Russ David Shandrowski

Russell David Shandrowski, age 79, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 20, 2023. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all whose lives were touched by his warmth, kindness, and wonderful sense of humor.

Born on August 20, 1943 in Bridgeport, CT, he was the beloved son of Emil and Edna (Cable). He was the second of three sons, Al, Russ, and Jesse.

Russ moved to Missouri to attend Park College where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. He continued his education earning a Master's degree in Clinical Psychology from the University of Missouri - Kansas City.

Russ married his loving wife, Carolyn, on August 3, 1968. They supported each other through the highs and lows of life and created a warm and nurturing home. They remained together until Carolyn’s passing on March 2, 2017. Even all those years later they could still be seen holding hands and talking late into the night.

Russ and Carolyn had two sons, Erik and David. As a devoted father, Russ imparted his values of kindness, compassion, and a love for learning to his children. He took great pride in their accomplishments and supported them in their pursuits. Russ cherished his role as a father, and his love for his sons knew no bounds.

After Carolyn’s passing, Russ reconnected with an old friend, Karen Vaughn. Blessed to find love a second time, Russ spent his last years embraced by Karen and her family’s love.

Russ dedicated his professional life to helping others as a compassionate psychologist. He had the remarkable ability to connect with people and provide them with the support they needed. His gentle demeanor and empathetic nature created a safe space for countless individuals seeking solace and guidance.

Russ spent his early career working in not-for-profits focused on helping teenagers and families. He helped start Synergy House, the first shelter for runaway and homeless youth in western Missouri. In his later career, he worked at AT&T in the Employee Assistance Program for 20 years before retiring. After retirement, he continued to focus on helping others by going into private practice. Russ had the innate ability to create a safe and non-judgmental space for his clients, offering them empathy, support, and practical strategies to navigate life's challenges.

After Carolyn’s initial diagnosis of Ovarian cancer in 2002 Russ helped Carolyn start and run her charity Carolyn’s Pennies. Carolyn’s Pennies focused on educating women about the signs of ovarian cancer and raising money for ovarian cancer research via successful events like Knock Out Ovarian Cancer and the Teal Tea.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Russ found joy in golf and reading. He loved spending time on the golf course, connecting with his sons or friends and enjoying nature. Additionally, he was an avid reader, immersing himself in books that enriched his understanding of the world. Russ could fix nearly anything and spent countless hours upkeep the family home and cars.

In addition to his wife Carolyn, Russ was preceded in death by his parents and his older brother, Al.

Russ is survived by two sons, Erik Shandrowski and wife Stasia of Centennial, Colorado, David Shandrowski and wife Takami of Murrieta, California; and one brother, Jesse Shandrowski of Seattle, Washington.

A Celebration of Russ's life will be held on Wednesday, May 31, 2023, at 4:00 PM, at White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd., Gladstone, Missouri, 64119, with the family greeting friends until 6:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions may be made to the American Stroke Foundation (https://americanstroke.org/next-step/) or the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (https://ovariancancerproject.org/).

The impact Russ had on the lives of others will forever be remembered. His compassion, warmth, kind-heartedness, and laughter touched the hearts of many, and his family will hold onto the love and wisdom he shared.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.dwnwhitechapel.com for the Shandrowski family.