Stewart James Ridenour, Jr.

Stewart ‘Stew’ Ridenour, 80, of Lee’s Summit, MO, passed away April 9, 2014 at home. A memorial service will be held at 11 AM, Saturday April 12, 2014 at Beverly Hills Baptist Church, 1229 W. 31st Street (corner of 31st and Crysler) Independence, MO, with a visitation beginning one hour prior at 10 AM. Mr. Ridenour was born May 4, 1933 in Kansas City, MO to Stewart, Sr and Mildred (Pewitt) Ridenour. He graduated from Raytown High School in 1951, and attended a Kansas City area junior college where he studied engineering. He used his new knowledge as a machinist for Bendix, and later opened his own machine shop.  After selling his machine shop he went to work for General Business Services (GBS) as a CPA, becoming a corporate officer and trainer. He enjoyed working with small businesses and building relationships with his clients. After his time with GBS, he returned to work as a machinist and a seasonal employee with H&R Block. He served 17 years in the US Naval Reserve, and 8 years as a reserve police officer and Detective in Raytown.  He loved square dancing and was a skilled caller, he also enjoyed his time on the golf course and general tinkering with electronics. He was a devoted Christian and a member and leader of many Baptist churches throughout his life, concluding as an active member of Beverly Hills Baptist. Above all, he was a devoted husband and father.  Stewart was preceded in death by his parents, daughter Brenda Sue, and sister Joann.  He is survived by his wife Shirley, daughter Janet (Forrest) Simpson, son James Ridenour, sister Carol Ryan, grandson Matthew (Tabatha) Simpson, a great-granddaughter Audrey Simpson and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In lieu of flowers the family has requested memorial contributions to Parkinson’s Research or Crossroads Hospice.

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