John Francis “Jack” Gilmore, Jr.

John Francis “Jack” Gilmore, Jr., age 93, of Shell Knob, Missouri

                John Francis “Jack” Gilmore, Jr., age 93, of Shell Knob, Missouri passed away Tuesday, October, 17, 2023 at his home.

            He was born June 17, 1930 in Auburn, California the son of John Francis Gilmore, Sr. and Ruth Windsor (Crane) Gilmore, who preceded him in death. Also preceding him in death were three sisters, Ginny Gibbs, Ruth Foster and Fran Brown.

            Surviving are his companion of 46 years, Margaret Wooldridge; two sons, John Francis Gilmore III and his wife Ann of Springfield, Missouri and Robin Dridge and his wife Lana of Farmers Branch, Texas; five daughters, Kerry Muldowney and her husband Jim of Greensboro, North Carolina, Karla Gilmore of Springfield, Missouri, Kendra Gilmore of Springfield, Missouri, Tess Elliott and her husband Garry of Cassville, Missouri and Debbie Brown of San Clemente, California; 11 grandchildren; 15 great-grandchildren and five great-great-grandchildren.

            Jack grew up in Red Bluff, California and graduated from Red Bluff High School later attending Regents of the University of California graduating on January 29, 1953 where he attained a Bachelor of Science in animal husbandry. After graduating college he received a commission as a 2^nd Lieutenant in the United States Army and served in the Korean War from March 23, 1953 until March 9, 1955. Upon returning from his service he became a pilot and also worked for cattle ranches in California. He had lived in Shell Knob for 47 years moving there from Arkansas. Jack and Margaret owned and operated Whip-Poor-Will Resort in Shell Knob for many years. Some favorite pastimes were playing bridge, watching the news and talking to the guests at the the resort. He enjoyed “not listening,” raising cattle and having a gin martini everyday with the love of his life, Margaret. Jack was a crossword puzzle fanatic, he loved Arabian horses and cooking but most of all he loved his family. He was of the Catholic faith.

            Private services will be held at a later date. Cremation arrangements are under direction of Fohn Funeral Home in Cassville.

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FOHN FUNERAL HOME

Cassville, Missouri

417-847-2141