Gerald W. Betz

Gerald W. Betz, 78, of Sugar Creek, MO passed away April 4, 2016. A visitation will be held from 6-8:00 p.m. on Friday, April 8, 2016 at the Carson-Speaks Chapel, 1501 W. Lexington Ave., Independence, MO. Services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday at the chapel, with burial to follow at Mt. Washington Cemetery. Gerald was born July 2, 1937 in Kansas City, MO to William and Phyllis (Jones) Betz. He grew up in the Kansas City area where he attended James Elementary and graduated from Northeast High School. Gerald was a proud veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps, serving in Okinawa. He held a number of elected and appointed offices and leadership roles in Jackson County, including Past President of Steelworkers Local 4803; Past President and Vice-President of Sugar Creek Business and Civic Club; former member of the Sugar Creek Planning and Zoning Committee; and past member of the Executive Board of Moose Lodge #10. In 1999, he retired from the City of Sugar Creek. He was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Richard Betz; and son-in-law, Robert Heishman. Gerald is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Suzanne (Hammond) Betz; five daughters, Cindy Drinkard (Dennis), Cheri Long (Rick), Joy Scribner (Jim), Jill Heishman, Geri Ford (Daniel); eleven grandchildren; and ten great grandchildren. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Carson-Speaks Chapel 816-252-7900)