Paul A. Morgenroth of Centerton, Arkansas, formerly of Grain Valley, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, July 29, 2023 at home surrounded by his family. He was ninety-six years old. The First Baptist Church of Grain Valley, Missouri will host visitation at 11:00 a.m. and a celebration of his life at noon on Saturday October 14, 2023. In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Grain Valley Assistance Council at: grainvalleyassistancecouncil.org

Paul was born on February 4, 1927 in Kansas City, Missouri to Max Hans and Lorena (Ross) Morgenroth.  During World War II, he served in the Army Medical Corps on a hospital ship as an X-ray technician. Afterward, he graduated from Central Missouri State College in Warrensburg, Missouri in May of 1950 with a BS in Psychology and Sociology.  He married Shirley Cumberford and began Mor-Ford, a successful drywall business with his brothers-in-law Sturg and Will. 

Paul devoted many hours of community service to the city of Grain Valley through the Community Service League and Historical Society. He received the “Pillar of the Community” award.  The Morgenroth Room is named in his honor at the Grain Valley Community Center. In 1953 Paul entered the Boy Scouts of America as an adult leader and was given his Mic-O-Say tribal name “Buildswell” personally by Chief H. Roe Bartle. He later became very active with his son in Troop 310. He completed the Wood Badge, earned the Silver Beaver award, and was chosen for Blue Elk District Commissioner. 

Paul loved music. He was co-founder of the Automatic Musical Instruments Collectors’ Association (AMICA) Heart of America chapter.  He entertained many people in parks, parades, and nursing homes with a variety of organs and other music making machines. In recent years he loved performing with his accordion in Bentonville Square for passers-by. 

Paul was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley; daughter, Kathryn Ann; and brothers Max Edward and Karl William Morgenroth.

Paul is survived by his daughter, Marsha Phillips (husband Jon); son, Paul Morgenroth, Jr (wife Elizabeth); and six grandchildren: Brandon, Marcus (wife Lynsey), and Jenae Phillips; Paul III, William, and Walter Morgenroth.

He touched many lives with his bright smile, jovial demeanor, and great wisdom. His love for the Lord Jesus showed in all that he did. He will be sorely missed. 

Obituary submitted by family.

Arrangements:  Royer Funeral Home, Grain Valley, MO   816-847-4441