Michael Clay Metzker

Michael Clay Metzker, 70, of Fair Grove, Mo., passed away unexpectedly in his home on Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019. He was born on April 14, 1948, in Willmar, Minn., to Henry Carlyn Metzker and Ruth Cecilia (Daily) Metzker. Mike graduated from Nevada, Mo., High School in 1966, and went on to become a student at Missouri State University. As a member of the United States Air Force, he proudly served as an Air Traffic Controller in Korea during the Vietnam War. He was honorably discharged in January 1969.

Mike was a successful business owner of the J&D Package store, in Fair Grove, Mo., for many years. His outgoing personality, keen sense of humor, and contagious laughter won him many customers and lifelong friends. At the time of his death, he was employed at O’Reilly Automotive in Fair Grove. Mike attended St. Agnes Catholic Church in Springfield, and was a volunteer for the Greene County Sheriff’s Department’s “Citizens on Patrol.” He recently was awarded the 2018 Greene County Sheriff’s Department “Volunteer of the Year.”

In his spare time, Mike most enjoyed fishing and target shooting. Being a true patriot and lover of history, interests which he shared with Jonnie, they frequently planned visits to historical sites and national war museums.

Michael was preceded in death by his parents, and a niece, Jennifer L. Metzker. Michael is survived by his loving wife, Jonnie F. (Rouse) Metzker. They were united in marriage on Aug. 5, 1972, in St. Charles, Mo. Mike also leaves his devoted son, Derek Metzker and Kim Crouse of Springfield; a brother, Patrick Metzker and wife, Peggy of Wisconsin; two nieces, Leanne (Metzker) Chris Dunn, and Jan (Metzker) Nicholas Herman, both of Wisconsin; Michelle (Rouse) Norman Roberts, Bolivar; Tammy (Lusk) Rodney Fant, Tunis; Tricia (Lusk) “Buddy” White, Sedalia; and a very close friend, Van Johnston.

Memorial services will be at 3 p.m., Friday, Feb. 15, at Greenlawn Funeral Home North, with Joseph Rouse officiating. Burial will be at a future date, in Missouri Veterans’ Cemetery. Memorial donations are suggested to Fisher House Organization, in memory of Michael Metzker.

Mike will be sadly missed by his family and friends, but he has left us with endless memories, which will always be cherished.