Private family service will be held at 10:00 am Monday, 11/9/2020 at Floral Hills. Burial will follow at Floral Hills.
Bud was born in Kansas City, MO to Haywood Abner Bales, Sr. and Edith M. Owens on February 11, 1933. He attended Blenheim Elementary, Southeast High School and graduated from Ruskin High School where he played football. He completed the apprenticeship and journeyman program with IBEW Local #124 and became an electrician. He was married to Barbara (Johan) A. Jackson on August 22, 1953. They were married for 62 years until Johan’s passing in 2015.
He was a member of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers #124, receiving his 65 year pin September 2018. He served in several capacities from electrician and later, Business Representative. That was the only time he drove a car and wore a suit to work!
He retired from IBEW #124 in 1981 and started his own business, Bales Remodeling. He spent the next 35 years doing the work that he loved. More often than not, Johan was working by his side. He also helped out with Deron Cherry’s Score 1 for Health, by loading and delivering equipment to the elementary schools.
He was a member of Swope Park Baptist Church for 30 years and served as a deacon and served in the Bus Ministry. He later attended and served at South Kansas City Baptist Church.
Pa would give you his time and advice, the shirt off his back, or his very last dime. No matter the size of your predicament, his response was the same: “We can fix this. It will be alright.” The original “American Picker,” he was always finding treasure in forgotten places. Known by name at Home Depot, he still saved everything because “you’ll need it, one day.“ His most dominant genetic trait is his incredible work ethic. His oversized hands exuded protection and kindness. From his pencil, pliers and a white handkerchief, he had everything he needed in his overall pockets.
Throughout his long, full life, Bud was the stuff of legends. He could repair anything, or build it if it didn’t exist. His tools were a circular saw, a hammer, and a seemingly endless supply of unconditional love. With it, he not only built a family, but a legacy we’re proud to carry on for all time.
Bud is preceded in death by his wife Barbara (Johan) Jackson, parents, H.A. Bales Sr. and Edith Owens, brothers Herbert and Harry Bales, sisters Lylia Bryant, Marlene Barfield, Dwanna Chapman.
Bud leaves a legacy of daughters: Becky Hughes (Robert), Melody Carter (Carl), sons Haywood (Buck) A. Bales III (Sharon), David Bales (Hannah). Grandchildren: Josh Hughes (Caitlyn), Ryan Bales (Amy), Adam Carter (Christie), Jeremy Bales, (Courtney), Megan D’Ambrosio (Brian), Christa Bales, April Banner (Dusty), Carli Stackhouse (Jared), Grace Bales. He was blessed with 20 great-grandchildren, Neices Kim Jackson Jones and Missy Jackson Vroom (who went above and beyond to help), Craig Hughes (former son-in-law).
Bud also leaves behind his road trip buddy and companion, Baley, the border collie, who will be lovingly looked after by Carli, the granddaughter he left in charge.
Pallbearers: Josh Hughes, Ryan Bales, Adam Carter, Jeremy Bales, Jared Stackhouse, Carli Stackhouse.
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