Gene Winslow

Gene Wallace Winslow, 86, of Independence, Missouri, died peacefully on March 3, 2018. Gene is survived by his wife of 61 years, Mary Ann Winslow, of Independence; three sons, David Winslow (Debbie) of Independence; Lee “L. D.” Winslow (Stephanie) of Lee’s Summit; and Mike Winslow of Independence; one daughter, Paula Glaser (John) of Independence; 14 grandchildren; 8 great grandchildren; and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and close friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Oscar and Ruth (O’Dell) Winslow, of Kansas City; one granddaughter, Danielle Winslow; and one grandson, Micah Winslow. Gene was born on May 23, 1931 in Independence, Missouri to Oscar “Jack” Winslow and Ruth Winifred (O’Dell) Winslow. He graduated from Harrisonville High School in 1949, then ultimately enlisted in the United States Marine Corp. After his term in the USMC he married Mary Ann Shields on February 9, 1957. Throughout his personal and professional life Gene has been active in employment, community, and civic activities. Amongst his life-long endeavors he served in the USMC from 1952 until his honorable discharge in 1955 at the rank of sergeant. He went on to work as a radio announcer and program manager for various stations in the Midwest. Gene was a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service for over 25 years in Independence. He worked as a sports writer and correspondent for the Independence Examiner for at least 40 years. He was an Elder in the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (now known as The Community of Christ) where he was a dedicated and tireless minister and held many leadership and volunteer roles, including congregational pastor, small group leader, and youth leader. In addition, Gene spent countless hours as a leader in both the Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts of America. He served as a Chaplain at the Independence Regional Health Center, Medical Center of Independence, and The Groves. In 1984, Gene became involved with Camp Quality, an international camping and year-round support organization for children with cancer, where he remained active for approximately ten years. In 2002 he became one of two original volunteers at the World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial where he continued until near the time of his death. Gene was an active member and held leadership positions in the Independence Noland Road Lions Club, the Marine Corps League, Metro Area Kansas City, Missouri, Simpson Hoggatt Detachment (#984); and the Korean War Veterans Association, Kansas City, Missouri #2 Chapter also up until near the time of his death.Visitation will be from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm on Tuesday March 6, 2018 at Speaks Suburban Chapel, the funeral is scheduled for 10:00 am on Wednesday March 7, 2018 at the Chapel, interment following the service will be at the Missouri State Veterans Cemetery, Higginsville, Missouri. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Liberty Memorial Association in Gene's honor.