The Richmond News, Dec. 6, 2024

Frank Stonner III

Frank “Rupert” Stonner III, 67, of Richmond passed away unexpectedly Friday, Nov. 29, 2024, at his home. Rupert was born Dec. 4, 1956, in Lexington, the son of Frank Rupert and Jean Evelyn (Long) Stonner Jr. He was united in marriage to Cheryl Rene Lasiter of Richmond on Nov. 13, 1982. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include his two sons, Aaron (Sheliah) Stonner of Richmond and Samuel “Sam” Stonner of Topeka, Kan.; daughter, Jamie (Stewart) Taylor of Lee’s Summit; and three grandchildren, Morgan Stonner (Alexis Lorenzo) of Richmond, Cassie Smith of Kansas City and Clayton Estes of Excelsior Springs. Other survivors include his greatgrandson, Hank Stonner; twin sisters, Susan (Curtis) Karnes of Camden and Sally (Jeff) Rinehardt-Stewart of Lincoln, Neb.; brother-in-law, Bill (Gina) Davis of Richmond; sister-in-law, Kathy Lasiter of Orrick; and his beloved cat, Oreo.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers-in-law, Randy Lasiter and Cam Lasiter.

Rupert was raised and educated in Orrick, graduating with the class of 1975. From a young age, he demonstrated a strong work ethic, working at a filling station and the Orrick grain elevator during high school. It also was during those years that Rupert developed a lifelong love of music, playing the trombone and the guitar.

At age 19, Rupert began his 31-year career at GM Motor Co.’s Fairfax plant, retiring in 2006. He was a proud and active member of the United Auto Workers Local 31.

Rupert’s love for the land and outdoors led him to farming and raising cattle, pursuits that brought him immense joy.

He was deeply involved in his community as a Boy Scout leader, building upon his own achievement as an Eagle Scout. A dedicated Mason, Rupert belonged to several area lodges, including Richmond Masonic Lodge No. 57, where he served as past grand master; and Lexington Lodge No. 149.

Always willing to lend a hand, Rupert was a familiar face at local events like the Ray County Fair, serving fish and chips with enthusiasm and personally delivering meals to those unable to attend.

As a Shriner of the Scottish Rite, Rupert was a member of the Ararat Temple in Kansas City.

His love of music remained a constant throughout his life. He played bass guitar and sang with several local bands, including the Country Classic Band, comprised of fellow Shriners who donated their earnings to the Shriners Hospitals for Children.

Rupert cherished family time, especially moments spent with his great-grandson Hank. He enjoyed fishing and was an avid supporter of the Kansas City Chiefs and Royals. Known for his natural gift of gab, Rupert had an easygoing charm that endeared him to everyone he met.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation and funeral services will be held Friday, Dec. 6, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 12:30 p.m., followed by the services at 2. There will be a Masonic service, prior to the visitation, at 12:15.

Interment will be in Richmond Memory Gardens. Please share your memories of Rupert with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.