Laurence Robert Blanton

Born August 7, 1926, a lifelong Kansas City area resident and graduated from Paseo High School, class of 44.

Larry would begin a sales career at Cudahay packing in Kansas City, Kansas that took him traveling across the Midwest. Later he would be drafted into the US Navy and found himself on the USS General W.H. Gordon (AP-117), a troop transport. In 1950 he was drafted into the Army and sent to Korea where he was in charge of one of the largest food dumps for the military. In 1953, he married Joan Oaks at the Paseo Methodist church. They took up residence on the Country Club Plaza. A year later, they would move to South Kansas City after the Ruskin Tornado, building their first home. Larry continued his career and went to work for Kraft Foods which lasted over 25 years. Then before retiring, worked another 10 years with Brach’s Candy. As one of the top salesman, he was noted for wearing a “white tie” and “shoes” which became his trade-mark throughout his career. Larry loved his wife, family, lifelong neighborhood friends and his work. He loved golf, the Chiefs, and coin collecting. He leaves behind fond and wonderful memories for his family to cherish.

Larry was preceded in death by his wife Joan and his parents Agnes and William Blanton, and his brother Richard Blanton. He is survived by his four children: Karen Murphy (Carl) of Belton Missouri; Bob (Karin) Blanton of Kansas City, Missouri, Jim (Debbie) Blanton of Olathe, Kansas; & Michael Blanton of Kansas City, Missouri.

Grandchildren: Dennis (Jamie) Murphy; Amanda (Brian) Hull; Jessica (Mitch) Lyman; Tyler (Stephanie) Blanton; Christina (Jesus) Vargas; Mike Blanton, Kevin (Jasmine) Blanton. And 15 great grandchildren.

Memorial donations may be made to: Beautiful Savior Lutheran Home, 1003 South Cedar Street,

Belton, Missouri 64012; (816) 331-0781