James P. Kelemetc, 82, of Columbia, died July 4, 2024, at Missouri Baptist Hospital, Town and Country, Mo. He was born March 3, 1942, in East St. Louis.

James worked as a metal trader for over 40 years and retired from Metal Exchange. He loved to go fishing and enjoyed bird watching, as well as spending time with his cats, Mattie and Gouda. He also enjoyed a good Western movie and watching many sports, including soccer. 

James honorably served his country in the United States Army and was a Vietnam veteran. James was a member of the American Legion Post 581 and the Knights of Columbus 6165.

Surviving are his children, Michelle (Nicholes) Allred of O’Fallon, Mo., Stephanie (Steven) Vehige of St. Charles, Mo., Scott (Gina) Kelemetc of Waterloo, Pam (Craig) Unger of Germantown, Tenn., and Sara Kelemetc (John Frye) of Columbia; grandchildren, Reily and Abby, Nora and Samuel, Natalie, Payton, Connor and Mollie, Emma, Ellen, and Eden; along with other relatives and friends; and expecting first great-grandchild this October.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife Margaret “Peggy” Kelemetc, parents, John and Anna (Zajac) Kelemetc and brothers David and Gerald Kelemetc.

Visitation is 4-8 p.m. July 11 at Leesman Funeral Home, Columbia, and 9-10 a.m. July 12 at Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, Columbia. 

Funeral Mass will be celebrated following visitation at the church with Fr. Carl officiating. 

Interment will be in the Immaculate Conception Cemetery, Columbia. 

In lieu of customary remembrances, the family requests with gratitude that memorial contributions be directed to: Immaculate Conception Church, Columbia; or American Diabetes Association.