John Francis Hamilton, 87, a resident of Blue Springs, MO passed away peacefully Saturday, October 10, 2020 at his home. He was born June 24, 1933 to Wilment and Cora (Cusick) Hamilton in Waynesville, MO.
John served his country proudly in the United States Army 82nd Airborne. He was united in marriage to Helen McCormick on September 17, 1955 in Kansas City, MO. John spent 27 years as a firefighter in Kansas City, MO, ending his career as the Administrative Deputy Chief. Due to his love of flying, John’s second career was operating the East Kansas City Airport from 1970-1978, he also ran the Flying Service at East Kansas City Airport operating the instruction, airplane sales, and pilot service from 1983-1995. John was a member of the Quiet Birdmen, Local 42 Firefighters Union, American Legion Post #318 in Parkville, MO. He enjoyed flying airplanes, watching NASCAR, bird hunting, fishing, and playing poker with the Quiet Birdmen “QB’s”.
John is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Helen Hamilton of Blue Springs, MO; children, Gloria Hatfield and husband Dean of Parkville, MO, Doug Hamilton and wife Kim of Jacksonville, FL, Karen Montgomery of Parkville, MO, Ryan Hamilton and wife Kerrey of Blue Springs, MO; grandchildren, Denna Hampton, Jenny Wilmott, Ryan Hatfield, Christopher Hatfield, Jon Hamilton, Eric Hamilton, Brian Ennis, Ashton Kirkham, Jeanette Davis, Mark Montgomery, Sam Montgomery, Sarah Belleau, Riley Hamilton, Katy Hamilton; 17 great-grandchildren, sister, Norma Exter of Reno, NV. John is preceded in death by his parents, Wilment and Cora Hamilton; brother, Paul Hamilton; grandson, Danny Fisk; and son-in-law, Dr. Michael Montgomery.
John’s family will receive friends and family from 10-11:00 a.m. Saturday, November 7, 2020 at Meyers Funeral Chapel, 1600 W. Main St, Blue Springs, MO. Memorial service will begin at 11:00 a.m. at the chapel. Social distancing and masks will be required in the chapel. Military honors will conclude the service. Following the memorial service a flyby will take place at the Grain Valley Airport in John’s honor. A reception will follow at the Local 42 Union Hall, 6320 Manchester Ave, Kansas City, MO 64133. The family suggests that memorial contributions be made to the Salvation Army. Memories of John and words of comfort for his family may be shared at meyersfuneralchapel.com.
My deepest condolences to the entire family, May you find comfort in each other sharing the love you have for each other .
I was so sorry to hear about Johns passing. He was such a good man. He was blessed to have a wonderful family as well. He will be missed by all who knew him. Eternal tailwinds to you my friend.
My life was made better by meeting and getting to know this man 20 some years ago. He will be greatly missed and my condolences go out to those left behind. Love you uncle Jack. R.I.P.
My sincere condolences to all of you, Aunt Helen. He was a great man and his memory will live on through all of you. Rest in paradise Uncle Jack ❤️
So sorry to read of John’s passing. So many great memories with John, his wife and family at Grain Valley airport. Godspeed John and prayers to Helen and the family.
The loss of John is felt by so many. He was a a mentor and friend who kept everyone’s best interest at heart, fitting in where ever and with whom ever. Our thoughts and prayers are with Helen and their family.
To Helen, family, and friends; our deepest condolences. John’s good fellowship will be missed at our Quiet Birdmen meetings. I will always remember his flying advice over many years, and flying with him. May God give you strength and peace in this difficult time.
So sorry for the loss. I’ve known John, Helen and the entire family for about 45 years. He was a great man! He’ll be deeply missed by all!
Ryan & family,
Condolences with the passing of your father. You’re in my thoughts and prayers.
Our deepest sympathy to your entire family.
John’s loss will be felt by so many but his colorful character will live on forever. Fly high dear friend.
To Helen and Family:
Our deepest sympathy to you in the loss of your dear Jack. We will always remember his larger than life presence, his years at Ivy Bend and our thanks for selling Buzz the great spot for an A-frame. May he rest in peace and continue flying with Buzz.
Jodie Riley VanMeter and Family
Our deepest sympathies to your entire family. John was a great man who will be missed by many, especially the Naval aviators who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Helen…I have thought of you so often this past month or so. Although I didn’t know John, I can tell from all these condolences posted that he was not only a great husband but a wonderful man. I know you must miss him terribly. Because of the virus, I won’t be able to attend his service, but I certainly will be thinking of you and your family.
With sympathy,
Sharon
We were so sorry to hear of John’s passing.
Known him a long time, Larry worked with him years ago on fire department. Also John is the one that told us about the lake place we bought. Lots of good memories of him.