Richard Eugene “Gene” Kellermeyer passed away peacefully on 12/27/2020 at the Maples Health and Rehabilitation Center in Springfield, MO.

Gene was born in January, 1936 in Dodge City, KS.  The youngest of three children, Gene grew up in Carthage, MO where he graduated from Carthage High school in 1954. Gene achieved his BS in Mechanical Engineering from The Missouri School of Mines and Metallurgy in Rolla, MO.  He was active in ROTC and a member of the Kappa Alpha Order, Beta Iota chapter in Rolla.  Gene cherished and continued his friendships with his high school and college pals throughout his life.

Gene married Janet Foss in 1959.  Son Kurt was born in 1960 followed by Keith in 1962.  The family lived in the St. Louis area until 1970, when they headed east to New Jersey. Eventually, Gene made it back to Missouri and met his companion of over 20 years, Rebecca Tough. Gene and Rebecca made their home in Springfield and always welcomed family and friends.

Gene loved music.  He was active in barbershop harmony chapters and quartets in the Springfield area. He enjoyed theatre, opera and dancing.  For many years, Gene was a daily runner, pipe smoker, animal lover and joke teller.  His smile and humor will forever be with his friends and loved ones.

Gene is survived by his wonderful companion of over 20 years, Becky Tough, Nixa MO.  His ex-wife Janet Alexander (Foss) of Phoenix, AZ , son Kurt and spouse Nancy (Itschner) of Kansas City, MO, son Keith and fiancé Cara Dennis of Lake Dallas, TX, Becky’s son, David Tough of Nashville, TN, grandchildren, Mark, Keith, Matt, Katelyn, Kate, Kris, great grandson, Oliver and many dear nieces and nephews.  

A service for family and friends will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions can be made to The Humane Society of Southwest Missouri, https://www.swh.org/