Howard Frederick “Fred” Byam, 63, of Grain Valley, Missouri, passed away on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at KU Medical Center, surrounded by family after a courageous battle with bladder cancer. Per Fred’s wishes, he was cremated. His family will host a Celebration of Life on Sunday, November 19, 2023, from 1 PM to 4 PM at Royer Funeral Home in Grain Valley, MO.
Fred was born on May 27, 1960, to Frank L. and Gloria J. Byam (Hahn) in Independence, Missouri. He graduated from The University of Missouri in 1983 with a degree in Civil Engineering and became licensed in Civil Engineering and Land Surveying. Fred went on to take over the family business, Byam Engineering, which he later expanded to become Byam Engineering and Design Group. He also began a new endeavor, Byam Properties, LLC, becoming the landlord and property manager for the building in which Byam Engineering called home for 50 years. Additionally, Fred spent the last decade working part-time at Cable Dahmer Arena in Independence, MO, as a part of the changeover crew and game day staff for The Kansas City Mavericks.
Throughout his life, Fred enjoyed working on his collection of historical vehicles, attending car shows with friends and family, hunting with his daughters, playing with his grandchildren, taking trips to the Lake of the Ozarks, and socializing with friends. He was known for his witty remarks and sense of humor. You could always find him in the barn tinkering with something, watching a Kansas City sports team, or giving any animal some love and attention.
Fred is survived by his wife Pamela M. Byam (Greene) of 37 years, his daughters Jamie (Nick) Thompson of Grain Valley, MO, Audrey (Cody) Snavely of Oak Grove, MO, Lindsay Byam of Oak Grove, MO, Rachel (Aaron) Boman of Blue Springs, MO, and Kelli (Dalton) Beachner of Odessa, MO; Eight grandchildren, Eowyn Snavely, Michael, Matthew, Caleb, and Kyrie Boman, Colton, Wyatt, and Beau Beachner; Two Sisters Leslie Gilbert of Kansas City, MO, Linda Malott of Odessa, MO; One brother, Brad Byam of Independence, MO, and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Fred was preceded in death by his parents, his grandson Peter Boman, and his nephew Robert “Robbie” Byam.
Memorials are suggested to St. Jude or Special Olympics, arrangements may be sent to Royer Funeral Home, 100 Royer Ln, Grain Valley, MO 64029 (816) 847-4441
Obituary submitted by family
Arrangements: Royer Funeral Home, Grain Valley, MO 816-847-4441
Cecily Schneider
14 Nov 2023Beautiful tribute. Rip Fred. I am glad I have childhood memories of all of us as cousins having summer fun. With sympathy and hugs to the family, Ceci Schneider
Helen Leach
14 Nov 2023I had the privilege of working beside the family in the same building for 35 years. They were always so kind and friendly to everybody! My condolences and healing prayers.
Roswell Morgan
15 Nov 2023I knew Fred thru the builders assoc for 12 years. I will be out of town this weekend, so give my condolences to the family.
Peggy Moore Petroni
16 Nov 2023I am so sorry for the loss of my long time friend Fred. We use to have great times riding up and down Noland Rd in his and Brads car. We always had a great time playing foosball as a team and all the funny jokes we would tell one another. We had a blast when him and Brad tried to teach me how to water ski I got up for a minute and landed head first ski’s in air in the water. I think that is where the word “Blooosshhh” came from that we use to say throughout the years. God please bless his wife Pam, their girls and family during this time of sorrow. Fred you will always be my best guy buddy and continue your life in heaven. Blooosshhh!!!! 🙂
June Lee
27 Nov 2023I’m so sorry for your loss. Mr. Byam was such a gentle sweet man. He’s been so good to my parents who were his tenants. Many prayers are being lifted for his soul and his family.