(From Ozark Funeral Home)Buddy Joe Zornes, age 78, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, July 2, 2024, at his home in Powell, Missouri, after a recent battle with cancer. Born on September 13, 1945, in Iola, Kansas, Buddy's life was marked by his service to his country, his love for his family, and his passion for life's simple pleasures.
Raised in the town of his birth, Buddy attended local schools in Iola, where he formed the foundation of a life characterized by hard work, resilience, and a warm sense of humor.
At the tender age of seventeen, he answered the call of duty and enlisted in the United States Navy, serving from 1963 to 1969, including two years in the Navy Reserve. His commitment to his nation did not end there; he continued his service as a Sergeant in the U.S. Army National Guard for four years. Buddy's military career, which included a tour in Vietnam, was a testament to his bravery and dedication.
After his honorable discharge, Buddy settled in McDonald County, Missouri, where he applied the same dedication and skill to his work as a carpenter. He retired from American Family Homes, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship and a community enriched by his contributions.
He was an avid fisherman, finding solace and joy in the tranquility of nature. His musical talent shone through when he played the guitar, a hobby that brought melody and harmony to many gatherings. Buddy also had a knack for engaging others with his entertaining card tricks, witty jokes, and the patience and focus required to piece together intricate puzzles. In the fall, he could often be found cracking walnuts, a simple pleasure that he approached with the same enthusiasm he had for all aspects of life.
He is survived by his daughter, Diana Christensen of Luther, Oklahoma; grandsons, Jayce Christensen of Oklahoma City and Avery Christensen of Luther, Oklahoma; sister-in-law, Sherry Zornes of Powell, Missouri; niece, Tanya Lyles and her husband, Larry, of Lampe, Missouri; and nephews, Freddie Zornes and his wife, Heather, of Powell, Missouri, TJ Zornes of Cassville, Missouri, Terrie Zornes and his wife, Kathie, of Cassville, Missouri, Shane Wheatley and his wife, Robyn, of Fordland, Missouri, and Jeremy Wheatley and his wife, Angela, of Clever, Missouri. His extended family includes many great-nieces and nephews, all of whom will miss his presence deeply.
After his honorable discharge, Buddy settled in McDonald County, Missouri, where he applied the same dedication and skill to his work as a carpenter. He retired from American Family Homes, leaving behind a legacy of craftsmanship and a community enriched by his contributions.
He was an avid fisherman, finding solace and joy in the tranquility of nature. His musical talent shone through when he played the guitar, a hobby that brought melody and harmony to many gatherings. Buddy also had a knack for engaging others with his entertaining card tricks, witty jokes, and the patience and focus required to piece together intricate puzzles. In the fall, he could often be found cracking walnuts, a simple pleasure that he approached with the same enthusiasm he had for all aspects of life.
He is survived by his daughter, Diana Christensen of Luther, Oklahoma; grandsons, Jayce Christensen of Oklahoma City and Avery Christensen of Luther, Oklahoma; sister-in-law, Sherry Zornes of Powell, Missouri; niece, Tanya Lyles and her husband, Larry, of Lampe, Missouri; and nephews, Freddie Zornes and his wife, Heather, of Powell, Missouri, TJ Zornes of Cassville, Missouri, Terrie Zornes and his wife, Kathie, of Cassville, Missouri, Shane Wheatley and his wife, Robyn, of Fordland, Missouri, and Jeremy Wheatley and his wife, Angela, of Clever, Missouri. His extended family includes many great-nieces and nephews, all of whom will miss his presence deeply.
Preceding him in death were his parents, Aca and Bonnie (Rearrick) Zornes; brothers, Fred Zornes and Floyd Ewing; and nieces, Tammie Madewell and Tracie Harmon.
Graveside services with full military honors are 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 10, 2024 at Tracy Cemetery east of Anderson, Missouri with Chaplain Joe Morris officiating. Those honoring his life by serving as pallbearers are Freddie Zornes, Remington Zornes, Jesse Crouch, Dax Lyles, Terrie Zornes and Marcus Knoefler. Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Ozark Funeral Home in Anderson, Missouri.
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