John W. Niehoff

John W. Niehoff, a cherished husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2025, at Maple Lawn Nursing Home in Palmyra, MO.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday, January 9, 2025, at the St. John's Lutheran Church in Hannibal, MO. Rev. Eric Carlson will officiate. Burial with full military honors by Emmette J. Shields American Legion Post #55 will be at Grand View Burial Park in Hannibal, MO.

Friends and Family are invited to John's Life Celebration at a visitation that will be held from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM Thursday at the church.

The family is being served by the James O'Donnell Funeral Home of Hannibal, MO.

Born on February 6, 1937, in Quincy, IL to John Ernst Henry Niehoff and Emma Wolfmeyer Niehoff., John would later leave a lasting legacy, his 87 years were marked by devotion to his family, service to his country, and a career that touched many lives.

John's journey began in Quincy, where he grew up and graduated from Quincy High School. After his formative years, he proudly served in the United States Air Force, a reflection of his enduring patriotism and commitment to his nation. Upon returning to civilian life, John embarked on a successful career in sales that showcased his charisma and work ethic. Starting with Fuller Brush, he then moved on to Moorman Feed Company, followed by stints with Sunshine Biscuit Company and Oxford Chemicals. His career path later led him to a position at KHMO Radio, and he concluded his professional journey with a rewarding 21-year tenure at Duffen's Optical Company in Hannibal, Missouri.

John's personal life was equally full and vibrant. He was a dedicated family man, and his love for his wife, Beverly S. Niehoff of Hannibal, MO, was the cornerstone of his life. John was married to Beverly S. Vail on September 28, 1979, at St. John's Lutheran Church in Hannibal, MO. She survives.

He was a guiding light to his three children, Ginger Niehoff Riggs (Daniel) of Quincy, IL, John Martin "Marty" Niehoff (Laura) of Hannibal, MO, and Kristi Niehoff Farris (Chad) of Oak Grove, MO. John also shared his warmth and wisdom with his three stepchildren, Brenda Fawks of Hannibal, MO, Carla Forney (Laree Delaney) of Seattle, WA, and Mark Forney (Kevin Wood) of Indianapolis, IN. He was a proud grandfather to 13 grandchildren-Eric, Ryan, Adam, Evan, John Tyler, Mackenzie, Sawyer, Lindsey, Cydnie, Isabella, Billy, Christian, and Lucas-and he cherished his role as a great-grandfather to 18 great-grandchildren. Also surviving were many nieces and nephews. John's family was the pride of his life, and he was the rock upon which they built their dreams.

John was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Orville Niehoff, yet his legacy continues through the love and memories he shared with his extensive family.

Beyond his family and career, John had a passion for sports and leisure. A lifelong St. Louis Cardinals fan, he revered Cardinal legends like Stan Musial and Red Schoendienst. In his younger years, John demonstrated his athletic prowess on the softball field, notably with the St. John's Lutheran Church Softball team, which claimed a National Championship. His love for sports extended to bowling and golfing; he was a member of the Old G.O.A.T.S. golf group at the Hannibal American Legion Course.

When not on the field or the course, John enjoyed traveling, with memorable trips to Hawaii, Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Fiji. Weekly visits to McDonald's to catch up with his friends and grab a crispy McChicken sandwich were part of John's everyday routine. At home, he could often be found reading the newspaper, watching "The Voice" on TV, or listening to his favorite rock n' roll song, "Mustang Sally." John's upbeat nature was infectious, and after a Cardinals win, he was known to say or text "That's a winner!" to his family, a phrase that encapsulated his zest for life.

Pallbearers will be Eric Riggs, Ryan Riggs, Adam Riggs, Evan Riggs, Sawyer Farris, Tyler Niehoff.

Honorary pallbearers will be Mackenzie Kotan, Lindsey Fawks, Cydnie Lennox and Isabella Forney.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. John's Lutheran Church, St. John's Lutheran School or to the Alzheimer's Association.

Online condolences may be made, and video tribute may be viewed at www.jamesodonnellfuneralhome.com