Gary Pendergrast

Gary Pendergrast – age 77 of Polo, MO passed away Sunday morning, January 21, 2024, at his home in Polo. Gary was born on March 5, 1946, the son of Charles E. and Lillian (Nagel) Pendergrast in Kansas City, MO. He grew up near Liberty and was a 1964 graduate of Liberty High School. On February 12th, 1966, he was united in marriage to Patricia Witthar in Liberty. They made their home in rural Liberty before moving to the Lawson Area in 1976 and then rural Polo in 1988. He was an artificial insemination technician for cattle for over 55 years. He was recently recognized by Genex for his dedication in the industry.  Through his career he helped countless area farmers and developed strong relationships with them; he was a true cattleman. Gary enjoyed fishing for Catfish, coon hunting and Pinochle He never met a stranger and always had a story to tell; he could talk to anyone. Gary was generous to those in need and loved his family. Gary will be dearly missed by his family and friends.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents; brother, Edwin Pendergrast; and nephew, Jon Pendergrast. He is survived by his wife of over 57 years, Pat of the home; sons, Rob Pendergrast (Shelby) of Polo, MO and Andy Pendergrast (Stella) of Centralia, MO; grandchildren, Jessica Skinner (Ryan) of O’Fallon, IL, Rebekah Lech (Benton) of St. Johns, MI, Jacob Pendergrast of Centralia, MO, Ruthi Pendergrast of Polo, MO, Hannah Pendergrast of Centralia, MO, Amy Pendergrast of Centralia, MO, and Timothy Pendergrast of Polo, MO; great-grandchildren, Hudson and Emelia Lech of St. Johns, MI;  sister, Dorothea Hicks (Ron) of Odessa, MO; several nieces, nephews, other extended family and many friends also survive.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to Christ Cupboard Food Pantry in care of the funeral home. Celebration of Life Service will be held at 2:00 PM, Sunday, January 28, 2024, at Stith Funeral Home in Polo.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM, Saturday, also at the funeral home. Friends may call after 11 AM Saturday at the funeral home.  Burial will follow at Prairie Ridge Cemetery, west of Polo. Arrangements entrusted to the care and direction of Stith Funeral Home in Polo (660) 354-2214. Online guestbook at www.stithfamilyfunerals.com