David Ernest Relford, 79, of Gladstone, MO died peacefully with loved ones by his side on July, 27 2026 at North Kansas City Hospital. He was born on January 5, 1947 in Indianapolis, IN to Margaret A. Stevens and Ernest B. Relford and moved to Redondo Beach, CA as a teenager and graduated Lawndale High School in 1965.

He joined the U.S. Army and served from 1967 to 1970. While stationed in Kansas City he met the love of his life and beloved wife for 56 years Karol B. Hinkle of Kansas City, Kansas. Eventually settling in the same home for over 50 years in Gladstone, he had two children David A. and Deanna K. "Annie" and was a beloved active part of the community.

Employed for 13 years at Western Weighing Inspection Bureau and 23 years at AAA Automobile Insurance garnering numerous awards.

He Coached in the NKC Baseball League, Served on the Gladstone Parks and Recreation Board and a member of the Gladstone Rotary Club. He enjoyed spending time with family and friends and shared many passions including the game of golf playing in many leagues including the Northland Duffers, traveled and competed in many couples tournaments with Karol throughout Missouri and Kansas. He rarely missed an inning of watching the Royals and enjoyed watching sports on television. He played regular card games throughout the years and enjoyed meeting with the guys in his breakfast group. He was extremely proud of his service in the Army and had enjoyed retirement since 2007 traveling all over the country. He was always there for his family and friends offering unwavering generosity and support.

Dave was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle and friend. He is survived by his wife Karol, grandson Luke, son David, grandson Dakota and his wife Bailey, great-grandsons James and Hank. He was preceded in death by his parents Ernest B. Relford, Margaret A. Stevens, his daughter Deanna K. "Annie" and sister Karen A. Burton.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Terrace Park Funeral Home, 801 NW 108th St, Kansas City, MO on Thursday, August 6 from 5-7pm. Military Burial Service will be held at Leavenworth National Cemetery, 150 Muncie Road, Leavenworth, KS on August 7 with a procession line-up starting at 9:30am. Casual Golf attire is encouraged. No flowers please.