William Marshall Bleish

Bill was born on February 25, 1921 in Gentry County, Missouri to Abe and Louise Bleish. Bill attended the University of Missouri beginning in 1938, but his education was interrupted by World War II as he enlisted in the Army in 1942. He trained to become a small plane pilot and saw active duty in Europe in 1944-45. After the war, Bill returned to the University of Missouri to finish his degree. It was during this time, through an introduction from his sister Barbara, that he met his future bride, Carolyn Vogt. They finished their degrees and were married on June 4, 1949. Bill was called back to active duty in 1951 as the Korean War broke out. He later flew planes in the army reserve, from which he retired in 1970, at the rank of major. After a long career in the paper business in Kansas City, he retired and began a new enterprise with his son, Tim, Bag & Baggage Luggage Store. Bill’s hobbies included flying his Cessna airplane, relaxing at the lake with family and friends, and collecting antique cars. Always willing to serve, Bill was a member of the Downtown Kiwanis Club for nearly 55 years. He was also a member of Leawood Presbyterian Church for over 55 years. Bill was likeable, friendly, kind, generous, and steadfastly loyal to family and friends. Side by side with wife of 62 years, Carolyn, he lived a life to be admired. He will be greatly missed. Along with beloved wife Carolyn, Bill leaves a sister Barbara Hoffman (Bill), sons Steve (Mary Ann), Bill (Trish), and Tim (Katy), and daughter Mary Thompson (Paul), 13 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and one nephew. Visitation for friends and family will be held at Leawood Presbyterian Church, 2715 West 83rd Street, Leawood, KS 66208, at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, December 21. Funeral services will follow at the same location at 11:30 a.m. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Kiwanis Club of Kansas City or Leawood Presbyterian Church. Condolences may be made at www.mtmoriah-freeman.com. Arrangements under the direction of Mount Moriah and Freeman Funeral Home in Kansas City, MO.