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Bert Leon McSpadden, 89, of Overland Park, Kansas, passed away peacefully on July 14, 2025, surrounded by family. Born on May 18, 1936, in Navasota, Texas, Bert was the youngest of four children. At nineteen, Bert chose to join the Marine Corps rather than attend college to pursue his passions for music and history. He proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1955 to 1976, where he developed the discipline, humility, and quiet strength that would define the rest of his life. Bert received his commission in 1965 and rose to the rank of Captain. Bert had two tours of duty in Vietnam, with additional duty stations in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Quantico, Virginia, Camp Pendleton, California, and Marine Barracks, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. After his military service, he joined the business world and spent over 15 years working as a business manager in the computer leasing business. Bert was a man of a strong work ethic, a devoted family man, and someone who enjoyed the simple pleasures in life. He loved early mornings with coffee, classic Westerns, old John Wayne movies, and cheering for the Kansas Jayhawks, KC Royals, and his beloved KC Chiefs. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend. Bert was charming and charismatic. He was well-known for his personality, warmth, and ability to brighten your day with his smile and kind words.He is survived by his loving wife of 69 years, Mary Ann McSpadden; his children, Felicia Body, Kevin McSpadden, and Joe McSpadden. He was preceded in death by his daughter Rhonda Finney, who passed away in 2001, and five grandchildren: Holly, Brandon, Cole, Lana, and Kayla; and three great-grandchildren: Madison Ann, Lili, and Joseph. He is also survived by many extended family members and close friends. A visitation service will be followed by a short memorial service with military honors at 2:00 PM on Friday, July 18, at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home in Olathe, KS. Bert’s legacy is one of bringing a smile to your face, love for family, and a commitment to service to others. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
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14275 Black Bob Rd., Olathe, KS 66062
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