SGM (Ret) James Franklin Wewer

James Franklin Wewer, the son of Joseph Herman Wewer and Mildred Catherine (Bonderheide) Wewer, was born on June 9, 1938, in Barling, Arkansas. He spent his childhood in Subiaco, Arkansas, and graduated with the Class of 1957 from Paris High School in Paris, Arkansas. Just three months after completing high school, James joined the United States Army. He served faithfully for 29 years, reaching the rank of Sergeant Major. Throughout his distinguished career, James fought in two wars and received numerous awards and commendations, including: National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal with 1 Silver Service Star and 1 Bronze Service Star, Vietnam Campaign Medal, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal-with 1 Oak Leaf Cluster, Vietnam Civil Actions Medal Unit Citation, Army Good Conduct Medal-9th Award, Drill Sergeant Identification Badge, Republic of Vietnam Gallantry Cross Unit Citation with Palm, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon-3d Level, Army Achievement Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon-6th Award, and Sharpshooter Qualification Badge-M16. In 1966, James met Hye Cha Kim, who would become the love of his life. They were married on November 12, 1969, in Seoul, Korea, and together they welcomed their son, Jimmy. James was stationed at Fort Leonard Wood multiple times: first in 1967, then in 1968, 1971, 1978, and 1983. After purchasing their home during his last assignment, he and his family decided to settle in the Waynesville area. After retiring from the Army, James worked at Sellers-Sexton dealership, driving cars for several years. He enjoyed spending his free time trout fishing with military friends and other companions. James was deeply involved in his community, holding membership in several organizations. He was a 33-degree Scottish Rite Mason, belonged to Plato Masonic Lodge #469, and participated in the Joplin Valley of Scottish Rites. Additionally, he was a member of the Disabled American Veterans lodge and the Francis J. Lynch VFW Post #3168. James Franklin Wewer passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, at Phelps Health Hospital in Rolla, Missouri. He was 87 years old. James is survived by his wife, Hye Cha Wewer, and his son, Jimmy Wewer of San Antonio, Texas, as well as several nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends who cherish his memory. He was preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, and one sister. Although James is no longer with us, his dedication to family and country will forever remain in our hearts. Masonic Services were held at 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, April 8, 2026, with a memorial service following in the Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Burial with full military honors followed in the Missouri Veterans Cemetery of Waynesville, MO with military honors being provided by the United States Army of Fort Leonard Wood, MO. Services were under the care and direction of Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert. Memorial contributions may be made in memory of SGM (Ret) James Wewer and may be left at Memorial Chapels and Crematory of Waynesville / St. Robert.

SGM (Ret) James Franklin Wewer

June 9, 1938 - April 1, 2026