John Stamper Walkup

John Stamper Walkup, 91, of Gower, MO passed away Thursday, February 19, 2009.

He was born on March 19, 1917 to William Carl, Sr. and Dulcie Ann (Guinn) Walkup in Gower, Missouri where he grew up and graduated from Gower High School. He attended the University of Missouri for one year studying Agriculture. He then served his country in the U.S. Army during WWII from June 12, 1941 to November 2, 1945. He was stationed in the Philippine Islands, New Guinea, and Luzon while serving in the 63^rd Infantry.

On September 10, 1949 he was united in marriage to Louise Graves. After their marriage they lived in Gower, where they made their home.

John worked for Walkup/Frazier Oil Company for 35 years, retiring in 1981.

He was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Gower. John was also a member of the Gower Masonic Lodge 397 and Gower American Legion 393 for over 60 years.

John was preceded in death by his parents and brother, William Carl Walkup, Jr.

He is survived by his wife, Louise, of the home; three sons, Ed Walkup and wife, Vineta and Gregg Walkup and wife, Theresa, all of St. Joseph, and Scott Walkup, Gower; seven grandchildren, Daniel, Amanda, Mark, Joshua, Nicholas, Emily, and Molly; sister, Gail Moyes, Topeka, KS; sister-in-law, Wilma Mumford; several nieces and nephews, other relatives and many friends.

Funeral Service: 1:00 p.m. Monday, February 23^rd at the Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Gower

Burial with Military Honors: Allen Cemetery, Gower

Masonic Service: Sunday, February 22^nd at 6:00 p.m. with visitation following until 8:00 at the funeral home.

Donations may be made to the First Baptist Church Daycare.