside service at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery - Fort Wood, Missouri.
In Lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy can be made to the Lake Area Parkinson Support Group at the Lake or St. Anthony’s Building Fund.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 1270 S Business Route 5, Camdenton, MO 65020 573-346-2090. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com
Barbara Mary Feltner, 86
Barbara Mary Feltner, daughter of the late, Bredican Manuel and Gladys (Riemann) Cromer, was born on July 2, 1938 and passed away on January 7, 2025. At the time of her passing, Barbara was eighty-six years, six months and five days of age.
Barbara was preceded in passing by her parents; one daughter, Mary Janis; one grandson, Christopher Janis; one brother, Verle “Willie” Cromer; one sister, Beverly Chandler; and mother-in-law, Dorothy Bach.
She is survived by her husband, Roy Feltner; two children, Vickie Dunn and Timothy (Lois) Bach; one brother, William and wife Fannie Cromer; one sister, Cheryl Jean Pinholster; three grandchildren, Andrea (Erik) Mirth, Kevin (Toni) Bach, and Hayley Janis; five great-grandchildren, Connor Mirth, Leo Mirth, Kristen Janis, Lucas “Bubbers” Bach and Isaac “Chubbers” Bach.
In her passing, Barbara also leaves behind many friends and family who will all truly miss her.
Barbara was born in St. Louis, Missouri and raised and attended school in Jennings, Missouri. After she finished her schooling, she began her family and raised her children in Riverview Gardens, Missouri. On November 17, 1979 she was united in marriage to the love of her life Roy Feltner. In the 1990s, Barb and Roy relocated to Greenview, Missouri, to begin their lives at the Lake of the Ozarks; later moving to Macks Creek, Missouri in 2008.
Together, Barb and Roy developed a passion for horses and a newfound love for their cats, earning Barb the family title of “Crazy Cat Lady”. Barb also, enjoyed her time working at Wal-Mart in Camdenton for over ten years, earning the title, “Cashier of the Month”.
In her spare time, Barb enjoyed bowling, quilting, spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren.
She was baptized and confirmed in the Lutheran Faith.
Arrangements are under the direction of Allee-Holman-Howe Funeral Home of Camdenton, Missouri.
Gary Allen Conway, 67
Gary Allen Conway was born on November 25, 1957 in Los Angeles, California to Walter and Norma Conway. He passed away on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at his home in Macks Creek, MO.
Gary was lovingly raised by his aunt and uncle, Bob and Barbara Everett, and also by his grandma, Agnes Conway. As a child, Gary and his grandma moved to Missouri where he attended the Skyline School, and later met the love of his life, Teresa Willis. They got married at a tender age and made their home and life together in Macks Creek. To this union was born one daughter, Melissa. May 17 of this year will mark Gary and Teresa’s 50th wedding anniversary.
Gary was saved at the age of 9 years old as he knelt down at an old-fashioned altar. He was called by the Lord at an early age to preach the gospel. In May of 2000, he surrendered to that calling and faithfully preached God’s word until his death. He was ordained by, and a member of Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church. He pastored several churches over the years and was currently the pastor of Webster Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Gary loved his church family and loved to talk about the Lord wherever he went.
Early on, Gary was an over-the-road truck driver, logging many miles across the States. He was a certified mechanic and could fix about anything. He worked at several area auto shops throughout his career. Family and friends would often bring their vehicles to Gary’s house to be worked on.
Gary also worked in the water well and pump service industry for many years, and currently operated his own business, Gary’s Water Well & Pump Service. In addition, he was currently a school bus driver for the Camdenton school district. He dearly loved all his students and every Friday would have candy or snacks on the bus for them.
Gary was an accomplished cook and was well known for his lasagna and peanut butter pie. And if you ask Teresa, she will tell you “He spoiled his wife rotten!” He was big in stature with a powerful resonating voice that served him well behind the pulpit. Although Gary might have been a bit ornery in his younger days, he spent the remainder of his life faithfully devoted to serving the Lord, preaching the gospel, and leading the lost to Jesus.
Gary is survived by his wife Teresa of the home; daughter Melissa Marshall & husband Shawn, his granddaughter Emily Marshall, and his grandson Connor Marshall, all of Camdenton; mother-in-law Wanita Willis, brother-in-law Darren Willis and wife Carol, all of Macks Creek; his uncle Bob Everett and half-brother Kyle Connors, both of the State of California; several nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many, many friends, loved ones, and church family. He will also be missed by his dog Buddy & his cat Sissy.
He was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Norma Conway, his sister Debbie Lyons, half-brother Karl Connors, Aunt Barbara Everett, father-in-law Bobby “Pete” Willis, and an infant brother-in-law, David Willis.
Funeral Services were held Wednesday, February 5, 2025 at Hedges -Scott-Millard Funeral Home in Macks Creek with Pastor Larry Denny officiating.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 14384 West Highway 54, Macks Creek, MO 65786 (573) 363-5360. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com
Gary Dean Huff, 55
Gary Dean Huff, of Versailles, passed away Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at University of Missouri Hospital and Clinics in Columbia. He was born August 2, 1969, in Columbia, Missouri, a son of Larry and Karen (Bush) Huff.
On September 7, 1996, at the Gravois Mills United Methodist Church, he was united in marriage to his surviving wife, Holly (Bowers) Huff.
Gary worked as a Marine mechanic for over 39 years. In his spare time, he enjoyed playing golf, gardening and barbecuing for his family and friends.
He loved his family and his dogs and especially treasured the time he spent with his grandchildren. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his wife, Holly, he is survived by his children, Megan Ware and husband Andrew of Versailles, Missouri, William Huff of Versailles, Missouri and Sunny Huff currently training in the United States Marine Corps boot camp in San Diego, California; grandchildren, Charlie Ware, Ellie Ware and Sawyer Dean Ware; his parents, Larry and Karen Huff of Versailles, Missouri and many other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his brother, Perry Huff.
A celebration of Gary’s life will be held at a later date.
Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber.com
Cremation arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
John Melcher, 85
John Melcher, of Camdenton, Missouri passed away on December 3, 2024 at Boone Hospital. John D Melcher was born February 26, 1939 in Kansas City, MO. As a young child, his family moved to Lake Lotawana where he enjoyed swimming and boating with his older brother Bob. After completion of elementary school, the family moved back to Kansas City where he attended and graduated from Southeast High School.
He attended University of Kansas where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Economics. After he graduated, John enlisted in the U.S. Air Force in 1961. After basic training at San Antonio, TX, John was accepted to the Officer Training School and graduated as a 2nd Lieutenant. After that he was stationed at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, MS. John resigned from the Air Force November 1971 as a 1st Lieutenant.
John then returned to Kansas City and worked for two aviation electronic companies. After a few years, John moved to Lake of the Ozarks to assist running his family run resort, Millstone Lodge with his father. He continued to work there after his father retired and managed the resort until it was sold.
He purchased Laurie Office Supply in Laurie, MO in 1987 and bought Lakeside Office Supply in Camdenton, MO a year later. John operated Lakeside Office Supply up until his death alongside his wife Debby. In recent years, John and Debby claim to have retired, and operate the business as a hobby.
John spent many years of the Board of Directors of Quality Industries, a sheltered workshop in Versailles, MO as well as on the Board of Directors of Lake of the Ozarks West Chamber of Commerce.
December 29, 1993, John and Deborah Dunn entered into marriage after several years together. They were member of Our Saviors Lutheran Church in Camdenton, MO where John served on the church council and was congregational President for several years.
John and Debby enjoyed many years of square dancing with local and state clubs throughout of Missouri. They even enjoyed a cruise with other square dancers from around the county, making numerous friends. They also enjoyed local arts programs, including Maples Repertory Theater in Macon, MO, Lebanon Concert Association, Lake Area Jazz Band, Lake Area Community Orchestra, and the Greater Lake Area Chorale. They also enjoyed traveling to Morgan City, LA for the annual Shrimp & Petroleum Festival and visiting Chris an Regina Wheeler as well as all the areas Kathy lived around the country.
John passed peacefully with family by his side Dec 3, 2024. He was preceded in death by his father and mother, Luther and Ruth Wenne Melcher, and his brother Robert Melcher. He is survived by his wife Debby, stepson Christopher Wheeler and wife Regina Wiese Wheeler of Patterson, LA, stepdaughter Kathryn Wheeler of Charleston, SC, sister-in-law Darlene Melcher, nephew Terrance Melcher and niece Jennifer Melcher.
A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Our Saviors Lutheran Church.
In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Our Saviors Lutheran Church or Lake Arts Council.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 1270 S Business Route 5, Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2090. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com
John Edward Berry Sr., 83
John Edward Berry Sr. passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2025, at the age of 83 in his home surrounded by loved ones in Climax Springs, MO. Born on April 14, 1941, in Tolleson, AZ, to Dean and Ruth Elizabeth (Davis) Berry, he grew up to lead a life marked by dedication to his community and a deep commitment to his family and friends.
John retired from the USN in 2001 as an Electronics Technician Chief Petty Officer with four years of active duty and 16 years in the Navy Reserves. His time in the service was characterized by a steadfast commitment to his fellow servicemen and the values of the Navy.
Professionally, John was known for his work ethic. While working for General Motors, he attended night school to complete a certification in electronics. In 1971, he was hired on to The Board of Public Utilities (BPU) in Kansas City, KS, where he worked as a radio technician until his retirement in 1996 at the age of 55.
An active member of his community, John was involved in the Masonic Lodge, served on the water board in Peculiar, MO, was an active leader in the Boy Scouts and coached/managed little league baseball teams. While building their retirement home at Lake of the Ozarks, he became familiar with the Coffman Bend Fire Department. He volunteered as a first responder and later became President of the Fire Department board of directors. He retired, again, after 19 years of service.
John is survived by his loving wife, Martha Amelia (Watson) Berry, whom he married on December 21, 1962; his daughter Carol (Berry) Nellis and husband Duane, of Climax Springs, MO; his son John Berry Jr. and wife Amy, of Cedar Rapids, Iowa; his daughter Julia (Berry) Soptic and husband Joe, of Kansas City, KS; and 5 grandchildren, Kyle Berry of Port Orchard, WA, Connor Berry of Kansas City, MO, Anna Berry of Kansas City, MO, Jodi Soptic of Kansas City, KS, and Justin Soptic of Kansas City, KS; his brothers Jerry Berry and wife Becky of Humble, TX, Mark Berry and wife Guylene of Jay, OK, and Joe Berry and wife Yvonne of Miami, OK, his sisters Virginia (Berry) Justice and husband Doug of Greensboro, NC, and Sondra Berry of Grove, OK; a host of nieces, nephews and their families.
He is preceded in death by his parents, Dean and Ruth Elizabeth (Davis) Berry; Stepmother Patsy (Ford) Berry; Sister Shirley (Berry) Tucker and nephew Chris Berry.
Funeral Services were held Saturday, February 8, 2025 at Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Home-Camdenton with full military honors.
Interment was at the Hedges Cemetery directly behind the Funeral Home.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 1270 S Business Route 5, Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2090. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com
Mary Ann Terry, 92
Mary Ann Terry, of Laurie, passed away Friday, January 31, 2025, at the Good Shepherd Care Center in Versailles. She was the daughter of Leslie T. Moore and Nona E. (Purvis) Moore.
On December 19, 1950, in Kansas City, Kansas, she was united in marriage to Frank Donald Terry, who preceded her in death on January 8, 2020. Together, they shared 69 years of marriage.
Mary Ann was born in Carver, Missouri, a little town off of Highway 135-3. The family later moved to a farm located off of what is now Lake Road 5-27, near Laurie, Missouri.
As a young girl, she helped her grandparents, Ivy and Ora Purvis clean cabins at their resort, Purvis Beach, as well as helping her father at the sawmill. When Mary Ann was ten years old her father enlisted in the Navy and he served on the USS Iowa in the Pacific in World War II. This left Mary Ann taking over most of the chores on the farm and helping her mother Nona with a one-year-old baby brother, Tom.
Mary Ann attended country schools in the area and then attended high school in Versailles. She graduated in 1950.
Mary Ann and Donald lived in Laurie their entire lives. Mary Ann worked at local grocery stores for many years and also worked at the Hallmark Store in the Laurie Terrace Mall for twenty years.
Mary Ann was a member of the Ozark Chapel United Methodist Church. She had a beautiful voice and sang at numerous weddings and funeral services throughout the years. As she and Donald grew older, they would entertain at local churches and nursing homes with Donald playing the guitar and Mary Ann singing.
She was an amazing cook. Her homemade meals were the best and her pies and cobblers were delicious. You would never leave her table hungry.
Mary Ann was a loving wife, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.
She is survived by her children, Donna Johnson of Versailles, Missouri, Karen (Fred) Owen of Camdenton, Missouri and David (Kelly) Terry of Laurie, Missouri; five grandchildren, Denny Terry, Emily Terry, Lyndsay (Ethan) Porter, Megan (Khris) Lasson and Dylan (Kelly) Johnson; thirteen great-grandchildren, Bradley, Damian, Kylie, Scarlett, Easton, Hudson, Reagan, Emerson, Nora, Zoey, Forrest, Emmett and Colter; her brother, George Moore of Centralia, Missouri; nieces and nephews, Cindy, Jeff, Claudia, Mark, Betsy, Renee, Michael, Amy, Angie, Heather and Paul as well as many great-nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Donald, her parents, Leslie and Nona Moore, her brothers, Jay and Tom, her son-in-law, Jerry Johnson, sisters-in-law, Doris, Sharron and Sherry, a nephew, Matt and a niece, Sarah.
Mary Ann loved the Terry family, her brothers-in-law, G.L., Larry (Judy) and Day (Shirley) and sister-in-law, Shirley (Dale).
A celebration of Mary Ann’s life will be held at a later date.
Cremation arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel.
James Corbett Blair (Jim), 71
James Corbett Blair (Jim), of Camdenton, Missouri, passed away on January 13, 2025, at Lake Regional Health System. He was born on March 20, 1953, in Lebanon, Missouri, a son of John Blair and Mary Foster Blair of Camdenton, Missouri. He was united in marriage to the love of his life Karen Johnson, fondly known as C.J. on October 12, 1988. Jim was preceded in death by his wife and his parents.
Jim was a 1971 graduate of Camdenton High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Drury University. He worked as a salesman at Blair Cedar and Novelty Works for most of his life and bragged that he was the #1 salesperson.
Jim loved to play golf and was an avid reader. He was a sports and history buff with special interests in the Missouri Tigers, Kansas City Chiefs, and World War II. Jim was a founding member of the Camdenton United Methodist Church where he accepted Christ at a young age.
Jim was an Eagle Scout, a 32nd degree mason and a noble of the Abou Ben Adhem Shriners. One of his favorite pastimes was visiting with friends on his front porch, where his infectious laugh could always be heard. He will be remembered as a loving husband, son, brother, uncle and godfather.
Jim is survived by his brothers, John Blair (Corinne) of Camdenton, Steve Blair (Annette) of Springfield, Matt Blair (Carla) of Camdenton, sisters, Debby Young (Ernie) of Colorado, and Chris Lombardo (Guy) of Florida, Godchildren, Blair Young, Brian Blair, Emili Terry, and Cami Williams, many nieces, nephews, cousins, and numerous friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Citizens Against Domestic Violence (CADV). Online https://www.cadv-voc.org/donate.html or call (573) 346-9630.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, April 6, 2025 at 4:00 p.m. at Lake Valley Golf and Country Club, 367 CC Blair Dr, Camdenton, MO.
Arrangements are under the direction of Hedges-Scott-Millard Funeral Homes, 1270 S Business Route 5, Camdenton, MO 65020 (573) 346-2090. Condolences may be left online for the family at www.hedgesscottmillard.com
Wesley Ragene Wilson, 66
Wesley Ragene Wilson, of Versailles, passed away Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at the Laurie Care Center. He was born February 1, 1959, in Sedalia, a son of the late Hazel Wilson.
Ragene worked as a logger for many years and later was a handyman.
He enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially while hunting.
He is survived by his children, Tim Wilson and wife Kayla of Versailles, Missouri and Trisha Wilson of Iberia, Missouri; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; his brother, Dorsey Wilson of Versailles, Missouri and Loretta Yeager of Texas and many other relatives and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Mancel Wilson.
Graveside services and interment was held Friday, February 7, in the Versailles Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society.
Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber.com
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
Johnathan Rand, 10
Johnathan Rand passed away on February 5, 2025, at MU Children's Hospital in Columbia, Missouri.
Johnathan was born on June 4, 2014, to Jennie Noe Rand of Versailles and Randy Rand of Versailles. Johnathan always had a smile that could brighten the darkest of rooms and he enjoyed many things here on Earth.
He loved going for walks, blowing bubbles, playing ball with his friends and he enjoyed watching TV, especially the Wheel of Fortune. He adored Mickey Mouse, and was blessed to receive a special visit from Mickey in December.
His favorite pastime, though, was always swimming and he loved spending his summer afternoons in the pool with his mom.
In November 2014, his mother dedicated his life to Christ at Trinity Baptist Church in Versailles. He completed pre-k at The Special Learning Center in Jefferson City and attended Dogwood Hills State School in Eldon.
Johnathan fought so hard in his 10 years of life and although his life was brief, his accomplishments here go beyond words. He touched many people's lives, and he will be missed by all who were blessed to know him.
He is survived by parents Jennie Noe Rand of the home, Randy Rand and wife Christy Pryor Rand of Versailles, his grandparents Donna Noe Coons of Versailles and Curtis Noe of Stover and many other close relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his uncle Bennie Noe and aunt Amy Noe, both of Versailles.
Johnathan’s memories will forever be cherished, and his spirit will live on inside all of us. Until we meet again, sweet boy!
Funeral services were held Tuesday, February 11, at the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles. Graveside services and interment followed in the Versailles Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home. Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber.com
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
Published February 5, 2025
Grace Ailene Hunter, 89
Grace Ailene Hunter, passed away Wednesday, January 22, 2025 at her home in Kingsville, MO.
Grace was born on April 26, 1935 in Montreal, MO to Gertude and Pete Danuser. She attended school in Linn Creek and Camdenton where she met Willis Theron Hunter. Willis and Grace were married December 19, 1951 in Linn Creek where they made their home prior to moving to Kansas City.
They made homes for their four children Stephen, Lindell, Stanley and Kimberly in Kansas City, Blue Springs, and Kingsville. With their adventurous spirit, the couple also lived on other farms and homes in Missouri but Grace eventually settled in Kingsville which always felt like home to her.
She was a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She and Willis loved all things farm; spending time tending the farms and caring for the animals, attending sales, roasting the best hot dogs over an open fire while generally cleaning out a fence row, and building memories with their family. Grace had a love for all God’s creatures from her orphaned squirrels and skunks to her beloved dogs, goats, and cats.
In her later years, Grace was a member of the Kingsville Baptist Church. She got pure enjoyment eating pizza, buying purses, and cheering on the local Kansas City sports teams.
Grace is survived by her children Steve (Kathy) of Higginsville, MO; Stan (Anita) of Kingsville, MO; her brother Doug (Barb) Danuser of Lone Jack; half-brother Richard Danuser of Linn Creek, MO; six grandchildren, ten great grandchildren, two great-great grandchildren and many nieces and nephews, brother and sister-in-laws.
She was preceded in death by her parents and stepparents; her husband Willis; two children Lindell and Kimberly; and two stepbrothers.
She will be missed by anyone who has had the opportunity to know her.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to the Old Drum Animal Shelter in Warrensburg, MO.
Graveside services were held on Saturday, February 1, 2025 at the Hunter Memorial Gardens cemetery in Linn Creek, MO.
Jane Couch, 85
Jane Couch, of Gravois Mills, passed away Sunday, January 26, 2025, at her home surrounded by her loving family. She was born January 12, 1940, in Salem, Missouri.
On December 4, 1964, in Lexington, Missouri, she was united in marriage to her surviving husband, Daniel Couch.
Jane worked as an orthodontist assistant in Eldon. Later, she worked for Dear Dental in Versailles.
She was an avid collector of Westmoreland Milk Glass. Jane enjoyed playing cards with her friends and being outdoors fishing, swimming, flower gardening and feeding the wild animals.
Some of her fondest memories were time spent with her grandchildren scavenger hunting and taking long paddle boat rides on the lake. She was also an avid horseshoe and corn hole pitcher for many years. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.
In addition to her husband, Dan, she is survived by her son, Bus Couch of Elkhart, Indiana; son-in-law, Jody Hughes; seven grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren and many friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Iris Healzer and her daughter, Mitzi Hughes.
Funeral services were held Friday, January 31, at the Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel. Graveside services and interment followed in Garber Memorial Estates.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Cancer Society. Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber.com
Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Laurie/Sunrise Beach Chapel.
James Alan “Jay” McCulloch, 59
James Alan “Jay” McCulloch, of Versailles, Missouri, passed away Friday, January 24, 2025 at Lake Regional Hospital, Osage Beach, Missouri. He was born April 9, 1965 in Kansas City, Missouri, a son of James Reese and Opal Willene (Clinton) McCulloch.
Jay was raised in the Kansas City area where he later worked as a florist. He moved to Versailles, Missouri in 2003. He enjoyed bowling on leagues at Tiger Lanes several years ago. He was a gunsmith and a gun collector. He liked hunting and fishing, although he wasn’t a master of either. His family was most important to him.
Survivors include his daughter, Jamie McCulloch and fiancé, Robert Rackers of Stover, Missouri; two grandchildren, Gabriella McCulloch and Aralyn Rasa; two brothers, Edward McCulloch of Kansas City, Missouri and Robert McCulloch of Gravois Mills, Missouri; a sister, Sheryl Clinton of Kansas City, Missouri and a host of other relatives and friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to a GoFundMe account titled “JJ’s Cremation and Celebration of Life”
Online condolences may be left at www.kidwellgarber.com
Cremation arrangements are under the care and direction of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
Dawn Kay Collins, 67
Dawn Kay Collins, of Columbia, Missouri, formerly of Laurie, Missouri, passed away Sunday, January 26, 2025, at University Hospital, Columbia, Missouri. She was born September 20, 1957, in Kankakee, Illinois, a daughter of Jack Dean and Mary Gray (Steerman) Weimann.
On March 9, 1985, in Nodaway County, Missouri, she was united in marriage to Karl Eugene “Windy” Collins. They shared twenty-five years of marriage before his passing on October 8, 2010.
She lived in Illinois and later moved to the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. She was a graduate of Camdenton High School in the class of 1975. She was the bakery manager for Country Mart in Greenview, Missouri and Laurie Market in Laurie, Missouri. She enjoyed collecting cookbooks and cooking. She especially enjoyed spending time with her grandkids.
Survivors include her mother, Gray Weimann of Buffalo, Missouri; her children, Alan Garmany and wife Leann of Stover, Missouri and Emily Riggs and husband Keenan of Columbia, Missouri; four step-children; eight grandchildren; a brother, Donald Weimann and wife Jackie of Urbana, Missouri and many other relatives and friends.
She was preceded in death by her father; her husband and a step-son, Steve Collins.
A family service will be held at a later date.
Memorial donations may be made to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Missouri.
Online condolences may be left at www.kidwellgarber.com
Cremation arrangements are under the care and direction of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
Darlene Kay Ouderkirk, 73
Darlene Kay Ouderkirk, of Versailles, Missouri, passed away Monday, January 27, 2025, at Warsaw Health and Rehabilitation Center, Warsaw, Missouri. She was born January 18, 1952, in Tucson, Arizona, a daughter of Howard and Betty Ruth (Bell) Ouderkirk.
Darlene and her family moved to Kansas City, Missouri as a child and she lived there until she moved to Wellington, Missouri where she lived for many years. She later made her home in Versailles, Missouri where she was a member of Lakeside Community Church in Gravois Mills.
She loved attending church and socializing. She was a person with a lot of love for other people and enjoyed assisting others in her community. In her spare time, she enjoyed sewing.
Survivors include a brother, Floyd Ouderkirk of Barnett, Missouri; a sister, Glenda Hart and husband Dennis of Warsaw, Missouri; numerous nieces and nephews and a host of other relatives and many friends.
She was preceded in death by her mother, Betty R. Parks; her father, Donald Parks and a brother, Howard “Wes” Ouderkirk.
Services were held Tuesday, February 4, 2025, at Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles with Pastor Landon “Cap” Chapman officiating.
Burial followed in Greenmore Memorial Gardens, Barnett, Missouri.
Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society for cancer research.
Online condolences may be left at www.kidwellgarber.com
Arrangements are under the care and direction of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
Debra Lynn Reefer 74
Debra Lynn Reefer of Camdenton, Missouri passed away peacefully on January 20, 2025 at the Laurie Care Center. A celebration of life will be planned for a later date.
Debra, daughter of Don and LaVonne Mangle, was born November 7, 1950 in Fort Dodge, Iowa, and grew up in Humboldt, Iowa. She graduated from Humboldt High School in 1969 where she lettered in golf, choir and band. Deb was also a certified Water Safety Instructor and life guard. Her summer job during college was life guarding at the Humboldt swimming pool.
Deb started riding the family’s horses at an early age and was a member of the Humboldt Saddle Club. She told stories of taking many trail rides with her father and sister, camping overnight at the Ledges State Park. She enjoyed teaching many of her friends how to ride a horse. Deb also loved spending weekends at the family cabin at Spirit Lake where she enjoyed boating and water skiing. She was an excellent slalom skier and taught many of her friends how to water Ski. Whether it was skiing, boating, swimming or life guarding, Deb loved being on the water.
Deb attended Iowa State University earning a Bachelor’s Degree in physical education. She later returned to Iowa State and earned her Masters of Education in Multi Categorical Special Education. During her 27 years of teaching, Deb taught seven years of elementary physical education and 20 years teaching high school special education for students with learning disabilities. She was also a licensed athletic coach and coached high school girl’s golf, volleyball and gymnastics. Deb loved teaching and her students loved her.
Deb was united in marriage to her high school sweetheart Vince Reefer on June 2, 1972 at the United Methodist Church in Humboldt Iowa. Both Deb and Vince are life-long members of the Methodist Church. They both shared a common dream to live on a lake in retirement. In 2003 they built their dream home on Lake of the Ozarks and retired there in 2009.
Deb spent the next ten years doing volunteer work at the Dogwood Animal Shelter where she loved taking care of the dogs and also served on the board of directors.
If you ever met Deb, you would always remember her radiant smile. She was a pure optimist who could find a silver lining in the darkest cloud. Her favorite things included: Watching her granddaughters open presents on Christmas morning; Going boating with friends and tying up in a quiet cove on a warm summer day; Attending the annual reunion with her Humboldt high school girlfriends Class of 1969; Or just going out to dinner with close friends.
Debra is survived by Vince her loving husband of 52 years, her son Zachary, her daughter Anna Kohl and husband Trevor, granddaughters Eva and Cleo Kohl. She was preceded in death by her parents Don and LaVonne Mangle, and her sister Diana (Mangle) Hogue.
In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial to the Dogwood Animal Shelter, 1075 Runabout Dr. Osage Beach MO. 65065 or the Camdenton United Methodist Church, PO Box 88, Camdenton, MO 65020
Kathryn “Kay” Abbott, 60
Kathryn "Kay" Abbott, of Roach, Missouri passed away January 20, 2025, surrounded by loved ones, in her home, at the age of sixty years, three months and twenty five days.
Kathryn (Towle) Abbott was born September 26, 1964 to parents, Elwood and Janet Towle, in the city of Mora, Minnesota. She grew up on her parents’ farm in central Minnesota.
At an early age Kay received Jesus Christ as her Savior, believing that Jesus had died for her sins on the cross. The result of this was the free gift of God’s eternal life.
Kay loved the Lord and served Him from a pre-teen age and throughout her whole life. As a pre-teen and into high school she served by teaching Vacation Bible Schools at various country churches, being a Bible camp counselor, and with her Grandpa Tony and her twin sister, Kim, ministering to troubled teenagers in a group home setting.
After graduating high school, Kay attended New Tribes Bible Institute in Waukesha, WI. There she met the love of her life: John Abbott. They were united in marriage June 15, 1985, on Kay’s family farm.
Following their marriage, John and Kay joined the missionary organization, Ethnos360 (formerly New Tribes Mission). Kay served the Lord as a member of that organization for around 35 years, helping to train missionaries, supporting her husband in his ministry, and serving in her local church.
Three wonderful children were born to Kay and her husband, John. They are: Bryan, Luke and Nicholle. This was followed by three grandchildren, Elijah and Lilli (born to Luke and his wife, Lydia), and Teddy (born to Bryan and his wife, Natalie – who also have another grandson on the way.)
Kay was devoted to her husband, her children, and her grandchildren, and loved to spend time with them, and to spoil them. She also loved to do artwork, and was able to use this gift both in ministry and in providing income for her family.
Kay is survived by her husband John Abbott, Children: Bryan (and Natalie) Abbott of New Zealand, Luke (and Lydia) Abbott, of Bolivar, Mo., and Nicholle (and Christopher) Gould of Lynchburg, Va. Grandchildren: Elijah, Lilli, Teddy, and soon expected grandson. Brothers and Sisters: Beverly (and Bert) Welton, Randy (and Jovita) Towle, Terri Callahan, twin sister Kim Cleven, & Christel Halstensgard. Father-in-law and Mother-in-law: Jack and Esther Abbott. Brothers-in-law and Sisters-in-law: Beth (and Rudi) Fehr, David (and Kristia) Abbott, and Timothy (and Jenn) Abbott, and many nieces and nephews.
Kay was preceded in death by her parents: Elwood and Janet Towle, brothers-in-law: Terry Cleven, Joel Abbott, Daniel Abbott, and nephew: Caleb Abbott.
Funeral Service was held Saturday, February 1, 2025 at New Hope Baptist Church in Buffalo, Missouri. Interment followed in the Big Niangua Church Cemetery, Roach, Missouri.
She will always be remembered with love, until the day we meet again.
Arrangements are under the direction of Allee-Holman-Howe Funeral Home.
Milford C. Sheets, Jr., 72
Milford C. Sheets, Jr., of Versailles, MO, passed away Tuesday, January 28, 2025, at his home. He was born October 28, 1952, in Fremont, Nebraska, a son of the late Milford C., Sr. and Ramona L. (Edwards) Sheets.
Milford was a veteran of the United States Army. He enjoyed bowling and chauffeuring his Mennonite friends.
He is survived by his brothers, Harry Sheets, Robert Sheets, Kevin Sheets and wife Linda and Kelvin Sheets all of Versailles, Missouri; sisters, Virginia Espinosa and husband Tony of Versailles, Missouri and Patti Jackson of Syracuse, Missouri and numerous nieces, nephews and friends.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a nephew, Scott Espinosa and a brother-in-law, David Jackson.
A celebration of Milford’s life will be held at a later date. Inurnment will be at a later date in Greenmore Memorial Gardens.
Expressions of sympathy may be left online at www.kidwellgarber.com
Cremation arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
Miriam High Zimmerman, 88
Miriam High Zimmerman, of Versailles, MO, passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025 surrounded by her family. She was born in Terre Hill, PA on November 9, 1936 to Isaac and Hettie High Zimmerman.
On December 31, 1957, she married Phares Zimmerman who preceded her in death on January 23, 2011.
She was a homemaker and for many years made Dutchman’s Noodles.
She was a member of Clear View Mennonite Church, Groffdale Conference.
She is survived by her children, Elvin (Mary Ella) Zimmerman, Leroy (Barbara) Zimmerman, Melvin (Esther) Zimmerman, Harlan (Ellen) Zimmerman, Harvey (Ruth Ann) Zimmerman, Eleanor (Aaron) Rissler, Malinda (Lawrence) Martin and Leonard (Melissa) Zimmerman; 59 grandchildren; 147 great-grandchildren; sisters, Anna Martin and Vera Newswanger; brothers, Aaron, Lloyd and Paul Zimmerman; sisters-in-law, Mary and Fannie Zimmerman; brother-in-law, Leroy Zimmerman and many nieces, nephews and friends.
In addition to her husband and parents, she was preceded in death by two grandsons; four great-grandchildren; brothers, Harold, Christian and Isaac Zimmerman and sisters, Elva Zimmerman, Mary Newswanger, Esther Weaver, Mabel Horst and Verna Zimmerman.
Funeral services were held on Monday, February 3, 2025, at Clear View Mennonite Church at 9:30 a.m. Burial was in the church cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.
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