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Mike R. Gunn, 67, of Independence, MO lit his smoker for that last time on Friday, February 28, 2025, at 8:40pm at home surrounded by his wife and family.

The oldest child of Norman and Dorothy Gunn, Sr. Mike never took the easy road in life, but that road led him to the love of his life. Mike married Diane in 1992, where they blended their families. Mike worked as a maintenance supervisor in a local nursing home for several years, until he was forced to retire due to health complications.

To know Mike is to know: he loved his family fiercely, enjoyed a good day on the deck with the smoker going, having his grandkids around him, keeping his yard immaculate, watching the Chiefs faithfully. He didn’t judge you; he took you as you are and was a safe place for many. The hole that his passing has left, is one that will never be filled.

Mike was preceded in death by his parents Norman and Dorothy Gunn, mother-in-law Doris Gosnell, brother-in-law Keith Myers, his brother Timothy Gunn, his niece Jillian Caraway, granddaughter Izabella Colvin.

Mike is survived by his wife of 33 years Diane, his sisters Laurie (Rick) and Melinda, his brother Norman, his children Michelle (Phillip), Butch (Jennifer), Robert (Shonda) and Morgan (Walter), 12 grandchildren, 18 great grandchildren, many nieces and nephews, great nieces and nephews.

The family asks that if you would like to make a donation, please send them to St. Croix Hospice.

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

Obituary submitted by the family.

Arrangements: Royer’s New Salem Funeral Home ~ Independence, MO (816) 796-8600