Kensinger, Dale Paul of Newton, MA, formerly of Raytown, MO (January 15, 2020), age 78
Beloved husband of Jeannette (Pollard) for 46 years, devoted father of Elizabeth (Jon), loving grandfather of Juliet, uncle to Pam, Paul, John Donna) Schwarm and Linda (Dave) Yelen. He is preceded in death by his sister and brother-in law, Betty (Al) Schwarm.
Dale was born on June 1, 1941 in Bakers’ Summit, PA, to the late Paul and Mabel Kensinger. He attended Morrison Cove High School, Juniata College, and the University of Pennsylvania Law School. He served as a Captain during the Vietnam War in the Air Force JAG Core at the Strategic Air Command (SAC) Offutt Air Force Base in Bellevue, NE. He worked for the Department of Treasury in Washington, D.C. and in Kansas City, MO. After his retirement, he became the inaugural director of the Low Income Tax Clinic at the University of Missouri, Kansas City. Later, when he moved to Newton, he volunteered weekly at the Tax Clinic at the Legal Services Center of Harvard Law School in Jamaica Plain, MA. He was a 2018 recipient of the ABA Tax Section Janet Spragens Pro Bono Award.
Dale was an avid reader, American history buff, lover of classical music, and baseball enthusiast. He enjoyed visiting different parts of the United States and savored time outdoors, whether working in the yard, reading on the porch, or taking his granddaughter to local parks, farms, and wildlife sanctuaries.
Funeral services will be held at 10am on Thurs Jan 23 at the Church of St Ignatius of Loyola, 28 Commonwealth Ave., Chestnut Hill, MA.
Raytown has lost one of the best this week. He will be greatly missed. Below are photos of Randy covering the Martin Luthor King celebration, a political event and the Raytown Fishing Derby.
The known details of his passing are at the end of this article in a copy of the police report.
Randy Battagler
On 08/23/17 around 9:54 AM, officers were dispatched to the 5200 block of Blue Ridge Blvd., regarding a motor vehicle crash. Upon arriving the officers observed that only one pickup truck was involved and that the crash appeared to be minor. It was discovered that the driver of the pickup truck appeared to have suffered a medical emergency, causing the crash. Officers discovered that the driver was not breathing and CPR was initiated. The driver of the pickup truck, identified as Randall Battagler, a 65 years old man, of Raytown was transported to an area hospital where he later died.
Raytown has lost one of the Best, Steve Mock. His dedication to community service was unmatched. From sitting on the Board of Aldermen, and various City committees, to working for REAP and other local charities. Mr. Mock was a rock of stability on the Board of Alderman, the Best Egg-Fest Bunny in costume for the children and humble enough to patrol our streets and highways for litter.
Steve spent his life working to make Raytown a better place and he will be sorely missed.
Aldermen Steve Mock and Joe Creamer
Ward 5 aldreman Steve Mock and daughter
Alderman Steve Mock and Chamber President Vicki Turnbow
Erma Keeton, 82, Raytown, MO passed away May 11, 2015 at Wilshire at Lakewood. A visitation will be held 6-7:30 PM, Friday, May 15, at Heartland, 6113 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 64133. Funeral services will held 10:00 AM, Saturday, May 16, also at the funeral home. Burial will follow immediately at Brooking Cemetery.
Erma was born December 1, 1932 in El Dorado, AR to Bo and Polly Lansdale. She went on to graduate from El Dorado High School. She was a member of the Eastern Star, she worked as a bookkeeper and retired from Clark’s Appliance in Raytown. She was an avid reader and Royals Fan.
Erma was preceded in death by her husband Millard Ray Keeton, her parents, and special uncle and aunt, Billy and Mary Helen Barnes.
She leaves behind her 3 children; Steven Ray (Camille) Keeton, Sheila Jo Keeton, Carol (Rick) Pulliam, grandchildren; Suzie, Joshua, Michelle and Crystal, 10 great grandchildren and 3 great-great grandchildren.
Stephen H. Mayhew, 41, Kansas City, MO passed away unexpectedly Feb. 27, 2015. A memorial service will begin at 1 pm, Sat., March 7 at the First United Methodist Church of Independence, 400 West Maple Avenue, Independence, MO 64050 followed by a Celebration of Life Party in the Fellowship Hall of the church. In lieu of flowers the family requests contributions made out to: Stephen Mayhew Memorial. Please mail to CACU, 1800 S. Outer Rd, Blue Springs, MO 64015 Attn: Joanne Slone. Stephen was born Dec. 6, 1973 in Kansas City, MO and graduated from Raytown High School in the Class of 1992. He was very active in school with Drama, Theater, Cross Country, Track, Boys State, Honors Society and Key Club. He worked many years for Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions. He had a passion for cooking and entertaining, but most all he loved his daughter Makayla. As an Eagle Scout, he was a Warrior in the Tribe of Mic-O-Say and his name was “Brother of Mighty Swift-Flying Bald Eagle.” Stephen was an organ donor which gave many others a second chance to live. He is survived by his daughter Makayla Mayhew; his parents Roger and Claretta Mayhew; brother Rick Mayhew and wife Dawne, all of Kansas City, MO; grandmother Zetta Tannahill; aunt Sue Snow, both of Independence, MO; uncle Allan Tannahill and wife Brenda, Normal, IL and many other family members. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com
Geraldine (Geri) Gorman, 87, of Independence, MO, passed away on Feb. 8, 2015. “Been there, done that, movin’ on.” She married Frank L. Gorman Jan 29, 1947, and later joined St. Louis Catholic Church Parish. Always wanting a large family, they were blessed with 4 sons and 1 daughter; Frank passed suddenly June 27, 1990. Making many friends throughout her lifetime, she was awarded the Bishop’s Honoree at St. Bernadette’s Catholic Church in 1977. Later in life, she met Gerald Smith, married and enjoyed 18 years together. Survivors include husband Gerald Smith; daughter Rose (Bob) Wienke, son Robert (Betty) Gorman, grandchildren Jessica Lewallen, Natalie (Nick) Burris, Kelly (Corey) Ballew, Alana (Shaun) Lehman, Desiree’ Wienke, Michael Gorman, Logan Gorman; 7 great-grandkids and another on the way; 2 sisters-in-law, 1 brother-in-law, and an abundance of nieces, nephews, and cousins. Proceeded by parents, Charles and Mable Troutman, sisters Geneva Graham and Delena Troutman; sons Michael Gorman, Patrick Gorman, Bruce Gorman; granddaughter Keri Anne. Services held at St. Mark’s Catholic Church 3736 S. Lee’s Summit Rd. Independence, MO 64055. Visitation on Thursday Feb 12. 6-9pm. Funeral Friday Feb 13 at 10am. In lieu of flowers, she requests an act of kindness be made on her behalf. She will always be remembered. ?(Arr. Missouri Funeral Care 816-353-1700)
Lee Gray passed away on Friday, Jan. 30th of cancer. He edited and published the Raytown Post for 16 years in Raytown. His career in journalism spanned 36 years and included teaching the subject at both Oklahoma State University and Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Mo. After selling his newspaper, he briefly published an online blog about Raytown called Real Raytown in 2006.
Photos of Lee Gray from the last meeting he chaired for the 2006 Raytown Charter Commission
The Raytown School District is sad to announce the passing of Mr. Brian Blankenship, Associate Superintendent of Operations. Mr. Blankenship was an individual who valued family and co-workers and made each of us feel we were important not only to him but to the district and our public. We have an overwhelming sense of loss today, and we ask for your kind thoughts for his family. Mr. Blankenship is survived by his wife, his two daughters, his mother, a host of extended family members, and a school district full of admirers. Arrangements are pending.
Werner Lindy Laval, was born August 26, 1928 in Kansas City, Missouri; he passed away at home in Raytown on July 27, 2014 following a brief illness. The youngest of five children, Lindy was the son of Louis and Hedwig (Siegrist) Laval. He graduated from Paseo High School, and from November 1950 through August 1952, honorably served as a Sergeant in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict. He returned to civilian life as a plasterer’s apprentice and made plastering his lifelong career. He leaves a legacy of fine craftsmanship in commercial buildings and residences throughout the Kansas City area. At his leisure, Lindy enjoyed attending barbeque competitions, league bowling, and golf. He made a hole-in-one at the Teetering Rocks Golf Course on July 25, 1992. Lindy was a member of the First Baptist Church of Raytown for 54 years. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Louis, James and Calvin; sister Mignon Russell and a son, Kevin. Lindy is survived by Helen, his wife of 60 years; son, Kyle; daughter, Denise (Edward) Hilligoss; granddaughters, Emily (Cassady) Hilligoss-Toles, Elizabeth Hilligoss and Carrie (Ezra) Firestone. There will be a visitation from 10:00-11:00 AM, Friday, August 1, 2014 at Missouri Funeral Care, 6113 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 64133, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM. Graveside services will be held after the funeral at Memorial Park Cemetery in Kansas City. In lieu of flowers the family suggests charitable donations to The City Union Mission, The Salvation Army, St. Luke’s Hospice, or a charity of your choice. (Arr. Missouri Funeral Care 816-353-1700)
Wanda Robb Means, Raytown, MO departed her earthly home July 15, 2014. Cremation. Graveside services will be held at Riverside Cemetery, Warsaw, MO on Saturday, July 26, 2014 at 12:30 PM. Wanda was born July 3, 1925 on a farm near Warsaw, MO, now known as the Hilti Quarries. She attended Warsaw High School, and CMSU in Warrensburg, MO where she received her teacher’s certificate. While there she met and married Efton L. Means. Both taught school in the Warsaw area before moving to KC. Three children were born to this union: G. Robb Means, Tamara A. Johnson, and Kimber L. Means. Survivors include her daughters, Tamara A. Johnson (Claude) Independence, MO, Kimber L. Means, Sapulpa OK; daughter-in-law, Margery Means, Plymouth Mtg., PA; eight special grandchildren, Justin Johnson (Jessie), Michael Johnson (Meagan), James Fowler (Tammy), Steven Fowler (Jennifer), Jackie Means, Samuel Means, Natalie Means, Truman Means; ten special great grandchildren, Ashley, Tyler, Vincent, Ireland, Taylor, Lindsey, Shane, Keagen, D.J., Braxten; and her beloved four-legged companion, Sally. She was preceded in death by her husband, Efton L. Means; son, G. Robb Means; and infant grandchild, Sara Margaret Means; and her four-legged companions, Hilde, Tilly and ME. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Wayside Waifs. “From Womb to Tomb is but a stride; but God’s great scheme is clever. To each heart he meets, so many beats; But the soul goes on forever.”
Dean Droegemeier, 83, formerly of Raytown, MO, passed away July 10, 2014. A visitation will be held 10 AM, Saturday, July 19, 2014 at Missouri Funeral Care, 6113 Blue Ridge Blvd., Raytown, MO 64133, followed by a memorial service at 10:30 AM. Inurnment will be held 3:00 PM, Saturday July 19, 2014, at Trinity Lutheran Cemetery in Norborne, MO. Dean was born August 8, 1930 in Ellsworth, KS to Harold and EllanorDroegemeier, whom both precede him in death. Dean married Emily ‘Jane’ on January 2, 1957. Dean was a veteran of the US Navy, a Raytown resident for 53 years and a letter carrier for the US Postal Service for 31 years. Recently he resided at the Shirkey Nursing and Rehab Center in Richmond, MO. Dean was preceded in death by his wife in 1995, his siblings: Arthur Droegemeier, Earl ‘Jack’ Droegemeier, Thelma Lange, and Virginia Perry. He is survived by step-son and wife; Dr. Paul and De Ette Mace of St. Louis, step-daughter and husband Cindy and Kurt Beckemeier of Hardin, MO, grandchildren; Kaelen Mace of Portland, OR, Karl (Nickol) Beckemeier of Independence, Eric (Tamara) Beckemeier and their daughter Emma Ann of Raytown, MO, a sister-in-law Freda Droegemeier of Tucson, AZ, many nieces and nephews, and kind and loving friend, Ann MacLachlan of Lake Stevens, WA. Memorials are asked to The Norborne Trinity Lutheran Church (Cemetery Fund), Shirkey Nursing & Rehab Center in Richmond, or Shirkey Hospice and Palliative Care in Richmond. (Arr. Heartland 816-313-1677)
Jerald A. Graybill, Age 65, passed away on Monday, June 23, 2014 surrounded by his children. Jerry was born on October 7, 1948 and resided in the Kansas City area his entire life. He graduated from Raytown South High School in 1966. Jerry served in the US Navy from 1967 to 1970 volunteering for two tours in Vietnam aboard the USS Sanctuary hospital ship. Upon returning to the states, Jerry worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone in various positions and retired in 2002 as a cable splicing technician. Jerry was predeceased by his dad, Ralph Graybill. Survivors include his mother, Bernice Graybill, Raytown; daughters Brooke Graybill, Lee’s Summit; Ashley Graybill, Oak Grove; sons Marshall Graybill, Lee’s Summit; Cody Graybill (Nichole), Kansas City; brother, Jim Graybill (Sandi), Lee’s Summit; sister Patti Wynn (Mike), Edmond, OK; and five grandchildren Myron, Jackson, Tyson, Clayton and Madison. Jerry loved all types of music, but especially jazz and blues, and had many friends in the jazz community in Kansas City. One of his favorite pastimes was listening to KKFI radio.
A memorial service will be held in July on a date and location to be determined. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to non-profit KKFI Community Radio via the website at www.kkfi.org/support/donate-money/ or at KKFI, PO Box 32250, Kansas City, MO 64171. Please note in comments your donation is in memory of Jerry Graybill. (Arr. Heartland Cremation 816-313-1677)
John Luke Kern, 6 years old, of Kearney, MO ran to meet Jesus on May 15, 2014.
John Luke was born on July 13, 2007 to John Patrick and Kimberly G. Kern. He attended kindergarten at Dogwood Elementary and loved school, his classmates and playing all sports, especially baseball. He loved playing outside, playing with his little brother Jackson, and all of his cousins. He was a member of Antioch Bible Baptist Church.
He is survived by his parents and little brother Jackson of the home, grandparents Becky and Gene Werremeyer of Raytown, Patricia and John L. Kern of Kearney, and by aunts, uncles, cousins, and many loving extended family members and friends.
Visitation was held on Monday, May 19, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Kearney, MO. A Celebration of Life was held on Tuesday, May 20 at 10:00 a.m., First Baptist Church, Kearney, MO.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care-Carousel Program or the Kearney School District Education Foundation-Dogwood Elementary.
Arrangements: Fry-Bross & Spidle Funeral Home 816-628-4411
John Luke Kern, 6 years old, of Kearney, MO ran to meet Jesus on May 15, 2014.
John Luke was born on July 13, 2007 to John Patrick and Kimberly G. Kern. He attended kindergarten at Dogwood Elementary and loved school, his classmates and playing all sports, especially baseball. He loved playing outside, playing with his little brother Jackson, and all of his cousins. He was a member of Antioch Bible Baptist Church.
He is survived by his parents and little brother Jackson of the home, grandparents Becky and Gene Werremeyer of Raytown, Patricia and John L. Kern of Kearney, and by aunts, uncles, cousins, and many loving extended family members and friends.
Visitation will be held on Monday, May 19, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at First Baptist Church, Kearney, MO. A Celebration of Life will be held on Tuesday, May 20 at 10:00 a.m., First Baptist Church, Kearney, MO.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to Kansas City Hospice and Palliative Care-Carousel Program or the Kearney School District Education Foundation-Dogwood Elementary.
Rev. C. Howell (Howie) Bischoff entered his eternal home Wednesday, March 26th, 2014. He was born April 17th, 1927 in Chicago, Illinois. He was called to the ministry when he was only 12 years old and later attended the Chicago Theological Seminary to prepare himself for his life’s work. He married Wahneta Furstenberg in 1951 and they shared their lives until 2008 when she passed away. Grateful for his life are daughters, Angela Clark and Gretchen Schultz, and son, Robin Bischoff. Dawn Melody, a fourth child was a joy to the family in her short life. Grandchildren, Amanda Walker, Andrew Clark, Ethan Schultz, Ryan Schultz, Eric Bischoff, and one great-granddaughter, Ava Walker will miss his presence in their lives.
Howie served United Church of Christ parishes in Iowa, Nebraska and Kansas. He and Wahneta retired in Blue Springs, Missouri in 1993. They remained active in the Ivanhoe United Church of Christ in Raytown, Missouri. Music was an important part of Howie’s life and he sang tenor in choir for many years.
Throughout his life, Howie touched many lives through community service and world mission programs. He was a Mason, provided leadership for the Mental Health Association in Kansas, was on the board of Stepping Stones, supported Cancer Action, Habitat for Humanity, the Heifer Project and many other charities.
His life will be celebrated with a memorial service at 10:00 am Monday, April 7th at Ivanhoe United Church of Christ, 6512 Woodson Road, Raytown, Missouri, 64133. Graveside services will be at 2:00 pm the following day, Tuesday, April 8th at the Highland Cemetery in Junction City, Kansas. Memorial contributions to the mission programs of the United Church of Christ would be greatly appreciated.
Warren John Olson, 89, of Raytown, MO passed away Dec. 4, 2013. Visitation 6-8pm Mon., Dec. 9, 2013 at the McGilley & Sheil Chapel with rosary recited at 7:30pm. Mass of Christian burial 10am Tues. at our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 7009 Blue Ridge, Raytown, MO with interment following in Floral Hills Cemetery.
Warren was born in Minneapolis, MN on June 10, 1924. He served in the Army from 1943-1945 and is a WWII Veteran. After his service he moved to the Kansas City area where he met his future wife Joan Lamberson. They were married October 21, 1950 & together raised their six children. They moved to Raytown in the early 1950s where he was the Alderman for Raytown as well as a Founding Member of Brooking Township. Warren was active in the DAV, VFW, Boy Scout Troop 283 & Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church. He started his career as a milkman with Country Club Dairy, delivering milk door to door and retired after 32 years. He was a member of Teamster 41.
Warren was preceded in death by his parents & a grandson, John Bennett Greenwell II. He is survived by his wife of 64 years, Joan; children, Kathryn Greenwell (John), Patricia Roney (Jack), Bridget Olson, Rita Olson-Stawicki, Warren G. Olson & Theresa Van Baale (Kirk) and grandchildren, Sarah Greenwell & Warren R. Olson.
Warren’s family would like to thank the staff of the KC Veteran Hospital, Veterans Home of Cameron, MO, VA Home & Health and Sister Ann. Warren was himself & was never to be outspoken in Raytown. Heaven has gained one hell of an angel. In lieu of flowers, family suggests memorial contributions to Our Lady of Lourdes Parish. Online condolences to www.mcgilleysheil.com. Arr: McGilley & Sheil Chapel, 11924 E. 47th St., KCMO 64133.
Warren Olson with his wife Joan at a chili fundraiser for Mayor Bower
Melinda Kay Bunyard, age 61 of Blue Springs, passed away June 6, 2013. Visitation Monday, June 10 at 11AM with funeral at 12PM at Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd, KCMO. Burial to follow at Floral Hills East Memorial Gardens, Lee’s Summit. Melinda was born Jan. 31, 1952 in KCMO. She was a beloved wife & best friend of 42 years, mother of 2, lawyer, alderman, & inspiration to many. She is survived by husband James Patrick Bunyard; daughter Cali Elizabeth (Bart) Odom; son James Ryan (Mijeong) Bunyard; grandchildren Rylie, Lilian, Corbin, & Jocelyn; and sisters Jamie Hunnicutt & Lisa Peck.
Condolences for the family may be left at www.floralhillsfuneralhome.com. (Arrangements by DW Newcomer’s Sons Floral Hills Funeral Home, 7000 Blue Ridge Blvd, KCMO, 816- 353-1218) D. W. Newcomer’s Sons Funeral Homes, Cemeteries, Crematories 816-353-1218
Melinda was an Alderman for Ward 3 in the 1990’s. She helped form the Council on Aging and was the first chairperson of that council. She was know for having a quick mind and a good sense of humor.
Iris Miller was involved in making Raytown a better place to live. Her work as Shepherd’s Center of Raytown Executive Director was one of the ways she made a difference in many people’s lives.
Here is a video of Iris addressing the Raytown Board of Aldermen
Memorial service is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 7th–2:00 @ Blue Ridge United Methodist Church–5055 Blue Ridge Blvd.–Raytown, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers–donations can be made to The University of Kansas Hospital Cancer Center and/or Blue Ridge United Methodist Church and/or Shepherd’s Center of Raytown.
Barry L. Clemons passed away last week. Mr. Clemons has been in a coma since his truck was struck by a trailer on K-10 in January near De Soto, Kansas. The trailer broke loose from an eastbound vehicle and struck Mr. Clemons westbound truck.
For more on this click HERE for a LJWorld.com article
Ellen F. (Ditsch) Boecker, 73, of Raytown, MO passed away September 19, 2011. Visitation will be from 6 – 8 PM Friday, September 23rd at McGilley & Sheil Chapel. Rosary will begin at 9:30 AM Saturday, September 24th, followed by the funeral Mass at 10:00 AM at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 8812 E. Gregory, Raytown, MO. Inurnment to follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.
Ellen leaves behind her husband, Paul, & 2 children, Jim Boecker of Menomonie, WI and Anna Yates of Chesterfield, MO along with 5 grandchildren & many friends. Ellen held various part-time jobs while raising her children & worked full time for 16 years at Rediscover.
Raytown has lost a very good person who worked hard for the community. She had a pleasant nature and had the ability to get people of differing views to talk to each other, instead of yelling at each other. That is a rare skill.
“The deep pain that is felt at the death of every friendly soul arises from the feeling that there is in every individual something which is inexpressible, peculiar to him alone, and is, therefore, absolutely and irretrievably lost”. ~Arthur Schopenhauer
Mr. Carson worked for NAACP progressive values for decades, in many cases, long before the rest of the country had adopted these values. He was a lifetime member of the NAACP. He was a groundbreaker in the community. He was the first African American probation officer in Kansas City and one of the early leaders of Freedom Inc.
Mr. Carson worked hard for the NAACP and the community at many levels, from community organizing to regional organizing, from local issues to national issues.
He will be missed.
Bill addressing the 2000 Missouri State Democratic Convention
Visitation will be at 9:00am, Friday Sept. 9th at the Second Baptist Church located at 39th Street and Monroe on the North West corner. The funeral will follow at 11:00am and burial will be at Leavenworth Kansas on Monday.
The video was taken from a longer video covering a fundraiser in Feb. of 2008. The posted version had to be changed, as ever a gentleman, Bill insisted I also identify his friend Opal Cushon in the clip.
Jerald A. 
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