Floyd “Jack” John Kempker, 93, Jefferson City, passed away on Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026.
He was born on Sept. 30, 1933, to the late Herman Sr. and Agnes (Hake) Kempker in Folk.
He was a hardworking man who found joy in the simple things in life, treasured his family, and held his faith close to his heart.
A dedicated roofer by trade, Jack worked hard throughout his life and eventually retired from the roofing profession, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, love, and cherished memories.
He enjoyed spending his time outdoors, where he found happiness in gardening, farming, and picking blackberries. Jack also enjoyed shelling walnuts and pecans, taking pleasure in the simple gifts that each season brought. Some of his best moments were spent roofing with his sons, grandsons and great-grandsons with a thermos filled with hotdogs packed for lunch. These were the kinds of days that made lasting memories and reflected the things Jack loved most: being outdoors and spending time with the people who meant so much to him.
At home, he enjoyed canning pickles with his beloved wife, sharing in a tradition that brought them together. He especially treasured time spent with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought him great joy and filled his life with love and laughter. His family was a blessing Jack held dear, and the memories they made together will be treasured for generations to come.
His faith was an important part of his life. Jack found comfort and strength in praying his Rosary, a reflection of the faith that remained close to his heart.
He will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his love of the outdoors, his devotion to his family, and his appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Whether he was tending a garden, working on the farm, cutting wood, enjoying a day with his family, canning pickles with his wife, or spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Jack made memories that will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.
He was preceded in death by, parents, Herman and Agnes; sister, Laurentia Wenzel and husband Arnold; brothers, Alfred Kempker and wife Janice, Lloyd Kempker and wife Barbara, Tony Kempker and wife Lorine, Herman Kempker, Jr., Lennie Kempker and Lester Kempker; and brother-in-law, Alfred Wittkop.
Jack is survived by loving wife of 70 years, Helen; sons; Larry Kempker and wife Gayla, Ronnie Kempker and wife Laurie and Randy Kempker and wife Suzy; daughters, Judy Kleffner and husband Ron, Emily Handwerk and husband Chris and Karrie Bruemmer and husband Brian; brothers-in-law, Tom Lage and wife Joyce; sister-in-law, Dorothy Wittkop, Marilyn Kempker, Marilyn Kempker and husband Jr. and Rita Kempker; 17 grandchildren; and 32 great-grandchildren.
Funeral Mass was held on Monday, Oct. 19, at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Taos. Interment was in the St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery.
Memorial contributions suggested to St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church.
Arrangements entrusted to Houser-Millard Funeral Directors in Jefferson City.
Condolences may be left for the family online at www.millardfamilychapels.com
