John Leroy Krall

Born in Liberty on February 14th, 1922, to John A. and Genevieve E. Krall, John grew up in Springfield, MO. He was the middle child with 4 sisters. He graduated from Springfield High School early and enrolled at the University of Missouri–Rolla in 1941, receiving a degree in Electrical Engineering. During his sophomore year of college, John joined the U.S. Army, finishing his civilian courses while training for his military duties. He served in the Signal Corps as a Second Lieutenant, stationed in the Philippines and Japan during WWII. Upon returning home, John went to work for Kansas City Power and Light Co., eventually working for GTE Sylvania as an Illuminating Engineer and Solutions Manager.

While he was overseas, John's youngest sister, Pat, became good friends with the girl next door, Dorothy. Pat told her, "You can't fall in love with anyone until you meet my brother, John." They were married on November 1, 1947. They built their first home in Glenaire, a small village adjacent to Liberty. Later, they moved to a beautiful stone house in Platte County and then built their dream home on 42 acres near Kearney. They eventually moved back to Liberty. The family was the center of their life together, having three daughters: Janet, Jane, and Jody. John and Dorothy were truly wonderful parents. They ensured the girls' lives were filled with love, laughter, fun vacations, and many pets. As they became grandparents, their devotion to family only grew. Everyone who knew John knew he was the most caring husband, father, and grandfather a family could ask for. In retirement, he dedicated himself to helping others in need. Volunteering at the Methodist church, helping with Liberty Christian Fellowship’s Snack Pack program, and many other acts of kindness.

During his final years, John was lovingly cared for by his youngest daughter, Jody, and his grandson, Jason.

John was predeceased by his wife of 59 years, Dorothy Krall; his father and mother; his sisters,

Kate, Margaret, and Jennie; and his son-in-law, Darrel Fowler.

He is survived by his sister, Patricia Gradwold; daughters, Janet Gross (Barry), Jane Boswell (Rick), and Jody Fowler. He was known as Papa John by his 7 grandchildren, Leslie Liautaud (Jimmy John), Stephanie Cahoon (Carl), Erin Christian, Carrie Gross, John Fowler (Rebecca), Jason Fowler, and Jordan Fowler; and 14 great-grandchildren, Spencer, Lucy, Fred, Vanessa, Cecilia, Chase, Parker, Charlie, Ella, Corbin, Conley, Evy, Edith, and Milo. All of whom will cherish his memory forever.

A Celebration of Life will take place at a later date. Instead of flowers, donations in John's memory may be made to In As Much Ministry food pantry. www.inasmuchministry.org