Dr. John Casper Deam, or “Doc” as he came to be known, and loved by so many, passed away January 10th, 2024, at the ripe olé age of ninety-two years. He had been residing at The Ridge, an assisted living facility in Salt Lake City, Utah.
John is survived by his 3 sons, Scott, Chris and Brett Deam, all of whom reside in Junction City Ks., and his daughter, Susan Deam Wright, who lives in Salt Lake City, Utah. John also has 8 grandchildren: Lake, Brett, Johnathon, Jordan, Breanna, Joshua, Kealee, and Braden. John is preceded in death by his wife, Jeannette “Kaye” Weaver Deam, his beloved high school sweetheart, of whom he was married to for 64 years!
John was born in Manhattan, Kansas on November 26th, 1931, to Paul and Elsie Deam. John was the youngest, and last living among his 7 siblings. John had a passion for sports and supported his alumni KSU football team. However, he too was quite an athlete in his time. Graduating from high school in 1950, he earned the honor of All-State for football. He also played varsity tennis for K-State University, until his doctoral of Veterinary studies demanded more of his time (for study). However, he did coach his daughter in tennis who later earned a scholarship for collegiate and national play. Displaying his athleticism, John, at the age of 45 years, took up an interest in archery, and after just one year of training he won State in the Men's Freestyle Championships.
John graduated from Kansas State University in May of 1956, with a Doctorate in Veterinarian Medicine. Prior to his veterinarian practice however, John served from 1956-1961 in the U.S. Army, he served as a Captain in the Veterinarian Corps. He often talked fondly of his years in the service. Upon leaving military service John set up his veterinary practice - The Junction City Animal Hospital- in Junction City, KS. Thereby becoming known as the beloved “Doc”. John, rightly so, spoke proudly of the years he spent as the veterinarian for “Chief”. Chief was the last living horse from the Calvary, whom now even has its own statue on Ft. Riley, Ks. John loved his years as both a large and small animal doctor and would often take his children with him on “country calls”.
John was also an avid recreational hunter, and each of his boys has fond memories of hunting or fishing trips they took with their father. John and his wife Kaye also owned and operated Thunderbird Marina at Milford Lake from 1980 to 2016. Over the years they provided for the establishment of campsites, cabins, fishing, beaches, etc. and the making of fond memories for families and people of all ages to enjoy a recreational stay at the lake.
A Celebration of Life is scheduled for Friday, June 21 from 6-8pm at John and Kayes’ prior family residence. Come share your sentiments and stories about our “Doc”.