George Coulas

George A. Coulas, 84, of Independence, MO, passed away Tuesday, December 10, 2013. A visitation will be held from 10:00-11:00 a.m. Monday, December 16th at First Baptist Church; 500 W. Truman Rd, Independence. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the church. Burial will be held at Mt. Washington Cemetery. George was born October 3, 1929 in Kansas City, MO to James and Ada (Anthony) Coulas as one of two children. He graduated from Northeast High School and UMKC with Bachelors of Business Administration. George proudly served in the Air Force during the Korean Conflict as Staff Sergeant. He married his beloved Shirley “Pat” (Powell) on September 9, 1950 in Independence, MO and together had two children. George worked as Manager of Transportation for Harcros Chemical for over 20 years and a member and past President of the Traffic and Transportation Club. He and his wife were long time members of First Baptist where he was also Deacon Emeritus. He enjoyed golf, gardening, fishing, being outdoors, camping, traveling, and family time. He is loved and will be missed. George is survived by daughter, Debbra Smith and husband Phil of Kearney, MO; son Dennis Coulas and wife Norma of Stilwell, KS; grandchildren, Jennifer Criss and husband Rod; Justin Wheeler and wife Katie Jo; Jacob Smith; Jenna Welch and husband Tony; Austin, Cassie, Krista, and Whitney Coulas; great grandchild, Roderick Criss; and brother, Harry Coulas of Sugar Creek, MO. He was preceded in death by his parents, and wife, Pat, earlier this year. The family encourages contributions to St. Luke’s Hospice; 4225 Baltimore, Kansas City, MO 64111 or to Parkinson Foundation of Greater KC; 7800 Foster, OPKS 66204. Online condolences may be expressed at www.speakschapel.com (Arrangements: Carson-Speaks Chapel (816) 252-7900)