William Bryant VanMeter

William Bryant VanMeter, known to many as Bill, passed away on August 6, 2024, in Oak Grove, Missouri. He was born on June 6, 1940, in Jasper, Arkansas to George and Bertha (Rhynes) VanMeter. Bill was raised in Kansas City, Missouri, and later moved to Independence where he would reside and raise his family. Bill had a diverse and fulfilling life that touched the hearts of many. He graduated from Northeast High School in Kansas City, Missouri, and went on to proudly serve in the United States Navy. Following his military service, Bill delved into entrepreneurship by owning two record stores - Jam City Records and Mr. Records in the 1980s. Later on, he transitioned into a career in freight transportation and dedicated his last fifteen years of work as a long-haul driver at Yellow Freight. Bill was a member of Teamster local 41 and drove for a total of 32 years before retiring. A man of many passions and interests, Bill was an active member of various organizations including Masonic Lodge #656, American Legion Post #340, American Veterans Post #88, and Eagles Area #385 among others. He was very involved in his lodge work; teaching the Masonic ritual meant the world to him and his brothers. He found joy in reading books during his leisure time and generously gave back to his community through volunteer work with Animal's Best Friends, Shriners, and the Special Olympics. Bill's love for animals was evident as he cared for a variety of critters throughout his lifetime; he is survived by his three cherished pups: Titan, Toby, and Baby. Bill's passing was preceded by his parents; George William VanMeter and Bertha VanMeter, and his sisters; Frances Decker and Pat Rellihan, and son-in-law; Jon Humphrey. His legacy lives on through his wife; Michiko VanMeter, his children; Annette Humphrey, William B. VanMeter Jr., Thomas G. VanMeter (Pamela Thompson), and Frank VanMeter (Deborah VanMeter), his grandchildren; John F. Gauld IV, Dustin Humphrey, Elizabeth Childs (Michael), Christian VanMeter, and Nicholas VanMeter, his great-grandchildren; John F. Gauld V, Michael Childs, Malcolm Childs, his sister; Mary Lou Bowling of Knoxville, Tennessee, and many nieces and nephews.

 Bill's life will be honored and celebrated on August 13, 2024. Family will greet guests during a visitation starting at 10 AM followed by a funeral service at 11 AM (Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, MO 64055). A Graveside Service will then be conducted at Mount Washington Cemetery starting at 12:30 PM. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Bill's honor to Animal's Best Friends.