It is with great sadness to write that “Bill” passed away at home on Sunday, September 16, 2018

Bill was born on August 22, 1931 in Warrensburg, Missouri to John Stephen and Margaret (Bradley) Maxwell.  He grew up there, with summers at his grandfather’s farm, which he frequently recalled with happy memories.  He attended public schools, the University of Missouri at Columbia, and later attended Kent State University, attaining his Masters of Engineering and nearly completing his Doctorate.  He was a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon Fraternity. Bill was Chief Engineer for White Truck, Kenworth Truck and ultimately worked at Boeing as an Aeronautical Engineer. He joined the U.S. Army in 1953, fought in Korea at the rank of First Lt. and Artillery Unit Commander, and called himself a “mean SOB,” and was discharged in 1957.  In ­1956 Bill married Sue Bowers, who passed in 1978.   He married Patricia Gerken in 1981 and they resided in Columbus, Ohio and Kansas City, Missouri.  Bill is predeceased by his parents and brother John (Jack) Maxwell, who he loved dearly.  Survivors include his wife Patricia, Sister-in-Law Helen Maxwell of Columbia, Missouri, stepchildren John K. Gerken III and Holly Ann Levine and spouses, as well as five step grandchildren. He also leaves behind his dearly loved (Bichon) Dindi, who was always at his side and who he loved to call “My Buddy”.  Many thanks to his caregivers Zeita White, Joann Thomas, Faith and Alice of St. Luke’s Hospice, Nicole and Denise.  Bill (never ‘Billy’ or ‘Willie’) was easy going, wise cracking, and definitely lovable and loved.  He was ALL about Mizzou, the Royals, Boating on “Take Time” at Lake of the Ozarks, woodworking, and the U.S. Army.  He loved the United States of America and all it stands for.   Bill will be so dearly missed by his wife, family, and all who knew and loved him.  Rest in Peace Dear Bill.

Dedication and burial will be held at Mount Moriah Cemetery at 435 and Holmes Road at noon on Monday, September 24, 2018.  The service will take place at the grave site in section 18 at the back of the cemetery by the lake.  Donations in Bill’s memory can be made to Wayside Waifs @ www.waysidewaifs.org.