Dr. J.J. Tune, John James Tune Sr.

Dr. John James Tune was born on March 17, 1949, in Salem, Missouri, to Clark Norman “Bucky” and Mary Lorayne (Reddick) Tune. He entered into eternal rest May 31, 2024, in Rolla, Missouri, at the age of seventy-five years. Whether you called him Dad, John, Jay, J.J., or Doc, you knew him as a man of kindness, humility, strength, and independence. John was the proud father of two children: Jennifer and John Jr. At a young age he started farming and working cattle while growing up on the family farm. John graduated with the class of 1967 from Salem High School. At the age of sixteen, he was the youngest to be admitted and further his education with the University of Missouri - Columbia. John obtained his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine, was the youngest to graduate, and graduated Magna Cum Laude. John then spent over sixty years practicing veterinary medicine in his hometown where he cultivated many life-long friendships. John started his veterinary career working for Dr. Weaver in 1965, he owned and operated Dent County Veterinary Clinic until he sold it in 2022, and in 2023 he joined South Central Vet Clinic team. Although he had a love for all animals, he had a special love for large animals, and enjoyed home farm visits. John also played a major role with the animal shelter. John was a natural historian, avid researcher and collector of fine antiques, and poetry lover. He was intelligent, well-educated on many topics, and loved sharing his knowledge with others. For several years, he taught biological and physical science classes at SBU. Throughout his lifetime, John touched and educated the lives of many. John was co-owner of Dent County Memorial Chapel for several years. He had a heart of serving, wanted the best for the community, and has served on many committees throughout the years. He was a board member at Salem Memorial District Hospital, former Second District County Commissioner, serving nearly ten years and, and former Mayor serving from 2014-2018. John was a dedicated and supporting Freemason. In 2007, John was conferred as a Master Mason in Equality Lodge #497, and was a Past Master, he also became a member of the Salem Lodge #225 as was a Past Master, upon consolidation of Equality Lodge with Rolla Lodge #213 the Rolla Lodge became his home lodge. On September 2, 2009, he was appointed by the Grand Lodge to the position of District Deputy Grand Lecturer of the 29th Masonic District where he served in that position for eleven years, ending on September 22, 2020. Above all else, John was a man of deep faith who loved the Lord. His strong belief in God was evident in the way he lived his life. John was an ordained elder of the Salem Christian Church where he has been a member for sixty-two years. He has also served as a Sunday School Teacher. John is survived by his daughter: Jennifer Fenwick and husband Richard of Salem, MO; son: John Tune Jr. of St. Louis, MO; sisters: Sharon Redmond and husband Denny and Becky Marak; in addition to his most special friends, he was loved by many. Preceding him in death were his parents: Bucky and Lorayne Tune; and his brother: Thomas Tune. John will be remembered as a well-respected veterinarian and member of the Dent County Community. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him. Masonic Services for Dr. John James Tune were held Tuesday, June 4, 2024, in the Wilson Mortuary Salem Chapel. Funeral Services were held Wednesday, June 5, 2024, at the Salem Christian Church with Benjamin Butler and Billy Miller officiating. Song selection played was “Beulah Land”. Serving as Pallbearers were Richard Ferranto, Benjamin Butler, Keith Inman, Bobby Welch, Ed Fleetwood Sr., and David Watkins Sr. Honorary Pallbearers were Josh Cartwright, Sandy Ball, Martin Terry, Jim Heavin, Clay Lindsay. Burial was in the Cedar Grove Cemetery. Arrangements were under the direction of Wilson Mortuary of Salem, Missouri. In lieu of flowers, Memorial Contributions may be made in memory of J.J. Tune to the Masonic Lodge #225 and left with Wilson Mortuary or mailed to the Salem Masonic Lodge #225 at PO Box 486 Salem, MO 65560. Memorial Envelopes will be available. Online Condolences may be left at www.wilsonmortuary.com

Dr. J.J. Tune, John James Tune Sr.

March 17, 1949 - May 31, 2024