Richard “Dick” O. Vessels, 83, passed away on Friday, April 10^th at his home in Parkville, MO with his loving family by his side after a courageous 2-year battle with Stage 4 colon cancer.

Dick arrived in this world on November 18^th, 1942, to Richard Vessels and Patricia Owens in Kansas City, MO. He graduated from Shawnee Mission North High School and continued his education at Nichols State University in Thibodaux, LA. Dick proudly served in the US Navy aboard the historical USS Lexington Aircraft carrier (from 1959-1962)- His time in the Navy instilled a deep sense of integrity and pride that he carried throughout his life.

In 1963, he met the love of his life, Camilla Hebert, in her hometown of Louisiana. It was love at first sight and they carried on for 63 years of pure marital bliss. Where there was Dick, there was always Camilla. They never left each other’s side. In their younger years, they became the 3^rd working generation of the family printing business, within the Printing Trade. Upon selling that business, Dick had a vision to change people’s lives and invested in Fortune Practice Management, a consulting company specializing in Dental Coaching. This vision brought them a 35+ year career of owning 7+ franchises, working with countless A+ Doctor’s (all of whom he loved and admired so much), helped hundreds and hundreds of people believe in the beauty of their dreams and reaching their personal and financial goals, and most recently just this March, receiving the Lifetime Achievement Award. Dick coached his valued Doctor’s up until the very end and even days before his passing, if someone asked him how he was doing, he always responded with, “Living the Dream!” He never, ever gave up!

In his free time, Dick’s absolute favorite thing to do was spend time with his wife and loved ones. Like he says, “family is everything!” In addition to that, he enjoyed cheering on the KC Chiefs (25 year season ticket holder), KU basketball, deep sea fishing, pheasant hunting, boating (owned a house cruiser at the Lake of the Ozarks for 35+ years), dining out, traveling, and reading a good book. If in need of a quality book recommendation, he was the one to ask. In fact, in his final days, he was still ordering motivational books on Amazon. It can’t go without mention that he was a man of deep faith and conviction. They attended St. Therese Catholic Church after moving to Parkville, MO (formerly attended Cure of Ars in Leawood, KS) and regardless of any circumstance, mass on Sunday was a must. His commitment to his faith was reflected in his daily actions and who he was as a person.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Camilla; son, Richard Vessels (Sarah); five grandchildren, Lindsey Martens (Spencer), Taylor Miller, Tanner Miller, Brody Vessels, and Mackenzie Vessels; and four great-grandchildren, Jaxton, Braxton, Skylar, and Blakelyn; a sister, Donna Olive; many nieces and nephews. He is proceeded in death by their daughter, Amy Miller, both of his parents, and two half-sisters, Pam and Patricia.

Dick never ended a text or email without his famous words, “Stay Amazing!” So to you our dearest Dad, Pops, Husband, Brother, Uncle, Mentor, Coach, and Friend, Until we meet again…. Stay Amazing – You’re the GREATEST!