Dean Kneeskern

Dean Kneeskern, age 57 years, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Wednesday, November 11, 2020 at his home surrounded by family after a courageous battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's Disease. Dean was born on November 30, 1962 in Jefferson City, Mo., the son of Michael and Ethel (Mahaney) Kneeskern. He was married on February 20, 1993 in Jefferson City to Susan Honse, who survives at home. A lifelong resident of central Missouri, Dean graduated from Bland High School in 1981. He furthered his education at a technical school in Rolla, Mo. Dean was employed with CenturyLink for 25 years as a lineman and later a central office special services technician until ill health forced his retirement earlier this year. He was a proud member of the IBEW Local 2. Dean enjoyed working with his hands and possessed a strong work ethic. He was the catalyst of building his team up and trying to get the best out of everyone. He cherished the friendships he developed with his coworkers and was extremely loyal to his team. He loved being outdoors, especially on the water. He particularly enjoyed spending time on the Gasconade River and crappie fishing anywhere. Some of his favorite fishing was in Texas, Truman Lake and Lake of the Ozarks. He was a longtime member of the Capital City Crappie Club, serving as President many times, and created wonderful friends through his involvement. Dean cherished time with his children and grandchildren, which he considered his greatest pride and joy. He took advantage of every chance to spend time with them. Some of his favorite memories were with family and friends at the family farm, riding rangers in the mountains and spending time with Susan at the lake cabin. Dean will be remembered for an infectious smile and laugh, being the first to lend a helping hand, leaving things better than he found them, early mornings, and always putting others first. Survivors include: his loving wife of 27 years, Susan Kneeskern of Jefferson City, Mo.; two sons, Austin Kneeskern (wife Sara) of Jefferson City, Mo. and Billy Plank (wife Beth) of Jefferson City, Mo.; step-father, Elwood Runge of Belle, Mo.; one brother, Scott Kneeskern of Belle, Mo.; one sister, Tammy Michel (husband Scott) of Owensville, Mo.; three grandchildren, Will Plank, Josie Plank and Raelyn Kneeskern; mother-in-law, Anita Honse of Jefferson City, Mo.; brother-in-law, Kenny Honse of Jefferson City, Mo.; sister-in-law, Konny Schaeffer of Lake St. Louis, Mo.; and several nieces, nephews, and dear friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and father-in-law, Kenny Honse. Visitation will be held at First United Methodist Church in Jefferson City, Mo. from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., Sunday, November 15, 2020. A funeral service will be conducted at 4:00 p.m., Sunday, November 15, 2020 at First United Methodist Church with the Reverend Trevor Dancer officiating. Private graveside services and interment will be held at Liberty Cemetery in Belle, Mo. at a later date. A webcast of the funeral service will begin at 3:45 p.m. Sunday for friends that are not able to attend by going to the First United Methodist Church website at https://www.jcfumc.org/ In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the Kneeskern Grandchildren Educational Fund. Please mail any memorial contributions and sympathy cards in Dean's honor to P.O. Box 95, Jefferson City, MO 65102. Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary. www.freemanmortuary.com