John Edward Cira

Cira, John Edward, of Hazelwood, MO, died on Friday, August 25, 2017, at the age of 72. Loving husband of Karen Cira; beloved son of the late Anthony and Mary Cira; devoted father of Tina (Michael) Olsen and Tara (Matt) Edsall and step-son, Jason (Janae) Gittemeier; cherished grandfather of Brandon Roach, Kori Roach, Logan Roach, Victoria Edsall, Jonathan Edsall, Leo Gittemeier, and Tristan Gittemeier; dear brother of Rosemary (Walter) Hogan, Antionette (Fritz) Blandford, Anthony (Jana) Cira, and Salvatore (Debby) Cira. John is also survived by his dog Midnight and was a loving uncle, cousin and friend to many.

John proudly served his country in the United States Air Force from August 1962 until he was honorably discharged at the rank of Airman First Class in August 1966. John received an Associate’s Degree, Bachelor of Arts, Master of Science Administration and was a graduate of the FBI National Academy.

After serving the St. Louis County Police Department for three years, John began employment with the Hazelwood Police Department in 1970. John’s climb up the promotional ladder was a testament to his abilities and dedication having been promoted through the ranks and retired as Major of the Hazelwood Police Department.

John served on the Missouri Law Enforcement Torch Run Committee to raise funds for the Special Olympics and subsequently received the John Michael Letz Award for his dedicated service.

John was active in the community having served as President of St. Martin De Porres Athletic Association, Former President of Parish Council of St. Martin De Porres, Youth Director of the Knights of Columbus Fatima Council, Chairman of the CYC, Florissant District, President of the Regional FBI National Academy and was current President of IPC Don Bosco Boys Club. John enjoyed his retirement spending time at the lake with his wife, children, grandchildren and friends. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

Memorials may be made to Special Olympics of Missouri.