Joseph “Joe” Barron Rambo Jr., age 82, of Hollister, Missouri.

Joseph “Joe” Barron Rambo Jr., age 82, of Hollister, Missouri, passed away March 3, 2022, at his home with family nearby. He entered this life November 14, 1939, in Tullos, Louisiana, the son of Joseph Rambo Sr. and Grace Edith (Nugent) Rambo. Joe is preceded in death by his parents; five siblings; and a grandson, Joshyua Rambo. He was joined in marriage May 31, 1987, to Deidre “Deb” Diane Fleming.

Proudly serving our country in the United States Air Force, Joe was in during Korea and stationed in North Little Rock, Arkansas during integration. With his people skills, he spent his career in sales—electronics, appliances, horses, etc. He mentored many young men and women in the Rent to Own business and positively impacted the lives of so many. Known as Captain Rambo, first as a private pilot and then as a Certified Coast Guard Captain, Joe operated an offshore fishing business for 20 years. Joe’s adventurous spirit was showcased when he was offshore fishing, riding roller coasters, skydiving, driving fast cars and tractors, training race horses and handling emus and ostriches, and gambling. He loved and lived for his family as much as he loved thrill seeking.  Joe was quick with a quip, always with a saying and a smile, and could be recognized from afar by his infectious whistle. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Joe is survived by his wife of nearly 37 years, Deidre “Deb” Rambo; three sons: Tanner (Patrick) Rambo of Kirbyville, Missouri, Clint (Dawn) Rambo of New Iberia, Louisiana, and Joseph III (Melinda) Rambo of Cushing, Texas; seven grandchildren: Joseph IV (Kaicie), Bryt, Nakyshia (Jon), Cheyenne (Graham),  Jenna (Drew), Tiffany, and Haili (Ryan),  eight great-grandchildren: Kaylyn (Sean), Jake, Melody, Aryia, Sebastian, Samson, Leyla, and Joah; a sister, Marshelia Rambo; as well as several nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held at Cremations of the Ozarks, Friday, March 11, 2022, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. before being escorted by the Patriot Guard to Missouri Veterans Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri. At 12:00 noon, he will be inurned with full military honors. Joe had a heart for the work and children of St. Jude. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Research Hospital (www.stjude.org). Arrangements and cremation are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks. To leave an online condolence, please visit www.cremationsoftheozarks.com.