John H. Kammeyer, 83, of Holden, Missouri, died Friday, January 16, 2015 at Holden Manor Care Center.

John was born March 7, 1931, in Concordia, Missouri, the youngest son of Alvin and Edna (Schelp) Kammeyer. He married Marilyn Jo Howard on June 4, 1954. John was a graduate of Concordia High School and received a Bachelor of Science in Education degree and later a Master of Science in Education degree from Central Missouri State College in Warrensburg. During this time, he was a member of Sigma Tau Gamma. He completed additional college classes to be certified for middle school as well as elementary principal.

John began his teaching career in 1953 as instrumental and vocal high school music teacher in Holden. For 17 years the musical groups performed at football games and other local events, received high ratings at contests, and earned money for the department by being in charge of the concession stand at sporting events. In 1970, he became principal of Holden Middle School and remained in that position for 13 years. His entire teaching career was in the Holden Schools.

He was a life member of the Missouri State Teachers Association and a member of other professional organizations during his career. John was a former member of the Holden Jaycees and Holden Optimist Club. He served on the Holden Volunteer Fire Department for many years. John volunteered repairing instruments for Marching Mizzou and became known as the “Marching Mizzou Mechanic.” John was a 50-year member of the Holden Masonic Lodge. He was also a member and elder emeritus of Holden First Christian Church.

Surviving his passing are his wife, of the home; two daughters, Deborah Jo (Dick) Giddings, of Lee’’s Summit, Missouri; and Cynthia Ruth (Brad) Strecker, of Olathe, Kansas. He is also survived by two grandchildren, Kathleen Giddings and fiancée Ryan, of Springfield, Missouri, and Alex Giddings and fiancée, Chelsea, of Columbia, Missouri. One brother, Curtis Kammeyer (Lois) of Overland Park, Kansas; and several nieces and nephews. Preceding him in death, in addition to his parents, were his brothers, Robert (Margielayne) Kammeyer and Neal (Dorothy) Kammeyer.

According to John’’s wishes, cremation has taken place. Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 24, at Williams Funeral Chapel in Holden with the Rev. Tim Whitmore officiating.

Visitation will be one hour prior to service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Holden R-3 School Foundation for student scholarships or Holden First Christian Church in care of the funeral chapel.

Online condolences may be left at www.williamsfuneralchapel.net.