MPBA 3RD QTR MAGAZINE 2024 FOR WEB

Patricia M. (Stanton) Sperandio, 75, of Verona, MO, passed away Monday morning, July 22, 2024 at Cox Hospital in Branson, MO. Patricia was born on September 23, 1948, in St. Louis, MO, to Henry and Aileen M. (Taylor) Stanton. She received her education from St. Genevieve High School. On May 28, 1977, in Mt. Vernon, MO, Patricia and Donald Sperandio were married. Patricia enjoyed raising dogs from an early age and continued in this pursuit until her health declined. For a period of time, she drove a school bus for Gale Webb Transportation. She enjoyed raising horses on the farm and spending time going on church trips and participating in the activities at St. Lawrence Catholic Church. Patricia is survived by one daughter, Stephanie Hamm of Verona, MO; three grandsons, Derek, Kaleb and Dakota Hamm; two great-grandchildren, Iris and Willa; numerous foster children; two brothers, Mike Stanton and Rick Stanton and wife Pat of Monett; one sister, Peggy Kitching of Butterfield, MO, and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents and husband, Don Sperandio. Beverly and Patricia were great assets to the MPBA and very special to many of our members. They will both will be greatly missed, and leave wonderful legacies to all of us in the pet breeding industry. We remember them fondly and stand amazed

at all they offered to others throughout their lives. They were both shining examples of what it means to have a servant’s heart, and made a tremendous difference in many lives as they worked so hard to benefit those around them. We are grateful for the chance we had to know them and be a part of their lives.

Karey Ann Marrs left this earth at her home on the ranch in Osceola, Missouri with her daughters there to care for her, to join her loved ones in God’s Kingdom of Heaven on September 20, 2024. Karey fought breast cancer in 2019 and was in remission until the cancer returned with a fury in her pancreas and metastasized in her liver in May, 2024. Karey never gave up, fighting like a warrior until the very end. Karey Ann Marrs was born to John F. Buchholz and Catherine Joy (Denison) Buchholz on March 26, 1946 in Falls City, Nebraska. Karey was married to Ronald J. Marrs on April 11, 1966 and they were united in marriage for 55 years before Ron preceded Karey to Heaven in April, 2021. Karey and Ron had three daughters together, Tracey Hankins (Steve) of Springfield, MO, Suzie Marrs of Osceola, MO, and Amy Bullock (Andy) of Clinton, MO. Karey had ten grandchildren Colton (Sarah) Wheeler, Kelsey Hutcheson (Andrew), Kara Spinar (Creed), Cotton Wheeler (Baylee), Wyatt Bullock (Liv), Katherine Aust (Noah), Cody Wheeler (Kody), Cheyanne McGinnis (Denver), Monte Bullock (Olivia), and Carleigh Wheeler, and 17 great-grandchildren. Karey has one sister, Kathy (Buchholz) Martin (John) and one brother in law, Roy Hurd as well as many nieces and nephews, whom she loved dearly.

Karey began riding horses on her Grandfather Buhholz’s farm at a very young age where she developed her love for horses and riding. From Rodeo Queen to Horse Show cowgirl, Karey won award after award. She taught her girls how to work hard, be fair & honest, and win and lose with grace. Karey began Mockingbird Hill Kennel in 1987 where she bred, showed, and raised champion Miniature American Shepherds. Her love of dogs and sharing the love of providing families with quality pets was her pride and joy. Karey was a faithful member of Sacred Heart Catholic Church where she shared her faith with her family. She served the Missouri Cattlemen’s Association for many years, as well as the Bolivar Elks Club. Karey loved spending time with family, especially if it involved a game or cards. Karey’s favorite time was spent at dog shows with all of her “Aussie” friends and at family gatherings. She will be greatly missed, however, we are grateful she will spend eternity with our Father Almighty in Heaven. MPBA is grateful for the years Karey served on our board of directors. She contributed much to the MPBA, and we were honored to be a part of her life. She will be sadly missed by all who knew her. Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 11

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