Kael Cantu

(From Parker Mortuary)

Kael Lynn Cantu, age 42, of Joplin, passed away on Tuesday, September 14, 2021 at his home.

Kael was born on December 16, 1978 in Joplin to Mildred (Givens) Hornbeck and the late Barry Cantu. He grew up and attended school in Joplin and was a welder in the area. Kael always loved being with his family. He was a proud father and enjoyed coaching his kids’ ball teams over the years. He was a loving son, brother, and uncle who will be greatly missed.

Survivors include his mother, Mildred Hornbeck, and her husband, Ron, of Carthage; children, Kelson and Kooper Cantu, of Joplin, Karsen James, of Texas, and Jocelyn Stephenson, of Joplin; his sister, Tammy Hale, and her husband, Todd, of Joplin; three nephews, Christopher Stricklin, of Joplin, Josh Hale, of Webb City, and Jake Hale, of Carl Junction; two nieces, Chelsea Staton, of Joplin, and Ashley Heitschmidt, of Miller; and 18 great nieces and nephews. In addition to his father, Barry Cantu, he was preceded in death by one sister, Kelly Denise Grassi, and his grandmother, Lee Givens.

Memorial services will be held on Tuesday, September 21, 2021 at 6:00 PM at Parker Mortuary with visitation to follow.

Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Parker Mortuary, Joplin.