John William Bryan Sr.

John William Bryan Sr.
August 21, 1941 – September 24, 2025

John William Bryan Sr. passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, in Satellite Beach, Florida, with family by his side. He was 84 years old.

John is survived by his beloved wife, Linda; his daughter, Shannon Bryan; stepdaughters, Shelley LaRose Arken and Angie LaRose Witt; daughter-in-law, Alice Govert Bryan; sister-in-law, Mary Louise Bryan; nieces, Nicole Bryan and Janna Bryan; and uncle, James Boyd. He was a proud grandfather to Drew Bryan, Jack Bryan, Jeannie Fagan, Dylan Arken, and Jacqueline Arken.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Orlan Bryan, Technician 5th Grade, U.S. Army and Margaret Mae Boyd; brother, Gary Eugene Bryan, Chief Warrant Officer 4, U.S. Army; son, John Bryan Jr.; and aunt, Lea Boyd Clark.

John was born in Davenport, Iowa, and grew up in Centerville with his parents and younger brother, Gary. He graduated from Centerville High School, where he cherished friendships and later enjoyed attending reunions. He went on to earn a degree in Civil Engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology, formerly known as Missouri School of Mines in Rolla, Missouri. He was a member of the Delta Sigma Phi fraternity.

John was a visionary engineer and co-founded Bryan Ohlmeier Construction Company in Overland Park, Kansas, with his close friend Wilber Ohlmeier. His legacy endures in Kansas City through the infrastructure his company designed and built-lasting testaments to his intellect, skill, and dedication.

In 1977, John married the love of his life, Linda. Introduced by friends, they quickly fell in love and shared 48 wonderful years together. As true partners, they worked side by side-building both a thriving business and a beautiful life. Together they raised four children, later settled in Louisburg, Kansas, where they created their dream home. It became a gathering place for family celebrations, magical holidays filled with laughter, outdoor adventures, and Grandpa's fishing trips.

John's interests reflected his brilliant and curious mind. He loved technology, mathematics, and books. Under the instruction of his brother Gary, an accomplished pilot, John proudly earned his private pilot's license. After moving to Florida, he embraced the warm climate, fishing, and sailing-eventually restoring and captaining his own sailboat and fishing boat. He also delighted in watching rocket launches from nearby Cape Canaveral and never missed cheering on his Kansas City Royals and Chiefs.

John was equally passionate about genealogy, meticulously researching and recording family history. He generously shared his knowledge with those eager to learn.

Those who knew John will remember his quiet strength, thoughtful nature, and gentle spirit. A man of few words but profound wisdom, his actions spoke volumes-always reflecting his love, kindness, and generosity.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations in John's memory be made to WoundedWarriorProject.org

John will be laid to rest with his family in Princeton, Missouri, on October 17, 2025. Friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate his life on Saturday, October 18, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m., at the family home in Kansas City, Missouri.

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