Jerome Leroy "Jerry" Kempker, 76 of Independence, Missouri passed away on November 27, 2019. Jerry was born December 28, 1942 to Melvin and Lorraine (Veltrop) Kempker in Mexico, Missouri. When Jerry was in the Army he learned his trade while working on Army Tanks and heavy equipment. A skill that served Jerry well as he was known as a 'transmission whisperer.' He could build, rebuild and fix just about anything. He enjoyed working on cars, Watching TV Sports, Nascar, Chiefs, Royals, Tigers, and Steak cookouts on the grill. Jerry is preceded in death by his parents, he is survived by his children; Darrell Kempker and Donna Kempker along with siblings; Judy (Jim) Clayton, Janet Dalton and her significant other, Cliff Calvin, and Joanie (Art) Fuemmeler. A Celebration of Jerry's Life will be held on December 21st from 1 PM to 5 PM at Knights of Columbus Hall in Mexico, Missouri.with Military Honors starting at 2 PM. Jerry's cremated remains will be buried at the cemetery in Mexico, Missouri at a later date. Jerry will be loved and remembered always by his beloved family and extended family and friends.