John Rufus Messmer, 80, formerly of Kannapolis, died Jan. 1, 2007, at the Hefner VA Medical Center, Salisbury, after many years of declining health.

Born Oct. 28, 1926, in Cabarrus County, Mr. Messmer was a son of the late Walker Leo and Mary Davis Messmer.

He served in the U.S. Army during World War II and retired after 45 years with Cannon Mills, in Plant 1 and Plant 4 in No. 3 Weave Room.

He was a Baptist and enjoyed walking from his former home on V-8 Street into town almost every day.

His son, Dennis Wayne Messmer, died Sept. 9, 2001.

Survivors include daughters Deborah Victory, China Grove, and Donna Nicholson, Salisbury; six grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

A service was held Friday (Jan. 5, 2007) at Whitley’s Funeral Home, conducted by the Rev. Gene Edwards. Burial, Carolina Memorial Park.