John Michael Kitzmiller II

Our beloved husband, father, grandfather, son and brother, John Michael Kitzmiller II, passed away peacefully at home on December 3, 2020, after an eight-year battle with Early Onset Alzheimer’s Disease. His family surrounded him in love. He was born on May 2, 1953, at Scott Airforce Base in Shiloh Valley, Illinois. He was the son of wonderful parents, John Michael Kitzmiller and Lois Irene Peacock Kitzmiller. He loved his siblings. They traveled a great distance to see him one last time while he was still able to enjoy their company and it will always be a cherished memory for all to remember. John had a strong and special relationship with his grandparents and enjoyed talking and being with them probably more than those of his own age. He loved to hear about their lives and insights. He spent his youth primarily in Big Rapids, Kalamazoo, and Livonia, Michigan. In Big Rapids, he loved being at his family cottage on the river. In Kalamazoo, he had fond memories staying at the Kitzmiller farm and enjoyed the association of many cousins, uncles, and aunts. John graduated from Franklin High School in Livonia, where he played drums and percussion in many school bands, and loved playing ice hockey.
Upon graduating from Western Michigan University with a degree in geology, John accepted his first job at Core Lab in Midland, Texas. It was here that he made the decision to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on January 1, 1977. It was a defining moment for him, and he remained faithful and dedicated all of his life. It was in Midland, completely by chance, that he met the love of his life, Merry Jane Rasmussen, and insists to this day that as soon as he saw her, he knew he wanted to marry her. After serving a two-year mission for the Church, they were married ten days after his return, in the Oakland LDS Temple on January 2, 1980. Rarely did he let a day go by without telling her he loved her and how beautiful he thought she was. He always let her know she was and will be forever the greatest blessing in his life.
He completed his Master’s degree in geology in December 1980 from Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah. He was hired as a geologist for Phillips Petroleum Company in Denver, Colorado, and later for Texas Oil and Gas in Sacramento. In 1986, the oil industry collapsed and John made a life-changing decision to follow his heart and change careers. Even at a very young age he had a longing and love for researching his ancestors and was unusually drawn to them. He became quite an expert. In May of 1986 he secured employment at the LDS Family History Department in Salt Lake City and enjoyed a long and fulfilling career there. In addition, he did private genealogical research for varied clients on the side. He also worked for a time at Richard Price and Associates, a genealogical research company. Between these professional opportunities, he was fortunate to travel, lecture, and use his expertise and knowledge all over the world.
He had a special affinity for the British Isles where he traveled extensively numerous times. His love for Scotland was especially apparent because of his ancestry. He loved anything Scottish and had a passion for bagpipe music. He played the snare drum in the Utah Pipe Band for many years. He was a published author of genealogical- themed books, and wrote for several professional genealogical journals and magazines. He was a certified heraldist and created many beautiful coats of arms for family organizations. John also worked closely with the Native Americans in many locations in the United States and Canada. He had wonderful unique experiences helping them preserve their ancestral records. He developed rich relationships with the people and their culture. He was trusted and respected in their communities.
He loved his career, the people he worked with, and the experiences he had. It was very difficult for him to end it prematurely because of his illness.
John’s constant companion since his illness began was his little dog, “Sister”. He loved her and she provided him with much comfort and happiness until his final day. John loved the outdoors and the beauties of God’s creations. He was particularly drawn to the mountains where he spent endless happy times hiking, exploring, and collecting rocks wherever he went. He had a quick wit, dry sense of humor, and delighted in sarcasm. He was a black and brown belt in karate, which he said was inspired by wanting to protect his five beautiful daughters, which he did well..
John was a true patriot and could never say the Pledge of Allegiance or sing the National Anthem without becoming emotional. He loved and revered his country and was forever grateful to live in America.
John loved, served, and obeyed the Savior Jesus Christ. He had a personal and profound relationship with Him. His testimony remained vibrant and strong to the end.
The final prize for John was the knowledge he could ultimately be forever with his beloved wife, his five precious daughters, his thirteen grandchildren that he absolutely adored, and all those he loved. He wished he could have stayed longer with them all.
John is survived by his wife, Merry Jane Kitzmiller (“Janey”), his five daughters: Julianne Eva Kitzmiller (soon to be married to Darryl Murphy), Amy Nguyen (Quan), Kathryn Ariotti (Andrew), Jenna Carpenter (Rob) and Leah Kitzmiller; thirteen grandchildren; Anna, Andrew, Elsa, Jax, Claire, Zachary, Parker, Tanna, Damon, Jace, Theo, Tui, and Rose; Mother, Lois Irene Kitzmiller Ulery (Norm); Siblings: Robert J. Kitzmiller (Sue), Michael R. Kitzmiller (Brenda), and Elizabeth A. Spedoske (Randy); and many nieces and nephews. Preceded in death by his beloved father, John Michael Kitzmiller, and loving Kitzmiller and Peacock grandparents.
Special thanks to Sonia, Cassie, and Monica at Elevation Hospice for their exceptional care of John in his last days.
John leaves a tremendous void in the lives of those who loved him. Our loss; Heaven’s gain. Until we meet again, our dear, beloved John.
A funeral service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Wednesday, December 9, at the Russon Mortuary Chapel, 295 North Main, Bountiful, with a viewing from 9:30 to 10:45. Please wear masks.
Services will be streamed on Facebook Live @ https://www.facebook.com/russonmortuary
Interment immediately following at Lakeview Memorial Cemetery in Bountiful, Utah.