Kevin Phares

Kevin L. Phares, 64, of Auxvasse, Missouri, passed away Monday, July 14, 2025 at his home. He was born February 24, 1961, in Des Moines, Iowa, to the late Ray Phares and the late Margaret Ambrosini.

Kevin lived in several places throughout his life, including Iowa, Nebraska, Wisconsin, New York, Connecticut, and Missouri. He graduated from Millard High School in Millard, Nebraska, in 1978. Kevin began working at the young age of 14 and held a wide variety of jobs throughout his life. He spent 10 years with ABC News, and later worked at a casino in St. Charles, Missouri, and for a manufacturing company in Kirkwood, Missouri. Most notably, Kevin dedicated over 30 years to Warrenton Oil Company, where he served as a Retail Manager until his retirement in 2023.

Kevin also served his community. He dedicated over nine years to the City of Auxvasse, first as an Alderman and later as Mayor. He was also a member of the New Testament Christian Church in Auxvasse. Outside of work, Kevin was a lover of animals, especially his own cats and dogs. He had a keen eye for unique finds and spent much of his free time at auctions, estate sales, and yard sales. His passion for collecting eventually led him to own and operate a couple of flea markets for about four years.

One of Kevin's greatest joys was participating in the annual "Guy Trip," which he took part in for 11 memorable years with a close group of friends, with highlights including float trips, camping, relaxing condo stays, and a variety of shared activities and traditions.

Those that remain to cherish Kevin's memory are his sister, Michelle Cox (Jeff); nephew, Jeffrey Cox (Mary); nieces, Kayla Matthews (Ben Gross), Kaitlyn Cox, Lurena Fraser, Kristi Schupp; aunt, Peggy Wilform (Sam); sister-in-law, Becky Phares, along with several great nieces and nephews. Kevin is also survived by 2 stepbrothers, 2 stepsisters, several step nieces and nephews; his best friend and brother in life, Brandon Johnson (Trista), as well as good friend Melanie Stotler (Calvin), along with several other close friends.

Kevin was preceded in death by his parents; both sets of grandparents; brother, Rod Phares, and sister, Kelley Fraser.

Memorial services will be held at The New Testament Christian Church, Auxvasse, Mo on Wednesday July 23, 2025 at 2:00 pm with Pastor Toby Hanson officiating. Inurnment will be held immediately following the service at Auxvasse Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations can be made to the American Cancer Society or The New Testament Christian Church c/o Maupin Funeral Home, 301 Douglas Blvd, Fulton, MO 65251.

Condolences can be left for the family at www.maupinfuneralhome.com