Officer Jerry Kempen

Jerry Wayne Kempen, son of Walter and Virginia (Gragg) Kempen, was born June 12, 1954 in St. Louis, Missouri. He departed this life Wednesday, December 13, 2023 in his home at the age of sixty-nine years, six months and one day.

On September 1, 1975, Jerry was united in marriage to Stephanie Best and together they shared forty-eight years.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents.

He is survived by his wife, Stephanie, of the home; two brothers, Dennis Kempen and wife Pamela of North Carolina and Ronald Kempen and wife Janice of St. Louis, Missouri; four nieces, Heidi, Jennifer, Veronica and Carrie; one nephew, Michael; as well as a host of other relatives and many friends.

Jerry grew up in the St. Louis area. He moved to the lake area in 1981. On December 17, 1987, Jerry began his career with the Camdenton Police Department. He began his career working patrol in 1991 when the D.A.R.E. program was implemented in the Camdenton R-III School District. Jerry served as the D.A.R.E. Officer from 1991 until 2007. During that time, he instructed more than fifteen-thousand students. He was promoted to Officer II in 2002, Officer III in 2004 and Desk Supervisor in 2009. In 1992, he received the Meritorious Service Award for exception initiative for his implementation of the D.A.R.E. program. In 2006, he was awarded the Purple Heart after sustaining an injury in the line of duty.

In his spare time Jerry enjoyed camping and fishing. He loved animals and working on his farm. Most days you could find Jerry sitting on his screened porch taking in the beauty of the outdoors.

Jerry was a loving husband, brother and uncle and was a caring neighbor and friend. We celebrate his life and accomplishments and will treasure the many wonderful memories he has created for his family and friends.

Per Jerry’s wishes, no formal services will be held.

Arrangements are under the direction of Allee-Holman-Howe Funeral Home, Camdenton, Missouri.