John A Carroll

John Andrew Carroll, 90, passed away December 21, 2014. Services for John will be Fri., December 26th at St. Mary Catholic Church, 600 N. Liberty, Independence. The family will receive visitors from 11am-12pm. A rosary will be said at 11:40am with a funeral Mass at 12pm. Interment to follow at Woodlawn Cemetery, Independence.

John was born April 7, 1924 in Imlaystown, New Jersey. He was a lifelong Catholic and a member of St. Mary Catholic Church in Independence, MO. John married his best friend, Mildred Carroll on October 10, 1954 in Harrisonville, MO. She predeceased him in 1994. Always a “Ford man,” John worked at the Ford Motor Company Claycomo Plant for 30 years; retiring in 1984. Upon retirement, John started a lawn service and enjoyed caring for many yards in his neighborhood. Well into his 80’s, John could be found mowing, trimming or raking someone’s yard. John was a member of UAW Union Local 249 and a proud WWII Army Veteran, serving in the European Theatre from 1945-1948.

John is survived by two daughters and their husbands, Barbara Hart (Bill) and Joan Caroll-Barnosky (Jerry), both of Independence, MO and his two granddaughters, Anne Hart of Kansas City, MO & Tess Hart who is currently serving as a Jesuit Volunteer on the island of Chuuk, Micronesia.

John will be remembered as a quiet, hardworking family man; who was happiest working outside, building something or helping a neighbor. John’s ability to “fix” things and “grow” flowers was legendary. He especially loved children and animals. Whether watching a Royals game, painting a room, petting a dog, mowing a lawn or enjoying a bowl of his favorite chocolate ice cream, John celebrated the simple pleasures of life.

The family suggests contributions to Catholic Communities Hospice, 9740 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS 66212. Online condolences to www.mcgilleysheil.com. Arr: McGilley & Sheil Chapel, 11924 E. 47th St., KCMO 64133, 816-353-6555.