John H. Center Sr.

John H. Center Sr., 93, of Holts Summit, Mo., formerly of Sullivan, Mo., passed away Friday, November 22, 2013, at Adams Street Place in Jefferson City, Mo., surrounded by family. John was born in Esther, Mo. to the late John Frank and Rosa Belle (Baker) Center. He and Alva Jarrells were married October 11, 1947, in Esther, Mo. She preceded him in death on November 14, 2006. John worked for Meramec Mining Company as a Surveyor. John was a member of the Sullivan Country Club and after retirement worked at the Country Club as a grounds keeper. Mr. Center served on both the Esther and Sullivan School Boards and was very active in high school sports. He received a distinguished service award from MSHSAA for 25 years of service as a clock keeper for Sullivan High School football games. He coached little league baseball in both Esther and Sullivan. John was a very avid sports fan enjoying all sports especially Missouri football and basketball and even taking up golf in his late 50's. John was also a very good carpenter able to build his own home and in his spare time enjoyed bird watching. John is survived by his son, John Center Jr. and wife Susie of Jefferson City, Mo.; a daughter, Mary Beth Schroer of Holts Summit, Mo.; five grandchildren, Erin Center, Brian and Kathy Center, Patrick and Erin Center, Cheryll Loethen and Jamie and Angie Bell; seven great-grandchildren; three great-great-grandchildren; many nieces, nephews other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents and wife Alva, he was preceded in death by brothers, Leslie, Earl, Carroll, Everett and Charles Center and sisters, Esther Pratte and Nellie Williams. Funeral services will be held at the Eaton Funeral Home in Sullivan, Mo. on Tuesday, November 26, 2013, at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Scott Perry officiating. Burial will follow at the I.O.O.F. Cemetery in Sullivan with full Military Honors. Online condolences may be made at eatonfuneralhome.com.