Name: Calling hours for WILLIAM GRANTHAM STOWER
Start: 2014-08-05T18:00:00.000Z
End: 2014-08-05T19:00:00.000Z
Location: First Presbyterian Church

William Grantham Stower, 86, Lee's Summit, MO, passed away July 26, 2014. Bill was born to Clinton and Maren Stower in Fargo, North Dakota on February 1, 1928. He graduated from high school in Alli- ance, Ohio in June 1946, and then enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving in the Marine Air Traffic Control through the waning days of WWII and for four additional years. Bill then served in the Marine Corps Reserve during weekends at the Naval Air Station in Olathe, KS, until he re-enlisted in the Marines at the onset of the Korean War, spe- cializing in radar and computer avi- onics. He retired from active duty in 1952 as a Staff Sergeant. Upon com- pletion of his service, Bill returned to Kansas City and obtained both his undergraduate degree (Class of '53) and law degree (Class of '60) from Kansas City University (now UMKC). While an undergrad, he met the love of his life, classmate Margaret Ann Foreman. They were married in Kan- sas City on June 27, 1953. Prior to graduating from law school, Bill joined Allstate Insurance, where he continued to work his entire career, retiring as Casualty Claims Director in 1992. Bill was an avid lover of all dogs, fishing, golfing, a good joke, and a perfect Manhattan. He treas- ured his active involvement as a member in both the Marine Corps League and at Faith Presbyterian Church in Raytown, MO. Bill is pre- ceded in death by his son, David Stower, and his daughter-in-law, Jill Susan Stower. He is survived by his wife, Margaret Ann Stower; children Betsy (Andy) Sears, and John C. Stower; grandchildren Brian (Jenny Fellner) Sears, Jeff Sears, and Zac Stower; newborn great granddaugh- ter, Nora Millay Sears; sister Janet (Norman) Dittmer; and cherished nieces and nephews. A memorial service celebrating Bill's life will be held at the First Presbyterian Church of Lee's Summit, MO on Tuesday, August 5, 2014, at 2 PM, with the family welcoming friends beginning at 1 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Wayside Waifs or any charity of your choice. D. W. Newcomer's Sons Funeral Homes, Cemeteries, Crematories 816-353-1218 www.floralhillsfuneralhome.com

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Published by Kansas City Star on Jul. 31, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for WILLIAM STOWER

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11 Entries

Liz Foreman and Family

August 4, 2014

Uncle Bill was a wonderful man who was loved and will be missed by so many. Although while growing up distance kept our families from seeing each other often, Uncle Bill always had a big welcoming hug when we arrived and regaled us with great jokes and stories. Manhattan in hand and with his dogs at his side, I vividly recall him telling us kids a long, involved joke with a punchline about chocolate ice cream that I remember to this day! Sending so much love to all of the Stower and Sears clans.

August 3, 2014

Betsy - so sorry about the loss of your Dad - reach up and God will reach the rest of the way.
A name from the past - Kim McComas

Bruce and Suzie Wenger

August 3, 2014

Bill was a wonderful uncle to my children and a dear friend and loving family member.His dry wit, love of children and dogs endeared him to us. His kind and gentle spirit shone through in all that did for family, church and community.

August 2, 2014

We will miss you Uncle Bill -- you will live on in our memories always.
With love,
Sarah, Michael, Will and John

Bruce Meeker

August 1, 2014

It was my pleasure to meet and work with Bill. Had some greath times together.

August 1, 2014

Eternal Rest Grant unto him O Lord May perpetual Light shine on his soul. Many Bill's soul and all the souls of the Faithful Departed Rest In peace

Ann & Charlie Spohn

John A

August 1, 2014

Margret,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the entire family. Bill was both a mentor and friend for many years and leaves us with many fond memories.

July 31, 2014

So sorry for your loss, Betsy.

Eric and Sue Hjerpe

July 31, 2014

So sorry Margaret Ann. I've thought about him often since he retired and have missed his wonderful dry sense of humor. I hope you find peace and laughter in your memories.
Wendy

July 31, 2014

Blessings to the family of Bill,as you are all in my thoughts. Barb M, Seattle

Bob

July 31, 2014

I am grateful for the life of Mr. Stower. Thanks to his service and to the service of others in our armed forces, my family and I have been able to lead our lives in freedom and peace.

Showing 1 - 11 of 11 results