Mr. Bayard "Bo" Owen McKinnis

Bayard O. "Bo" McKinnis McKinnis, Bayard O. Bo passed away on Sunday, January 31, 2010, at the age of 91. He was the beloved husband for 71 years of Doris L. McKinnis; father of Michael McKinnis (Patricia); grandfather of Scott McKinnis (Kecia), Christopher McKinnis and Elizabeth Shea (Robert); great-grandfather of Lucy, Grace and Patrick McKinnis and Emily Shea. Bo spent a portion of his childhood on a farm in Nebraska, but lived his entire adult life in St. Louis. He met his wife Doris in their Lutheran Church group when they were teenagers. They married young and had a long and loving relationship. He was truly a member of the greatest generation, serving in the U.S. Navy in World War II on board the U.S.S. Saratoga aircraft carrier, seeing a great deal of combat in the South Pacific. After the war, he embarked upon a career at Southwestern Bell Telephone that lasted for 38 years. He and Doris retired approximately 31 years ago. Their retirement was vibrant and enthusiastic. In addition to spending time at their place in the Ozarks, they traveled to more than 50 countries. They also loved to travel within the U.S. and usually wintered in either Florida or Texas. Bo was always active in his church and an avid member of the telephone Pioneers. He spent many hours maintaining and repairing talking books for the blind. Bo particularly enjoyed riding his bike and remained active almost his entire life. We loved him very much. Services: A memorial service will be celebrated at KRIEGSHAUSER WEST MORTUARY, 9450 Olive Boulevard, St. Louis, Missouri 63132, at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, February 27, 2010, with a visitation period at the mortuary commencing at 10:00 a.m. Memorial contributions may be made to the charity of one's choice.