Gary Wayne Edmonds, 68, Dearborn, MO, passed away suddenly Friday, November 23, 2012 at St. Luke's Plaza Hospital surrounded by his immediate family. Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Monday, November 26, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home, 2117 Independence Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64124. Cremation will follow the visitation. Contributions are suggested to Make-A-Wish Foundation or to a Veterans Foundation of your choosing.

Gary was born in Horton, MO, on February 25, 1944 to Kenneth Wayne and Ruby Lee Edmonds. He graduated from Metz High School in 1961, in Metz, MO., filling his summers farming and at Midwest Wheat Harvest. Gary started working in Kansas City for TWA in April of 1962, as a data card programmer working his way up to managing director of TWA's International Data Communications, based in London, UK. Along the way he was very fortunate to travel the world and make lasting friendships everywhere. He retired in 2002 at the age of 58. He had a zest for life and was full of charm and charisma. He was known for his funny but true stories, his colorful limericks, his wit, his patience, his loyalty, and most of all his commitment to his family and his Savior.

Gary leaves behind his loving wife of 27 years, Patricia (Risalvato) Edmonds; his adored son, Jeffery Wayne Edmonds; loyal daughter-in-law, Toni L. Edmonds; and his "RFL" (Reason for Living), grandson Stephen Wayne Edmonds; his canine companion, Chipper Wayne Edmonds; sister, Karen Reed of Nevada, MO; uncle, Jim Edmonds of Horton, MO; brothers-in-law and sister-in-law, Joseph Risalvato, Phillip and Julie Risalvato and their four boys, along with numerous other family and friends worldwide.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Please e-mail to gwedmonds@msn.com if you would like more information.

"Live with intention, walk to the edge, listen hard, practice wellness, play with abandon, laugh, choose with no regret, continue to learn, appreciate your friends, do what you love, live as if this is all there is."

Online condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com.