Jack Pyle, 94, passed away Sept. 27, 2019. He was born in Kansas City, KS on March 3, 1925 to Richard and Cecelia Pyle, the fifth of 10 children. Growing up in a large family during the depression, he learned the values of hard work and family ties. He grew up in the Argentine district of Kansas City KS. He graduated from Bishop Ward High School where he first met his future wife, LaVonne Marsh.
In 1943 he joined the Navy. He served aboard the battleship USS Washington as a signalman and saw action in most of the significant battles in the Pacific. After his discharge from the Navy he returned home and in 1947 he and LaVonne were married. He attended Rockhurst College where he graduated in 1949.
In 1952 they built a house in Westwood KS where they raised their three children, John, Sharon and Rick. In 1955 Jack went to work for American Motors as Assistant Zone Controller. Over the next 30 years he held several management positions eventually becoming Zone Controller. He retired in 1985. In 1968 he teamed up with his brother Jim and started Metro Tax Service in Kansas City KS. They continued to operate this as a seasonal business until selling it in the 1980’s.
Jack loved to travel. The family took many vacations to all parts of the country. After the kids were gone, he and LaVonne traveled to Europe and Hawaii a number of times. He eventually travelled to all 50 states. In his 90’s he took his kids and their spouses on cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska and the Adriatic.
Jack was a huge baseball fan. From the time the Athletics moved to Kansas City in the mid 50’s he would listen to the games on the radio practically every night during the summer. This continued as the A’s left and the Royals arrived. After he retired, he had a 20 game season ticket and he and LaVonne went to the stadium for the games for a number of years. He was also and avid fan of the Chiefs and KU basketball.
After retirement he needed a hobby so he took up woodworking. He got very proficient at it and made all kinds of furniture. He made custom pieces for home as well as for his children and grandchildren.
Most of all, Jack will be remembered for his sense of humor. He could make almost anyone laugh. The new friends that he made after moving to Santa Marta in 2007, as well as the staff, always enjoyed his company.
He will be particularly missed by his family: John and Marilyn, Sharon and Dave, Rick and Teri and grandkids Doug, Moira, Stephanie, Ashley, Kelli and Shannon.
A Memorial Mass will be held at Cure of Ars Catholic Church, Leawood KS on Oct. 26. Visitation at 10:00 AM with the service at 11:00. The Porter Funeral Home in Lenexa, KS is in charge of arrangements.