Richard Leon Clardy

Richard Leon Clardy, age 87 years, of Holts Summit, Mo., passed away Saturday, April 10, 2021, at Valley Park Residential Care in Holts Summit surrounded by family. He was born on November 8, 1933, in Holts Summit, the son of Thomas and Mabel (Bout) Clardy. He was married on June 9, 1957, in Holts Summit to Dorothy Clardy who preceded him in death on November 16, 2012. A lifelong resident of the Holts Summit area, Richard graduated from Jefferson City High School. He then went on to earn his degree from Jefferson City Jr. College. After graduation, he proudly served our country in the United States Army during the Korean War. Richard was employed with Missouri Department of Transportation for 40 years as an engineer and steel inspector. He was proud of his ability to use his keen attention to detail to build bridges. He was a man of faith, and was a lifelong member of Union Hill Baptist Church in Holts Summit. He was also a 50 plus year member of Masonic Lodge in New Bloomfield. Richard was a meek, mild and gentle soul. He cherished time with his family and made them his first priority. Richard made it a point to attend and actively follow every event and celebration to cheer on his sons and grandchildren. He truly had a servant's heart. Richard was an attentive and loving husband: always taking care of anything she asked without complaint. He showed his true nature as an amazing caregiver to his wife as she neared the end of her life. He was very intelligent, mechanically inclined and able to fix almost anything. Richard loved sports, especially football, Mizzou Basketball, and racing go-karts; a hobby that he and his son Troy bonded over. Richard's pride and joy was taking care of the Clardy Property which has been in their family for four generations. He was dedicated to keeping his things looking nice, from his lawn to his vehicles, everything was perfectly manicured. Later in life, he enjoyed traveling with friends. Richard was a respected hard worker and was a man of his word. He kept an even temperament in all things and was an incredible role model for his family. They will forever cherish the memories and stories he has blessed them with. Survivors include: two sons, Scott Clardy of Columbia, Mo. and Troy Clardy (Sarah) of Holts Summit, Mo.; one sister-in-law, Sharon Seabaugh (Larry); four grandchildren, Drew Clardy (Jessica), Emma Davis (Michael), Sam Clardy and Max Clardy; two great-grandchildren, Jonah Clardy and M.J. Davis; one cousin, Jerri Balkenbush; one niece, Beth Walker (Casey). He was preceded in death by his parents and his loving wife of 55 years, Dorothy. Visitation was held from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday, April 13, 2021, at Union Hill Baptist Church in Holts Summit, Mo. Funeral services were conducted at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, April 14, 2021, at Union Hill Baptist Church in Holts Summit, Mo. with Reverend Frank Whitney officiating. Graveside services and interment with military honors were held at Hawthorn Memorial Gardens. Friends may mail sympathy cards to the funeral home or leave condolences online to be given to his family. Memorial contributions are suggested to Union Hill Baptist Church. Funeral arrangements were under the direction of Freeman Mortuary. www.freemanmortuary.com