ALFRED JOSEPH CONWAY

Alfred Joseph Conway, of Kearney, MO, passed away Friday, Aug. 3, 2012 in North Kansas City Hospital. Al was born to Adolph and Sophia (Suspinski) Conway on March 16, 1930. Alfred is survived by his two brothers, Edward Conway of Chicago, IL, and Robert Conway of Morgantown, IN. He is also survived by his two sisters, Ann Walton of Kansas City, MO, and Mary Jane Conway of Kansas City, MO. Al was preceded in death by his wife of 40 years, Sue Francis (Holloway), who died in 1993, with whom he had 5 children: Robert Michael (Karen) Conway of Vancouver, WA, Susan Elaine (Roger Sapper) Cordes of Leon, IA, James Edward (Cindy) Conway of Kansas City, MO, David Vincent (Linda) Conway of Colorado Springs, CO, and Patty Jo (Chris) Higgins of Kansas City, MO. All children survive Al. Al had 8 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. In 1995 Al married Beverly (Fellows), who died in 2008. Following Bev's death, Al moved back to the Kansas City area to be near family and friends, where he settled in Kearney, MO. While living in Kearney, Al rekindled a friendship with childhood friend Yvonne (Sis) McFarland (Yager), whom he knew from Avondale. Sis became Al's loving companion and cohort until his death. Al had an undeniable God-given talent for athletics. He graduated in 1948 from NKC High School, where he excelled in basketball, baseball, track and football. Football was where his destiny lie, having taken NKCHS to the Conference title. Upon graduating, Al entered West Point Military Academy, where again his talents were allowed to shine in track and on the gridiron. Al finished his college career at William Jewell College in Liberty, MO, where he was selected the All-American Running Back of 1952. He became the first round draft choice for the Philadelphia Eagles. His years with the Eagles ended due to recurring injuries, and Al returned to NKCHS, where he coached football and taught mathematics. He brought the football team to an undefeated season and a state championship in 1955. Alfred subsequently became employed at Cook Paint and Varnish Company of North Kansas City, where he worked for 28 years. He continued to referee high school basketball, and Big 8 Conference baseball and football, often toting 3 or 4 of his children to the games. In 1969, he became an NFL football umpire with Pat Haggerty's crew, and he remained with the NFL for 32 years. Al officiated 4 Super Bowls on the field, and attended 2 as alternate. Al moved to the replay booth from the field later in his career. Al's career with the NFL and WFL allowed him the opportunity to travel across the globe, and enjoy those travels with his wife. Al was not only an outstanding athlete, but was civic and service-minded as well. He was a former president of the St. Louis Officials Association, and a former president of the NFL Referee Association. He was humbled and honored to be inducted into the North Kansas City High School Hall of Fame, the NAIA Hall of Fame, William Jewell College Hall of Fame, as well as the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. Al continued to be a supporter of the Boys Scouts of America all his life. When not working, he spent his time at 'the farm', looking for mushrooms, fishing, burning fields, golfing, hunting, and 'junking'. Al's journey touched many lives. The family would like to extend thanks to the doctors, nurses, and staff of NKC Hospital, especially on floors 10 and 11, who were most gracious and helpful at all time. In lieu of flowers, we ask donations be made to William Jewell College Athletic Program and/or Boys Town of Missouri. Mass of Christian burial will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2012 at St. Charles Catholic Church. The Family will receive friends from 4-8 p.m. Monday, Aug. 6, 2012 at White Chapel Funeral Home. Fond memories and condolences for the family may be left at www.dwnwhitechapel.com (Arrangements by D.W. Newcomers Sons White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 N. Antioch Rd., Gladstone, MO 64119, 816-452-8419) D