John Polson Gerdel, Jr., age 77, of Branson, Missouri.

John Polson Gerdel, Jr., age 77, of Branson, Missouri, passed away surrounded by family on July 10, 2022. He entered this life on June 27, 1945, the son of John “Jack” and Carol (Chittendon) Gerdel in Kansas City, Kansas. John was joined in marriage to Janna Hickman on November 27, 1982. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Phillip; and stepdad, Al Gerdel.

John proudly served his country in the United States Navy Air Reserve. A talented wordsmith, John published many stories and spent over thirty years working for a variety of newspapers in both Texas and Kansas. After he retired, he joined his wife as a clown. John “Corny the Clown” was skilled with creating balloon animals, preforming magic tricks, and being the life of the party. He was in a clown club in the Branson area for over ten years. John enjoyed fishing, hunting, and firearms. He was a humorous, “pun-ster”, and the worst joke teller. John was able to brighten many lives in his 77 years, but those who knew him best will treasure the memories and laughs that they have shared.

He is survived by his wife of 39 years, Janna Gerdel of Branson, Missouri; son, David (Gina) Gerdel of Independence, Missouri; daughter, Rebecca (Chad) Gerdel Balliet of Nixa, Missouri; beloved Shih Tzu, SuSu; sister, Barbara (Bill) Steen of Raymore, Missouri; brother, Doug (Patti) Gerdel of Topeka, Kansas; and various cousins, nieces, and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday August 13, 2022, at Cremations of the Ozarks, 115 Industrial Park Dr., Hollister, Missouri 65672, with visitation starting at 4:00 p.m. and service starting at 5:00 p.m., Reverend Michael Carlton will be officiating. Service and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.