Peter Lane Woodsmall

Peter Lane Woodsmall, 64, of Mission Hills, Kansas, passed on October 16th, 2011. Touching many throughout his lifetime, Pete lived an exemplary life through his strong moral values and humble nature. He inspired others by helping them realize the best in themselves. Pete was born on January 1, 1947 in Kansas City, Missouri, the son of Warren Oscar "Woody" Woodsmall, Jr., and Mary Lane Woodsmall. Pete graduated from Shawnee Mission East High School and the University of Kansas, where he was a member of Phi Delta Theta fraternity and President of the Interfraternity Council. Following graduation, Pete served as a supply officer in the United States Navy for four years during the Vietnam War. In 1974, Pete returned to Kansas City and joined his father in the insurance agency business and over the next 20 years built the Woodsmall Companies. More recently, Pete served as an executive of the Van Tuyl Group. In addition to his professional career, Pete served as President of the American Cancer Society as well as the Kansas City chapter of Young Presidents' Organization. Inspired by a private but sincere faith, he served on the board of the Village Presbyterian Church and recently became a member of the Church of the Resurrection. Never trumpeting his professional accomplishments, he was first and foremost wholly devoted to his family. As an ever-present father, he never missed any event in his family's lives, big or small. He was deeply intertwined in the lives and passions of his wife and children. His legacy continues through the lives of his wife and soul mate of 41 years, Linda, his three children, David, Anna, and Jennifer Woodsmall Larson, his son- in-law, Jim Larson, and his brother Stephen Woodsmall and family. In the last weeks of his life, he was able to incorporate the things he loved most: visiting his children with his wife, seeking new adventures, and flying. He will be missed more than we could ever express. The family will be receiving friends Friday, October 21 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. at Mission Hills Country Club, 5400 Mission Drive, Mission Hills, KS. A private family graveside service will be held later. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Church of the Resurrection or the American Cancer Society. Condolences may be offered at www.mtmoriah-freeman.com.