Vannaman, John D. 1946-2026 St. Joseph, Mo.

John Doyle Vannaman, 79, of St. Joseph, passed away Wednesday, Jan. 28, 2026, at Providence Medical Center, in Kansas City, Kansas. He was born Dec. 22, 1946, in St. Joseph, son of Betty and Doyle Vannaman.

John attended Benton High School. Following high school, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy. On April 7, 1972, he married Linda Gilbert, in St. Joseph. John retired after 20 years with the St. Joseph Fire Department, serving in several capacities and was a member of the IAFF Local 77. Following his retirement he continued his dedication to work at several other part-time jobs. He enjoyed his time riding motorcycles, doing hill climbs, working on cars, going boating on the river, and fishing. John was always there to help his kids or friends and loved to spend time with his family.

John was preceded in death by his parents; son, Jason Vannaman; sister and brother-in-law, Trudy (Steve) Nelson, and sister-in-law, Vickie Vannaman.

Survivors include wife of nearly 54 years, Linda Vannaman, of the home; daughter, Georgia (Michael) Roades, of St. Joseph; brothers, Randy Vannaman, Robert (Elizabeth) Vannaman, Jeff (Linda R.) Vannaman; grandchildren, Haley and Kathryn Vannaman, and Gabriel and Samuel Roades; two great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Vannaman has been cremated under the care of Rupp Funeral Home. Fireman Honors will be conducted at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, at Rupp Funeral Home, where the family will receive friends from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday.

John is now riding high with his son, Jason, in Heaven. Memorials are suggested to the Wounded Warrior Project.

Online condolences and obituary at www.ruppfuneral.com. As published in the St. Joseph News-Press.