James Leo Kempf

James Leo Kempf, 71, of Gravois Mills, Missouri, after a long battle with cancer passed away Friday, December 16, 2016 at Boone Hospital in Columbia, Missouri. He was one of 7 children born to Clem and Marcella Kempf in Clear Creek, Missouri.

Jim was a graduate of Pilot Grove High School Class of 1963. He worked for McGraw Edison in Boonville before he began his career in construction, eventually retiring as head of maintenance for the City of Overland Park, Kansas. After retirement he and Linda moved to Gravois Mills in 2001.

He and Linda were married on July 27, 1968 and they celebrated their 48th wedding anniversary this past year.

He enjoyed fishing, boating, canoeing, water skiing, and pitching horeshoes. He loved to garden and did some woodworking as well.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; brother Joseph Kempf; sisters Evelyn and Angeline Kempf; sister-in-law Diane Kempf.

He is survived by his wife Linda of the home; sons Ricky Kempf of Pilot Grove and Bryan Kempf and his wife Robbyn of Columbia; daughter Theresa Day and her husband Keith of Pilot Grove; grandchildren Trevor and Marissa Day, Madison, Braxton, Dalton, John Walker, Emma and Grace Kempf; brothers Larry Kempf and his wife Connie and Vernie Kempf all of Pilot Grove; sister Debbie Hazlett of Boonville; nieces and nephews.

Mass of Christian burial will be 10:00 AM Wednesday, December 21, 2016 at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Pilot Grove with burial immediately following in St. John's Cemetery at Clear Creek. Visitation will be from 5-7 PM Tuesday at the church with Rosary beginning at 5 PM.

Memorials are suggested to the American Cancer Society Hope Lodge - St. Louis; 4215 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63108.

Online condolences may be submitted at www.meisenheimerfuneralhomes.com.

Rosary beginning at 5:00 PM.