John Steven Lange

John Steven Lange, 77, of Green Ridge, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Sunday, September 1, 2024, at Boone Hospital. Born in Sweet Springs, Missouri, on June 25, 1947, to Roy and Eva Nell Lange, John was a lifelong resident of Green Ridge and a proud member of the community he loved.

​​John graduated from Green Ridge R-8 in 1965 and pursued further education at Central Missouri State University before serving his country with distinction in the United States Army from 1968 to 1970. After his military service, he made a significant mark as a skilled carpenter, working alongside his father to build custom homes from 1970 to 2012. His dedication extended to his role as a rural mail carrier from 1986 to 2012, where he became a familiar and trusted figure in the community.

John was a man of deep honor and humility, known for his selflessness and quiet strength. He was an exceptional father, dedicating himself wholeheartedly to raising his two children, Tracy Linda and Marty Edward. On June 19, 1998, John married Linda Gill May, and with the same warmth and commitment, he welcomed her three children-Lindsey, Amber, and Charles-into his life. His unwavering love and dedication to his family were evident in everything he did, making a lasting impact on all who knew him.

John's commitment to service extended beyond his professional life. He served on the Green Ridge R-8 School Board as President and was Vice Chairman of the Pettis County Jail Improvement Committee. In retirement, he proudly contributed to his community as a member of the VFW Honor Guard (2014-2024) and the Green Ridge Cemetery Board (2014-2024), and he was an active member of the Green Ridge American Legion.

John's passions included enjoying country drives and culinary adventures with his wife Linda, attending his grandchildren's ball games, and tending to his beloved 1957 Chevy and his father's Ford tractor. He found joy in car shows, reading, and spending time at home. All who knew him will fondly remember his ornery but endearing nature.

John is survived by his wife, Linda Lange of the home; his children Tracy Lange and Marty Lange; stepchildren Lindsey Junge (Alonzo Soto), Amber (Andrew) King, and Charles May (Angie); his sister Linda McCreery (Roger); and his grandchildren Alexus Dean (Kyle), Savannah Ince (Walker), Emma Dieckmann, Myles Harms, Addison Oakie, Adam King, Patrik Scott, Alex Junge, Abigail Junge, Lillian May, Collin May, Riley Penniman, and Madison Penniman. He is also survived by his great-granddaughter, Maura Elsie Dean.

John's presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of hard work, humility, dedication, and love for his family will forever remain in our hearts.

As a private, quiet man, it was John's wish to be laid to rest in a small, family-only ceremony. A celebration of his life will be held from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Sunday, September 22, 2024 at the Green Ridge Community Building to remember and celebrate his legacy.