Known affectionately as Rich, he was a devoted father, grandfather, and brother whose warmth, kindness, and engaging spirit will be deeply missed, and lovingly remembered by all who knew him.
Born on September 10, 1947, in Butler, Missouri, Rich was the firstborn son of Leroy E. Shelton and Margaret H. Shelton, both deceased.
At a young age, his family moved to Harrisonville, Missouri, where he would spend the greater part of his life building lasting friendships and a strong sense of community.
Rich was no stranger to hard work. He often took pride in sharing that his first job came at just nine years old, sweeping hair and shining shoes in a local barbershop. After graduating from high school in 1965, he pursued training in data processing, which led to positions with companies including: EDS, Rival, Upsher Labs and Stahls Manufacturing. A natural people person, he also worked alongside his father in insurance and served at First Baptist Church, where he was a member.
In time, Rich discovered a true passion in the printing industry, working alongside Harry Edmondson at the Printing Exchange. This experience ultimately led him to the role he held most dear—owning and operating Shelton’s Printing in Harrisonville, a venture that reflected both his work ethic and his love for serving others.
Whether running print jobs or striking up a conversation with someone new, Rich had a gift for connection. He could talk at length about sports—especially NASCAR, The Chiefs and Royals, and his beloved Kansas Jayhawks. Though it wasn’t always easy being a Jayhawk fan in Missouri, his charm and good humor won over even the most loyal rivals, making him a joy to be around.
Despite a medical setback that left him disabled for more than a decade, Rich remained remarkably positive. Where others might have grown discouraged, he chose gratitude and resilience, embracing each day with strength and grace. This enduring outlook was a testament not only to his character, but also to the deep love he shared with his family and friends.
Rich was preceded in death by his Father Leroy Shelton, Mother Margaret Shelton and his good friend and brother-in-law Glenn Brewer. He is survived by his daughter Nichole Haar (Eric), grandson Theo Haar, granddaughter Genevieve Haar, sister Sylvia Mills (Fred), sister Gloria Brewer, sister Sandra Reed (Bill), brother Mark Shelton (Dana), nephews Jeff Mills, Kevin Mills and Damon Mills and nieces April Stecher, Shannon Fowler, Whitney Roberts, Ashley Marcano, Megan Shelton and Madison Shelton.
A graveside service in Butler, Missouri will be held at a later date.
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