Circuit Judge John Beger announced that Oct. 11 will be his last day in office. Beger, who has served as the circuit judge for the district including Texas County since 2015, is required to retire by the Missouri Constitution due to turning 70.
“For more than 45 years I have endeavored to serve the people of South Central Missouri as a prosecutor, lawyer and for nearly the last 10 years, as a circuit judge. It has been my honor and privilege to do so. South Central Missouri has proven to be a fantastic place for my wife Cindy and I to make our home and raise our family. We have been blessed to live here,” said Beger.
Beger started his career in 1979 as an assistant prosecuting attorney for Phelps County before entering private practice. He later served two terms as elected prosecuting attorney for Phelps County, as well as 10 years as a trustee for the Phelps County Regional Medical Center (Phelps Health) Board of Trustees and 15 years as city counsel for Rolla, Missouri. He was elected three times to the circuit judgeship without opposition.
Beger said he hopes to continue to serve when and where he is needed as a senior circuit judge.
Beger has been married to his wife, Cindy, for 43 years. She is a broker-sales agent for Investment Realty and a co-founder of Ozark Actors Theatre in Rolla, which just concluded its 37th season. She continues to support the program and perform as an actress.
“We have been so blessed to raise our family and make our home here,” said Beger. Beger has two daughters and two grandsons, and attends Ozark Highlands Christian Church, Disciples of Christ.