John Quarles Kamps

Kamps, John Quarles Renowned wit, Sheepshead champion, storyteller, fisherman, defender of the rule of law, singer of bawdy songs, and lover of life and humanity, died on January 25, 2015 at 84. John Q., also known as Papa, "Trotted-to-Boston," baited hooks for, offered knuckle sandwiches to, and asked "why-are-you-hitting-yourself" of four children and ten grandchildren. He defended his first grade honor in lavender short pants, wooed his future bride in a Coke-bottle green suit, charmed multitudes in various bow ties, and was sent straight back to the store with a tan leisure suit. He purchased some of the most unreliable cars known to man, both the worst and most-treasured Christmas gifts, and unknown quantities of night crawlers and birdseed. He carved pumpkins, painted portraits, photographed flowers, and rosmaled furniture. He fried smelt, baked bread, and brewed beer. He battled squirrels, beheaded and stewed a snapping turtle that totaled his car (long story), and fiercely protected both his bank account and his wife and children's' happiness. He loved Schaum Torte, crossword puzzles, martinis, bad puns, birch trees, and his family. He covered the kitchen with fish scales, bled all over repair jobs, and filled our lives with joy and laughter. We adored him and we treasure his memory.