What is your first memory of JOHN? Share a favorite memory you have of JOHN. Tell us about a special moment you shared with JOHN. Describe a time when JOHN made you laugh or smile. What is something you will always remember about JOHN? Talk about a shared experience you had with JOHN. What is something you did together that you enjoyed? Describe a place or activity that reminds you of JOHN. Tell us about a personal story or anecdote involving JOHN. What is something you learned from JOHN?

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JOHN L. BILYEU

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JOHN BILYEU Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Mar. 29, 2015.

John L. Bilyeu, 90, passed away on March 25, 2015, at his home in Lee's Summit, Mo., with his wife Jenny at his side. John was born at home while his father drove to get the doctor in a cold December snow storm in 1920s Kansas City, Mo. John grew up in west side Kansas City. After graduating from Manual High School, he joined WWII with the US Navy and was assigned to the South Pacific as a signalman, serving in amphibious assault, invading Bougainville, Green, Saipan and Peleliu. After the war, John married his childhood sweetheart, Doris Nelson, and they started raising a family. After broadcasting school, his first job was on-air radio announcer in Goodland, Kan., followed by Program Manager/Announcer in St. Joseph, Mo. In the early days of television, John Bilyeu was the voice and face of KMBC. A long career from the 1950's through the 1970's included stints as announcer, program host, singer, producer, writer and personality for local Channel 9 programs: The Noon Show, Darts for Dough, Mid American Bandstand, Dialing for Dollars, Mini School and the Muscular Dystrophy Telethon, as well as the trailblazing program Wonderama. Occasionally, Bilyeu filled in for Dick Clark on American Bandstand. Job offers from NBC and ABC were turned down in favor of John's beloved hometown, Kansas City. He said he wanted to die in Missouri because he expected to go to heaven and didn't like long trips. John Bilyeu's signature sign-off at the end of every program now seems appropriate: "Take care of yourself because I need you." Share your thoughts at langsfordfuneralhome.com

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Recent Activity

April 30, 2022

Michael Spano posted to the memorial.

February 20, 2021

Brenda K Shippy posted to the memorial.

February 2, 2020

Brian Colbert posted to the memorial.

26 Entries

Michael Spano

April 30, 2022

Great memories of a Great Man I watched all through my Childhood. May he Rest in Eternal Peace.

Brenda K Shippy

February 20, 2021

Jenny,
I loved watching John when I was growing up. That smile! Enjoyed all of the programs. They were entertaining and comforting. My condolences.

Brian Colbert

February 2, 2020

Enjoyed watching Mr Bilyeu when I was a child. Good memories.

Richard Turnbow

April 24, 2019

I remember John Bilyeu, Old Gus, Torey Southwick & cartoons in the morning 1960's KC. THANKS John!

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Bob

September 18, 2015

I am grateful for the life of Mr. Bilyeu. 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. I enjoyed watching him on Channel 9 throughout my childhood.

Bob

July 14, 2015

I remember watching John Bilyeu for many years while living in Lee's Summit. I was in the same class as Jeff during high school. He looked a lot like his dad. Jeff, hope you are doing well. My late condolences to you and your family.

Carol Morton StLouis

June 11, 2015

While I was in high school, I had the opportunity to dance on his show. What a fun time and great memory. He was such a great announcer -- I liked all of his shows.

Vanessa Kane

April 19, 2015

My mom grew up in the same neighborhood and remembered John as a little guy. Years later I ended up in school with Jeff. Small world! John made our lives a little more enjoyable. RIP Prayers and condolences to the family.

John was to host a children's show with Ol' Gus. John didn't want to work that late so he showed them how to shoot it so Tory could do both.

Jeff Bilyeu

April 3, 2015

Wonderama was Johns pride and joy. Before PBS and Mr. Rogers John created a educational program for kids.

Jeff Bilyeu

April 3, 2015

On Free-For-All he'd spin the wheel to see what the viewer could win!

Jeff Bilyeu

April 3, 2015

Larry Hall

March 31, 2015

Sorry to hear of the loss. I just found out today. I am still living in Lees Summit and I visited John at his house a couple of years ago and asked about Jeff and Dan. I remember playing football in the back yard and growing up with Jeff. Once again, sorry Jeff and Dan about your loss, your Dad was a great person and a he will be missed by all that knew him.

Diane Olson

March 30, 2015

Loved watching and listening to all of the narration John provided, definitely added to my growing up years. Prayers for his family.

Claudia Gloyd

March 30, 2015

I always looked forward to any program John Bilyeu was associated with. I grew up listening and watching him, as a trusted friend, like a favorite uncle. We need more broadcasters like John in today's media. I pray God's blessing on his family.

Elizabeth Donnelly Noblit

March 30, 2015

Manual Grad Class 45, IYou were my favorite on TV..

Ronna Keck

March 30, 2015

Prayers for the family. I grew up watching this great man! Forever rest in peace.

Anna Foster

March 29, 2015

My daughter and I will always remember John. He was not just a great storyteller, he was also a great listener. RIP.

carey c

March 29, 2015

"Take care of yourself because I need you." such a great on air personality we remember. God bless may you RIP

Torey Southwick

March 29, 2015

I enjoyed having John as a colleague and friend in the fifties and sixties at KMBC-TV. He was one of the good people. Heartfelt condolences to all of his family, friends, and fans.

March 29, 2015

My first TV announcing job in Kansas City was at KMBC TV sharing the announcing booth with John. He gave guidance and comfort and made everyone feel at ease. Fond memories. Deepest sympathy to the family, we all share your loss. Fred Broski

Patricia Williams

March 29, 2015

Sincere sympathy to the family and friends of your loved one.
Reading John Bilyeu's obituary was, indeed, a trip down memory lane.

Dr. Cynthia Willis-Esqueda

March 29, 2015

I never met John Bilyeu, but he was as much a part of my growing up as if he had been a neighbor or an uncle. In fact, I still remember his voice. My sincere condolences to the family. Thank you for sharing him with Kansas City.

March 29, 2015

Fond memories of John's TV work and on-air voice of KC television. A life well-lived.

Mary Doyle

March 29, 2015

Thank you for all you did for Kansas City. I enjoyed watching you on tv. Your great personality and friendly demeanor made you a stand-out! Thank you for your service to our nation. Rest in peace, Mr. Bilyeu.

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