Tucker Joustra

(From Daniel Funeral Home)

Dr. Clarence Tucker Joustra, age 70, of Lamar, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, October 28, 2026.

Tucker was born on August 20, 1956, in Nevada, Missouri, to Clarence Joustra and Mary Lou (Atkinson) Joustra. He graduated from El Dorado Springs High School with the Class of 1974. Following graduation, Tucker proudly served in the United States Navy as a Hospital Corpsman Second Class (E-5), serving with Charlie Company at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, Japan.

Tucker continued his education at Central Missouri State University, graduating in 1982 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Chemistry and a minor in Biology. While attending college, he participated in the ROTC program and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant. He went on to pursue his passion for medicine, graduating from Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine in 1986 with his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree.

Tucker's dedication to serving his country continued through an extraordinary military career spanning nearly four decades. From 1978 until his retirement in 2015, he served in the Army National Guard, holding numerous assignments and leadership positions throughout Missouri and Maine. His service included the 135th MASH unit in Kansas City, the Maine Army National Guard State Surgeon's Office in Augusta, Camp Clark Training Site in Nevada, the 1107th Medical Detachment in Mountain Grove, where he served as Commander, the 203rd Engineer Battalion in Joplin, and Detachment 7, HQ STARC in Neosho.

During his military career, Tucker was deployed to Kuwait in 2003 and Iraq in 2005, serving as a Field Surgeon during both deployments. His years of service spanned numerous military conflicts and operations, including the Cold War, Persian Gulf War, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation Iraqi Freedom. In 2015, Tucker retired with the distinguished rank of Colonel in the Medical Corps, concluding a lifetime of dedicated service to his country.

Following medical school, Tucker completed his internship at Waterville Osteopathic Hospital in Waterville, Maine, from 1986 to 1987. In 1987, he and his family returned to Lamar, where he established C. Tucker Joustra Family Practice, Inc. He operated his practice until 1994 before joining Lamar Family Health Care from 1995 to 1998. In 1998, Tucker reopened his private practice, where he continued caring for patients and serving the community until his passing.

Throughout his medical career, Dr. Joustra's commitment to the health and well-being of others extended far beyond his own practice. He served as Barton County Coroner from 1996 to 2016, Medical Director of Truman Healthcare & Rehabilitation from January 2014 through December 2024, and Contract Physician for Avalon Hospice from April 2018 through November 2021. He also previously served as Medical Director of Barton County Ambulance and as Medical Director and a member of the Advisory Board for the Barton County Health Department.

Dr. Joustra maintained professional associations with Cox Barton County Hospital in Lamar, as well as Freeman Hospital and Mercy Hospital in Joplin. He was board certified in Family Practice through the American Osteopathic Association and held memberships in several professional organizations, including the American Academy of Family Physicians, Southwest Missouri Osteopathic Association, American Academy of General Practitioners, and American Osteopathic Association.

For nearly four decades, Dr. Joustra dedicated his life to the practice of medicine and the care of those in his community. His years of service reflected not only his commitment to his profession but also the important role he held in the lives of countless patients and families throughout Barton County and the surrounding area.

On June 18, 1976, Tucker married Deborah Rae Beebe in Lamar, Missouri. Together, they shared 47 years of marriage, building a life filled with love, family, and cherished memories before Deborah's passing in December 2023.

Survivors include one son, Taylor Joustra of Lamar, MO; one daughter, Stephanie (James) Crossley of Lamar, MO; seven grandchildren, Jaeci Joustra, Cole Crossley, Mac Crossley, Zee Crossley, Sam Crossley, Rae Crossley, and Ty Crossley; three sisters, Nancy Hughes of Lamar, MO, Donna Chism of El Dorado Springs, MO, and Patty (John) Hallam of Walker, MO; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

Tucker was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Deborah; one sister, Mary Miles; and his brother-in-law, LeRoy Hughes.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, November 7, 2026, at Lamar Christian Church in Lamar, Missouri. A private family burial will be held.

In lieu of flowers, contributions are suggested and should be made payable to Lefler Cemetery in care of Daniel Funeral Home.

Condolences may be shared at www.dfhlamar.com.

Sharon Bozarth

(From Brown-Winters Funeral Home)

Sharon Kay Bozarth, 73, a lifelong resident of Welch, Oklahoma, passed away at her home, on Friday, October 30, 2026. Sharon was born in Miami, Oklahoma, on July 11, 1953, to Thomas Leon and Helen Marie (Johnson) Teal. Sharon graduated from Welch High School with the class of 1971. 

After high school, she attended Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College. Sharon worked as a secretary. She worked for the Union Gas Office in Welch until closing, and then for Med Corp. until her retirement. 

On July 17, 1971, Sharon married the love of her life, Jim Bozarth. Together they would spend many wonderful years together. She and Jim were members of College Heights Christian Church in Joplin, Missouri. In her free time Sharon enjoyed crocheting, playing cards, and working around the house. She and Jim worked together building add-ons to their home and serving others. Sharon will be remembered as a strong and loving lady. Her family was her main passion. When she was able, she attended every sports event for her grandsons, being their biggest fan. 

Sharon is preceded in passing by her parents, Thomas and Helen Teal, daughter, Tara Bozarth, brother, Thomas Teal, sister, Shirley Busick and husband Sonny.

Those left to share the beautiful memory of Mrs. Bozarth, include her husband, Jim Bozarth, son, Chris Bozarth and wife, Katie, brother-in-law, Don Burke, brother-in-law, Edward Bozarth and wife Debra, sister-in-law, Betty Vines, sister-in-law Becky Schultz, grandsons, Dylan and Jordan Bozarth, along with many cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Visitation for Mrs. Bozarth will be Wednesday, November 4, 2026, from 5:00 P.M. to 6:00 P.M., at Brown-Winters Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Welch, Oklahoma. A memorial service will follow visitation starting at 6:00 P.M., with her son, Chris Bozarth, officiating.

Services have been placed in the care of Brown-Winters Funeral Home and Cremation Service in Welch, Oklahoma. 

 
Friends and family may share notes of encouragement by viewing Sharon’s Tribute Page at https://www.brown-winters.com.

The family has asked that in lieu of flowers that a donation be made to Honor and Hope Foundation.
You may click here to donate: https://www.honorandhope.org/

You may also send a check to:
Honor and Hope
2430 S. Loma Linda Dr.
Loma Linda, MO 64804

Raymond Bowser

(From Lakin Funeral Home)

Raymond Adam Bowser, age 62, of Everton, Missouri, passed away on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. Raymond was born on Thursday, February 27, 1964, in Watertown, New York, to Raymond and Donna (Degone) Bowser. Throughout his life, Raymond was known for his strong work ethic, helpful nature, and willingness to lend a hand to anyone who needed it.

Raymond was a hardworking man who enjoyed fixing things, building things, and working with his hands. He had a natural ability to figure things out and took pride in being able to help others. 

Whether someone needed a hand with a project or help solving a problem, Raymond was always willing to step in. He found happiness in the simple pleasures of life, including hunting, fishing, spending time outdoors, and grilling. 

Above all, he treasured the time he spent with his family and the memories they shared. Raymond will be remembered for his hardworking spirit, his practical skills, and his generous willingness to help those around him. His presence will be deeply missed by the family and friends who knew and loved him. 

Raymond is survived by his daughter, Krystyn (James) Brown, of Jacksonville, Florida, and two grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond and Donna Bowser, and a brother, David Bowser.

Raymond was cremated according to his wishes. No services are planned at this time. Arrangements are under the personal care and direction of Lakin Funeral Home in Pierce City, Missouri.

Bob Brite

(From Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home)

Robert “Bob” Ernest Brite, 79, of Monett, Missouri, was called to his Heavenly home on Friday, October 30, 2026, at Cox South Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. He was born in Wichita, Kansas, on May 17, 1947; the son of the late Allen Lee and Mildred (Edson) Brite. He was united in marriage in Griggsville, Illinois, on December 17, 1967, to his wife Linda; she survives.

He was retired from sales and a member of the Ozark Christian Church in Monett, Missouri.

 

Bob is survived by his wife, Linda of the home; two sons: Mike Brite of Monett, Missouri, and Robbie Brite of Griggsville, Illinois; five grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Mildred, and one son: Daryl. 

Memorial services for Bob are being held on November 8, 2026 at 10:45 a.m. at the Ozark Christian Church in Monett, Missouri with Rev. Randy Martin officiating.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of the Bennett-Wormington Funeral Home in Monett, Missouri.

Larry Zerngast

(From Bedene Funeral Home)

Larry Joseph Zerngast, 82, of Girard, Kansas, passed away on October 19, 2026, at Girard Medical Center.

Born January 27, 1944, in Pittsburg, Kansas, to Joseph “Zig” and Elizabeth “Tootie” (Utermoehlen) Zerngast, Larry grew up in Arma, Kansas, where he attended Arma High School and met the love of his life, Karen. They married on October 30, 1965, and shared 60 wonderful years together. Larry also proudly served his country as a member of the National Guard.

Larry was a hardworking and dedicated businessman who, alongside Karen, owned and operated the beloved Chicken Mary’s restaurant in Frontenac, Kansas, carrying on a family legacy established by his grandparents in the early 1940s.

An accomplished trapshooter and member of the Amateur Trapshooting Association (ATA) and Kansas Trapshooting Association (KTA), Larry earned numerous national placements, achieved the prestigious ATA Grand Slam recognition in 1993, and was part of two Guinness World Record-setting squads in 1994 and 1998. Despite his many accomplishments, his greatest pride and joy was always his family.

Larry is survived by his loving wife, Karen; daughter, Amy (Jeff) McDonald; granddaughters, Ashley (Klay) O’Brien and Marcy McDonald; great-grandchildren, Indy and Kohen O’Brien; and sister, Donna Pichler. He was preceded in death by his parents.

In accordance with Larry’s wishes, cremation will take place. Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 27, at 10:00 a.m., at Bedene Funeral Home in Arma, Ks, with Father Daniel Vacca and lifelong friend Bruce Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Garden of Memories in Pittsburg, Kansas. Visitation will be held Monday, October 26, 2026, from 5:00–6:30 p.m. at Bedene Funeral Home in Arma, Kansas.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Girard High School Trapshooting, payable to Girard Trap Team. Memorials may be sent to or left at Bedene Funeral Home, 517 E. Washington, P.O. Box 621, Arma, Kansas, 66712.

James Johnston

(From Ulmer Funeral Home)

James J. Johnston, 74, of Jasper, Missouri, passed away Thursday, October 29, 2026, in Joplin, Missouri. James was born January 21, 1952, in Carthage, Missouri, to Harvey Johnston and Louise Ulmer. He proudly served in the U.S. Marine Corps during Vietnam. 

James received a bachelor’s degree in biology from Missouri Southern State College in Joplin and attended welding school in Pittsburg, Kansas. He worked as a dispatcher for Empire and Liberty Electric companies. 

James was a member of the Shriners. He enjoyed gardening and attending his grandchildren’s sporting events. Overall, he loved his family deeply and enjoyed spending as much time with them as he could. James also attended St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Carthage. 

James was united in marriage to Irma Armenta on January 5, 1975, at St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Carthage, Missouri; she survives. 

James is survived by his loving wife of 51 years, Irma; four sons, Gabe Johnston (Kerry) of Webb City, Missouri, Michael Johnston (Kenna) of Oronogo, Missouri, D.J. Johnston (Brooke) of Carthage, Missouri, and Lemmie Johnston of Jasper, Missouri; one brother, John Johnston (Hellen) of Manitou Springs, Colorado; one sister, Susan Yoder (Ed) of Butler, Missouri; seven grandchildren, Braden Stefan (Sarah), Logan Johnston, Kierstin Johnston, Laney Miller (Matt), Isabelle Johnston, A.J. Johnston, and Hayden Johnston; and six great grandchildren, Rynlee Stefan, Blair Stefan, Lakyn Stefan, Kolson Stefan, Finn Johnston, and Miles Miller. 

James is preceded in death by his parents, Harvey and Louise Johnston. 

A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at Ulmer Funeral Home in Carthage. A visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. (with Holy Rosary @ 5:00 p.m.) Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at Ulmer Funeral Home. Burial will be at Paradise Cemetery in Jasper, Missouri, following funeral service. 

Contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital in care of Ulmer Funeral Home.
Online condolences may be made at www.ulmerfh.com. 

Arrangements are under the care and direction of Ulmer Funeral Home.

Lois Spracklen

(From Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home)

Lois W. Spracklen, of Webb City, passed away on October 29, 2026 at her home. She was born in Webb City, MO on December 21, 1930 to the late Ray and Hazel Watson. After growing up in Webb City, she lived in Dallas, Texas, for several decades before returning to her hometown.

She carried with her the values of hard work, kindness, and perseverance that shaped her character from an early age. Lois pursued her education with care and determination, earning a Bachelor of Arts in education and a Master's degree in physical education.

Lois understood the importance of family, community, and the everyday moments that give life its deepest meaning. She was known for her dependable nature and for the calm presence she brought to those who knew her well. She was active in the community including being a driver for the Meals on Wheels program.

Lois enjoyed outdoor activities and appreciated the beauty of the world around her. She also looked forward to watching football on the weekends.

Lois is survived by her children, Jeff Spracklen (Silvia) and Robert Spracklen; grandchildren, Ray Spracklen and Jeffry Spracklen; and her loving caregiver, Norma Landers.

Along with her parents, she is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Wallace Spracklen.

A funeral service will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Hedge-Lewis-Goodwin Funeral Home in Webb City, Missouri. Burial to follow at Mount Hope Cemetery in Webb City, Missouri. The family invites friends for a time of visitation prior to the service at 10:00 a.m.

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