John Ellis Gess Sr.

John Ellis Gess was born on October 7, 1952 to William and Erna Mae Gess. He was called home to be with our Lord and Savior on March 13, 2022. He will be deeply missed by all. John was a loving husband, devoted father and a wonderful grandfather. He was the best brother, brother-in-law and uncle.

John married Shannon Harvey on June 30, 1973 and then began his military career in the United States Air Force. He served at four duty stations: Malmstrom AFB, Great Falls, Montana where ShanaRae was born; George AFB, Victorville, California where John, Jr was born; Ramstein Air Base, Germany and Clovis AFB, Clovis, NM. John was honored to serve his country. So when his son retired from the Air Force after 20 years and his grandsons joined the Air Force and Navy, he proudly shared that information with everyone he met. John took pride in being a Veteran and rarely left home without wearing a cap that displayed “Air Force Veteran.” He enjoyed run-ins with other veterans allowing them to share stories. John completed 20 years; retiring as a Technical Sergeant highly decorated with numerous honors, accolades and awards.

Following his retirement in 1993, John and Shannon chose Lubbock, TX to call home. Transitioning to civilian life he became a computer analyst at Lockheed Martin, Reese AFB, TX. John always had his sights set on bettering himself; secured a position with Methodist Hospital now Covenant Hospital. There he was able to use his skills and training to become an IT Specialist. Covenant provided a place for John to assist doctors, nurses, and administrators with their computer problems by providing solutions as long as those “tickets” were put in. He retired from Covenant Hospital in April 2021 leaving behind a job he loved and the many friendships made over the years.

John shared a special relationship with his daughter. He admired her ability to own and run a business. He loved her singing and looked forward to sharing “the tea” with her. His relationship with his son was just as special; both having the military background.

John’s hobbies included fishing, gardening and making sure his yard was one of the nicest ones in the neighborhood. He enjoyed spending time with the Alabama Family and loved his sisters dearly.

Survivors include his wife, Shannon Gess; daughter, ShanaRae Gess and husband Ashton Anders; son, John Gess, Jr.; grandchildren, Phillip Gess, Jasmine Gess, Nathan Gess, Lily Anders, and Joseph Gess; siblings, Delores Kemp, Anna (Charles) Galbreath, and Karen Gess; sister-in- Law, Barbara Gess, a host of nieces and nephews and a multitude of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents; a brother, William Gess, Jr; and a brother-in-law, E.D. Kemp.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, March 26, 2022 from 10:00 am – 11:00 am at Callaway Christian Church in Fulton, MO. Funeral service will follow at 11:00 am at the church with Rev. Craig Galbreath officiating. Burial will be in Southside Cemetery, Fulton, MO with full military honors.

John Ellis Gess is gone but not forgotten.