John Brockschmidt died at his home in Springfield, MO on March 29, 2009 after unsuccessful treatment for a malignant brain tumor. He was born in St. Louis, MO on June 4, 1939 to Elmer J. and Mayme Brockschmidt. He received a business degree from Missouri University and served in the U.S. Army as a commissioned officer attaining the rank of Captain. John married his wife, Barbara (Wilkin) in St. Louis on May 24, 1969. He started as a programmer at the St. Louis offices of McDonnell Douglas Automation, then as Branch Manager of their Century City, California office. He later joined Union Bank as Vice President of Business Development. John and Barbara resided in Santa Monica, California for 18 years, moving to Springfield to be near their parents. John was always eager to learn new skills. He was active in Boy Scouts, and as a youth reached Eagle Scout with Three Palms. He obtained a flying license while in Missouri. In Springfield, he was active in the Master Gardners Program, was an elder in the Presbyterian church, and was a member of Wesley United Methodist Church. He built and flew remote control airplanes at a local flying club and managed the club's website. He served as treasurer and website manager for his homeowner's association, and studied Chinese language for several years. He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Betty Griffith. He is survived by his wife Barbara; brother, Ken (Jean) Brockschmidt of Atlanta and brother, Don (Rosemary) Brockschmidt of St. Louis. John and Barbara were fortunate to have many loyal and loving friends who expressed their care and concern during his illness. They are grateful for the comfort given by Community Hospices of America-Southwest Missouri. Visitation will be held at Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home from 6 to 8 PM on Tuesday, March 31, 2009. Committal services will be held at 10 AM Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at Missouri Veterans Cemetery (5201 South Southwood). A memorial service will follow at 11 AM in Wesley United Methodist Church (922 W. Republic Rd). Dr. Bruce Baxter will officiate, under the direction of Gorman-Scharpf Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society (to Research for Brain Cancer), 3322 South Campbell Avenue, Springfield, MO 65807.