William (Bill) Howard Clendening, Age: 77
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Nov 24, 1942---Nov 22, 2020

William (Bill) Howard Clendening, 77, of Grain Valley, MO, formerly of Olathe, KS passed peacefully Sunday, November 22, 2020 at Kansas City Hospice House. 

Bill was born on November 24, 1942, in Mount Kisco, New York, the son of Herbert and Barbara Randebrock Clendening. As a young boy, his family moved thirteen times while his father was stationed around the world. They finally settled in the Kansas City area when he was thirteen years old, and he attended Shawnee Mission East High School. Bill later went on to join the Army at 17 years old. He was stationed in Sinop, Turkey, where he was a cryptographer. After his military service, he met his wife, Lois Dorothy Metzler, and they married on June 6, 1970. Bill then attended Emporia State University and received a Bachelors of Science in Education. From there he taught industrial arts at Shawnee Mission North Highschool. After his teaching career, he owned several small businesses, and continued his life-long love of teaching others. Throughout his life, Bill developed many passions ranging from drag racing, model railroading, golf, reading, and history. Bill had an irreverent sense of humor which he loved sharing with everyone. 

He was proceeded in death by his parents, brother Paul Clendening, and nephew Brandon Clendening. Bill is survived by his wife of 50 years, Lois D. Clendening, sisters Candy Clendening, Jane Clendening, Laurie Clendening, children Brent Clendening (Arin), Emily Jakle (Chris), and grandchildren Tyler Jakle and Ava Clendening. 

The family hopes to hold a Celebration of Life in the spring/summer. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be sent to the Kansas City Hospice House (KCMO) or the Disabled American Veterans (DAV).


Condolences

Roger and Pam Schlemmer Nov 27, 2020

Friend ,Springfield ,Missouri

There are no words to express our deep sorrow at losing Bill, a friend of 53 years. Please know your entire family is in our hearts and prayers as we grieve with you and celebrate Bill’s life. Roger and Pam

Ty Baumgartner Nov 28, 2020

friend ,Hallsville ,Missouri

My deepest condolences to all of Bill's family and friends. I was fortunate to call Bill a friend myself for nearly 25 years. I will miss his laugh and kindheartedness. He made our world a better place.

Steve Armbruster Nov 29, 2020

Co-worker / friend ,Olathe ,Kansas

Bill and I worked together on a mental health in the KC area during the 1980’s. He managed school services for hospitalized teens. Bill was compassionate, kind and so much fun to work with. His infectious laughter and hilarious antics are still talked out today! Bill was a character and a friend that I will never forget. Lois, my condolences are with you and your family in this time of need.

Cheryl Sullivan Nov 29, 2020

Friend ,Olathe ,Kansas

Dear Lois, I am so sorry to hear of Bill's passing. He had a wonderful sense of humor. It was such a pleasure to know him. My sincere sympathy to you and all family and friends. Cherie

Bobbie Stallings Cissell Nov 30, 2020

Former student ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Clendening family- I’m so sorry for your loss. Mr. C was a great person. I’m thankful that I took all those shop classes my junior and senior years at SMN. Praying for peace for you during this difficult time.

Irene Maxwell Nov 30, 2020

Friend ,Olathe ,Kansas

Dear Lois!! We are so very sorry for your loss of your husband Bill. Please keep safe and if you need something please call on me. Sincerely Irene Maxwell and Family

Stephen W. McKee Nov 30, 2020

So sorry to hear that Bill had passed away. I met Bill when he was in the Mokan Railjoiners model train group. He helped me along and encouraged me to build a module for the group. We did a lot of shows together in that group. So sorry to hear about your loss.

Jess Louk & family Dec 01, 2020

Friend ,Tampa ,Florida

We are incredibly sorry to hear of the loss of your father. Please accept our condolences and may our prayers help comfort you. Louk family

Ronald D Morse Dec 02, 2020

Friend ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Lois...I was so saddened by Bill's passing. He was a good friend and fellow model railroader, I will miss his emails and friendship. Ron Morse

Kevin Connaghan Dec 03, 2020

former co-worker ,Roeland Park ,Kansas

See Steve Armbruster's condolence. We worked with Bill and a number of others in the mental health adolescent program at Shawnee Mission Medical Center in the 1970s and 1980s. Bill was knowledgable in so many areas it was difficult to keep track of them. He was great working with the teens. His legendary sense of humor and fun brought delight and pleasant surprises to us all. I've missed Bill in recent years as our work lives took different directions. Note: his spouse, Lois, was the best psych nurse I ever worked with. Love and compassion to you, Lois.

RuthAnn & Paul Schultz Dec 18, 2020

Brother-in-law ,Marietta ,Georgia

Bill was a wonderful brother-in-law. He always had a ready smile and a joke. He easily engaged others. He loved life and had so many interests - an accomplished craftsman & a knowledgeable user of firearms to name just two. He was a legend in many ways. Our hearts go out to his wife, Lois and her children, Brent & Emily and their families.