Funeral services for John “Jack” William Pahlmann, 85, West Plains, Missouri, will be held at 2:00 p.m., Saturday, June 27, 2026, at First Church of God, under the direction of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Mr. Pahlmann, 85, passed away peacefully at his home on June 22, 2026.
Jack was born on September 7, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri, to John Pahlmann and Thelma Evelyn Hollowell. He was united in marriage to Inez Evelyn Freeman on April 16, 1989, in Willow Springs, Missouri. Together they shared many years of love, faith, and devotion.
Jack proudly served his country in the United States Army, where he served as the commander of a tank unit. Following his active military service, he continued his dedication to his nation through service in the Missouri National Guard.
A devoted public servant, Jack gave tirelessly to his community. He served on the West Plains City Council for 21 years, including nine years as Mayor, always striving to improve the community he loved. His commitment to service extended far beyond public office. He was a longtime member of the Rotary Club and a dedicated 34-year member of the Elks Lodge in West Plains. He was also a member of the Optimist Club, where he served as regional governor. Jack also volunteered with The Missouri Association of State Troopers Emergency Relief Society (The MASTERS), helping provide support and assistance to the widows and families of fallen Missouri law enforcement officers. Jack was a faithful member of the First Church of God in West Plains, where he found strength in his faith and fellowship with his church family.
Those who knew Jack will remember him for his steadfast dedication to his faith, family, country, and community. His leadership and compassion touched countless lives, and his legacy of service will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.
Jack is survived by his children, Kim Grennan and husband, Ron, of West Plains, Missouri; John Pahlmann Jr. of Kansas City, Missouri; Melanie Pahlmann and her special friend, Bill, of Ajo, Arizona; and Perin Lea Koon and husband, Kevin, of Charlotte, North Carolina. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Sydni Miller of Kansas City, Missouri; Riley Grennan of Dallas, Texas; Pierce Koon, Harrison Koon, and Perin Koon, all of Charlotte, North Carolina. He is further survived by his special nieces, Michelle Lightner and husband, Jim, of Springfield, Missouri, and Tonya Hennier and husband, Andy, of Kansas City, Missouri; Michelle’s children, Joseph and Karla Lightner of Fordland, Missouri, and Chandler Lightner of Kansas City, Missouri; and Tonya’s children, Jessica Ecton, Paige Ecton, and Ty Ecton, all of Kansas City, Missouri.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Evelyn Pahlmann; and his beloved wife, Inez Pahlmann.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m., Friday, at the Langston Street Chapel of Robertson-Drago Funeral Home. Burial will be at Howell Memorial Park Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to The Missouri Association of State Troopers Emergency Relief Society (The MASTERS), and may be left at or mailed to Robertson-Drago Funeral Home, 211 W. Main St., West Plains, Missouri. Online condolences may be left at www.robertsondrago.com
