Ed Lovekamp

(From Knell Mortuary)

Edwin Lee “Ed” Lovekamp, 87, Carthage, Missouri, passed away Wednesday morning, August 23, 2023, at Freeman West Hospital, Joplin, Missouri. Ed was born July 2, 1936, in Rich Hill, Missouri, the son of Otto Johan Lovekamp and Hattie (Schwarzenholz) Lovekamp. He was a 1954 graduate of Carthage High School. 

Ed married the love of his life, Lawana Dyer, on October 11, 1958, at the Faith Lutheran Church in Carthage. He worked at the Atlas Powder Company as Chief Operator until his retirement in 1995. 

Ed also enjoyed farming where he had cattle and mini horses. He was a charter member of the Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Carthage, a 4-H Club Leader, President of the Babe Ruth League, and he loved taking care of his mini horses. Ed had a very outgoing personality and enjoyed making his rounds around Carthage.

Survivors include his wife of 64 years, Lawana Lovekamp; a daughter, Janet Waggoner (Tom); a son, Rod Lovekamp; five grandchildren, Tara Williams (Brandon), Amber McCarty (Travis), Meghan VanSlyke (Josh), Sara Castor (Cody), and Clayton Lovekamp; a sister, Mary Ann Lovekamp; a sister-in-law, Jody Kyte; nine great-grandchildren; and many extended family and friends.

Funeral services will be held at 2 pm, Saturday, August 26, 2023, at Knell Mortuary, Carthage. The burial will follow at Park Cemetery, Carthage. The family will receive friends from 5-7 pm, Friday, August 25, 2023, at Knell Mortuary. 

Memorial gifts are suggested to the Jasper County Youth Fair in care of Knell Mortuary. Online condolences may be expressed through www.knellmortuary.com. Arrangements are under the direction and personal care of Knell Mortuary.