Harold Ransdell Pearson passed away on Thursday, November 20, 2014, at North Kansas City Hospital, North Kansas City, Missouri, following a short illness. Harold was born on March 7, 1918 in Marceline, Missouri, the son of Rev. J.W. Pearson, and Mary (Ransdell) Pearson. He married the former Helen Virginia Darby on October 30, 1952. Helen preceded him in death on June 5, 1998. Harold graduated from Culver-Stockton College in 1940. As a member of the greatest generation, he proudly served his nation during World War II. He served with the 62nd Army Band in Camp Maxie, Texas. He remained lifelong friends with his fellow Army band members. Harold lived in Kansas City for most of his life. He worked in the printing trade, working for Western Typesetting and later for Burd and Fletcher. He continued to be active for many years after retirement, including his volunteer duties as a KCI Airport ambassador. He remained active in music throughout his life, playing trumpet in musical organizations including the Unity Band and Kansas City American Legion Band. In later years, he took up singing, memorizing many old standards, and singing at public events and concerts. At age 90, he sang the National Anthem to open an American Royal event. He was a member of North Cross United Methodist Church, serving as an usher. He also enjoyed viewing the wildlife at Smithville Lake. Harold is preceded in death by his beloved wife, Helen; sisters, Dorothy Martin and Mary Watts; and brothers, Dr. John Pearson and Elliott Shelton Pearson. He was also preceded in death by his companion, Wilma Watts. Survivors include one son and daughter -in-law, Dr. Jack and Patricia Pearson, of Magalia, California; grandchildren, Christopher Pearson, Tabitha Pearson, Robert Roth and his wife Meaghan; one great- grandchild, Evan Roth; and two sisters, Eva Kuehn and Amy Petty. Graveside services will be held at Oak Hill Cemetery, Carrollton, Missouri, on Saturday November 29, 2014 at 2:00 p.m.. Visitation will be held at Bittiker Funeral Home, 1201 North US 65 Highway, Carrollton, Missouri, on Saturday November 29, 2014, from 1:00 until 1:45 p.m. For those wishing to make a memorial contribution, they are suggested to the Salvation Army in memory of Harold. They may be left at or mailed to Bittiker Funeral Home, P.O. Box 223, Carrollton, Missouri, 64633. Fond memories of Harold and condolences for the family may be shared by visiting www.bittikerfuneralhomes.com

Published in Kansas City Star on Nov. 25, 2014