Kelly Walter Messerli

Kelly Walter Messerli, 78, of California, Mo., made his final climb on Saturday, April 28, 2018. He was born to the late Walter and Cleo (Pohlman) Messerli on May 16, 1939 in McGirk, Mo. Married in 1957, beginning his family with four children, he found and married his true soulmate, Carlene Caldwell Dameron, on January 31, 1976, who survives of the home. While most thought they were crazy, they began and conquered a real life "Brady Bunch" completing the gang with a son of their own, Kelly David in 1977, who preceded him in death in 2013. Kelly grew up on the family farm in McGirk and graduated in 1957 from California High School. He proudly served his country in the Missouri National Guard from 1956-1959 then transferred to the U.S. Army Reserve serving his country until 1964. While he farmed many years, he also was employed with Missouri Power & Light (nka Ameren Missouri) for nearly 35 years working his way up the ladder from store clerk, to apprentice, to journeyman lineman, and finally retiring as crew foreman. All the while laying the foundation for lifetime friendship with numerous co-workers he engaged during the climb. Kelly was a member of Salem United Church of Christ. In addition to being a wonderful devoted husband, proud father and role model in the many lives he touched, he also excelled in several things. Chart topper being cooking, barbequing was his favorite. He loved the outdoors whether he was tending to the farm, gardening, hunting, or fishing, he was in his element. Other joys included playing cards, good 'ole country music, dancing, and traveling, making numerous Canadian Outpost adventures with family. However, his true enjoyment was simply interacting and spending time with his family. He invested many hours as a Pinto "Dad" and "Grandpa", from volunteering his time to simply being a spectator. He was always there to lend a helping hand whenever needed. In addition, he held a special place in his heart for children of all kinds, many knew him simply as "Santa". Due to that enormous heart of his, he will be dearly missed by all who knew and loved him. In addition to "his bride" of 42 years, Kelly is survived by two sons: Rick (Karen) Messerli and Kevin (Cheri) Messerli, both of California, Mo.; five daughters: Becky (Leon) Bax of Jefferson City, Mo., Carol Bailey of Pilot Grove, Mo., Janet (Nick) Morris of Tipton, Mo., Kelley Michelle (Joe) Owsley of Jefferson City, Mo., Karen Beth (Darrell) Dameron of California, Mo.; one daughter- in-law: Emily Messerli of California, Mo.; one sister: Ellen Martin of California, Mo.; three sisters-in-law: Bernice Purnell of Wichita, Kan., Louise Elliott of Dysart, Iowa, Shirley Caldwell of LaPorte City, Iowa; 22 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren and several nieces and nephews. He was also preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Vernon Messerli; one sister, LaVern Sapp; and one granddaughter, Jessica Lynn Forbis. Visitation will be held on Thursday, May 3, 2018 from 5:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. at Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services, California. Funeral Service will be held on Friday, May 4, 2018 at 10:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Officiating will be Rev. Greg Morrow. Burial with full military honors will be at the Salem United Church of Christ Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Salem U.C.C. Cemetery Association, c/o the funeral home. Arrangements are under the direction of Bowlin-Cantriel Funeral Services, California, Mo.