Charles “Charlie” Apple, 60, of Excelsior Springs, Missouri, passed away peacefully at home on February 20, 2023.
He was born in North Kansas City to Claude and Betty Apple. He was raised in the Kansas City North area and graduated from Platte County High School. He then served in the U.S. Army and was stationed in Baumbholder, Germany before returning to Kansas City.
Charlie had a long career in the trucking industry, including driving the last 25 years for XPO Logistics. Charlie’s steadfast work ethic encouraged his fellow freight haulers to “put your coffee down and get your butts back to work.”
Charlie had many friends from all parts of his life and had a kind and compassionate spirit. He enjoyed deer, pheasant, and quail hunting, fishing, traveling, good food, and music. Charlie was also a member Park Hill Christian Chruch.
Charlie was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Diana Roberts; and father-in-law, Wesley Bland.
He is survived by his wife, Kathryn; daughters, Courtney and Whitney Apple; grandsons, Nicholas, Kai, Alexander, and Eisley; brothers, Ronald “RD” (Pam) Ballard, and Steven Ballard; mother-in-law, Nancy Bland; brother-in-law, Timothy Bland; and numerous extended family.
Per Charlie’s request, no memorial service will be held.
Contributions in his memory may be made to Excelsior Springs Hospice, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, or Excelsior Springs Friends of Animals, P.O. Box 661, Excelsior Springs, MO. 64024.
“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” -Dr. Seuss
“There is a road, no simple highway between the dawn and the dark of night and if you go, no one may follow. That path is for your steps alone.” -Ripple by The Grateful Dead
Arrangements in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.
Our Sincere Condolences
We have been friends for 58 years. My Mom and your Mom were life long besties. I am so glad that we have kept in contact over the years. I love you like a brother and you will be greatly missed.
Linda Moore
Deepest sympathy to you and your family. Charlie will be greatly missed.
Michele Valent
I grew up with Charlie and he knew how to push my buttons. We lived nextdoor to each other for meny years. He was my friend. He always had time for me and to say hello. I will miss you my friend. See you on the other side brother.
Judy Walters
I am shocked and so very sad. May all of your family find peace and comfort. I am sorry.
Robin Gill
The Hatcher Family sends our love and condolences to Kathy and the Apple Family. Our extended family has lost a remarkably good man. We will remember him with love and tremendous fondness. To our dear Kathy and her family – May the Lord bless you, sustain you and bring you peace.
Michele Broderick
I hope the love and support you get from friends and family help you during this time. You are in my heart.
Terry Hederman
I’m so sorry for your family loss. I greatly enjoyed getting to know you folks through Ziggy’s. May peace and fond memories help soothe you through the grieving process.
Angie Deras
Our family is wrapping all of you in thought and prayer! So very sorry to hear about your sweet Charlie passing! He sounded like a gem of a guy! We never met him in person, but Kathy you picked a good one as he did too!!
Sending heartfelt sympathy and hugs during this very difficult time. So very sorry for your loss! Love you!
Karen Campbell and family
Kathryn,
So sorry to hear of Charly’s passing. I just happened to go on Facebook, which I don’t do very often. My thoughts and prayers are with you my friend.
Linda Wedgeworth
I knew you all of your life. Our families were very close. Your Mother was my second Mom and your brother R.D. was my brother from a different Mother. My best memories are of deer hunting in LaPlata on my Grandparent’s farm. You were good friends with my Brother Matt. He is wandering around up there somewhere…Say “Hi” to him when you see him.
Doug Hunter
I went to school with Charlie. He was a good person and always nice to everyone. Your life was cut short Rest in Peace my friend!!
Tammy Duncan
I worked for Old Dominion Freight Line and Charlie and I ran the same area. He kept me on my toes racing me stops. Always running that damn mouth. Sorry for your loss.
Kevin Veach
