Jeffrey Castle Churan, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and community pillar, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 22nd, 2024, in Chillicothe, Missouri. He was 83 years old. Born on May 21st, 1941, in the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, Jeffrey was a man who lived passionately and left an indelible mark on everyone he encountered.
Jeffrey graduated from the University of Missouri, earning a degree in Civil Engineering in 1963. His career was defined by his dedicated service at Irvinbilt Construction, where he rose to the esteemed positions of President and CEO. Jeffrey’s leadership and commitment to excellence inspired many in the field.
His love for the great outdoors was apparent in his tireless work with Ducks Unlimited, an organization he cherished. As Senior Vice President and a founding member of the local chapter, he played a significant role in conserving wildlife, a passion further illustrated by his appointment as Missouri Department of Conservation Commissioner by Governor Kit Bond. Jeffrey also served on the Board of the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation, dedicating his efforts to preserving Missouri’s natural beauty for future generations.
Jeffrey is survived by his devoted wife, Janet, of the home; his children, Cindy Kodama of Honolulu, Hawaii, Greg Churan and wife, Jennie of Little Rock, Arkansas, and John Churan of Chillicothe, Missouri; and his cherished grandchildren, Camille Kodama, Riley Churan, Lilly Churan, Luke Churan, Cal Kodama, and Jake Churan. He also leaves behind two great-grandchildren, Tate and Leila. Jeffrey was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Lynne Frey.
A memorial service to honor Jeffrey’s life will be held on Saturday, November 30, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at the headquarters of the Fountain Grove Conservation Area in Meadville, Missouri, a setting that perfectly reflects his enduring love for nature and conservation.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made in Jeffrey’s memory to the Grand River Area Ducks Unlimited Chapter or the Missouri Conservation Heritage Foundation. These contributions will help to continue his legacy of environmental stewardship and conservation efforts. They may be mailed to or left at Lindley Funeral Home, PO Box 47, Chillicothe, Missouri, 64601. Online condolences may be made at www.lindleyfuneralhome.com.
Arrangements are under the direction of Lindley Funeral Home, Chillicothe, Missouri.
As we bid farewell to Jeffrey, we remember him for the profound impact he had on his family, friends, and the conservation community. His legacy of kindness, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to preserving the natural world will continue to inspire us all.
