John William Brinkle

John graduated from Holland High School in 1959 and went on to serve his country in the US Army. From 1959 to 1962, he served as a missile crewman, stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. During his service, he earned several accolades, including the rifle marksman and carbine expert distinctions, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Basic Missileman’s Badge.

After his military service, John worked in real estate and construction in the Kansas City area for over 50 years. John was also an active member of several organizations, including the Blue Lodge (since 1967), the Ararat Shrine (since 1974), the Royal Order of Jesters (since 1988), the Order of Quetzalcoatl, and the Ararat Oriental Band.

John was a man who lived life to the fullest, with no regrets. He was a very happy man who deeply loved his family and friends. He was well loved by his Shriner friends and the patrons of the local watering holes cherished his vibrant presence. A passionate traveler, John had a special affection for the ocean and loved exploring new places. His love for history and maps was evident to all who knew him. John always knew how to start the party, and whether it was a celebration or just an afternoon with friends, he was always impeccably dressed and the life of the event.

John was preceded in death by his parents Lydle and Vera Brinkle, sister Billy Cendroski, brother Lydle Brinkle, and grandson Nathan John Brinkle II.

John is survived by his children Nikolette Roberson (Sean), Nathan Brinkle (Victoria), Natasha Brinkle, Nerissa Cupini (Eddie), and Nicholas Brinkle, former wife Meredith Kolette Orsatti, grandchildren Alexandria, Sabrinia, Jeremiah, Julian, Alessandro, and Sofia, brothers Jimmie Brinkle (Simone) and Joseph Long (Dina), cousin Ed Canada, and many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

A visitation for John will be held will be held at Floral Hills Funeral Home on January 25, 2025, from 1:00-2:30 PM, immediately followed by a service. Interment will follow at Floral Hills Memorial Gardens. Following interment, a celebration of life and dinner will take place at the Ararat Shrine in Blue Springs.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Ararat Hospital Transportation Fund.