Arthur Edward Fillmore II

Arthur Edward Fillmore II passed away on Sunday, February 22, 2026, at the age of 79. Art was born in Wichita, Kansas, on August 25, 1946, to Arthur Fillmore and Gloria Johnston Fillmore. He grew up in Kirkwood, Missouri, and graduated from Kirkwood High School in 1964. He went on to attend the University of Missouri–Columbia, where he was a dedicated member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon and graduated in 1968.

Following his graduation, Art entered the U.S. Army. He served as a 2nd Lieutenant Forward Observer with the 25th Infantry Division in Vietnam from 1969 to 1970 and was later stationed in Germany with a NATO unit before being honorably discharged as a Captain. His military service profoundly shaped his life’s work. Art became a tireless advocate for veterans, founding Stand Down Kansas City in 1992 and playing a pivotal role in bringing the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to the city. His commitment to supporting veterans continued with his efforts to help build St. Michael’s Veterans Center, further cementing his legacy of service.

After returning from military service, Art attended the University of Missouri School of Law, graduating in 1975. He began his legal career at Gage and Tucker, bringing his then wife, Susan, and their son Brent to Kansas City. Later, Scott and Julie were born.

Art’s list of honors and awards is extensive. Highlights include two Purple Hearts, multiple Bronze Stars, several Air Medals, the Vietnam Campaign Ribbon with three campaign stars, the KCAUSA Roger Donlon Patriot Award, and induction into the U.S. Army Artillery OCS Hall of Fame.

Outside of his charitable and professional work, Art had a passion for life’s simple joys. He loved watching Missouri basketball, attending Kansas City Chiefs games, and cheering on his beloved St. Louis Cardinals—meeting “Stan the Man” was a lifelong highlight. He enjoyed grilling wings, listening to music, savoring a good bourbon, and spending time with the many friends and family members he cherished. Most of all, he took immense pride and joy in being “Popeye” to his grandchildren: Julia (21), Davis (18), Harrison (15), Jack (12), Bennett (10), and Hayes (6).

Art was preceded in death by his parents, Arthur Fillmore and Gloria Miller. He is survived by his three children:

Brent Fillmore;

Scott Fillmore and his wife, Ashley, and their children Julia, Davis, and Harrison

Julie Schrader and her husband, Jonathon, and their sons Jack, Bennett, and Hayes

as well as his sister, Terry, and her husband, Joe Weston, and their son, Clay Weston and his family.

Art will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to service, his generous spirit, and the deep love he held for his family. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the community he worked so tirelessly to uplift. A Celebration of Life will be held on what would have been Art’s 80th birthday, August 25, 2026. Addition details will be shared closer to the date.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to St. Michael’s Veterans Center @smvets.org.