Rickey “Rick” Callow, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, coach, mentor, and friend, passed away on July 20, 2026, at the age of 75. He lived a life defined by his love for family, dedication to his community, and passion for encouraging young people to reach their potential.
Born on March 28, 1951, in Fort Scott, Kansas, to Leslie and June (Arnold) Callow, Rick graduated from Shawnee Mission West High School in 1969. He earned a basketball scholarship to Johnson County Community College before beginning a career in trucking with Midwestern Distribution. He spent 32 years driving for Reynolds Aluminum Supply Company before retiring in 2008, then returned to work as a school bus and activities driver for the Blue Springs School District, where he served for another 11 years.
On Valentine’s Day in 1976, Rick married the love of his life, Carolyn Allen. Together they built a marriage centered on family, laughter and partnership, recently celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. They raised two daughters, Bethany Callow of Blue Springs, Missouri, and Jessica (Matt) Hochradel of Jupiter, Florida. Rick was deeply proud of his daughters, who adored him. They especially loved the childhood story that he transformed into Superman after they went to bed. One of Rick’s greatest joys was becoming “Grandpa Rick” to his granddaughter, Ella Hochradel. Ella brought endless happiness and artwork to his life.
Rick is also survived by his brother, Rodney Callow of Elk City, Kansas; his sister, Laura (Don) Shipman of Olathe, Kansas; and many extended family members and dear friends.
Rick’s influence extended far beyond his family. He devoted countless hours to youth sports and school organizations, believing in the power of teamwork, discipline, and encouragement. He coached girls’ soccer, leading the team to the Show-Me State Games twice, and later served as president of both the Blue Springs High School Girls’ Soccer and Drill Team Booster Clubs. Whether coaching, volunteering, or cheering from the sidelines, Rick generously gave his time and inspired those around him.
Family was always at the center of Rick’s life. He cherished game nights, summers at the lake, trips to Florida, KU basketball games with his nephew, concerts with Bethany, and accompanying Carolyn to events as a Husband of a Daughter of the American Revolution (HODAR). He was happiest simply being with the people he loved.
A celebration of Rick’s life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Cheney-Witt Funeral Home in Fort Scott, Kansas. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:30 a.m. Family and friends are invited to remain afterward for a luncheon and a time of sharing memories.
Rick’s kindness, humor, generosity, and unwavering love for others will be remembered always. His legacy lives on in his family, the athletes he mentored, and the many lives he touched. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.