He was born June 14, 1932 in Braymer, MO to Odus and Vivian Clevenger. Gary married his high school sweetheart, Iris Riegel, on Dec. 9, 1950. Gary was drafted into the Army in November 1952 and was assigned to the artillery after basic training. Serving in Korea during the war there, Gary often expressed thanks that he was not in the infantry, saying, “those guys that came off the line looked rough”. His service record notes the awarding of several medals including, two Bronze Service Stars. Shortly after his military service Gary found employment with the Santa Fe railroad where he worked forty years as a switchman. Gary and Iris were parents to three boys. He was a strict but loving father, who by example showed that hard work and stewardship of resources could lead to a bountiful life. Gary and Iris were avid square dancers and enjoyed traveling the country with their 5th wheel travel trailer. His square dance and RV friends comment on how fun he was. He was an active and dedicated member of the First United Methodist Church in North Kansas City and volunteered in a variety of service projects.
Gary is preceded in death by his wife, his eldest son Gerald (Kansas City), and his sister Suzanne Hicks (Overland Park). He is survived by his sons, Danny (Rebecca Woodman) of Kansas City, MO; and Brian (Bob Boisjoly) of Norwalk, CT; 1 sister Nancy Null of Springfield, MO; 5 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.
A memorial service is scheduled for 11 AM Friday Dec. 30, 2022 at Newcomers White Chapel Funeral Home (6600 NE Antioch Rd, Gladstone, MO 64118). Visitation will be from 10-11 AM on Friday at White Chapel. Burial will be 2:00 PM at Evergreen Cemetery, Braymer, Missouri.
In lieu of flowers memorials are suggested to the Faubion United Methodist Church of Gladstone, MO.
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