Jerry John Krstansky

John, as he was affectionately known, was born November 22, 1947, in Mineral Springs, Texas to Jerry John, Sr. and Minnie (Ford) Krystansky. His family soon relocated to Cicero, Illinois and then to Downers Grove where his family lived throughout his public school years. John remained there until attending college. He passed away, after a short illness, on April 4, 2025, in Columbia, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Cynthia Krystansky. He is survived by his closest friends, who he regarded as family, Steve and Louese Kirk, James and Tia Higbie and numerous friends from his Sunday morning coffee church.

John pursued a life rooted in knowledge and nature. He earned his Bachelor of Arts from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale in 1971 and later completed a Master of Science in Forestry at the University of Missouri in 1986. His academic path reflected his deep connection to the natural world- a passion that would shape his life.

John was employed by the University of Missouri as a Senior Research Specialist at the Department of Forestry Hydrology Lab under Dr. Grey Henderson and concluded his career in the School of Natural Resources as a cartographer in cooperation with the Department of Conservation which culminated with the publication of the Atlas of Missouri Ecoregions.

To those who knew him best, John became like family. To his many friends he was a solid and reliable companion. John possessed an intelligent mind and a lifelong love of the outdoors. He was a true woodsman, a paddler of many Missouri and Arkansas streams and an intrepid explorer of the American west. Annually, John made at least three pilgrimages to many of America’s National Parks. At one such park he witnessed his unattended pickup roll off of a scenic overview and careen down into a deep gorge. These journeys were not just travels but expressions of his enduring curiosity and reverence for nature. John was also a skilled craftsman who created furniture from maple and walnut, blending artistry with utility. On his farm he cultivated peppers and chestnuts with care and dedication, further reflecting his deep appreciation of growth and stewardship.

For those who wish to honor John, donations may be made to the Nature Conservancy in his name. Condolences and fond memories can be shared at www.memorialfuneralhomeandcemetary.com

As a fitting tribute to a man whose life was so closely intertwined with the land he loved, a special remembrance will be held at John’s former residence at Speed, Missouri on July 4, 2025.

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him and inspiration to all who cherish the natural world. For those of us who were proud to call John our friend we collectively say, rest easy gentle friend- see you down river.