W.L. Gehrs, Jr. (Bud), age 97 of Joplin, MO passed away at 2:07 p.m. on Tuesday, April 1, 2025 in his home.
Born September 20, 1927 in Springfield, MO he was the only child of
W.L. Gehrs Sr. and Opal Mae Crews Gehrs. After graduating from the Oklahoma Military Academy in Claremore OK, he attended Rolla School of Mines and Metallurgy graduating with a Mechanical Engineering Degree.
On December 30, 1947, Bud married Bette Jo McGuire. In the 50’s he joined his father in owning and operating M&A Transportation Company in Joplin MO. In 1964, He and Bette built and operated the Ambassador Apartments. In the 60’s, upon the sale of M&A, they purchased National Oil and Supply Company Inc. in Springfield MO. When National Oil was sold, Bud and Bette focused all their attentions on BBG Corporation.
Bud was a life member of the Elks Club #501. He and Bette were members of Twin Hills Golf and Country Club and the Briarbrook Country Club.
Survivors include daughters: Rebecca Koziel of Winnsboro, S.C., Debrah Artinger of Galena, Kan. and Jeannine Gehrs Goodrich (Deceased). There are five grandchildren: Abbey Metzinger of Tulsa, Okla., Brad Windle (deceased), Nick Jones of Seville Spain, Celina Jones of Bury St. Edmunds, England and Rachael Goodrich of New York City. In addition, there are four great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. An additional special family member includes Justin Yancer of Tulsa, OK.
The family would like to thank the caregivers from Charlotte’s Angels and Compassus.
Bud will be missed by all who knew him and would have wanted all who remain to celebrate his life by raising a cocktail in his memory. In honor of Bud Gehrs a celebration of life will be held Saturday April 12, 2025 at Club 1201; 4pm-7pm Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park Crematory of Joplin, MO