| LEAVITT, Astor J "Ed": 11 Aug 1916 - 21 Dec 2002
Source: online newspaper archive
Kansas City Star, The (MO) - December 22, 2002
Astor "Ed" Leavitt, 86, of Blue Springs, MO, went to be with the Lord on Saturday, December 21, 2002, while at home. Ed was very well known for his lovable sense of humor, kind spirit and warm smile. He was wonderfully refreshing, sometimes irreverent, but always a very talented and professional guy. Ed's journey through life led him down many wonderful roads. Ed was born on August 11, 1916, in Fairplay, MO, the son of Edgar and Nola (Barber) Leavitt. His family soon moved to Fairmont (Independence), MO, where he grew up and attended Northeast High School. At the age of 17, Ed leased his first Phillips 66 service station, which began a long career in gasoline and propane. At the age of 19, Ed purchased a Mobile service station and leased another one, which he later purchased. He married and had three children, Nola, Janice and Eddie. He simultaneously achieved acclaim as a clarinetist and saxophonist, forming his own two dance bands, naming one "Eddy Layton and His Orchestra." Ed performed for most of his interesting life. He tried to join the Armed Services during WWII, but was rejected due to a defective eardrum. Ed moved his family to Buckner, MO, in the late 1940s, where he founded Buckner Propane Company, selling retail gas throughout the Midwest. In the early 60s, Ed moved to Kearney, MO, and founded Leavitt Propane, selling wholesale to numerous dealers throughout the Midwest. Ed had a private pilot's license, and he owned and flew his Beechcraft twin, both for business and pleasure. He had a private runway on his property. He was one of the founders of the Grain Valley Airport. Ed was a member of the Ararat Shrine Temple, a 32nd degree Mason in Mount Washington Masonic Lodge, the 1111 Club, the Scottish Rite, and the Royal Order of Jesters - KC Chapter 54, and he served as the clarinetist in the Shrine band. He performed at many Shrine National Conventions. Later, the Ararat Shrine Club appointed him to be their band director, and they participated in many concerts and parades. Ed also played in the Shrine Circus band, as well as a German band. He helped raise funds for the Shriner's Children's Hospitals through many endeavors. Ed traveled extensively throughout Europe and spent many winters in Weslaco, TX, where he performed in a musical group. In 1985, Ed married the love of his life, Shirley Lowe of Blue Springs, who was a longtime friend and also an accomplished clarinetist. They resided in Blue Springs the remainder of his life, performed together for various bookings, and traveled extensively. Ed became a consultant for Commonwealth Petroleum, Pratt Propane, and Superior Gas. "We were as one. He is the love of my life and we will be together again," Shirley said. Ed and Shirley's true love for each other shined throughout their marriage. Ed was funloving, loyal, generous, and compassionate. He will be greatly missed by Shirley, family and friends. Ed is survived by his dearly beloved wife, Shirley, his daughter, Janice Selvey and husband Larry of Oak Grove, MO, his son, Eddie Leavitt of Kearney, MO, five grandchildren, and 10 greatgrandchildren. Ed was preceded in death by his daughter, Nola. Those who knew him loved him, and he enriched the lives of many. Memorial services will be held at 10 a.m. Monday, December 23rd at the First Baptist Church, Grain Valley, MO, followed by a Rose Ceremony given by his beloved Jesters. The family suggests contributions to the Shriner's Children's Hospitals or to a charity of your choice.
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