Marion Broils Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Watkins Heritage Chapel - Kansas City on Oct. 8, 2025.
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July 28, 1938 – October 5, 2025
Marion Allen Broils, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and proud veteran, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service, integrity, and quiet strength.
Born on July 28, 1938, to John and Lou Broils, Marion grew up in Great Bend, Kansas, where he attended Great Bend Elementary and High School. It was there that he first discovered his passion for sheet metal work - a skill that would shape his career and serve his country.
After graduation, Marion enlisted in the United States Air Force, applying his talents to aircraft maintenance and sheet metal fabrication. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline and pride, values he carried throughout his life. Following his service, he lived in Colorado before settling in Kansas City, where he began a distinguished 35-year career at Trans World Airlines (TWA).
On July 9, 1967, Marion married the love of his life, Wanda Craig. Together, married for 58 years, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and purpose. They raised two children, Gary Broils and Gail Gray, who carry forward his values and spirit.
Marion was a lifelong learner, earning numerous aircraft certifications, an associate's degree in applied science from Penn Valley Community College (Phi Theta Kappa), and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Park College (Magna Cum Laude). He later became a Certified Financial Planner, combining his technical expertise with a passion for helping others.
Faith and community were central to Marion's life. He served in leadership roles on the Finance Committee at his church and was a dedicated participant in Bible studies at St. James United Methodist Church, St. Andrews United Methodist Church, and John Knox Church. He found joy in traveling the world with family, tackling house projects, and maintaining his vehicles with precision and care.
Marion was known for his warm, welcoming smile. It reflected his kind heart and gentle spirit, and it will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, John and Lou Broils, and his brother Richard Broils..
He is survived by his beloved wife Wanda; his children Gary Broils (wife Joy) and Gail Gray (husband Robert); his cherished grandchildren Jasmine Gardner (husband Elijah), Ashley Broils, Justin Broils, and Alex Broils; and his brother William "Gene" Broils (wife Joyce). He also leaves behind several nieces and nephews who will remember his quiet wisdom and steady presence.
A graveside service honoring Marion's life will be held at Leavenworth National Cemetery in Leavenworth, Kansas. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to the John Knox Village Foundation (https://www.jkv.org/foundation/) to support the Parkinson's Connection program assisting with the unique challenges that individuals and families face when dealing with Parkinson's disease.
Marion's life was a testament to dedication, humility, and love. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A memorial service to celebrate Marion's life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, from 2:00 to 4:00 PM at John Knox Village (1800 NW O'Brien Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64081). Services conducted by Watkins Heritage Chapel. Condolences may be shared on our website.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Mr. Marion, please visit our floral store.