John Richard Waterman, 82, of Eureka died Oct. 9, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in St. Louis. Mr. Waterman was an alumnus of Media High School, having graduated in 1962. From 1965 to 1967, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Germany, where he was known for his commitment and courage. He spent most of his career as an industrial salesman for General Electric Company, retiring in 2001. His colleagues remember him as a man of integrity and dedication. A man of faith, he was a longstanding member of the Baptist Church. He loved the outdoors and had a passion for fishing, hunting and tending to his vegetable garden. He often shared his homegrown tomatoes with neighbors. Most of all, he was proud of and loved spending time with his family, especially his sons and grandchildren. He will be remembered for his jokes and lighthearted nature, quick wit, warm smile and ability to make others feel welcome and valued. Born Oct. 8, 1944, in Stronghurst, Ill., he was the son of the late Tim and Olive (Kissick) Waterman.
He is survived by his wife of 58 years: Linda Jean (Moore) Waterman, whom he married on Jan. 6, 1968, in West Burlington, Iowa; a son: Shannon (Sherry) Waterman of Eureka; five grandchildren: Peyton, Parker, Wyatt, Nicole and Grace Waterman; a sister: Shirley Stevenson; two sisters-in-law: Ava Waterman and Karen Waterman; two brothers-in-law: Wayne Moore and David Moore; his niece and nephews; many cousins, other family members and friends.
He was preceded in death by his in-laws: Russell and Joyce Moore; a son: Scott Waterman; five brothers: Sam, Harold, Leroy, Melvin and William Waterman; three sisters: Doris (Joe) Peterson, Vivian (Ed) Brill and Catherine Waterman; and two brothers-in-law: Dale Stevenson and Allen Moore.
A funeral service was held Oct. 16, at First Baptist Church in Kahoka, officiated by Pastor Andrew Moore. Burial followed with full military honors accorded by the VFW Post 4342, the American Legion Post 192 and Army Honor Guard in the Kahoka Cemetery in Kahoka. Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church in Kahoka or Central Baptist Church in Eureka. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson & McKinnon Funeral Home in Kahoka.