John Irving

John A. Irving, of Florissant, MO, passed away Tuesday, February 14, 2023 at the age of 89. He was born on January 2, 1934 in Brooklyn, New York to John and Mary Irving. He was the dear brother of Joseph (Cathy) Irving, the late Alice Kaminski, the late Mary Enders, the late Frances Dwyer, the late Bernadette Larson, the late Robert Irving and the late Daniel Irving; treasured uncle of Teresa Rogers, Debra Eddington, Frank (Barb) Larson, Paul (Marsha) Larson, Patrick (Emily) Larson, countless nieces, great nieces, nephews, great nephews, and dear friend to so many, scattered from the East to the West coast. John also left behind his beloved feline boys, Nathan and Tommy. They were the light and loves of his daily life.

After graduation from James Madison High School in New York, John proudly served in the United States army from 1952 until his honorable discharge in 1958. He went on to earn his Master's degree from the University of Michigan in 1961. He lived in California for a few years,  then moved to St Louis Missouri where he taught Science, Biology, and Chemistry at Jennings High School for 30 years. He never stopped learning. He took multiple continuing education courses throughout his career and beyond, spanning from 1961 through 1997. After retiring from the school district in 1992, John worked for Monsanto Chemical Company from 1993-1997 as a Research Associate. He then became a tutor for the Special School District, teaching and supporting at-risk students for a number of years.

John loved opera and classical music. He enjoyed a lifetime of travel across the nation visiting family and friends, but his favorite place was always Virginia Beach. He loved the outdoors and nature. Health, nutrition and excersise were John's priorities for most of his life. He spent years regularly walking the banks of Spanish Lake, and later after moving from Spanish Lake to Florissant, he continued his daily walks around St Ferdinand Park.

John was a member of The Metropolitan Opera, National Geographic, Humane Society, Open Door Sanctuary, PBS, Fraternal Order of Eagles and Missouri Retired Teachers Association.

John was dealy loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

The family is planning a Celebration of Life luncheon, details to be announced at a later date.

Memorials may be made in John's name to Open Door Sanctuary or Salvation Army.