Michael Jay VanMeter, 53 of Holden, Missouri passed away unexpectedly Sunday, October 27 at home.

Jay was born October 9, 1971 at Menorah Medical Center in Kansas City and was the second Child of Ted & Beth (Doerr) VanMeter.  He grew up on his father's farm in Kingsville, Missouri where he graduated high school in 1990. After school he pursued his own venture in farming.

On September 28 of 1991 Jay married Tracey Christine Gudde, the two spent 33 years together.  During those years they raised their two children, son, Brian Ray and daughter, Aubrey Melissa on the family farm.

Jay was dedicated to farming.  For 17 years he ran VanMeter Dairy with his father, Ted.  In his later years he focused his attention to row crop and raising cattle.  He enjoyed his work, and drinking beer with his friends and family.

Survivors include his wife: Tracey; daughter: Aubrey; and his father: Ted.  Jay is preceded in death by his son: Brian Ray; and mother: Beth.

The family will receive friends from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Friday, November 1st at Williams Funeral Chapel in Holden.  The service will be held 10:30 a.m. Saturday, November 2, at the farm, in the shop, located at 1450 NW 100 Rd. Interment will follow at the Kingsville Cemetery. Pallbearers include Johnny VanMeter, Derrick Pinson, Rick Henry, Justin Correll, Drew Frame, and Chris Hawley. Honorary pallbearers include Gregg VanMeter, Matthew Jennings, Matt VanMeter, John McLennan, Daylon Duncan, and Mark Mallinson.