John Henry Choate Jr.

John Henry Choate Jr. was born on September 25, 1964, at Queen of the World Hospital to Myrtle Johnson Choate and John Henry Choate Sr. He departed this life on November 2, 2025, at 1:35 AM, at the age of 61.

A lifelong resident of Kansas City, Missouri, John attended elementary school at J.S. Chick. It was during those formative years that he was introduced to several interests that would become important pillars throughout his life: the violin, the Boy Scouts of America, and baseball. These early experiences played a foundational role in shaping his character and passions. John became a member of Boy Scouts of America, joining Pack 607. Developing strong bonds with many young men, creating friendships that would endure for a lifetime. Their shared experiences instilled values of camaraderie, integrity, and service that John carried with him throughout his life. He attended Southeast Jr. High School ultimately graduating from Van Horn High School expanding his horizons, cultivating new friendships and embracing a variety of academic and extracurricular opportunities that further enriched his personal growth. His commitment to education and professional advancement was evident as he eventually enrolled at Vatterott College to pursue an Associate of Occupational Studies in Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Technology and earned a Bachelor of Science in Network Engineering and Computer Technology, achievements that underscored his determination to succeed and laid a solid foundation for his future.

Through his educational pursuits, John laid the groundwork for a remarkable fourteen-year career that took him far beyond the familiar streets of Kansas City. His expertise opened doors to exciting opportunities, enabling him to travel extensively and contribute his skills on a global stage. The experiences and insights gained from working abroad enriched his perspective and broadened his understanding of the world, further enhancing the depth of character and resilience that defined his professional journey. Each new destination and challenge served as a testament to his adaptability and commitment to personal and professional growth, shaping a legacy marked by curiosity, courage, and accomplishment.

He is preceded in death by his grandparents, both parents, his brother Johnny Ray Walker, and his nephew, Oshun Jamal Garner.

John is survived by several devoted family members who will continue to honor his memory and legacy: including his uncle Shelby E. Johnson of Kansas City, Kansas; three sisters: Rita D. Garner and Toni A. Choate, both of Kansas City, Missouri, Ann Thompson of Tacoma, Washington and his brother, Michael D. Choate, Las Vegas, Nevada, brother-in-law, Roscoe L. McKinney of Kansas City, Missouri, nieces: Osun Fatimah Shekhem of Kansas City, Kara Haynes (Aaron), Morgan Walker of Sacramento, California, and Laetitia Thompson of Tacoma, Washington, great niece Assata Shekhem of Kansas City, Missouri, two nephews: Cameron M. Choate and Tyler D. Choate, both of Las Vegas, Nevada, and two great nephews: Saavon O. Garner of Georgia and Keilyn O. Garner of Kansas City, Missouri, and a host of cousins, extended family members and friends. Their lives have been touched by John's kindness, guidance, and love, and they will continue to cherish the memories they shared with him.

Funeral Services Were Held Wednesday, November 12, 2025 at ST. James Church

5540 Wayne Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri

Interment Forest Hill Cemetery, Kansas City, MO