John Houston Siebert

John Houston Siebert passed away on Monday, April 9, 2018, nine days after suffering a massive heart attack from which he never awakened. His loving wife, Ruthann was gently holding him as he took his last breath. John was born March 15, 1948 in North Kansas City, MO to Lloyd and Dorothy Siebert. He grew up in North Kansas City, the middle of their three sons. He graduated from high school in 1966 after which he earned B.S., M.S. and Specialist Degrees in Education at Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg. John was a lifelong learner and avid reader—in fact, loved writing personal, bound reflections on all the books he read. He amazed friends and family alike with the wealth of information he stored in his head. John’s career path included media specialist and audio-video writer/producer/editor. Among his many professional accomplishments, John worked diligently for more than 20 years to provide research to influence and reform the transportation industry and legislation. After retirement he discovered great joy in teaching--working full-time as a substitute teacher for the Oak Grove School District. He came home every night, sharing entertaining or touching stories about his interactions with his students. John loved wood carving and created many beautiful pieces, mostly to share with the extended family he loved so dearly. The quality of his work was outstanding and he enjoyed fulfilling custom orders as more people became aware of his craft. John loved to hunt with bow and arrow, knew the art of Atlatl, and had a standing Friday night date playing pool with his good friend Alex. John married Ruthann in 1979 and the two blended their families. Ruthann survives him. He is also survived by his children Alice (Andrew) Merlino, Elizabeth (fiancé Kirk Chritton) Demas, Andy Collins Siebert, and Nancy (Steve) Casey, eight grandchildren, brother Lane (Barbara) Siebert, and many in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, Aunt Elinor Stewart, and scores of friends who loved him like family. His parents Lloyd and Dorothy and his brother Martin preceded him in death. John was a man of deep moral character and a loving spirit. Through all of life’s setbacks he persevered and held the course. He will be remembered for his ready laugh and playfulness. Always eager to jump into mischief-making, his bawdy, raucous, irreverent, no-nonsense style helped everyone keep it real. His big personality and ready engagement made him the life of the party. On his more serious side, he loved a good philosophical conversation, always holding tight to his values and impressing all with the breadth of his knowledge. Not overtly religious, John had a deep spirituality that he held close. On occasions that John might be asked to pray, all present were deeply moved. John’s life was a blessing to his family, his students, and his friends. The world has lost an amazing person. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations in John’s name to the Oak Grove School District Education Foundation, 601 SE 12th Street, Oak Grove, MO 64075 or online, https://www.thcf.org/Your-Giving/Give-Now?fn=Oak+Grove+School+District+Education+Foundation+Fund. In Celebration of John’s Life, we will share in a potluck picnic Saturday, June 9th, 4-7pm (Dinner at 5:30) at Shelter #3, Lake Jacomo (first drive on left inside the Woods Chapel and West Park Road entrance.) Please bring your favorite dish to share. Dinnerware and drinks will be provided.

John Houston Siebert

March 15, 1948 - April 9, 2018