John Weller (Veteran)

John Francis Weller, 81, of Jefferson City, died Tuesday, October 26, 2010, at Capital Region Medical Center in Jefferson City. He was born September 26, 1929 in St. Louis, a son of John Tillman and Lenore (Kamp) Weller. He was a 1948 graduate of Webster Groves High School. John was a veteran of the United States Navy during the Korean War, serving from 1951 to 1955 and was discharged as an Electrician's Mate, Second Class. Following his military service, John was a journeyman electrician with I.B.E.W. Local 1 for 61 years. He was also very involved in politics, serving on the Committee on Political Education for the Missouri AFL-CIO and as executive director of the Missouri Democratic Committee. John was also an insurance specialist for the Missouri House of Representatives and Missouri Senate until his retirement in 2001. John enjoyed fishing and relaxing with his cigar and favorite drink. He was known as a handyman that was good at starting projects and would talk politics with anyone that would listen. On September 26, 1981, John was united in marriage in Jefferson City, to Candace Stadler, who survives at their home. Other survivors include six children: John Charles Weller and wife Rosemary of St. Louis, Michelle Breuer and husband Don of Beaufort, Mark Steven Weller and wife Nancy of St. Louis, Michael Weller and wife Mary of St. Charles, Thomas Lee Weller and wife Julie of St. Louis, Mary Smith and husband Gary of Rosebud; two step-sons: Michael Prenger and wife Cheryl of Wentzville, Shawn Prenger and wife Julie of Washington; one brother, Richard Weller of Florissant; 19 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Virginia Schad; and one brother, Robert Weller. Graveside services and interment with full military honors will be held at 11:00 a.m., Friday, October 29, 2010, at the Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 20, 2010, at Epiphany of Our Lord Catholic Church, 6576 Smiley Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63139. In lieu of flowers, expressions of sympathy may be made to the I.B.E.W. Local 1 Relief Committee, 5850 Elizabeth Street, St. Louis, MO, 63110. Arrangements are under the direction of HOUSER-MILLARD Funeral Directors, 2613 W. Main St., Jefferson City, MO 65109, (573) 636-3838. Condolences may be left for the family online at millardfamilychapels.com