Kenton Joseph Salter

Kenton Joseph Salter, or as many knew and loved him, Joe, was born on a humble homestead in Cleburne, Arkansas, on November 15 1935, to Floyd and Anna Estlee, Joe’s life was a testament to the power of family, hard work, and unwavering love. From his early days in Arkansas, to his move to Kansas City where he met the love of his life, Jeannette, a 67-year love story that blossomed in the halls of Hallmark, Joe built a life centered around loving his family well. He and Jeannette settled in Independence, Missouri, raising their sons, Michael and David, on a foundation of love, support and encouragement. While he provided for his family through his trade as a carpet installer, Joe’s true vocation was that of a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather and friend. He reveled in the outdoors, finding solace and joy in hunting, fishing, camping, and the simple pleasure of whittling wood.

He greatly enjoyed playing coed softball with his kids as well as, coaching them and his grand kids in various sports and being their biggest cheerleader from the sidelines. But beyond his hobbies and skills, Joe will be remembered for the immeasurable love he poured into his family. He was the architect of countless memories, the chef behind legendary breakfasts of bacon, fried potatoes, and biscuits and gravy, fueled by endless cups of coffee for the grand kids. He was everyone’s cheerleader, their caregiver, their unwavering supporter. He was, as he so proudly declared often “I raised ALL of you,” extending his love and guidance to all of his family including his daughters-in-laws right down to his his great grandchildren.

Love. That simple word seems insufficient to capture the depth of feeling Joe had for his family. He loved them with every fiber of his being, selflessly giving his time, his energy, and his unwavering devotion. Him home was always open and was the gathering place for many memorable and cherished holidays. Being in their presence was his greatest joy, and there was nothing he wouldn’t do for them. Joe’s love was a beacon, a constant light that warmed the lives of all who loved him. He is loved beyond measure by his family, cherished by his friends, and he will be missed more than words can express. Though he is gone, his spirit of love, support, and unwavering devotion will live on in the hearts of all those he touched.

Joe is proceeded in death by his wife Jeannette, his sister Winifred “Tiny” Clark and mother Anna Estlee Davis.

He is survived by his children, Michael and Sonya Salter, David and Sheryl Salter. His grandchildren: Shaun Salter, Jennifer and Tom Balsbaugh, Kenzie Salter, Brian and Sara Salter. His great -grandchildren: Morgan Balsbaugh, Natasha Salter, Caleb Balsbaugh, Hayden Lucas, Ashlynn Salter.  Son by love, Bill Robb (Paula).

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.