Bob O'Byrne

Bob O'Byrne was a man who never looked back, only forward. He passed peacefully at home surrounded by his family on June 2, 2012. Ask Bob of his life's greatest accomplishment and he would eagerly tell you of his gracious wife and loving family. He and Mary Johanna Giudici enjoyed over 56 years of marriage, and Bob would count their four children as his greatest blessings: Rob (Diane), Pat, Joellen Messerli (Rob) and John. He is also survived by their 11 grandchildren whom he "loved more than life itself," Whitney, Caitlin, Austin, Molly, Michael, Kelly, Rob, Kyle, Marianna, Anna and Carolina. Bob graduated from Southeast High School in Kansas City, Mo., before attending Baker University. He received his undergraduate degree from University of Missouri-Kansas City where he served as president of the Bounders. He also attended University of Kansas City School of Law. After beginning his career at Penn Mutual, he joined BMA in 1962, founding Robert D. O'Byrne and Associates which eventually grew into one of the top insurance brokerage firms in the country. The firm thrived under his tutelage and many would credit him for their success. He always took the time to advise, teach and nurture others' careers. Fostering a family atmosphere at work, he hosted many an annual sausage party, picnic and Christmas party, always with Mary Jo at his side. He knew she played an integral part of his success. The awards for the firm were numerous. O'Byrne and Associates was often named Agency of the Year by BMA, and in 1995, the Kansas City Chamber of Commerce named the firm the Small Business of the Year. The firm is now a part of CBIZ, and three of Bob's children are still involved in the business. A convert to the Catholic faith, Bob earned one of the church's highest lay recognitions as a member of the Equestrian Order of the Knights of the Holy Sepulchre. He served many years on the board of Conception Abbey and on the board of St. Joseph Hospital, where he served a term as its Chairman. He also served on the national board of the Sisters of Carondelet, and was a longtime member of the Serra Club. Bob quietly supported numerous other Catholic and community charities. Bob co-authored, "Distance to the Green," a book offering his insight on integrity and success in the world of business. He served on the board of directors for JC Nichols Company, and in 1995, UMKC's Bloch School of Management honored him with an outstanding alumni award. In addition to his wife, children and grandchildren, Bob is survived by his sister, Patricia Sikorovsky (Gene) of Lake Forest, Ill., and brother, Bill (Jean) of Napa, Calif., along with four nephews and nine nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents, Rob Ben and Pat, brother, Michael and sister-in-law, Susan. Mass of Christian Burial will be at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 6, at St. Ann's Catholic Church, 7231 Mission Road, and will be followed by a visitation with the family in the parish hall. A private burial will be held the following day. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to Bishop Miege High School, Rockhurst High School, St. Teresa's Academy or St. Luke's Hospice in Robert D. O'Byrne's name. The family wishes to thank caregivers Ken Lary and Walter Trice for their compassion and friendship. Assistance by Funeral Advocates, LLC. Arr.: Signature Funerals, 8019 State Line Rd., KCMO (816) 214-5174. www.signaturefunerals.com S