John Jay Rees

John Jay Rees, age 40, of Paola, Kansas passed away April 21, 2020 at Olathe Medical Center. John was born August 8, 1979 in Ottumwa, Iowa. In 1991, he became a resident at Lakemary in Paola. While at Lakemary, John earned his high school diploma and met his forever family. John went on to work in assembly work at Lakemary. John enjoyed watching movies, especially comedies, riding his bike and an occasional spontaneous road trip! He was an avid sports fan, but particularly the KC Chiefs; a love potentially influenced by his close relationship with his physical therapist who was also a Chiefs' Cheerleader. John lived his life to the fullest! Instead of just a birthday, he often planned for himself a birthday week filled with several celebrations and lunch dates with family and/or friends. John possessed a quick wit and great sense of humor. John was highly independent and determined. If he set his mind to something, he would go to creative lengths to get it done. John never complained, but accepted each new challenge with grace. John's greatest treasures in life were the relationships he developed along the way. His family and friends were very important to him. He was a simple man who didn't ask for much, but his greatest pastime was just to spend time with those he loved. John's love was unconditional and he always had a hug to spare! John was preceded in death by his sister Jessica Elmquist. He is survived by his parents Gary and Tracy Price of Osawatomie; his sister Chassi Melte of Lane; his brother Shaun Melte of Osawatomie; his grandmother Freda Miller of Goodrich; many nieces, nephews, and other relatives; as well as his Lakemary family and friends. John will be lying in state from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., Monday, April 27, 2020 at Dengel & Son Mortuary, 305 N. Pearl Street, Paola, KS, 66071. Private services will follow with burial in Goodrich Cemetery. Memorial contributions are to Lakemary and can be sent in care of the funeral home. Family and friends are encouraged to post their memories and condolences on John's tribute wall at www.dengelmortuary.com.