Jerome F. Kircher Jr. passed away September 8, 2015 at the age of 91. Jerry was born in St. Louis, MO, on January 16, 1924, son of Jerome F. Kircher Sr. and Alicia Hafner Kircher. After graduating from John Burroughs, Jerry attended the University of Missouri until he was called to serve his country for World War II. He attended Harvard University for military training and was an Army Air Force veteran, serving from 1943 to 1946 as a Statistical Control Officer in the South Pacific where he obtained the rank of Captain. After returning from the war, he completed his studies and graduated from Washington University in 1949. Using his GI money, he purchased land in Jefferson County where he constructed his own house and started a business, Hideaway Hill Farm, raising fresh turkeys that were prized by the community. He married Mary Toy Thomas in 1951 and they celebrated their 64th wedding anniversary on April 14, 2015. In the 1950s they moved into town for a better school district for their young children. He worked as a meat cutter for Bettendorf s before he joined Hussmann Refrigeration where he served as a multi-state manager before retiring in 1986. During his retirement, he and Toy spent many happy years traveling and participating in Elder Hostels. He enjoyed the outdoors and was an avid fisherman, gardener and bird lover. He was also a Civil War buff, a life-long philatelist and voracious reader. Jerry is survived by his three children, Katherine Companik and husband Paul, Jerry Kircher III and wife Laura, Spencer Kircher and wife Diana Arnett; five grandchildren, Jennifer Curtis and husband John, Christopher Companik, Melissa Companik, Ashley Kircher and Lindsey Kircher; and one great-grandson, Drew Curtis. He will be remembered by his family for his kind spirit, ever-present smile, positive outlook on life and dedication to family. A lifelong resident of St. Louis until moving to Springfield, MO in 2012, Jerry believed in supporting the local community through memberships in the Missouri Botanical Gardens, the Saint Louis Zoo, the Municipal Opera, the St. Louis Art Museum and the Civil War Roundtable. Graveside services will be held at 2 PM, Saturday, October 3, 2015, in Maple Park Cemetery, Springfield, MO, with full military honors. At that time, his beloved deceased wife, Mary Toy, will be laid to rest beside him. Arrangements have been entrusted to Midwest Cremation and Funeral Services, Springfield, MO. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation be made to the Salvation Army which he supported throughout his life. Condolences may be sent to the family at 2769 W. Vincent, Springfield, MO 65810.