John Paul Kimber

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of John Paul Kimber, fondly known as Papa John, who departed this world on December 12, 2023, at the age of 82, surrounded by loved ones in his home in Broomfield, Colorado.

Born on August 29, 1941, in Marquette, Michigan, to Peter Kimber and Dorothy Kermode Kimber. John's journey through life was marked by an unwavering love for sports, a dedicated service in the Navy, and a fulfilling career in lumber and building materials.

From his early days playing Little League baseball, hockey, and tennis in high school until his time on the USS Lexington running the Naval newspaper, John's passion for life was evident. After his Naval service, he pursued a degree in journalism at Northern Michigan and later found his professional path in lumber and building materials working for both Edward Hines Lumber Company and Capital Lumber Company. This took him and his family to various states, including Michigan, Arizona, Missouri, Florida, Colorado, and Washington.

John was a true sports enthusiast, cheering for teams like the University of Michigan and the Detroit Red Wings when he wasn’t cheering on his grandchildren. He found solace in the melodies of Johnny Cash and Don Ho's "Tiny Bubbles," a reminder of his time in Hawaii during his Navy days.

Beyond his interests, John was a remarkably caring soul, always prioritizing others over himself. He cultivated friendships, reaching out to friends regularly and sharing his love for good conversation, food and a cold Busch Light. Whether sitting in the driveway with neighbors, at the park reading his newspaper or enjoying the VFW for socializing and horseshoes, John cherished these moments.

He is survived by his son, Jon (Brook) Kimber, grandchildren Jordan (Fran), Alyssa, and Natalie, great-grandchildren Winifred and Madeleine, and another on the way in 2024. He was also a loving stepfather to Jay (Michelle) Marier, David (Tammy) Marier, Sheree (Andre) Haith, and Ava Kimber. John's family, including his sister Marilyn, Peggy (Mark) Scott, Jean Poe, and Pete (Alissa) Kimber, and all the nieces and nephews, were central to his life. John was proceeded in death by his parents Peter and Dorothy, his bother Don and sister Lois.

John's life philosophy reflected in his words: "It's nice to be important, but more important to be nice." His legacy of kindness, warmth, and generosity will be remembered always.

The Kimber family will host a celebration of life in his honor in Colorado after the holidays, followed by a memorial service in Marquette, Michigan, later this summer, complete with a veteran salute and burial flag ceremony to honor his service to our country. John Paul Kimber will be deeply missed but forever remembered in the hearts of those who were fortunate to know him.

Broken Chain

We little knew that morning that

God was going to call your name.

In life we loved you dearly,

In death we do the same.

It broke our hearts to lose you,

you did not go alone;

for part of us went with you

the day God called you Home.

You left us peaceful memories,

your love is still our guide;

and though we cannot see you,

you are always at our side.

Our family chain is broken,

and nothing seems the same;

but as God calls us one by one,

the chain will link again.

~ by Ron Tranmer