Bernard McCollum

Bernard “Neal” McCollum was born on September 1, 1929, in New Boston, Missouri to Theodore
Roosevelt and Naomi Evelyn (Davis) McCollum. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on June
2, 2021, in Independence, Missouri.
Neal was a successful entrepreneur and lived a very full and colorful life, always looking for ways to be of
service to his Country and community. At the tender age of 19, he enlisted in the U. S. Navy during the
Korean War and was very proud to have served on the U.S.S. Missouri. In later years, he was an active
member of the Ararat Shrine in Kansas City, Missouri. He also served as the American Royal Governor
and was a founding member of the American Royal Bar-b-Que. Neal found a great deal of joy as a
member of the Saddle & Sirloin Club, including being a rider in their Mounted Patrol. He would gladly
spend hours regaling anyone who would listen with stories about the many experiences and friendships
made through the Saddle & Sirloin Club. He conceived, opened and operated many entrepreneurial
enterprises in the Kansas City metropolitan area throughout his adult life.
Neal is survived by Karen Sue Burgess, Life Mate; Candace McCollum, Daughter; Brent Luna, Son.
Grandchildren: Seleena Moore, Anthony Sherrow, Asia Sherrow and Princess McCollum. Nephews: Carl
Bergin, Chace Hanaway, Lucas Johnson and Alan Hanaway. Nieces: Cara Ledezma, Ali Doughty, Carlotta
Martinez, Carla Burgess, Sandra Hanaway and Pamela Pollina. Neal was dearly loved by a great many
family members and friends.
Neal was preceded in death by his Parents, Theodore R. McCollum and Naomi Evelyn (Davis) McCollum;
Ileene (McCollum) Riddle, Sister; Richard Dean McCollum, Brother, and Scott Lauffer, II, Nephew.
Friends and family are invited to celebrate Neal’s life at a Visitation to be held on Friday, June 11th, at
2:00 p.m. at Johnson County Chapel & Memorial Gardens. He will be laid to rest with Military Honors at
a Graveside Service at 3:00 p.m. at Johnson County Memorial Gardens, 11200 Metcalf Avenue, Overland
Park, KS.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions may be made in Neal’s honor to Heartland Hospice
Care, 4731 South Cochise Drive, Suite 120, Independence, Missouri 64055.