"Charles "Chuck" Ray Lefholz, passed away from complications of Alzheimer's on October 10, 2010. Born on January 10, 1938, Chuck grew up in the greater Kansas City area. On April 27, 1957, he married his best friend Mary W. Gower. They moved to California in 1960, where they lived for 14 years. He attended Mount San Antonio College and earned his Associates Degree in Mathematics. In 1970, they moved to the Midwest and settled in St. Louis, MO, for nine years. Later the family returned to the Kansas City area and settled in Blue Springs, MO, where they have resided for the past 31 years. Chuck enjoyed a career in sales for over 42 years. He retired from Pabst Brewing Company in 2004. Chuck devoted his life to serving his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He ministered to the needy and worked to bring people into the arms of God. He was a charter member of Calvary Baptist Church in Blue Springs, MO, where he was an ordained deacon and beloved Sunday School Teacher. He was also a member of First Bible Baptist Church in Blue Springs, MO. He is survived by his wife of 53 years: Mary Lefholz; two daughters: Catherine Snyder and husband James of Blue Springs, MO, and Terri Knowles and husband Greg of Raleigh, NC; one great grandson: James William Snyder of Grain Valley, Mo; two sisters, Judy Goodson and husband Jack of Frederick, MD, and Janice Gardner and husband Fred of Independence, MO; numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and countless beloved friends. Chuck was preceded in death by his parents, Boyce Lefholz and Alice Brown; and a son: Charles "Michael" Lefholz. Chuck was a kind and compassionate man whose love for life was only surpassed by his love for his wife, his children, and his grandchildren. He loved family gatherings and spending time with friends. He was a gracious host and an amazing story teller. He enjoyed playing golf, fishing, watching football and reading. He could always be counted on to be a best friend, a confidante, a gentleman and a leader. He will be greatly missed and always loved. Services will be held at the First Bible Baptist Church, Blue Springs, MO, on Monday, October 18, 2010, at 1:00 p.m. Visitation will be preceding the service from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Alzheimer's Association. (Arrangements made by Royer-Hays Funeral Home, Blue Springs, MO, (816) 229-5551.)

This obituary was published in the Kansas City Star on October 15 & 16, 2010.