Charles F. O'Dower

Charles F. O'Dower, affectionately known as Charlie, passed away on July 21, 2025, in Kansas City, after a long battle with sickness. His journey in this world began on September 8, 1941, also in Kansas City, where he was born into the loving family of Charles H. O'Dower and Mary Catherine (Marxen) O'Dower.

All services will be held at St. Peter's Parish, 701 E. Meyer Blvd, Kansas City, MO, on Friday, August 1st. Visitation will begin at 10am, followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 11am. There will be a formal procession to Mt. Olivet Cemetery to lay Charlie to rest alongside his family. After the interment, friends and family are invited back to the church for a reception with stories and memories shared.

Charlie's legacy is one of warmth, kindness, and an insatiable curiosity about the world around him. Throughout his life, he shared a contagious positive demeanor and was known for his caring nature. A proud graduate of Hogan High School, he further honed his skills by earning a tradesman skilled Associate's Degree from Ranken Technical College in St. Louis, MO. With a foundation laid by his father's plumbing and heating & cooling business, Charlie took the helm, dedicating many years to serving the Kansas City community with integrity and diligence.

He found immense joy in storytelling, often charming family, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers with one (or four) of his many tales. His love for learning extended far beyond his professional endeavors; he delved into new subjects with enthusiastic research, always eager to share newfound knowledge about everything from artificial intelligence to the wonders of astronomy. Charlie's thirst for exploration led him and his beloved wife, Mary (Lancaster) O'Dower, to remarkable destinations around the world, including Ireland, Alaska, and Italy. Together, they created a tapestry of shared experiences that enriched their lives, drawing them ever closer through nearly 55 years of marriage—just days shy of their anniversary. Among their travelling journeys, together they were involved in groups such as Serra Club, and later Friends of Serra as Charlie's health declined.

Charlie's impact was profound, not just because of his 6'5" stature and lovable personality, but especially among his peers from St. Francis Xavier grade school, with whom he maintained lasting connections through a cherished luncheon group. He held dear the memories of earning the Altare Dei Merit Badge in his youth and was notably proud of winning the 10 Bars Sharpshooter Award at Rockhurst High School. In his heart, he also nurtured a deep pride in his Irish heritage, allowing it to influence the warmth he showed to others.

However, Charlie’s deepest joy and greatest source of pride was his Catholic faith and his beloved wife, Mary — someone who matched his kindness, challenged his thinking, and brought light to every corner of his life. Their bond was rooted in deep respect, unwavering support, and a shared sense of humor that carried them through all of life’s seasons. Whether cheering her on in her nursing career accomplishments or quietly appreciating the strength and grace she brought to their everyday lives, Charlie’s devotion to Mary was absolute. To him, she was not only his partner but his greatest blessing — the love of his life, his best friend, and his home.

As we mourn the loss of a wonderful husband, brother, uncle, friend, and community member, we also celebrate the incredible life Charlie lived. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Mary, who stood by him through every moment of joy, challenge, and adventure. As well as his brother, Edward "Ed" and wife Caron; his sisters-in-law Roberta Lancaster and Ann McShane & husband Edward; brother-in-law Ken Lancaster; and many dear nieces, nephews, great nieces & nephews and close friends. Away from this earthly realm, Charlie now suffers no more; his spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to St. Peter's Parish, the Wounded Warriors Project, and/or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. These organizations were near and dear to both Charlie and Mary, as they actively supported them all.

In this time of grief, let us carry forward the essence of Charlie's kindness and curiosity, keeping alive the stories and adventures that shaped his journey. He will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, faith and community will continue to inspire all who had the pleasure to know him. "Bunches of love" always, Charlie, until we meet again...