L. Stuart Vorkink

Dr. L. Stuart Vorkink, 80, of Kirksville, MO passed away at home on July 26, surrounded by his loving family.

Stuart was born to Paul and Beryl Vorkink, on May 4, 1941 in Washington D.C. He was the oldest of 5 children and graduated from high school in Cedar City, UT. While attending Southern Utah University as an undergraduate, he was named the 1965-66 Scholar of the Year and graduated as Co-Valedictorian in 1967. He went on to receive his Doctorate in Political Science from the University of Arizona.

He married Bobette Bauer, the love of his life, in 1964, who survives him. Stuart is also survived by his sons Lee (Janelle) Vorkink, Derek Vorkink and Kevin (Tracy) Vorkink, and daughters Andrea (Rick) Gallaher, Shawna Couch and Kathryn (Matt) Anstine as well as 17 grandchildren: Michaila (Ben) Pettit, Brandon (Briana) Vorkink, Taylor (Cody) Prough, Cameron Lesko, Colton (Rachel) Peavler, Josh Gallaher, Ashton (Kendell) Bushman, Tanisha Danger, Dallin (Gabby) Vorkink, Ethan (Melissa) Vorkink, Brenden Gallaher, Sharra Danger, Sarah Vorkink, Rachel Vorkink, Michael Vorkink, Makenna Vorkink, Corinne Vorkink and 16 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by three sisters Yvonne (Robert) Wood, Marsha (John) Logan, and Evelyn (Joe) Black. Stuart was predeceased by parents Paul and Beryl Vorkink, and brother Bill and wife Gloria Vorkink.

Stuart was known for his love of God, family, teaching and sports. An avid sports fan, he was dedicated to coaching and attending as many games as possible for his children and grandchildren. As a devout member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, he served a mission in Norway followed by many teaching and leadership positions including Bishop of the local congregation. As a professor of Political Science at Truman State University, he shared his passion for learning with countless students over his 35 years career.

A visitation will be held on Friday, July 30th at the Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. A second visitation will be held from 11 a.m. - 12 p.m. prior to funeral services on Saturday, July 31st at 12:30 p.m at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. Burial at Highland Park Cemetery to follow.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that people make donations in support of the Alzheimer's Association.

Arrangements in the care of Davis-Playle-Hudson-Rimer Funeral Home; www.davisplaylehudsonrimer.com.