Donald Eugene Urich, 87, of Overland Park, KS, passed away on March 1, 2020 in the comfort of his home from a courageous battle with lung cancer. Visitation will be from 10:00 am – 11:00 am on Friday March 6th at Bethany Lutheran Church, 9101 Lamar Avenue, Overland Park, KS 66207. Funeral services will follow at 11:00 am. There will be a private ceremony at Johnson County Memorial Gardens at a later time. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests donations to the Korean War Veterans Association and Bethany Lutheran Church in his name.
Don was born on October 24th, 1932 in Kansas City, MO. He graduated from Shawnee Mission High School in 1951. After high school, Don joined the Army and proudly served in the Korean War as a Staff Sargent in the 7th Division Motor Pool Maintenance. Post military, he attended Stevenson Autobody School and began his career in the automotive industry spanning 40 plus years. Don retired in November 2005 and spent his days “piddling” in the garage and back yard shed, playing MacGyver and fixing anything that was broken, becoming an active member in the Korean War Veterans Association, and spending quality time with the love of his life, Mary Lou. From the New Dinner Theater, to the Casinos, to breakfast with “the group”, enjoying numerous McKenzie bus tours to just simply enjoying each other’s company, their love for one another was one for the storybooks. Their faith has always been an important part of their life together as well and they are charter members of Bethany Lutheran Church.
There are many words to describe Don: caring, calm, cool, collected, gentle, witty, charming, handsome, ornery, courteous, respectful, loving, honorable and patriotic to name a few. One thing is certain: you left a conversation with Don Urich feeling happier. He had that affect. Don, you will be missed by many. Memories of you will be cherished forever!
Don was preceded in death by his parents, Albert Urich and Marie Ussery and his brother, Dale Urich.
Don is survived by his wife, Mary Lou Urich; children, Donna McDaniel (Richard) of Ozawkie, KS, Debbie Rose (Don) of Olathe, KS and Doug Urich (Shani) of Overland Park, KS; in addition to 9 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren.
Condolences may be left for the familiy online at www.mcgilleyhoge.com.
