John Robert Kierl

September 18, 1955 — May 31, 2025

Osawatomie

John Robert Kierl, age 69, of Osawatomie, KS passed away Saturday May 31, 2025.

He was born on September 18, 1955 in Kansas City, Kansas, to Jerome Kierl and Jacqueline Schmidt. He attended Holy Trinity Catholic School until his freshman year when he transferred to Paola High School.

John began working at a young age. During high school, he pumped gas and worked at Miami County COOP. Post graduation, John worked at several jobs before accepting a position at Taylor Forge in Paola where he worked until retirement. He married Joy Steele on April 21, 1979. They were blessed with one child, Christopher, born in 1981.

John enjoyed fishing, hunting, gardening, cooking and helping people. If there was a job to do, John was quick to join in. Carpentry was his specialty but regardless of the task, John was happy to help. During the winter months John cleared his neighbors' sidewalks unsolicited expecting nothing in return. He had a big heart and those he loved, he loved deeply. John was interested and well informed about world events and enjoyed a passionate exchange of ideas. He relished a good, political debate.

John was preceded in death by his parents and infant sister Ellen Sue. 

He is survived by his wife, Joy of the home, son, Chris Kierl, granddaughter Kaitlynn both of Osawatomie, siblings Jerry (Kathy) Kierl of Florida/Colorado, Susan (Everett) Carpenter of Wichita, KS, Bill (Amy) Kierl of Parkland, Florida, Ann (Rick) Chrisman of Paola, Julie (Merv) Dial of Daytona Beach, FL, Joan (Joe) Riscoe of Overland Park, KS, Anita (Mike) Parsa of San Francisco, CA and numerous nieces and nephews. 

Service is scheduled Thursday June 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. at Cross Point of Paola. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. until service time.