Kenneth Osburn

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Kenneth Martin Osburn, age 67, of Neosho, passed away peacefully, at his home on Monday, July 20, 2026.

Kenneth, son of Gairy Osburn and the late Virginia Lee (Pierce) Osburn, was born on March 2, 1959, in Spokane, Washington. His father’s service in the Navy took Kenny and his family across the country, from Virginia Beach to California and Texas, before they finally settled in McDonald County, Missouri. On June 27, 2009, Kenneth was united in marriage to the love of his life, Theresa Childress at the Belfast Baptist Church in Neosho. He was previously employed at La-Z-Boy and Brass Eagle and spent many years as a dedicated truck driver with companies like PAM Transport and FedEx. Most recently, Kenneth worked as the night shift manager at Best Western in Neosho.

Kenneth found joy in the little things. He loved watching westerns, fishing, raising chickens as pets, and fostering dogs and cats with his wife, Theresa. He was man of integrity and humor, always ready with a joke or a helping hand. Kenneth treasured his time with his son Kirk. From watching cartoons when Kirk was young, working on cars as he got older, and both being avid Chiefs fans, Kenneth cherished every moment. He had a fun-loving, ornery soul with a knack for making others laugh. He never missed an opportunity to spread joy.

Kenneth is survived by his beloved wife, Theresa, of Neosho; his son, Kirk, along with Kirk’s wife, Stacy, of Granby; his father, Gairy Osburn, of Anderson; his siblings, Tammy and her husband Mike Coyne, of White Rock, New Mexico, Ginger, and her husband Bill Spears, of Anderson, Gairy Osburn Junior, and his wife Ida, of Gravett, Arkansas, and Scott Osburn, and his wife Shirlene, of Joplin; brother-in-law, Doug Childress, and his wife, Janice, along with their son, Gary Hall, and family, all of Neosho; Goddaughter, Mandy Muncy Friend, and her husband, Travis, and their five children, all of Noel; Kenneth also leaves behind two nieces, two nephews, 14 great-nieces and nephews, and one great-great-nephew, all of whom brought immense joy to his life. 

 In addition to his mother, Kenneth was preceded in death by his former wife and mother of his son, Shelly McKinney.

Services to be announced soon. Memorial contributions in memory of Kenneth may be made to Integrity Hospice, 4830 E. 32nd Street, Suite 1, Joplin, MO 64804.

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ozark Memorial Park, Neosho.

Albert Cooper

(From Ozark Memorial Park Crematory)

Albert Wayne Cooper, 74, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away on July 16, 2026, following a recently diagnosed illness.

Albert was born on January 11, 1952, in Joplin, Missouri, to Neal W. Cooper and Velma M. Cooper.

He was raised in the community he always considered home, graduating from Memorial High School before continuing his education at a local community college. In his younger years, Albert spent several years living in Arizona, eventually returning to Joplin, where he remained for the rest of his life.

Albert appreciated life’s simple pleasures and valued the comfort of familiar places and lifelong friendships. Though he lived a quiet life, he was deeply appreciated by those who knew him best.

Albert was preceded in death by his parents, Neal W. Cooper and Velma M. Cooper; his brother, Robert N. Cooper; his sister, Lavina K. Hubler; and his nephew, Steven E. Cooper.

He is survived by his nephew, Wayne E. Cooper; his niece, Anita Prow; his sister-in-law, Ann (Cooper) Branham; as well as several great-nephews, great-nieces, and great-great-nieces and nephews who will cherish his memory.

Albert also leaves behind two very dear friends, Johnny Hilton and Terri Whitaker, whose friendship and companionship meant a great deal throughout his life.

Albert will be remembered for his quiet strength, kind heart, and the enduring relationships he shared with those closest to him. His memory will continue to live on in the hearts of his family and friends.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, Missouri.

Rick Powell

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Richard Eugene Powell, “Rick”, passed away on July 22, 2026, at his home in Webb City, Missouri, surrounded by his family, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Rick was born on June 25, 1951, in Webb City, Missouri, where he would spend his life rooted in the community he helped shape with his hands, his work ethic, and his steady presence.

He was a proud third-generation brick mason whose career spanned 50 years, and his craftsmanship became part of the landscape of Webb City, Joplin, and the surrounding area. If a building in the region featured brick or rock, there is a good chance Rick had a hand in laying it. His work can be seen in many familiar places, including Del Rio, Webster Elementary School, KS Crossing Casino, and the Pittsburg Fire Station, among countless other projects that stand as a lasting tribute to his skill and dedication.

Rick took great pride in his trade and approached every job with care, precision, and a strong sense of responsibility. He understood that masonry was more than a profession. It was a family tradition, a calling, and a way to leave something lasting behind. His legacy is written into the brick and stone of the communities he served.

He could often be found in the garage working on cars, where his patience and mechanical know-how served him well. He also enjoyed picking a banjo, filling his home with music and the kind of easy comfort that comes from a life well lived.

He is survived by his children; Luke Powell (Julie), Scott Powell (Grace) and Dakota Powell; grandchildren, Skylar Powell, Gabe Powell, and Sloane Powell; siblings; Mary Ann Crissman and Mike Powell; and brother-in-law, Mike Grissom.

Rick is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Mary Powell; sister, Nancy Grissom; and brother-in-law, Cris Crissman.

His life was built with the same care and strength that he brought to every wall he laid, every car project he completed, and every day he lived.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026 from 10:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. at Rick’s home.

Arrangements are under the direct care of Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin in Webb City, MO.

David McGaugh

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

David Edward McGaugh, 60, left this world surrounded by the love he gave so freely throughout his life and peacefully went home to be with the Lord. There, he was joyfully reunited with his beloved parents, Joseph and Ruth McGaugh, whom he missed deeply and longed to see again. Though his family’s hearts are heavy with his passing, they find comfort knowing David is now home, embraced by the ones he loved most.

David was born on December 1, 1965. Although he lived to be 60 years old, those who knew and loved him often joked that he remained forever young at heart—full of the wonder, excitement, and enthusiasm of a 12-year-old. Born with Down syndrome, David never let that define him. Instead, he defined every room he entered with his infectious smile, genuine love for people, and unmatched joy for life.

David was one of seven children and was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Ruth McGaugh; his brother, Jim McGaugh; and his sisters, Pat Casey and Claudia Mitchell. He is lovingly survived by his brother, Rick McGaugh; his brother, Ray McGaugh; his sister, Delma Rogers; along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends whose lives were forever brighter because of him.

Family was the center of David’s world. He fiercely loved each of his brothers and sisters and shared a special bond with every one of them. After the passing of his parents, he often spoke about wanting to “go home” to be with them again. That longing has now been fulfilled, and there is comfort in knowing they are together once more.

David embraced life with an excitement that was contagious. No matter how ordinary the day or how simple the task, he found joy in it. He greeted everyone as though they were the most important person he had ever met, making strangers feel like lifelong friends. His enthusiasm, warm heart, and unforgettable laugh could brighten anyone’s day.

He was also wonderfully independent and delightfully stubborn. If he didn’t agree with something, you knew it. David had opinions, wasn’t afraid to share them, and remained true to himself in every situation.

David had many passions that brought him great happiness. He was an accomplished bowler who proudly earned numerous medals and trophies over the years. He loved Elvis Presley and delighted family and friends with his Elvis impersonations. He was a devoted fan of The Fonz, enjoyed music and classic movies, and had an incredible knowledge of football. As a lifelong Kansas City Chiefs fan, he knew the players, the rules, the statistics, and treasured attending many Chiefs games.

He was equally passionate about WWE, especially his hero, John Cena, and never missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite superstar.

David also had a soft spot for the ladies. He loved to flirt with anyone who caught his eye, always with his charming smile and playful personality. His sense of humor was one of a kind, and his laughter was truly unforgettable—a sound his family will miss for the rest of their lives.

David’s greatest gift was the way he made people feel. He saw the good in everyone, loved without conditions, celebrated life’s simplest moments, and reminded all who knew him that happiness is found in love, kindness, and gratitude.

While our hearts are broken by his absence, we rejoice in knowing that David is finally home—wrapped in the loving arms of his mom and dad, healthy, whole, and filled with the same joy that he so generously shared with the world.

His life was a blessing. His memory will forever be a treasure. His love and laughter will remain in our hearts always.

A visitation will be held from 1:00pm-2:00pm on Wednesday, July 29, 2026 followed immediately by the service beginning at 2:00pm at Mason-Woodard Mortuary, 3701 E 7th, St, Joplin, MO 64801.

In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions be made to The Special Olympics of Missouri in care of the funeral home.

Michael Calef

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Michael Macy Calef passed away peacefully in his sleep at home in Webb City, Missouri, on the morning of July 20, 2026 at the age of 55 years old. He was born on September 24, 1970 in Oskaloosa, Iowa to Marshall and Ina Jean (Macy) Calef. He led a quiet life and was known to be steadfastly loyal and loving.

He will be deeply missed.

Michael was a husband, father, brother, son, friend, and overall a good man. He cared for and protected those whom he loved fiercely. He was easily loved by all who met him thanks to his sense of humor, thoughtfulness, and goofy nature.

He married his wife Mechell (Montee) Wallace in 2011 after a lifelong friendship and reconnecting decades after high school graduation. They shared a love that was rare and once-in-a-lifetime for over 15 years. It was easy to see their connection by just watching them together; they were two halves of a whole.

He demonstrated a hard working nature as a forklift operator and previously as an EMT/volunteer firefighter. He worked at Jasper Products for 14 years. He considered his work colleagues as an extension of family, much like all of his friends.

He enjoyed traveling with Mechell and friends by motorcycle and will go on one final ride this fall to Mount Magazine in Arkansas.

He was preceded in death by his brothers Patrick Calef and Dennis Skeels and his parents.

He is survived by his wife Mechell, his daughters Brookylnn Calef, Katelynn Calef, Nattaley Bruce, Chandi Wallace, and Camille Wallace-Clark, his brother Marshall Calef Jr, sisters Lucy Ellis, Shirley Blair, Linda Mountain, eight grandchildren and numerous extended family and friends.

A memorial visitation will be held Sunday, July 26, 2026, from 1:00PM-3:00PM at Mason-Woodard Mortuary in Joplin Missouri.

 

Chuck Beaver

(From Mason-Woodard Mortuary)

Charles Warren Beaver, Sr., age 94, of Joplin, Missouri, passed away peacefully at his home on July 19, 2026. At the same time his beloved church family was praising the Lord on that Sunday morning, he was welcomed into the loving arms of Jesus.

Charles was born on March 17, 1932, in South Bend, Indiana, to Gerald and Avanelle Beaver. He was raised alongside his two sisters and carried with him the values of hard work and dedication throughout his life.

On August 13, 1950, Charles (known more as Chuck) married the love of his life, Marilyn Barnhart. Together they shared many wonderful years of marriage and were blessed with four children—a son and three daughters.

Chuck worked for many years as a custom picture framer with Watts Paint Company in downtown Joplin where his craftsmanship and attention to detail were appreciated by those he served. He was known for his strong work ethic, deep devotion to his family, and his love for the Lord and the local Church.

When Chuck was a youth, a neighbor invited him and took him to church. He became a Christian, and years later his parents followed his example of surrendering their lives to Jesus, too. As a young adult with his own family, he helped start several churches in the region of South Bend, Indiana where he was born and raised.

Later, he and his family were called to serve as House Parents at the Ladoga Christian Children’s Home in Indiana. A couple of years later, they moved to the Joplin area where their children had been attending Ozark Bible College (now Ozark Christian College). He got involved in local churches with Sunday School teaching and church leadership. He and Marilyn served as Dorm Parents at Ozark Christian College. In the last decade he has been an active member of the Racine Christian Church.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilyn Beaver; his son, Charles “Chuck” Beaver, Jr.; his parents, Gerald and Avanelle Beaver; and his sisters, Gwen Leslie and Helen Lusk.

He is survived by his daughters, Marcia Hoth (Doyle) of Webb City, Missouri, Michelle Zoeller (Barry) of Bakersfield, California, and Melanie Klein (Kevin) of Joplin, Missouri; numerous grandchildren including Michelle and CD, Angela and Christy and April and Nick, Michael and Jordan, and Karin and Kalissa and Kenan and Keona and Korey; numerous great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren; as well as many extended family members and dear friends who will cherish his memory.

A funeral service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Monday, July 27, 2026, at Mason-Woodard Mortuary in Joplin. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00 p.m., one hour prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Maranatha Bible Camp in Everton, Missouri, in Charles’s memory.

  

Ray Malzahn

(From Parker Mortuary)

Ray A. Malzahn, age 97, of Joplin, passed away on July 11, 2026, with family by his side.

On August 23, 1953, Ray and Elizabeth Barrett, his heart’s companion and a gift from God, were married. They were blessed with two daughters, Karen Malzahn and Janet Malzahn (married to Scott Baxter).

Except for two years in the Army and until his retirement at the age of sixty-six, Ray spent his entire adult life in higher education. He earned a B.A. M.S. and Ph.D., all in Chemistry, and completed two years of post-doctoral research. He was employed by West Texas State University as Assistant Professor in 1963 and promoted to Full Professor in 1967. 

Also in 1967, Ray was offered the position of Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and in 1971, Vice President for Academic Affairs. In 1977, all the four V. P. positions were discontinued and Ray returned to full-time teaching. In 1980, Ray was employed by Missouri Southern State University, and served as Dean of the School of Arts and Sciences and Professor until retirement in 1995.

Ray was a Lutheran, beginning in infancy. He was an Elder, for many years, with the responsibility for assisting with visits to the hospitalized, taught Bible Classes and Catechism, served terms as President, and Vice President, chaired several committees, and helped rewrite the constitution three times. From 1977 to 1981, he served on the Board of Regents of Concordia Lutheran College in Austin, Texas, two years as chairman.

The funeral service will be held at 10 am, Tuesday, July 28, 2026, at Immanuel Lutheran Church, Joplin, Pastor Chris Ramstad and Pastor Lowell Rossow officiating. Visitation will be from 5 to 7 pm, Monday, July 27, at Parker Mortuary, Joplin.

Instead of flowers, it is suggested that gifts be sent to Martin Luther Day School, at 2616 Connecticut Ave., Joplin, MO. 64804.