John William Royle

John William Royle passed away peacefully in his sleep on July 20, 2025, at the age of 89.

John was born on October 27, 1935, in Kansas City, Missouri, to John and Evelyn Royle. John married Wanda “the love of his life” on October 29th, 1980. He cherished their 44 years together and the loving and caring person she is. John loved his wife, kids, and grandkids deeply, and all the time he shared with his family.

John was a proud 1953 graduate of Northeast High School, where he excelled in football and track. He spent his professional career working at Ford Motor Company in Data Processing and Quality Control for 34 years and served in the Naval Reserves.

John had a vibrant personality. He had a sharp wit, spoke his mind, and called it like he saw it. He was funny, loved to joke, and make people laugh. John cared about all the people in his life, and creating special memories with his family.

John had many interests and hobbies. As a young man, he raised beagles and played many sports. He loved coaching many successful teams for his sons in baseball, football, basketball, and led them to championships.

He never missed a game as a proud spectator or a loud vocal contributor from the stands. He also followed professional sports and was a devoted Royals and Chiefs fan.

He loved nature and being outdoors. He always had a beautiful garden and yard. He even collected bee hives, having over 25 at one time.

After retirement, he served the Independence community as a volunteer police officer. He served many years as the President of the Homeowners Association of Canterbury Trails. He and Wanda lived in the home and neighborhood they loved dearly for 34 years. John housed many collections in his home in Canterbury. He collected antique furniture and novelties, ice cream scoops, Polly’s Pop bottles, an extensive Civil War book collection, American Royal memorabilia, and over 75 horse saddles. He was a meticulous historian and researched, studied, read, and learned everything he could about his subject. He was a proud Independence resident for nearly 70 years and loved Independence, Kansas City, and Missouri history.

John was a faithful follower of Jesus and a member of the Catholic Church. He helped plant early seeds of faith in his children and found hope and comfort as he prepared for the world to come.

He is preceded in death by his parents, John and Evelyn Royle, and his sister Delores.

He leaves behind his wife Wanda Royle of 44 years. His children: Michael Royle (Gwen) of Parkville, Missouri, Doug Royle (Judy) of Overland Park, Kansas, Leisa Crick (Tom) of Independence, Missouri, and Lori Whitten (Mike) of Gravois Mills, Missouri

Grandchildren: Brandon Royle, Brooke Begley (Jim), Michelle Butler (Patrick), Zack Royle (Caroline), Jacob Crick, Adele McCartney (Blake), and Dylan Crick. Great-Grandchildren: Jamie and Madison Begley, Wyatt Royle, Peter and Lucy Royle, and Marianne Butler.

Stepsons: Steven (Janice) Calfas, David Calfas, and stepdaughter Cynthia Calfas, all of Independence.

Grandchildren: Ryan (Lindsay) Evans, Matthew Calfas, Bradley (Amanda) Calfas, Jonathan (Whitney) Calfas, and Jacob Calfas.

Great-Grandchildren: Gavin and Bennett Evans, Hazel, Parker, Huxley, Emmett, and Taron Calfas.