Joseph William "Joe" Thebo

"Joe" battled COPD valiantly for several months before passing from this world in his own home on Friday, September 7, 2007, less than one week after his 69th wedding anniversary, with his family in attendance. While ill for several years, his final decline was rapid. He leaves a legacy of hard work, love of family, and a mind sharp and aware until nearly the end. While his body was failing, his intellect was very much intact. He was truly a family patriarch. Joe was preceded in passing by his brothers, Earnest Thebo and Jim Thebo; and his sister, Marguerite Corbin. He leaves his devoted wife of 69 years, Cellistine Volts Thebo; and his sons and their wives, William Joseph Thebo of Warsaw, Mo., Thomas Jerry Thebo and wife Judy, of Kansas City, Mo., and Dennis Lee Thebo and wife Sara, of the home. He also leaves seven grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. Joe also leaves a sister, Mildred "Snooky" Maguire, of Kansas City, Kan.; and a brother, William "Billy" Thebo, of Burlington, Kan.; and his brother-in-law, Richard Volts and wife Dorothy of Kansas City, Mo. Joe was the scoutmaster of Troop 171 of Epworth Methodist Church in the 60s and was active in other church matters. He was a lifelong house painter and wallpaper hanger by profession and a lifetime member of Painters Local Union #9. His wry sense of humor and sharing nature will be missed by all who knew him well. Visitation will be held at McGilley Midtown Chapel, Linwood and Main, 5 to 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 14, with funeral services on Saturday, Sept. 15, at 10 a.m. at the chapel. Burial in Forest Hill Cemetery will follow the service. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to COPD Foundation, 2937 SW 27th Ave., Suite 302, Miami, FL 33133. The family expresses its deep appreciation for the assistance of St. Luke's Hospice during the final months of Joe's life. Arr.: McGilley Midtown Chapel, (816) 753-6200.