Ricky James Bledsoe

          Ricky James “Rick” Bledsoe (SSG Ret USMC), 70, of Gladstone, MO, passed away February 15, 2024, at KU Medical Center.

          Rick was born January 1, 1954, in Kansas City, MO, the eldest of two sons of Jimmie W. and Mary R. (Melott) Bledsoe.  His parents preceded him in death.  

          Rick was a 1972 graduate of Oak Park High School. He served eleven years in the US Air Force, and then attended the University of Columbia for three years. Following his studies at MU, Rick continued his military career, serving nine years in the US Marine Corps, retiring as a Staff Sergeant in 1995.    

          After military discharge, Rick finished his bachelor’s degree at Park University. He worked as a Fund Accountant for State Street until he finally retired to be a caregiver for his mother until her death.  Rick was a member of Mission View (formerly Metro) Baptist Church.

          Survivors include his brother and sister-in-law, Randy and Patti Bledsoe, of Gladstone, MO.

          Visitation will be held from 6-8 pm Friday, February 23, and funeral services 10:00 am Saturday, February 24, all at Park Lawn Northland Chapel, I-35 at State Route 291, Liberty, MO.  Burial with military honors in White Chapel Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions are suggested to the American Diabetes Association.  

          You may share a message with Rick’s family or sign an online guest book via www.parklawnfunerals.com.  Arrangements: Park Lawn Northland Chapel (816) 781-8228.