Kenneth Taylor

Kenneth H. Taylor, 80, of Independence, MO passed away Saturday, July 26, 2008 at Rosewood Health Center. Memorial Services will be 2:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 29, 2008 at the Pleasant Heights Congregation of the Community of Christ. Visitation will be prior to the service starting at 1:00 p.m. with a Mic-O-Say service at 2:15 p.m. Cremation. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to the Pleasant Heights Community of Christ, Boy Scouts of America Kansas City Council or to the Groves Community Hospice. Kenneth was born September 29, 1927 in Independence, MO to A.B. and JoZelma (Smith) Taylor. He graduated from William Chrisman High School, and William Jewell College before attending the UMKC School of Law. He proudly served in the U.S. Navy during WWII. Mr. Taylor practiced law in Independence starting in 1958 with his father, A.B. Taylor. He retired in 1995. Kenneth served on the board of directors for the Salvation Army, Red Cross, Jackson County Bar Association, and organized the Independence Boys Club, and Sheltered Workshop. Kenneth received a 50 year award pin from the Kiwanis for perfect attendance and was a member of the Masonic Lodge #76. He was an active member of the Boy Scouts for 70 years including Scout Master, Explorer Guide, Chieftain of the Tribe of the Mic-O-Say. Kenneth enjoyed camping, traveling and hiking in his spare time. Mr. Taylor is survived by his wife of 57 years, Patricia (Heide) Taylor; daughter Kay Van Fleet and husband David; son Donald Taylor and wife Cynthia; grandchildren Bruce Van Fleet, Heidi Smith, Laura Van Fleet and David Taylor; great-grandchildren Annie, Colin and Finn Smith; by a brother Joseph A. Taylor. He was preceded in death by a grandson Derrick Cline.