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Joseph Vawter Obituary
May 21, 1930 - May 28, 2025
Fairway, Kansas - Joseph "Joe" Charles Vawter passed away peacefully on May 28, 2025, just days after celebrating his 95th birthday. Joe lived a life marked by passion, curiosity, and deep devotion to family and friends. A home builder, financial advisor, world traveler, avid photographer, and consummate gentleman, Joe's interests spanned generations and cultures, enriching those fortunate enough to know him. His adventurous spirit led him to explore the world's hidden corners, capturing the essence of places and people few would ever encounter. Whether it was his impeccable taste in clothing, his reverence for fine wines and food, or his unshakeable devotion to his family, Joe embraced the good life with his beloved wife, Gayle, his sons, and close friends.
Joe's educational journey took him through Bryant School, Southwest High School, Wentworth Military Academy, and the University of Missouri, before he served in the United States Air Force. After World War II, Joe worked alongside his father, building hundreds of homes in Kansas City, including in Roeland Park. In the early 1960s, he shifted careers, training in New York City to become a stockbroker and financial advisor. He went on to hold senior positions with Harris Upham and George K. Baum in Kansas City, ultimately serving as Vice President. Joe was a member of the Kansas City Country Club.
In 2000, he married Gayle, marking the beginning of their shared adventure to see the world. Together, they visited over 60 countries across every continent. Their travels led to lifelong friendships and unforgettable experiences, including being the first passengers on a train from Turkey to Iran.
Joe is survived by his wife, Gayle; his sons, Stephen of Kansas City and Matthew (Dawn) of Boulder, Colorado; his stepdaughter Jennifer Dunbar (Brian) of Manhattan Beach, California; and grandchildren Tommy and Ben Dunbar. He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles E. and Jesse R. Vawter; his first wife, Susie Slaughter Vawter; his brother, Robert Vawter; his sister, Suzanne Gran; and his lifelong best friend, Joseph B. Hall.
The family extends heartfelt thanks to Dr. John May and the compassionate staff at Sunrise of Leawood and Kansas City Hospice for their care during Joe's final days.
In honoring his life, a private family service will be held followed by a celebration of Joe's remarkable journey at the Kansas City Country Club on Wednesday June 25 from 4 to 6 o'clock. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a donation to Wayside Waifs of Kansas City.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Joseph Vawter
Sponsored by Kansas City Star.
4 Entries
Carl S. Rhoden
June 11, 2025
My heartfelt condolences to the Vawter family for
Joe's loss. Through my father I knew Joe my entire
life and Steve and Matt as well. Joe was there for me
in so many ways after my father died in 1984. Simply
put, Joe was a consummate gentleman and a gem.
Freddy, RN
June 10, 2025
Joe was a very sweet man and a pleasure to take care of with Dr. May. Our prayers and condolences are with Gayle and family.
Patrick Murphy
June 9, 2025
The Vawter Construction Firm produced two of my homes on Ash Drive in Roeland Park, Kansas. The
area is looking well after these many years.
Terry Moseley Benson
June 8, 2025
Dear Gayle, I'm so sorry for your loss of Joe. He and Jack were great friends back in the day and it's so hard to lose a husband. I send sympathy and support and know that he lived a wonderful long life. Sincerely Terry Moseley Benson
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