CLAUDE THOMAS ROPER, JR.

With profound sadness the family of Claude Thomas Roper, Jr. announces his passing on December 25, 2020 at the age of 67 years. He was surrounded by his wife, daughter, and son during his final moments.

Tom was born April 4, 1953 in St. Joseph, MO. He was a partner in crime to many friends during his time at Ruskin High School (grad.1971) and Missouri Southern College (grad.1975). After graduation he began his first career teaching in the Pleasant Hill and Hickman Mills School Districts. Football was one of Tom's passions ever since he played in high school, and he loved being able to coach football during his early career as a teacher.

His second career was as a professional salesman. He sold an array of products and services before he began selling copiers and wide-format architectural engineering plotters for 18 years. After a successful career in sales, Tom returned to his first passion: teaching. He taught Missouri Options for students At-Risk of dropping out or not graduating in the Raytown School District. He had a talent for teaching and helping others and was proud to help these students be successful in earning their high school diplomas.

Tom was a gregarious man and a well-known extrovert. He never met a stranger. Tom was also an extraordinary storyteller and entertained us with stories of hijinks, daredevilry, and life. This unique skill made him the life of any gathering and a breath of fresh air to any room. Tom's personality and smile energized people and lit up a room.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Claude and Ester Roper and his daughter, Michele.

Tom is survived by his wife of 44 years, Terrie Roper; his children, Emily Roper-Parsons and Christopher Roper; his grandchildren, Claude and Evelyn Parsons; as well as family and friends he held dear.

Those of us that knew Tom would agree he made our lives a little better and a little brighter. He touched many hearts, always wanted to help people, and worked hard to put a smile on others faces. He was a wonderful husband, outstanding dad, an exceptional Papa, and a good friend. He is loved dearly by many and will be greatly missed.

A visitation will be held at Cullen Funeral Home (612 W. Foxwood Dr., Raymore, MO) on Saturday January 2, 2021 from 1:00-3:00PM.

A celebration of life will be held at a future date when we can all gather safely and share our stories about Tom. Please email ctroper1953@gmail.com if you're interested in those updates. Until then, the family asks you to please share your stories and photos of Tom using this link because a well-told life story is an act of love.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks you to consider a donation to the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation. The foundation strives to make rapid progress toward discovering a cure for neuroendocrine cancers which Tom valiantly fought against.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to the wonderful medical and support staff at Truman Medical Center. Also, to the many friends and family who helped Tom and his family during this time.

Arrangements: Cullen Funeral Home, Inc., Raymore, Missouri 816.322.5278

**Due to the continued concern regarding COVID-19 the family has requested that if you are not feeling well to please consider not attending these services and instead leave condolences online or reach out to the family when you are feeling better. Thank you for your efforts in helping others stay safe. In addition, all attendees to Tom's service will be required to wear a face mask while in the funeral home at all time.

** The family has requested there only be 10-15 people in the funeral home at one time.

Thank you for understanding.