Jean David Gatzmeyer

Jean David Gatzmeyer, 81, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. Jean was born on August 28, 1944, in Nebraska, where he spent his early childhood before moving with his family to Missouri. He built a life grounded in hard work, faith, and deep devotion to his family. He shared 60 wonderful years of marriage with his beloved wife, Edith (Hammar) Gatzmeyer, a testament to a lifetime of love, partnership, and commitment. Together, they created a home filled with warmth, laughter, and lasting memories. Jean worked in engineering until his retirement in 1997. In the early 2000s, he and Edith began a new chapter together, purchasing an antique mall near the Lake of the Ozarks, where they spent many years working side by side until selling the business around 2020. He then enjoyed a well-earned retirement at home. Above all, Jean was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He is survived by his children, Kyle Gatzmeyer (Angela Gatzmeyer), Kristina Weigel (David Travis), and Dan Rice, whom he lovingly fostered. He was a proud grandfather to Tiffany, Micah, Haleigh, Carson, and James, as well as step-grandchildren Rylie and Joshua. His legacy continues through his great-grandchildren, Sophia, Cooper, Abel, Ellen, Gideon, Abigail, Beatrice, and Agatha. Jean is also survived by his brother, James “Uncle Jim,” the last living sibling of his family. James lives in Texas with his daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Jean is preceded in death by his 3 sisters, Daryline, Helen, and Stella, who are survived by numerous nieces & nephews. He will be remembered for his kindness, his steady presence, and the simple moments he cherished most—especially sitting at the table watching the birds at the feeder and sharing stories and facts about the cardinals he loved so much. Those who knew Jean will remember the quiet strength he carried, the love he gave so freely, and the way he made people feel at home just by being near him. Visitation will start at 10 a.m., where a Catholic funeral mass will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Louisiana, Missouri, with Fr. Henry Ussher officiating. Burial will follow at St. Clement Cemetery, with a luncheon to follow back at St. Joseph Catholic Church in the Knights of Columbus Hall. Bibb-Veach Funeral Homes and Crematory is handling the arrangements. Jean will be deeply missed and forever remembered. Cardinals will forever serve as a reminder that he is near.

Jean David Gatzmeyer

August 28, 1944 - April 10, 2026