Richard "Dick" LeValley, of Raymore, MO, was born March 3, 1946, in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to Keith O. LeValley and Avis McPherson. He passed away peacefully on September 10, 2024, in Kansas City, Missouri. Raised in the small town of Dayton, Iowa, Dick was the youngest of five siblings. He graduated from Dayton High School and furthered his education at Northwest Missouri State University.
Dick's life was a testament to the power of gratitude, laughter, and living fully. With an immense heart and a boundless zest for life, he dedicated his days to his family and friends and found joy in every moment. From his early days delivering papers to his successful career in management at Staco Electric, Dick's journey was marked by a deep sense of honor and a commitment to excellence. He retired in 2012 after 25 years of dedicated service, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty and hard work.
A member of The Summit Church in Lee's Summit, Dick's faith was an integral part of his life. His spiritual commitment guided his actions and provided a foundation of unconditional love, strength, and compassion. Dick found immense delight in life's simple pleasures, especially spending time with his family and friends. He was a lifelong learner and enthusiast of classic movies, music, history, and crossword puzzles. He loved connecting with others, whether it was through playing cards, ping pong, or sharing his witty, sometimes delightfully twisted sense of humor. His humor was a special gift, bringing laughter and light to every gathering, and it was a trait cherished by his family and friends alike. His sense of humor, a legacy passed down through generations, will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.
Dick's ability to find joy and humor in everyday life was matched only by his profound sense of gratitude. He lived each day with a grateful heart, celebrating the people around him and the moments that made life special. He was a true life-of-the-party, whether vacationing in his favorite spot, St. Maarten, cheering at his grandchildren's sporting events, or simply enjoying the company of those he loved. His presence was a reminder to embrace life with a positive attitude and enthusiasm and to count your blessings, both big and small. Dick's kind heart always acknowledged and appreciated the thankful moments and good times.
One of Dick's proudest accomplishments was his role as a father and grandfather. He cherished his four children–Kirk, Michele, Sheri, and Kristy, who were the center of his world. Surrounded by love from his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, Dick found profound happiness in watching his family grow and thrive. His dedication to his children and their families was evident in every interaction, and his legacy is carried forward in the values and love he instilled in them.
Dick maintained a respectful and supportive relationship with his ex-wife and mother of his four children, Diane LeValley, with whom he remained friends. Their continued friendship was a testament to their mutual respect, kindness, and character. His friendships were deeply meaningful and extremely important to him, with Lloyd and Sheron Stewart standing out as his closest companions. He cherished the fun times spent with friends, including weekly dinners and lively gatherings over drinks. Dick's relationships were marked by a genuine care for others, and his loyalty and support were unwavering.
Preceded in death by his parents, Keith and Avis LeValley, his brother Charles (Bob) LeValley, and his beloved grandson Jacob Skowronski, Dick is survived by his children: Kirk LeValley (Angela), Michele Skowronski (John), Sheri Nichols (Rick), and Kristy Surratt (Chad); his grandchildren: Chris LeValley (Dez), Heather Taylor (Chris), Joey Surratt, Ricky Nichols, Kayla Stofer (Jerrad), Alexa Surratt, Maegan Nichols (John), Blake Nichols (Emily), Ryan Nichols, and Jackson Surratt; his great-grandchildren: Kingston, Leila, Stella, Khloe, Harrison, Miles, Hudson, and Holden; and his siblings: Gary LeValley of Fort Dodge, IA, Jim LeValley of Phoenix, AZ, and Julie Wilken of Osceola, IA.
The family will be hosting a Celebration of Life for Dick at Raintree Clubhouse in Lee's Summit, MO on September 29, 2024 at 1:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to Jacob's Closet & Emerald Mission, reflecting Dick's spirit of generosity and his commitment to helping those in need.
Richard "Dick" LeValley leaves behind a legacy of joy, humor, and gratitude. His laughter, love, and generous heart will be profoundly missed but warmly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.
"In the end, it's not the years in your life that count. It's the life in your years."
-Abraham Lincoln
