John Michael Kim

Vero Beach, FL

John Michael Kim, age 24, passed away September 19, 2017.

John attended St. Edwards High School, as a second generation student and was a graduate of Florida State University. During his college career, John became a leader among Young Republicans and volunteered on numerous political campaigns. He was alumni of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity.

John excelled as a leader and scholar early in life. Founding Teenage Republicans in Vero Beach with close friends and participating at World Quest in Washington, D.C. John continued to cultivate his relationships with community leaders; becoming a well liked and accomplished young public figure around Vero Beach and Indian River County.

After graduating from Florida State University, John returned to Vero Beach to establish a successful wholesale produce company, Treasure Coast Produce Exchange. John quickly became well accomplished by using his vast local knowledge of Vero Beach and private business through his lifelong work with his family's popular local produce company, Young's Market.

John furthered his growth within the Indian River community by volunteering for Camp Haven transitional home for the homeless, Indian River County's Metropolitan Planning Organization Citizens Advisory Committee, Vero Beach's Planning and Zoning Board, and as a member of Sebastian Charter Junior High School board of directors.

In 2016, John focused his attention to making a difference in local education. He led a campaign for School Board District 5, with aspirations to bring a positive change to early-childhood education. He saw his youthful vision and small business experience as an opportunity to invest in the next generation of young leaders in our community.

John leaves behind a loving Grandmother, Grandfather, Aunt Terri, and Uncle Coz, loving Dad, Mike; and a vast community of friends.

A Funeral Service will be held Noon, Saturday, September 23, 2017 at Christ Church Vero Beach, 667 20th St, Vero Beach, FL 32960.

Interment will follow at Crestlawn Cemetery, Vero Beach.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Salvation Army, P.O. Box, 2864, Vero Beach, Florida 32961.

An online guestbook is available at www.lowtherfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by TC Palm on Sep. 24, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for John Kim

Sponsored by Thomas S. Lowther Funeral Home & Crematory - Vero Beach.

3 Entries

Ms. Pennell

September 27, 2017

In every teacher's career, certain students live within the heart and mind of that teacher even when that student has moved forward in school and life. They are the students that not only shine academically in the classroom but their inner spirit and light of motivation shines too as they exhibit exceptional manners and kindness to all. They are the students that not only want to be successful but wish every other person great success, too. They don't mind giving a helping hand, a kind word, or even just a much-needed smile as other students slowly begin to understand a new concept or grapple with life in general. Although all students have great potential and are the future of our country, some students already seem to be taking on the world. John was one of those students for me. He was bright and could light up the room by simply arriving and being ready to shine in class. His illuminating personality brought a light to every student looking for encouragement. As an adult, he was still a special, talented, and bright young man striving for success and yet still taking the time to help others along the path of life. When I read of his death, my heart and soul ached and my eyes wept not only for whom he was but for all he might have become. He is simply gone too soon. He is an unfinished story, a song that was never completed but the melody lives on. Those that knew him, cared for him, and wished him well always and people that never had the opportunity to spend one moment with him, have truly missed out on meeting an exceptional young man. He was respected by so many. I am grateful that his family chose Oslo Middle School as a place for John to attend. He learned much here and we learned from him, too. May his light continue to reflect and live within others as they recall memories of him. We can each brighten the world just a bit by taking a moment and giving someone a much-needed smile, a helping hand, or a kind word today. John would have liked that.

Carol Griffin

September 26, 2017

Terry my heart breaks for you and yours. I know how you adored this your nephew and what a great relationship you two had. My sincerest condolences to you and your family... praying for your peace and comfort. Wishing you understanding, always your friend and favorite banker(right?) Carol G.

Mark D.

September 22, 2017

I only met Mr. Kim 2 times. He shook my hand while he was running for school board and we spoke briefly at one of my daughters events. He shook my hand again at the Fourth of July parade. He left a lasting impression in those brief moments. I knew he was going to be a special person. The future work he would have done for Indian River County and beyond will be sorely missed.

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