Richard Travers, 77, of Shawnee, Kansas, passed away on September 25th, 2019.  Richard was born in St. Louis, Missouri, on February 11, 1942, to William and Esther Travers.

After four years in the United States Air Force, Richard embarked on a journey that would give him advanced degrees in mechanics, business, selling, flying, computer hardware and software, manufacturing, publishing, and building a successful company, all from the School of Hard Knocks.  He was an early entrepreneur and ran several small businesses, the crowning achievement of which, GCC, was first run out of his basement. He and his wife Phyllis inclusively employed people from all backgrounds, (dis)abilities, young and old.

Richard's devotion to the Catholic Church would get him up at 4 AM on Sundays to participate in Adoration.  His devotion to God showed in his devotion to his fellow man.  Rather than give someone the shirt off his back, however, he'd give them a job.

Richard was known for his long, entertaining stories, which he loved to repeat often. His hobbies included boating, flying, model trains, model planes, model anything with a motor.

Of all the people he touched, his most proud achievement in life was marrying his wife Phyllis (PJ) Travers who supported him and worked alongside him in his ventures.  This November would have been their 55th wedding anniversary.  Richard will be remembered for his strong love and care for his beloved PJ .

Eldest brother of seven siblings, he is further survived by countless nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends who were all family to Richard.  In addition to his human family, Richard had many beloved friends in the animal kingdom, including Koko and Buddy who squawk in their sadness.

Funeral Services

Visitation at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Shawnee, Kansas, on Wednesday, October 2, 2019, at 10:00 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Shawnee, Kansas

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Happy Bottoms  303 W. 79th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64114 or to Wayside Waifs 3901 Martha Truman Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64137.