William Pape

William L. “Bill” Pape, 74 of Independence, MO passed away Sunday October 3, 2010 at Centerpoint Medical Center. Visitation will begin at 1:00 on Saturday October 9, 2010 at the Speaks Suburban Chapel in Independence, MO with Services beginning at 3:00. Cremation will follow at a later date. In lieu of flowers the family would like donations made to the Bingham-Waggoner Historical Society Endowment Fund, PO Box 1163, Independence MO 64051. Bill was born December 30, 1935 in Fort Wayne, IN to Oscar and Evelyn (Bower) Pape. He proudly served in the US Air Force from 1955-64, Kansas Civil Defense, Boone County, MO Fire Department in the 1970’s for over 10 years, the Lee’s Summit, MO Fire Department for 5 years and retired in 1985. Was in the US Air Force Reserves from 1981-92 and retired as a First Master Sergeant in the 442nd TAC Hospital. He was NCO of the year in 1982. He received his Fire Science degree from the University of Missouri, Columbia. He attended Kansas State University, Washburn University, University of Maryland and the University of Arkansas. He was a member of the IAFF (International Association of Fire Fighters). He taught search and rescue, underwater recovery and repelling. He was a gifted wood worker and liked creating projects. He enjoyed garage and estate sales, dancing and traveling, but most of all spending time with his children and grandchildren. He volunteered at Bingham-Waggoner Estate, Independence, MO and proudly served on their advisory board. He was a devout Christian with a profound connection to Native American Indian culture. He is survived by; his mother, Evelyn Dawson of Dubuque, IA; a son, Mike Pape and wife Rhonda of Austin, TX and their kids Wes, Drake and Ambrea; a daughter, Michelle Millican and husband Ryan of Blue Springs, MO and their kids Chelsea, McKenna, Christopher and Bryce; his companion Grace Dale; 5 step sons, Richard Osburn and wife Chery of Austin, TX; Gary Osburn and wife Tawny of Boise, ID; Steve Osburn and wife Nita of Saucier, MS; David McCarty of Independence, MO and Chad Gall and wife Trina of Richmond, MO; a step daughter, Marie Roberts of Jacksonville, FL; 22 step grandchildren and 16 step great grandchildren; Grace’s children Barry Dale and wife Vanessa and Brad Dale and wife Elisha and families.