Dennis "Denny" R. Clauder, Age: 76
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Dec 24, 1949---May 04, 2026

Dennis “Denny” R. Clauder, age 76, passed away peacefully in his Leawood KS home on Monday May 4th, 2026.

Dennis was born in Kansas City, Kansas on Dec 24th 1949 to Harry K. and Betty J. Clauder.

Dennis started his college studies on a football scholarship at Wichita State, transferring to Emporia State shortly prior to the 1970 Wichita plane crash.  He spent the last 30+ years of his employment at KCPL where his life-long taunt, “I just work for the light company kids, I don’t own it”, emerged. Dennis had a laid back and playful sense of humor.

Sports was his passion; specifically playing slow-pitch softball and supporting his Alabama Crimson Tide. Dennis played softball year-round traveling coast to coast for countless softball tournaments for over 40 years. In 2018, Dennis was inducted into the USSSA slow-pitch softball Hall of Fame.

Dennis was predeceased in death by his parents, brother Kenneth J Clauder (2019) and beloved niece Christa Marie Clauder (2016).

Dennis is survived by his children Dennis J. (Shanell) Clauder, Shawnee KS, Darrin (Andrea) Clauder, Louisburg KS, Danean Irizarry, Ocala FL and Tina Clauder of Kansas City, MO with 11 Grandchildren as well as 5 great grand-children.

Services will be held on Thursday May 14th, 2026 at Porter Funeral Home in Kansas City KS. Visitation at 1:00 pm with services following at 2:00 pm.


Condolences

Denna Thomsen May 09, 2026

Neice ,Emporia ,Kansas

Sorry for or loss I'm going to miss Uncle Dennis very much to my cousins I love you I'm always going be here for you. Denna

Judy Robbins May 09, 2026

Was previously married to my sister Donna ,Seminole ,Florida

Dennis was a great guy with a great sense of humor. He was married to my sister many years ago. They had 3 beautiful children together. He was such a sports fanatic! I have know him since grade school. He was loved by everyone that met him. He will be missed by all. Fly high my friend! Prayers to all of his family!

Susan Davies May 09, 2026

Cousin ,Louisburg ,Kansas

My deepest sympathy to Dennis’ family. Some of my favorite memories are holidays at Lefty & Peggy’s. Love to you all.

Tim Burkindine May 09, 2026

Friend and teammate ,Leawood ,Kansas

Denny was a great athlete and special friend. We will miss him, his infectious smile, and his great sense of humor.

Randy Schuler May 11, 2026

Softball friend and teammate ,Topeka ,Kansas

I am so sorry for your loss. Dennis was a great friend and teammate and one outstanding player! I started playing with Dennis on the KC Wov’s in 2000 and then again with the KC Kids until he stopped playing! He will be missed on and off the field! Randy Schuler

Zach Davies May 13, 2026

cousin ,Shawnee ,Kansas

So sorry to hear of the loss of Dennis. I will always remember his big smile and personality. I'm praying for you all in this time. Love you all.

Ken and D Ann Cantwell May 14, 2026

Father and mother in law to Dennis (son) ,Bonner Springs ,Kansas

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the entire Clauder family. Dennis always had a smile on his face and although quiet most of the time, he and his entire physical appearance lit up when talking about sports and especially softball. Even though we didn't know him well, we do know his legacy will live on through his kids and his grandkids. They are and continue to be a great blessing to all.

Tim wilson May 14, 2026

Friend ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Sorry to hear of the passing of Dennis, my condolences to the Clauder family. I played softball with and against Denny since 1981, as well as Denny Jr and Darrin. He will be sorely missed and forever remembered!

Services

Event:
Visitation
Location:
Porter Funeral Home
Address:
1835 Minnesota Ave
City:
Kansas City
State:
KS
Zip Code:
66102
Date:
May 14, 2026
Time:
1:00 PM
Google Map:
Click Here to see Location on Map
Event:
Memorial Service
Location:
Porter Funeral Home
Address:
1835 Minnesota Ave
City:
Kansas City
State:
KS
Zip Code:
66102
Date:
May 14, 2026
Time:
2:00 PM
Google Map:
Click Here to see Location on Map