Michael L. Stitt

Michael L. Stitt, 42, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Richmond, MO. July 24, 2020. He was born October 17, 1977 in Lee’s Summit, MO; the son of Loretta Martin and Scott Martin.

Michael graduated from Smithville High School, Class of 1997. Following graduation, he went on to obtain his certification as an Emergency Medical Technician. He then went on to graduate from the Pensacola Fire Academy in Pensacola, FL. in 2004. Michael began his career with the Independence Missouri Fire Department upon his return to Missouri later that year.

Michael’s favorite pastimes included his love for motorcycles, shooting, hunting, and camping. Michael’s true passion and purpose in life was to help and serve others. He pursued and accomplished his lifelong dreams of becoming an EMT and firefighter, accumulating numerous certifications throughout his career, starting with his HAZMAT certification which he obtained when assigned his first home station at HAZMAT Pumper 5. Michael could always be counted on by both friends and family to be there if needed. His most cherished times were spent not only with his blood family, but with his fire service family, as well as the close friends he considered his family. Michael’s priority was his daughters and ensuring not only that they always felt his love and protection, but that they knew how to handle the world and themselves should this day come. His new grandson was the apple of his eye and Michael could be found showing him off every chance he got.

He was predeceased by an uncle, Billy D. Stitt Jr. (Butch). Surviving are his daughters, Vanessa Stitt, of Richmond, Victoria Stitt, of Oklahoma City; grandson Lucas Martin, of Oklahoma City; mother Loretta Martin, of Richmond, father Scott Martin and his girlfriend Shirley, of Joplin; grandfather Bill Stitt, of Raytown; grandmother Mary Stitt, of Raytown; aunt Kathy Stawarz, of Raytown; uncle Bill Stawarz, of Raytown; numerous close cousins and extended family; former spouse of 10 years Misty Stitt and her daughter Aubrielle, of Grain Valley.

A service of remembrance will be held for close friends and family at 1 p.m. Friday, July 31 at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 East 39th St. S, Independence. Interment will be at Lobb Cemetery, 2525 Lobb Cemetery Rd, Blue Springs. The Independence Firefighters Local 781 Honor Guard, where Michael served as a member, will serve as pallbearers. In lieu of flowers, the family requests those who wish to honor Michael in a special way make gifts in his memory to the Independence 76 Fire Company, 220 Lynn St, Independence, MO 64050.