Lewis Garnsey

Lewis John Garnsey, 72 of Ozark, Mo.-known to everyone as John-passed away on October 28, 2018 at Cox Hospital, Springfield, Missouri. Born on August 16, 1946 in Peoria Illinois to parents Lewis William and Flora Mae Garnsey. John grew up in the Peoria area then moved to Costa Mesa, CA with his family. In 1966 he joined the United States Army and served a one-year tour in Viet Nam during his three-year enlistment. He returned from Viet Nam and married Kathleen Sue Kiszko on November 11, 1967. After his service he worked for The City of Newport Beach, California in the refuse department. He began driving a truck and worked his way to Assistant Foreman. After 18 years he retired and moved his family to Missouri where he purchased a farm and raised cattle and rode horses. Sports was his life's passion. He began in little league and managed to attain a tryout with a professional baseball team. The manager planned to sign him until he learned John was 23-too old to sign. John played AAA softball, and also on teams down to C league. He coached his daughter's softball teams, his son's baseball teams, and umpired games in Sparta. John loved working with the kids and passing on his passion for the game. Preceded in death by his daughters, Tammy Sue (5 days) and Tanya Sue (19 years), his parents Lewis William and Flora Mae Garnsey, and all grandparents. He is survived by his wife Kathleen, son Brent, his wife Vanessa and three grandchildren: Carter, Eden and Jude Garnsey. One sister, Flora L. Opal, cousins Virginia Greenleaf, Michele Lang, Patty Kaiser and Barb Schneider. Uncles Jack Dries, Harry Hibbetts and aunt Della Mae Hibbetts. A memorial service and military honors will be 2:00 PM Sunday, November 11, in Adams Funeral Home, Ozark.