Virgil L. Thorp

Virgil Lee Thorp was born May 29, 1920 in Shackelford, Mo. He was one of nine children born to Joseph and Lena Thorp. He graduated from Marshall High School. While in HS he was an assistant manager at an A & P grocery store. This started his lifelong love of the grocery business.

During WWll, Virgil served in England, France, Germany, and Austria. He was in the 12th Armored Division, 23rd Tank Battalion. They were called The Hellcats. He served from December 1940 to December 1945. He was awarded the Bronze Star and several Certificates of Merit for leadership and bravery. At one point, he was on the front lines for 45 days straight. He was in the reserves until 1955 ending with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.

His first marriage was to Helen Roscher. They were married until her death in 1965. They had two children, Cheryl Adams (deceased) and Virgil Montgomery Thorp.

He married Phyllis (Boyle) Thorp in 1966 and was a step-father to Pamela (Conrick) Fouts and Timothy Edward Conrick (deceased).

Virgil managed several grocery stores after WWll and eventually bought his own store. He was the owner of Blue Ridge United Super until he retired in 1985.

He was on the Board of Directors and a founding member of Bannister Bank and Trust. He was involved with many organizations including South KC Chamber of Commerce, South Jackson County Kiwanis, Lion’s Club, Jaycee’s, Crusade Against Crime, Hickman Mills Scholarship Fund, National Retail Grocers Association, Mo and KC Retail Grocer’s Associations, South KC Cancer Crusade, Richards-Gebaur Base Community Council, Board member of Truman Medical Center and TMC East, and a member of the honor society of American veterans called The 40 & 8. He was named the 1970 Good Scout by the Boy Scout Council as well as other civic honors.

Virgil was a member of the Lutheran church since 1946 and Peace Lutheran was his church home since 1960. Virgil was a man of faith and a role model for his family and friends.

Virgil is survived by son, Virgil Montgomery (Lucy) Thorp, step-daughter Pamela (Duane) Fouts. Grandchildren: Lori (Dave) Reeves, Scott (Regina) Michaels, Rachel (David) Feyerabend, Allison (Thomas) Gensch, Lauren Fouts. Great grandchildren: Liam, Nora, and Owen Feyerabend, Hayes Gensch. Lori’s children - Brianna and Kaitlynn, and Scott’s children - Amber, Bailey, Heather, Sam, and Amos, and their families.

Virgil was always kind, caring, and fun. He had a twinkle in his eye and a happy disposition. He treated everyone with respect and loved unconditionally. He enjoyed golfing, traveling, playing cards (pitch), vacationing at his cabin at the Lake of the Ozarks, boating and fishing, and spending time with family and friends. He loved to make (and eat) potato pancakes and he loved I-Hop’s 2x2x2. His favorite car was a station wagon. He said, “I am just a station wagon kind of guy.”

After surviving COVID at over 100 years old, his 101st birthday last May was especially sweet as we realized how lucky we were to have him with us. KCTV5 even did a story on him that aired during his birthday month. He remained sharp until the end and was a blessing to all. I wish everyone could have someone like Virgil in their life. We are better that he was in ours. He was one of the good guys and will be missed.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Peace Lutheran Church, 8240 Blue Ridge Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64138.

Private family services; burial in Memorial Park Cemetery.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please donate to Peace Lutheran Church, 8240 Blue Ridge Blvd, Kansas City, MO 64138.

Private family services; burial in Memorial Park Cemetery.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.