Scott Podhola

Scott Podhola, 55, of Independence, Missouri, passed away after a courageous battle with cancer. Cancer didn’t win; Scott’s strength, love, and legacy endure far beyond its reach.

Scott was preceded in death by his parents, Steve and Linda Podhola. He is survived by his beloved wife of 22 years, Jessica, and his children: Taylor of Invercargill, New Zealand, and Ronan and Sophie, both of the home. He is also survived by his aunts, Boots and Bobbi; cousins who were like siblings; and numerous friends who were like family. Scott was a fiercely loyal and loving husband and father, whose devotion to his family knew no bounds.

An avid sports fan and accomplished baseball player, Scott’s love for the Boston Red Sox and Pittsburgh Steelers ran deep, and he was a fan of all things Kansas City. He loved to torment his wife during the NCAA basketball tourneys. He was thrilled to have his beloved U of A in the Big 12. He briefly played baseball for the Arizona Wildcats, a chapter of his life he treasured, and he found immense joy in watching his own children play ball, continuing his passion through their achievements.

Scott also lived a life of incredible adventure. He traveled the world, spending time in Thailand and even working as a model. He was a proud union plumber, a steadfast believer in workers’ rights, and never one to shy away from calling out what he saw as the idiocy of conservatism. He was a fierce defender of women and deeply understood the plight of the undervalued, overworked, and underserved, standing as an ally and advocate for fairness and equity.

Scott was a fierce believer in anything his wife and children wanted to do, always content to be the rock at home while Jess built a career fighting for the values they both held so dear. Despite his travels and achievements, Scott found his greatest joy in being surrounded by the family he adored. There was nothing he loved more than being known as Jessica’s husband and Taylor, Ronan and Sophies father. He was the world’s okayest fisherman—a title he wore with humor and pride—and lived a life filled with love, loyalty, and laughter.

Scott’s life will be celebrated at 10am, Thursday, December 5, 2024, at Heartland Cremation and Burial Society, 6113 Blue Ridge Blvd, Raytown, MO 64133. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Progressive Cause or candidate of your choice. 

He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him, but his memory will live on in every home run, union victory, and loyal act of love shared by those he touched.

“Forever in our hearts and always our champion.”