Regis Patrick Griesemer, 76, of Springfield, Missouri, passed away peacefully with his family at his side on Sunday, May 22, 2016 at Mercy Hospital. Regis was born on March 30, 1940, to Henry and Josephine (Kalvelage) Griesemer in Springfield, Missouri. Regis attended St. Agnes Catholic School (Springfield) through 10th grade, and completed his education at Subiaco Academy (Subiaco, AR). Regis was a member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church (Springfield, MO) for 49 years.
Regis was united in marriage on July 17, 1965 to Ann (Francka) Griesemer, had two children Brendan (Susan), and Greg (Kathy), and six grandchildren he adored: Riley Nicole, Nathan Kelly, Matthew Quin, Chase Patrick Gene, Cole Landon, and Cayden Luke. Last summer, along with family and friends, Regis and Ann renewed their sacramental vows and celebrated 50 years of marriage.
Regis was a small business owner of Springfield Explosives Inc., and a Technical Consultant for Explosive Energies for 37 years, from where he retired in 2005. He provided technical, and design support for explosives engineering. Regis was a nationally recognized expert in the field of explosives.
Regis proudly served in the United States Air Force where he was stationed in Saudi Arabia and England. He served on the Springfield Catholic School Board, Sacred Heart Parish Council, and was a member of Sacred Heart choir. He served on the Board of Directors and was a past president of the Ozark chapter of The Society of Explosives Engineers. He was presented with the coveted Extra Mile Award from the Missouri Limestone Producers Association for his exemplary service to the association.
Regis will be remembered as a kind-hearted man that exemplified the teachings of Jesus. Regis welcomed everyone into his family with open arms, he cared and provided for those in need, and loved deeply. Regis had a spirited personality that never slowed down. His personality was seen and felt wherever he was, and through those lives he touched. His sense of humor and practical jokes kept family and friends anticipating, yet not surprised by his words or actions. Regis enjoyed golf, traveling, hunting, and fishing. Most importantly, Regis will be remembered deeply in the hearts of those that love him as a man strong in his Catholic faith, true to his word, and provider and protector of his family. Regis was Ann’s soulmate and best friend; Brendan and Greg’s mentor and confidant; a gentle and fun loving grandfather; and a loving father-figure to many.
Regis was preceded in death by his parents, Henry and Josephine Griesemer; brother, Jude Griesemer; and sister-in-laws, Phyllis Griesemer, and Patricia Griesemer. He is survived by his beloved wife Ann; sons Brendan (Susan), and Greg (Kathy); six grandchildren, Riley, Nathan, Matthew, Chase, Cole, and Cayden; sister, Marcia (Griesemer) Bramer; brothers, Damian (Beth), Dennis (Mary), Kevin (Pat); many nieces and nephews, and friends.
Family and friends will celebrate Regis’ life and legacy beginning with a prayer service at 5:30 pm on Wednesday, May 25, 2016 at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, Springfield Missouri followed by visitation, 6 pm - 8 pm. His celebration of life will continue on Thursday, May 26, 2016 at 10:30 am, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. A mass will be celebrated complete with the Holy Eucharist, which was very important to Regis. Regis will be laid to rest at 3 pm Friday, May 27, 2016 with military honors at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, Springfield, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Regis' memory to Sacred Heart Catholic Church. Arrangements are under the care Herman Lohmeyer Funeral Home, Springfield, Missouri.