GALENA — Jack D. Armstrong, 83, of Galena departed this life Jan. 1, 2013, at 2:20 a.m., with his two eldest grandsons by his side. He had been in ill health for several months.

He was born on Dec. 21, 1929, in Wichita to Floyd and Grace Armstrong. He lived his entire life in Kansas, going to school in Fredonia and Coyville.

He lived in Coffeyville as a young man, where he met his wife Marie Cook. They were married May 5, 1948. To this union, three children were born.

He was a livestock dealer his entire life and retired in 2000. They lived in Chetopa many years and moved to Galena in 1979.

He leaves behind his wife of 64 years; two daughters, Connie Ernest and her husband, Jerry, of Carl Junction, Mo., and Vickie Meadows and her husband, Larry, of Republic, Mo.; a son, Mark Armstrong of Galena and his wife, Marla, of Aurora, Mo.; eight grandchildren; two stepgrandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; nine stepgreat-grandchildren; and four great-great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a granddaughter.

The family will have a celebration of his life in the spring.

Mason-Woodard Mortuary & Crematory, Joplin, is in charge of arrangements.

Condolence cards may be sent to the family in care of the funeral home.