Overton “Bud” Bradbury, Jr.

Overton “Bud” Bradbury, Jr., 73, of Liberty, formerly of Lathrop, Mo., passed away, Wednesday, January 2, 2008 at Liberty Hospital.

Overton "Bud" Bradbury, Jr. was born on May 10, 1934 to Overton, Sr. and Leah (Gleckler) Bradbury in Galesburg, IL, where he grew up and graduated high school.

At 18, Bud chose to serve his country by enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps during the Korean conflict. During a 3-year hitch, he earned several decorations including the Korean Service Medal; he was honorably discharged at the rank of Sergeant, and then returned to Galesburg.

In January 1955 he married Darlene Gustafson. After his discharge, he began a career with Butler Manufacturing in Galesburg , and was soon relocated with his family to the Kansas City area. After 20 years with Butler, he retired as a Systems Analyst.

Bud then founded, owned, and was head mechanic of the "Shade Tree Garage," and finally worked at KTTR Pleasant Valley in the parts department, before retiring for good in 2001.

He was a member of the Lathrop American Legion Post, and attended Pleasant Valley Baptist Church in Liberty.

Bud was a loving father, generous provider, and avid sportsman. He was an active participant in his children's lives as role model, coach, and counselor. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and spending time with his buddies at Trail's Inn.

Bud was preceded in death by his parents; two sisters, Frances Alstedt and Joan Camp; and brother-in-law John Alstedt.

He is survived by his children, Jeff Bradbury and fiancé Jane Tignor, Liberty, MO, Kurt Bradbury and wife Kelly, Randolph, NJ, Caren Stautz and husband Curt, Newburgh, IN; best friend and caregiver, Darlene Bradbury, Liberty, MO; four grandchildren, Diane and Matthew Stautz, and Rhett and Amy Bradbury; brother-in-law, Duane Camp, Princeville, IL; and several cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Rest in peace Old Man. May God bless and keep thee.
You've reached the clearing at the end of the path.

Funeral Service: 12:00 p.m., (noon), Saturday, January 5^th at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, Liberty, with visitation one hour prior to the service.

Burial with Military Honors: Glenridge Cemetery, Liberty.

Donations: Hillcrest Ministries, Liberty.

Arrangements: Hixson-Klein Funeral Home, Gower.