Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 N. Main Street, Higginsville, MO (2026)

12/08/2025

Jason Stuart Johnson, 60 of Higginsville, Missouri passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at his home in Higginsville, Missouri. He was born Tuesday, February 9, 1965, in Higginsville, to Charles Wilson and Anglano Johnson. He was a graduate of Lafayette County C-1 High School in Higginsville.
Surviving are three sisters, Cynthia Johnson, Gail Johnson, Virginia Weston; four brothers, Charles Johnson Jr., Prince Johnson, Leonard Johnson, Keith Bass.
He is preceded in death by his parents; and one sister, Simone Johnson.
A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, December 13, 2025 at 11:00 AM, at the Assembly of God church in Higginsville.

12/01/2025

Frank David Eldien, (86) of Warrensburg, MO died on November 26, 2025. Frank was born in Cloquet, MN to Raymond and Margaret Eldien on September 24, 1939. He graduated from Cloquet High School in 1957. He was an Eagle Scout. He served in the United States Air Force from 1957 to 1977, retiring as a Senior Master Sergeant. After his military career, he worked for Minnesota Power in Duluth, MN retiring in 1991. Frank was a member of the Bethel Baptist Church of Warrensburg, MO.
He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ray Eldien; and his daughter, Dana. Surviving are his wife, Monica; sons, David Eldien (Melissa Bridges) of San Antonio, TX, Terry (Michelle) Eldien of Fergus Falls, MN, Erik (Rene’) Johnson of Sparks, NV, and Steven (Jolene) Eldien of Warrensburg, MO; daughters, Sherry Matthews of Cloquet, MN and Gena Jensen of Casper, WY; sisters, Susan (Dennis) Chamberlin of Mill City, OR, and Margaret (John) Talcott of Madison, WI; grandchildren, Ashley Battaglia, Tony Eldien, Janice Nelson, Jamie Matthews, Hunter and Anika Eldien, Wyatt Jensen, Ethan, Aiden and Dylan Eldien; great-grandchildren, Carley, Liam, Paxton, Haizley, Kinley; and Frank’s dog, Walter.
A military graveside service will be held in the spring at Maple Grove Cemetery in Cloquet, MN. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home and online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

12/01/2025

Timothy Willard Harris, 70 of Gladstone, Missouri passed away on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, in Waverly, MO. He was born Tuesday, December 28, 1954 in Texarkana, Arkansas. He was the husband of Patsy (Holbert) Harris.
Tim grew up in Texas and graduated high school from Hooks High School. He received a Bachelor's of Science degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Texas - Arlington.
Tim landed a position with General Motors at the Arlington plant. He worked early and often, he and Patsy married on July 4th to avoid missing any work. He was passionate about working and supporting his family. In 1995 GM moved him and his family to the Kansas City plant.
When Tim wasn't working, he enjoyed golf, reading, history and traveling. He loved military, Native American, and American history and would plan vacations around visiting battle sites and war museums. When GM would shut down yearly for maintenance, Tim would meticulously plan a family road trip to see as many national and state parks and historical sites as possible during those two weeks. Family was important to Tim and he enjoyed attending his grandchildren's sporting and school events. His love of life and dedication to family will be greatly missed.
Surviving are his wife, Patsy of the home; daughters, Alanda (Tyson) Rathfon of Kansas City, MO, Rachel Lana (Matt Van Houten) of Gladstone, MO; sister, Cindy (Don) Jett of Louisiana; five grandchildren and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by brothers, Larry Harris and Joey Harris; and a sister, Mary Harris. A celebration of life will be scheduled at a later date. Funeral arrangements entrusted to Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home and online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

12/01/2025

James Gale "Jimmy" Shier, 74 of Higginsville, MO, passed away on November 26, 2025. He was born in Warrensburg, MO on March 19, 1951 to the late R.J. Shier and Ruth Baker. Jimmy graduated from Odessa High School in 1970. He spent his early years in Marshall, MO, where he raised his family. For the past 30 years, he made Higginsville his home.
He worked as a dedicated truck driver for numerous individuals and businesses, earning a reputation for reliability, hard work, and a willingness to support the rural farming community with any hauling needs. He continued in the profession he loved until his retirement in 2023.
In his free time, he enjoyed attending sprint car races and tractor pulls. Some of his favorite moments were the simple ones, meeting with friends for coffee, catching up on life, and sharing a laugh.
Surviving are his mother, Ruth Baker of Higginsville; two daughters, Kari (Andy) Leak of Parkville, MO and Krystle Routon of Sedalia, MO; son, Kenny (Naomi) Shier of K**b Noster, MO; six grandchildren, Andrew Leak, Grace Leak, Carter Routon, Lily Routon, Kendra Shier and Eric Jones; three siblings, Janet (Jim) Brandon of Oak Grove, MO, Jerry (Cindy) Shier and Jeff (Kris) Shier, both of Higginsville; three great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his father, R.J. Shier; his step-father, Dean Baker; and his step-brothers, Jeffrey and Donald Baker.
The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM on Wednesday, December 3, 2025 at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home located at 1600 Main St. Higginsville, Missouri. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home with Rev. Andy Mockridge officiating. Burial will be in the Higginsville City Cemetery.
Casket bearers: Doug Bird, Willard Haley, Andrew Leak, Gary McCulloch, Jason Meinershagen, Carter Routon, Bill Shier, Josh Shier. Honorary casket bearers: John Dye, Donald Haley, Ernie Schloman, Jim Shobe.
Memorials may be made to Lafayette County Cancer Coalition.

11/19/2025

Michael Sean Gibson, 74 of Warrensburg, MO, passed away on November 14, 2025.
Michael was born in Gloversville, NY on July 26, 1951 to Arthur E. and Bessie V. Gibson. Michael graduated from Sehome High School in Bellingham, Washington in 1969. In June of 1971 he was drafted into the Army. Michael met and married Sandy L. Keller on January 3, 1975. Mike and Sandy raised 4 children during his military years. He was a very devoted husband and father. They experienced many of his deployments during their years together, going with him and traveling to many states and countries.
He spent a total of 22 years and 9 months in the Army, proudly serving his country. He had many opportunities to go back to civilian life, but continually reenlisted. He was very dedicated to his country and loved being able to experience other cultures and seeing so much of the world.
Through his deployments he got to experience Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Korea, Germany, Honduras, as well as stationed in many different states. Michael served in the Vietnam War as well as Desert Storm. In February of 1983 Michael was part of the 101st Airborne doing chemical operations while stationed at Ft. Campbell, KY. In October of 1983 Michael was deployed to Honduras.
December 1983 thru March 1985, Michael was deeply involved in Nancy Reagan's Chemical People Task Force, a grassroots approach to alternative and informative ideas regarding youthful drug and alcohol abuse. In March of 1985, Michael was again deployed this time to Korea. Michael received numerous awards through his military career and continued to further his skills.
In June of 1987 Michael reenlisted and completed 30 hours toward his Associates degree in Law Enforcement. In March 1988, Michael was assigned to Field Artillery while stationed at Fort Riley in Kansas, also continuing to do work in the field of chemicals. In January 1989, Michael was deployed to NTC. Then in October 1989, Michael was assigned to 556th Maintenance Co as Company NCO, NBC.
In 1990, Michael received a commendable rating on the AGI for NBC Operations then later would prepare for deployment in support of Operation Desert Shield. January 1991, Michael would then deploy for Desert Storm. November 1991, he was assigned to HHC 937th Engineer Group (COMBAT) and worked with CSM detail on Grounds and Building maintenance. Finally, in April 1992, Michael was selected to be Program Manager of the Long Fitness Center, which would lead into his retirement in April 1993.
This is in no way the complete description of all Michael gave in his many years as a soldier of the United States Army. He received many awards and many advancements in his career.
Awards: Liberation of Kuwait, Overseas Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, NCOPDR w/3 device, Southwest Asia Metal w/star, Good Conduct Ribbon w/6 awards, Army Achievement Medal w/oak leaf, Army Commendation Medal. His dedication and loyalty to both his country and his family were unwavering in his years of service. He would tell you he would do it all again in a heartbeat!
After retirement, he and his family moved to Warsaw, MO. At that time his brother Doug, introduced him to locksmithing. Teaching him all he needed to know to continue as a working man. Michael enjoyed this work greatly and did it for many years.
In 2003 Michael lost his first wife Sandy, to illness. This would begin a whole new chapter in Michael’s life. Michael did remarry and was joined in marriage to Vicky I. Kimlin on September 11, 2004, spending 21 happy years together. Vicky brought into the marriage 5 children, some who were no longer in the home. Bryan Macon, Jeremiah Macon, Matthew Macon, Jacob Macon and Hannah Macon. They would eventually move to Warrensburg, MO with her 3 remaining children.
Michael did finally make the decision to fully retire in 2013. To know Michael was to know a very kind, laid back, easy to get along with, peaceful person. He loved being around others. He loved good music, especially contemporary Christian music. He loved family gatherings and building memories. Michael's greatest hobby was playing guitar and restoring guitars. He had quite a collection of them. He loved restoring them as much as playing them.
Michael was a man of strong faith. He and his wife Vicky went to church regularly and at home they read the Bible. They had many discussion sessions on different issues, learning together, growing together and praying together often. His family meant everything to him and there was never enough time to spend with them all. His biggest regret was missed opportunities and time with family. Life is too short and he knew that. He will be greatly missed.
Surviving are his wife, Vicky of the home; sons, Ron Gibson of Amarillo, TX, Robert (Wendy) Gibson of Peabody, KS, Bryan (April) Macon of Warsaw, MO, Michael (Erin) Gibson of New Lebanon, OH, Matthew (Abra) Macon of Independence, MO, Jeremiah Macon of Independence, MO and Jacob Macon of Warsaw, MO; daughters, Kim Shelton of Amarillo, TX, Jennifer (Brian) Freese of Marion, KS and Hannah (Jeffery) Hunt of Clinton, MO; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held at 2:00 PM on Sunday, November 23, 2025 at the Passion Church, located at 1119 Bryan Rd. Cameron, MO 64429. Memorials may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project at, www.support.woundedwarriorproject.org
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home and online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

11/03/2025

David Allan Roncelli, 63 of Higginsville, Missouri passed away on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at his home in Higginsville. He was born Saturday, November 18, 1961 in Lexington, Missouri, to Steve Roncelli and the late Carolyn (Derleth) Roncelli.
David spent his younger years in Lexington, MO where he graduated high school and some of his life in Oak Grove, Missouri, where he worked as a skilled drywall installer. He later lived in Higginsville to be closer to family.
David believed in working hard so he could play even harder. An outdoorsman at heart, David loved fishing, hunting, and spending time in nature. He was an avid hunter tracking game from deer in Missouri, wild boar down south, bear out west, to elk in the northwest. He proudly displayed his prize hunts with taxidermy in his basement. He was passionate about Nascar and football, always cheering on his beloved Chiefs. David spent fifteen years riding motorcycles, always chasing that sense of freedom. Whether cooking or firing up the grill for a good BBQ, David enjoyed staying active and sharing good times with those he cared about. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
Surviving are his father, Steve Roncelli of Higginsville; one son, Jacob (Stephanie) Roncelli of Higginsville; two brothers, Dan (Leslie) Roncelli of Odessa, MO and Rob (Michelle) Roncelli of Richmond, MO; three grandchildren, Jade Roncelli, Aleena Roncelli, Lacy Roncelli. He was preceded in death by his mother, Carolyn Roncelli.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main St. Higginsville, Missouri. Private interment will be held at a later date in Memory Gardens Cemetery, Lexington, MO. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

10/27/2025

Edgar Charles Rasa, 89, of Lexington, MO went to his Heavenly home on October 25, 2025. The son of the late Robert and Laura (Wagner) Rasa, Sr., Edgar was born on January 7, 1936, at the home place in Lexington, Missouri. Edgar attended grade school at Garr School and later at Dover School. After both schools closed, he completed his senior year at Lexington High School in 1953. Edgar joined the United States Army Reserves, where he was trained as a mechanic, serving for six years. Baptized on March 12, 1936, and confirmed on April 10, 1949, Edgar was an active lifetime parishioner of Immanuel Lutheran Church, serving as an usher for decades.
Edgar was united in marriage to Ruby (Mays) Rasa on April 18, 1969, affectionately referring to his wife of 56 years as “the best thing to ever come out of Arkansas.” Most of their adventures revolved around raising three daughters, farming, and in-season tractor rides to set ladders and guide apple orchard picking, although Edgar occasionally knew how to find adventure away from the orchard, too.
In his early seventies, during a trip to visit family, Edgar made a last-minute decision to stop at Six Flags with one goal in mind, to challenge his wife to ride on the Screamin’ Eagle roller coaster. The greater challenge, however, turned out to be seeing who could continue driving after the tumultuous ride. Not giving Ruby a choice, Edgar took his position in the passenger seat.
Edgar was a third-generation co-owner of Rasa Orchards & Farms, which he operated alongside his brothers, Norman and Robert, and their wives. A devoted partner in the family business, Edgar often reflected, “It’s not work if you love what you do.” He applied his talents and skills to agriculture, finding both joy and purpose in his lifelong commitment to the orchard and farm. Guided by his Christian principles and a strong work ethic, Edgar cherished time with his family and took great pride in the daily tasks of farm life, especially pruning the orchard, a task he lovingly tended to for more than 70 years.
Those who remain to remember his love forever include his wife, Ruby, of the home. Three daughters, Patricia (Dannie) Heugel Jr. of Higginsville, MO; Kimberly (Brent) Thompson of Dover, MO; Beth (Jason) Edwards of Corder, MO. Seven grandchildren who all love the outdoors as much as Grandpa: Jessica (Alex) Urfer, Matthew (Madison) Heugel, Dustin Thompson, Kelsey Thompson, Gavin Edwards, Trevor Edwards, and Davis Edwards, and great-grandchildren Walker Urfer and Stella Heugel. He is survived by his brothers Robert (Bernice) Rasa, Jr., Donald (Barbara) Rasa, and Norman (Susan) Rasa; and by his nephew David (Christy) Rasa, with whom he farmed alongside for more than thirty years. He is also survived by many dearly loved nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
He was preceded in death by his parents and by his sister, Carol Wiles, and brother-in-law, Bill Wiles; nephew, Kenny Rasa; great-nephew, Garrett Rasa; and great-niece, Nicole Hollingsworth.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Wednesday, October 29th, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1501 Lipper St. Higginsville, Missouri. A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Thursday, October 30th, 2025, at Immanuel Lutheran Church with Pastor Marcus Jauss officiating. Burial will follow the funeral service in the City Cemetery, Higginsville, MO. Casket bearers include Matthew Heugel, Dustin Thompson, David Rasa, Scott Rasa, Alex Urfer, Travis Mays, along with honorary casket bearers, Gavin Edwards, Trevor Edwards, and Davis Edwards. The family suggests memorials be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church.
Funeral arrangements entrusted to Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home and online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

10/20/2025

Barbara Jean Rutherford (Lichte), 77 of Higginsville, Missouri passed away on Saturday, October 18, 2025, at Meyer Care Center in Higginsville. Barbara was born on Friday, October 15, 1948, in Lexington, Missouri, to Herman Lichte and Constance (Windmoeller) Lichte. She was a graduate of Lexington High School and later attended CMSU in Warrensburg. On December 11, 1970, she married Virgil "Lynn" Rutherford and together they shared 48 wonderful years.
Barbara began her working career at the Higginsville Garment Factory before joining the USDA, where she dedicated more than 30 years of service until her retirement in 2012. She took great pride in her work, helping countless local farmers throughout the years. Barbara and Lynn made their home on a farm in Aullville, Missouri, where she was not just a farm wife but Lynn’s helping “hired hand.” She could often be found driving the grain cart or lending a hand wherever it was needed.
She was an avid motorcycle enthusiast with Lynn and enjoyed riding with many local groups, making lifelong friendships along the way. Barbara and Virgil loved spending their winters as snowbirds in Florida, escaping the Missouri cold and soaking up the sunshine together.
A devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan, Barbara never missed a game and cheered them on with passion. Above all else, she loved her family, especially her grandchildren who were the light of her life. Barbara’s kindness, laughter, and love for life will be remembered by all who knew her. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and community.
Surviving are one daughter, Cindy (Adam) Hemme of Higginsville; two grandchildren, Morgan (Dale) Colborn, Logan (Madison) Hemme; and one great-grandchild, Rowan Colborn. She was preceded in death by her parents; her husband, Lynn Rutherford; one daughter, Jennifer Rutherford; and one brother, Chris Lichte.
The family will receive friends from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main St. Higginsville, Missouri.
Private inurnment with just family will be held in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery. A lunch social will be held after the visitation at Cindy's - 19886 Grange Rd. Higginsville, MO 64037. Memorials may be made to Three Rivers Hospice or Johns Knox Village - Memories Matter Walk to end Alzheimer’s. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

10/19/2025

Marvin Lawrence Stark, 90 of Lexington, Missouri met his Savior on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at his home in Lexington. He was born Wednesday, August 21, 1935 in Cole Camp, Missouri, to William Stark and Pauline (Kullmann) Stark. He grew up in the Waverly, MO area and graduated from Santa Fe High School in Grand Pass, MO in 1952. Marvin enlisted in the United States Army in 1958 and proudly served until 1960.
On January 1, 1977, Marvin married the love of his life, Sandra (Aufemkanp) Stark. Together they shared 48 wonderful years filled with hard work, laughter, and countless memories. Marvin built his career with ARMCO Steel, where he served as a foreman in the wire coating division. His skills and dedication led him to contribute ideas that became part of multiple company patents related to galvanizing and manufacturing barbed wire as well as other wiring techniques. His intellect led to more company patents with machines to manufacture these products more efficiently and cost effectively.
In addition to his industrial work, Marvin was a devoted farmer, tending to his land in Lexington with the same care and pride that defined every part of his life. A man of many interests and boundless energy, Marvin also opened his heart and home to others, hosting two foreign exchange students, Bettina Harms in 1982 and Jochen Harms in 1996, both of whom became part of their family. He was deeply involved in his church, and in 2007 until 2017, he oversaw the restoration of the church’s remodeling projects as well as the bell tower. He located, restored and reinstalled the original bell so its familiar sound could once again fill the community.
Marvin enjoyed fishing, woodworking, and when he could step away from his many projects, taking trips to Branson, Missouri, where he and Sandra made fond memories together. Above all, he was a man who believed in doing things the right way, caring deeply for his family, friends, and faith. He will be remembered for his steady hands, his generous heart, and the legacy of love and integrity he leaves behind.
Surviving are his wife, Sandra Stark of the home; two sons, Bruce Stark of New York, Steven (Maria) Stark of Virginia Beach, VA; two daughters, Kimberly (Brian) Zimmerman of Excelsior Springs, MO and Kathy (Claudus) Mallot of Lexington; fifteen grandchildren, Jessica (Brandon) Hembree, Brittanie (Jacob) McGee, Breanna Mallot (Anthony Jose), Austin (Lexie) Zimmerman, Kaitlyn (Alex) Jackson, Skylar Stark, Reagan Stark, Kyle (Ashley) Cowherd, Samantha Sierck, Adam Cowherd, Cody Burton, Joseph Mallot, Vincint Mallot, Maica Stark, Michael Davis; one brother-in-law, Norman Weedin of Waverly, MO; and many great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents; one son, Kevin (Sherry) Cowherd, two brothers, Ralph Stark and Carl Stark; and one sister, Marie Weedin.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM on Thursday, October 23, 2025, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main St. Higginsville, Missouri.
A funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM on Friday, October 24, 2025 at Immanuel Lutheran Church located at 1501 Lipper St. Higginsville, Missouri 64037. Burial with military honors will follow in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Higginsville, MO. Casket bearers: Brian Zimmerman, Austin Zimmerman, Claudus Mallot, Steven Stark, Skylar Stark, Nathan Oglesby. Memorials may be made to Immanuel Lutheran Church.
Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

10/09/2025

Dennis Arthur Schmalz, 73 of Alma, Missouri passed away on Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at his home in Columbia.
Dennis Schmalz was born on Monday, January 14, 1952, in Wheeling, West Virginia, to Richard Schmalz and Agnes (Bezko) Schmalz. He graduated from Wheeling High School and went on to serve his country proudly in the United States Air Force, enlisting in 1972.
After his military service, Dennis being a true jack-of-all-trades, wore many hats throughout his life: welder, crane operator, ironworker, coal miner, and mechanic before finding interest in nursing. He worked as a traveling registered nurse and settled in Columbia, Missouri in 1989. There, he continued his career in healthcare at the University of Missouri, where he worked until his retirement in 2004.
On August 25, 1990, Dennis married Patricia (Corder) Schmalz. Together, they shared 35 years of love, laughter, and companionship. He was a musician who loved playing the guitar but loved building guitars even more. He built 65 guitars by hand throughout his retirement. Dennis was a fisherman as well and enjoyed the quiet moments by the water. He was a passionate man who enjoyed spending time with family and friends. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him.
Surviving are his wife, Patricia Schmalz of the home; two sons, Ezekiel Schmalz of Alma, MO and Thomas Schmalz of Alma; three daughters, Sara Schmalz of Columbia, MO, Katrina (Josh) Hyde of Wheeling, WV and Aimee Schmalz of Wheeling, WV; one sister, Ruth Ann Schmalz of WV; three grandchildren, Lucus Schmalz, Arbor and Irie Hyde. He was preceded in death by his parents; two brothers, Richard Schmalz and Butch Schmalz.
The family will receive friends from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home, 1600 Main St. Higginsville, Missouri. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 PM at the funeral home and burial with military honors will be held at 2:00 PM in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery located at 20109 Bus. MO-13 Higginsville, Missouri 64037. Casket bearers: Kelly Clay, Mel Fetter, Leigh Johnson, Jimmy Perrin, Kent Tieman, Mark Wooden. Honorary bearers: Ted Haling and Jeff Wallace.
Memorials may be made to (CDCE) - VA's Center for Development and Civic Engagement, for helping veterans with food, clothes and other resources. Donate online at www.cdceportal.va.gov or mailing to 915 Grand Blvd. St. Louis, MO 63106. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

09/29/2025

James Clifton "Jim" Fann, 100, of Higginsville, died on Saturday, September 27 at the Lafayette Regional Health Center in Lexington.
Jim was born in Belton, Missouri, on August 15, 1925, to the late Raymond R. Fann and late Nellie F. (Taylor) Fann. Jim’s mother died when he was only five and with his father at work, he was raised largely by his older sister and nearby relatives. He dropped out of school early and never attended high school.
Jim joined the army in 1943, qualified as a sharpshooter, and served with the 1395th Engineer Construction Battalion as a truck driver in the Pacific Islands. He often said the army saved him by giving him discipline. He also joked that he spent so much time on kitchen duty that he was promoted to sergeant of the mess hall. He received a medal for good conduct at his discharge from the army in 1946.
Jim married Bessie Goring (deceased) of Higginsville, August 19, 1946. Their marriage produced two sons, James and Raymond. Jim and Bessie were members of the Faith Baptist Church in Higginsville where Jim led singing, taught Sunday school, and served in a variety of offices, including deacon.
Jim worked as an auto assemblyman for the Ford Motor Company until he retired in 1985. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, camping, singing, and playing the guitar.
He is survived by son, James (Holly) Fann of Burnsville, MN; three grandchildren, Christopher, Jamie, and Ray, and two great-grandsons, Jack and Luke. He is preceded in death by his parents; wife, Bessie; one son, Raymond; three brothers, Pete, Bud and Joe; and a sister, Cora.
A graveside service with military honors will be held at 10:00 AM on Thursday, October 2, 2025 in the City Cemetery with Rev. Jeremy Herbert and Rev. Clif Swanson officiating. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

09/15/2025

Linda Darlene Tracy (Lowe), 79 of Odessa, Missouri passed away on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at her home. She was born on Monday, May 13, 1946, to Robert Lowe and Betty (Hastings) Lowe.
She married Richard “Dick” Tracy on December 23, 1971. They shared 50 wonderful years together before his passing on August 29, 2021. Throughout their marriage, Linda and Dick made their home in Corder, Wellington, and Lexington. After Dick’s passing, Linda moved to Odessa to be closer to her family.
Linda worked in retail for 20 years with Walmart, where she was known for her kind heart and friendly smile. She had a creative spirit and loved crafting, going to garage sales, and collecting antiques. Above all, she cherished time spent with her grandchildren and her family, who meant the world to her. Linda was also a devoted and active member of Living Waters Family Worship Center in Buckner, Missouri.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. Surviving are two daughters, Genny (Brad) Kleoppel of Odessa, MO and Tammy Umphreys of Blue Springs, MO; two brothers, Robert (Eva) Lowe, Jr. of Archie, MO and Danny (Rita) Lowe of Adrian, MO; five grandchildren, Spencer (Danielle) Kleoppel, Corbin (Bailey) Kleoppel, Noble Kleoppel, Jesse (Paradise) Umphreys, Anthony (Sierra) Weber; nine great-grandchildren, Brycen, Isabella, Avery, Mya, Bradley, and Chandler Kleoppel, Abel Umphreys, Ethan and Stella Weber. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Dick Tracy; one brother, Lawrence Lowe; and a son-in-law, Donn Umphreys, Jr.
A visitation will be held from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday, September 27, 2025 at Stewart-Hoefer Funeral Home located at 1600 Main St. Higginsville, Missouri 64037. Interment will follow in the Calvary Cemetery, Corder, MO.
Memorials may be made out to Living Waters Family Worship Center 211 S. Osage St. Buckner, MO 64016. Online condolences may be made to the family at www.stewarthoeferfuneralhome.com

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Marshall and Lia Stewart