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Jon Kempe Obituary
Jon T. Kempe
Resident of Lincoln, CA
Jon passed away on his 74th birthday February 8, 2012. He resided in Lincoln with his wife of 50 years, Theresa. He is survived by his three daughters (and their spouses) Patricia Giron (Ben), Paulette Roseberry (Bob), and Ginny Wilcox (Bob); and grandchildren Justin, Weston, Andrea and Jessica.
Jon was born February 8, 1938 in Fortuna California and grew up in Lakeport, CA. He enlisted in the Air Force in 1955 and proudly served his country for 24 years traveling to remote corners of the world. After that Jon worked for 18 years at the United States Geological Survey in Menlo Park, CA. During retirement, Jon and Theresa traveled throughout the United States in their motor coach and ventured abroad visiting family and friends. An avid square dancer, Big Jon enjoyed being a part of the square dance community in the Sacramento area.
Jon's stories of his amazing adventures were entertaining and were enjoyed by all during many a cocktail hour. He will be forever in our hearts, minds and spirit as we continue our journey without him. Jon's gentle demeanor, practical wisdom and sense of fairness have inspired us and will be missed by all of his family and friends.
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Memories and Condolences
for Jon Kempe
6 Entries
Cliff York
March 31, 2012
Jon and I served together at Dets 423 and 313 in the 60's when we were both young and our main interest was having fun and exploring life. I have many many great memories of Jon... he was a good friend in every sense of the word.
Philip Betbeze
February 23, 2012
I can't think of a better way to describe how I remember Jon (my uncle) than what was said in his obituary itself--that he was gentle, fair-minded, and had plenty of practical wisdom that he was not shy about sharing. I might add that he never met a stranger. We will miss him.
Bob Long
February 12, 2012
Jon and I served at Det 204 long ago in early 60's. Before Children, neighbors on Fort Wainwright, donut, coffee stop in Fairbanks. Great gentle giant of a man. Regards to Theresa and family. RIP Jon.
Arnold Betbeze
February 11, 2012
Jon and I worked together on some family emergencies, fished, did mechanical projects and collaborated on some family business. He was a very smart practical man, a great patriot. He helped on a family project just about 10 days ago. There is a great void in our hearts. We were blessed to have you this long. Love, Buddy
William Alexander
February 11, 2012
I am saddened to hear of Jons passing. I am proud to say I served with Jon briefly in the 70's and have known him off and on for many years. He was a good man and will be missed by many.
John and Christel Horsch
February 11, 2012
Jon's death hits us hard. He was a true contemporary and very good friend. We served, and played, with Jon a lot in our early to mid-USAF careers (60's/70's). He will be missed by many.
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