Ken Meyer, a successful local businessman, philanthropist, and long-time supporter of Missouri State University, including the MSU Libraries, passed away earlier this week. He was 94 years old. 

He was born in October of 1927 near tiny Hoberg in Lawrence County, Missouri. As an adult, Mr. Meyer transitioned the family farm to grapes as the principal crop, which resulted in Meyer Farms Wine. 

Meyer graduated from Missouri State University in 1950 with a degree in business education. He became a lifelong supporter of MSU. The Jane A. Meyer Carillon near Duane G. Meyer Library was built to honor Ken’s wife, who loved music. MSU’s Kenneth E. Meyer Alumni Center was named for him. Both Ken and Jane were avid supporters of various athletic teams, especially the St. Louis Cardinals and the MSU Lady Bears Basketball Team. 

Jane Meyer passed in February 2002. In 2005 the Missouri House of Representatives awarded Ken Meyer the Outstanding Missourian Award. In 2020 Zimmer Communications, another Missouri broadcast corporation, acquired Meyer Communications. 

In March of 2015 Tom Peters, Dean of Library Services at MSU, conducted an oral history interview with Mr. Meyer. 

Rest in peace, Mr. Meyer, and thank you for your exemplary public affairs efforts and accomplishments.