Charles Edward Bradley passed away Saturday morning, February 24, 2018, at his family farm home, just as he wanted it to be. Charles said he was born 97 years ago on April 15, 1920 in the home he has lived in for most of his life… and he wanted to leave life in the same place. Charles’s parents were Antionette Benner Bradley and Thomas James Bradley. Charles was known as ‘Charlie’, ‘Mr. B’, and ‘Pap’...to friends and family. He attended Weston Schools and was in the graduating class of May, 1932. Charles then attended trade schools In Kansas City before joining the farm with his father and grandfather. The farm was purchased in 1882 by his great grandfather and is designated as a Missouri Century Farm. On March 8, 1941, Charles was united in marriage to Mary Ruth Richardson. They lived a few years on one of Mary’s family farm homes, then moved to the home they have lived in over 70 years. Charles and Mary have two daughters, Teresa (Ken) Quest, of Raymore, and Jo Bradley Norris, of Weston. Their grandchildren are Bradley (Jill) William Quest, Matthew Charles Quest, Samantha (Christopher) Kinslow, and Alexia (Nathan Dulle) Norris. Charles and Mary were avid supporters of their grandchildren’s activities…including football, wrestling, volleyball, basketball, track, and other programs. Charles and Mary’s great grandchildren are Madyson Quest, Jacob Quest, Wyatt Quest, Matthew Quest, Kaydrin Quest, Charlie Kinslow, Alexander Kinslow, and Josephine Dulle.

Charles’s life was that of a career farmer. He met all the challenges and tributes of farming throughout his years. His great love was his cattle herd, raising Angus cattle. He farmed row crops and raised hogs as well. Charles also had a 2nd fulltime career as a heavy equipment operator…having created many of the ponds, lakes, and terraces in the Weston rural area.

Charles was a charter member of the Weston Lions Club, served two terms as President of Platte County Farm Bureau, and an active member in historical and civic groups. He was an avid reader and could discuss the newest farming techniques, national events, and world conflicts. Charles and Mary loved to listen to big band music, dance, and travel. They enjoyed, in earlier years, of being a part of the ‘Square Dance Club’ and ‘The Book Club’…local couples who got together for dancing, good food, book reviews and friendships.

Charles had a plaque on his desk that read, ‘Am a Farmer, Plain and Simple.’ He was also a farmer who held dearly his friendships with other farmers and neighbors…sharing equipment, helping when needed, and knowing he could ask for help.

Charles’s late years of farming changed to more ‘supervising’ as he worked with a good friend in having his row crops farmed, as well as driving his ‘big blue tractor’ and watching others do the work he had done himself for so many years. He never thought of retiring and indeed worked ‘til the end. His life with Mary also changed in the last years, as she was no longer able to be cared for in their home...but Charles visited her as often as he could with endless stories of their life together and ending their visits with a kiss and ‘I Love You.’

A memorial service will be held Saturday, March 10 at 10:30 am at Vaughn Funeral Home, followed by inurnment at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery, Weston, MO. The celebration of Charles’s life will continue with a gathering after the services.

Charles loved animals and was a supporter of many rescue groups. He would be pleased that memorials be directed to Wayside Waifs or KC Pet Project.
Saturday, March 10, 2018
10:30 AM