William Waddington

William Lee Waddington, 80, of Independence, MO passed away Wednesday, August 19, 2009 at the Villages of Jackson Creek. A visitation will be from 1-2:00 PM Saturday, August 22 at Speaks Suburban Chapel, 18020 E. 39th St., Independence, with services to begin at 2:00 PM. Graveside services will be 2:00 PM Monday, August 24 at Benton City Cemetery, Benton City, MO. In lieu of flowers contributions may be made to Pets for Life, 7240 Wornall Rd., Kansas City, MO 64114.
William was born Aug. 21, 1928 in Benton City, MO to William and Pearl (Holbrook) Waddington. He graduated from Mexico High School in 1946 and later joined the Air Force serving during the Korean War from 1950-1954, attaining the rank of S/SGT. Bill was united in marriage to Mary Louise Ashbaugh on Oct. 20, 1956. He was employed by the Veteran’s Administration in Kansas City, MO in the admission and out-patient department from 1957 to 1983, retiring as a supervisor. Bill was involved for several years with the “Pets for Life” therapy organization in which pet owners took their pets to nursing homes and hospitals to visit with the residents. Bill was an avid St. Louis Cardinal fan and had played shortstop for the Mexico Ramblers from 1946-1949.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Lillian Duffen. He is survived by his wife of 53 years, Mary Waddington; niece Gloria Jean Duffen; and a host of extended family and many dear friends.