A Gentleman Musician's Final Review

William "B.G." Guffey III
Bill Guffey, of Shawnee Mission, KS, passed away April 12, 2007. He was born July 28, 1952 in Inglewood, CA. He died following a valiant battle for 7 months after receiving a liver transplant at KU Med. Center. Bill studied classical piano and played keyboards most of his life. In 1971 he moved to Boston and played with an underground group for two years. He was the original keyboard player for the rock group Shooting Star joining the band in 1977. After spending several years working on original songs and playing throughout the Midwest, the band made two trips to New York City where they performed for several major record companies. Ultimately, the band became the first American band signed to the English label, Virgin Records. They recorded their first album in London with record producer Gus Dudgeon, famous for his work with Elton John. Bill toured throughout the United States with Shooting Star until he left the band in 1981 after recording the album "Hang on For Your Life". He began his career with the IRS in 1991. He retired from his position as a steward for the National Treasury Employee Union, Chapter 66 for 9 years. He served as the second Vice President for NTEU, Chapter 66, and as the Executive Vice President from 2002 until his retirement. He was a member of Mensa International. He enjoyed playing international Video games with his son Billy and watching him play baseball. He loved gardening. He and his tomatoes will be missed. He is survived by his wife, Becka Guffey and son, William Guffey IV. His parents, Shirley Guffey of Lenexa, KS and William Guffey Jr. of Des Moines, IA, and a sister Liza Guffey. For friends and family there will be a celebration of his life April 29 at the Valley View Dance Studio in Overland Park 1-4 p.m. He will be buried in the Guffey Cemetery in Northern Missouri at a private service at a later date. Donations in his memory may be made to Animal Haven, 9800 W. 67th, Merriam, KS 66203, or to the Guffey Cemetery Association.
Published in the Kansas City Star on 4/18/2007.