Billy Rommel

GLADSTONE, Mo. -- Billy Bertran Rommel, 83, of Gladstone passed away peacefully Sunday, Aug. 5, 2007, surrounded by his family, following a one-year battle with cancer.

Bill was born Jan. 31, 1924, in Malden, Mo., son of Barney H. and Eva Cleo Baxter Rommel.

He served in the U.S. Navy during World War II and the Korean conflict.

Bill was a route salesman with American Bakeries, retiring in 1984. He was a member of Pleasant Valley Baptist Church and Gladstone VFW.

Survivors include a son and daughter-in-law, Ron and Debbie Rommel of Gladstone; two granddaughters, Brooke Nelson and husband Bruce of Kansas City, Mo., Madison Rommel of Gladstone; and a great-granddaughter, Camryn Nelson.

Also his stepmother, Bertha Rommel of Cape Girardeau; three half sisters, Fannie, Loretta and Debbie; nieces and nephews, including Gene Galloway, Eddie Fleet, Sandy Hill and Kathleen Zeppernick; as well as his dear friend Beverly Block, who provided him with loving care and companionship in his final years.

He was preceded in death by his parents; wife, Gladys; and a sister, Thelma.

Bill will be lovingly remembered for his devotion to family, country and God. He will be missed by his family and friends.

Visitation will begin at 4 p.m., followed by the funeral at 5 p.m. Thursday at Park Lawn Northland Chapel, Interstate 35 at M-29 Highway, in Liberty, Mo. Commital service will be at 10 a.m. Friday at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, you may honor Bill with a memorial contribution to the American Cancer Society or to Kansas City Hospice.