John Roe

John Roe, 81, of Independence, MO passed away Monday, December 22, 2008 at Centerpoint Medical Center. A memorial visitation will be from 9-11:00 AM Saturday, December 27 at the First Presbyterian Church, 100 N. Pleasant, Independence. Memorial services will begin at 11:00 AM at the church. The family suggests contributions to Children’s Mercy Hospital in John’s memory.
John was born June 10, 1927 in St. Paul, MN to Earl and Emma (Lathrop) Roe. He served his country in the U.S. Navy from 1945-1952. On July 8, 1950 he married Shirley Jansen and together raised five children. Upon honorable discharge from the Navy, John attended the University of Minnesota and Notre Dame, becoming a licensed radiologic technologist. After 30 years of service as Department Head of Radiology for Children’s Mercy Hospital he retired in 1991. Throughout the years John was involved with the Kiwanis Club, Sister Cities, Habitat for Humanity, the Boy Scouts, and the American Association of Radiologic Technologists. He was a faithful member of the First Presbyterian Church, serving as deacon, elder, and trustee. He enjoyed Chiefs football and traveling. More than anything, John loved children and was especially proud of his grandchildren’s accomplishments. He will be missed by all who knew and loved him for his sense of humor, his good advice, and the prankster that he was.
John is survived by his wife of 58 years, Shirley Roe; children and their spouses: Jeff and Shannon Roe, Bruce and Betty Roe, Jane Cogan, Barbara and David Dent, and Jim Roe; grandchildren: Jennifer Rankin, Adrienne Roe, Brad Roe, Katie Babcock, Kimberly Roe, Melissa Roe, Steven Cogan, Kelly Dent, Ryan Dent, and Quinn Roe; six great-grandchildren; brother Clyde Roe and wife Yvonne; sister Beverly Evans; and four nieces and nephews