John Stephen Kiel

September 19th, 1966 – August 8th, 2019

John Stephen Kiel, unexpectedly passed away in the early morning of August 8th, 2019. He was 52 years old.

John was a big family man.

Husband, father, son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, veteran, scouter, co-worker, friend. John went by many names.

John Stephen Kiel was born September 19th, 1966 to Gail and Stephen Kiel.

Soon John became a big brother to Brian and Jamie. Growing up, John was very active, playing with his brothers, began his love of fishing and usually up to no good; some things never change.

After high school at Mccluer North, John joined the army where he served for four years on active duty and a few years in the reserves.

After a few years, John married Christine Callanan August 6, 1994. Christine fell in love with his quirky personality and helped keep John grounded. They were a great balance for each other.

Shortly thereafter, they welcomed Ethan John Kiel to the family soon to be followed by Morgan Elisabeth Kiel. John was so proud of his children and loved spending time with his family.

John had many other favorite pastimes. He joined scouts with Ethan and stayed involved with Morgan through Venturing, making new scouting friends and memories; he loved the Fall Fun Rally and Swift Base.

He was a master griller specializing in pork steaks. Many evenings were spent in his garage cheering on the Blues or Cardinals or just relaxing. John also liked to chill with his friends at the VFW Post 4105 or BJ’s. He and his wife were also very passionate about gardening.

Family was important to John which is why he looked forward to the Kiel’s annual trip to Table Rock Lake. Fishing, swimming, crafts, BBQing, boating, and family – what could be better. Bennett Springs was another special place where John loved to spend his time, fly fishing, hiking, and enjoying a nice steak near the spring with a fire.

You could always find John sitting outside, playing Candy Crush, enjoying life, and relaxing by a huge bonfire.

Silly, mischievous, generous, caring, fun-loving, positive, outdoorsy, kind, proud, a leader, considerate, adventurous, ambitious, brave, strong, charming, sincere, helpful – just a few things that describe John. When you remember him, you too will be quick to smile.

He was quick to grin and laugh, break out new dance moves and enjoyed having fun; what’s not to love. John Kiel was loved by all. He was the heart of his family and the heart of his community. For those who knew him, knew that he was the nicest that a person could get, a true genuine soul. When he smiled, the world smiled back, and he made the world a better place. He strived to put a smile on every person’s face that he met. He never met a stranger. John made everyone feel welcome, accepted, wanted, and loved. His positivity, go-get-it attitude, and high spirit was contagious.

John was an active member of our community. And was a part of the Friends of Veterans.

He was an avid fisherman, a master griller, a passionate gardener, and a huge fan of the Blues and Cardinals. He also loved nature and hiking.

John will be greatly missed by all. He lived an amazing life and made the world a better place.

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We will be holding a Celebration of Life for John on Wednesday August 14th from 12-5pm at the VFW Post 4105 (410 Rue St Francois, Florissant, MO 63031).

Please bring your favorite picture and or story John, we would love to hear all of the amazing and funny things that he has done.

We ask everyone to wear their favorite Cardinals and Blues wear, since those were his favorite sports teams.

We appreciate everyone who has been reaching out to us in this difficult time. John is an amazing man and his name and heart will live forever. We invite everyone who has been touched by John to celebrate him with my family and I.

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If you would like to make donations to John Kiel’s Memorial Fund please contact his family (Christine, Morgan, or Ethan) or donate here: https://www.gofundme.com/f/remembering-john-kiel-memorial-fund?pc=fb_co_shareflow_w&rcid=r01-156548838159-abb5850491ea45b4&utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=fb_co_shareflow_w