Laurence and Ruth Bouas' Obituary
Laurence Bouas, age 96, of Kansas City, MO, passed away on May 19, 2013 and Ruth (McKelvey) Bouas, age 97, of Kansas City, MO, passed away on February 3, 2016. Laurence was born on December 28, 1916 in Coulterville, IL. On January 6, 1938, he married Ruth Elizabeth McKelvey and they were married 75 years. Graduating high school in the midst of the Great depression, he found work quickly as a meat department manager for the Kroger Company in St. Louis, MO. In 1941, he returned to his hometown as a banker and insurance agent upon whom many in the community relied upon. He completed over 50 years in the banking industry in Coulterville, Sparta, and Marion, IL. All the while, he served his communities through civic organizations and lived out his faith as a church leader, Sunday school teacher and singer. Ruth was born on March 1, 1918 in Coulterville, IL. She was a church organist/pianist and directed choirs. She assisted Laurence in operating an independent insurance agency and spent many years caring for family members who were experiencing various trials in their lives. Survivors include a daughter, Merry Lee Sprague of Erskine MN; a son, Maury (Jean) Bouas of Kansas City, MO; four grandchildren, Marla (Mike) Johnson, Todd (Denise) Sprague, Kelly (Kirk) Henry and Kirby (Mike) McDaniel; six great- grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. They were preceded in death by their son, Laurence Keith Bouas. A memorial graveside service will be held for Laurence and Ruth on Monday, June 13, 2016 at 10:00 a.m. at Coulterville City Cemetery, Coulterville, IL with Pastor Jim Stark officiating. Family and friends are asked to go directly to the cemetery. Pyatt Funeral Home Coulterville, IL is in charge of the arrangements.
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