Douglas Nespory

Dr. Douglas Wayne Nespory, age 64, died unexpectedly on November 27, 2024 at NKC Hospital. He was surrounded by his family. He was the son of Darle Wayne Nespory and Judith (Judy) Ann Thomas. He graduated from Liberty High School in 1978. He went on to fulfill a degree in zoology from Northwest Missouri State University where he was a founding father of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity and running back of the football team. 

Following his undergraduate years, he received a Doctorate degree in osteopathic medicine from the University of Health Sciences in Kansas City, Mo., in 1986. He did an internship at Charles E. Still Hospital in Jefferson City, Mo., in 1987 and completed his general surgery training at Doctors Hospital in Columbus, Ohio, in 1992. 

Following his general surgery residency, he completed a Fellowship in peripheral vascular surgery in 1993. Dr. Nespory was Board Certified in both general and vascular surgery and went to Joplin, Mo., in 1993. He established a solo practice on January 1, 1994, and practiced in Joplin, Mo., until December of 2003 at which time he moved his practice to Liberty, Mo., followed by practicing in Excelsior Springs, Mo., in 2019. On September 30th, 2024, he retired. 

He loved working and taking care of his farm with his wife and spending time with family. He was a big Ohio State fan, enjoyed watching college football, the Chiefs and the Royals. 

He is survived by his wife of 26 years, Sheryl; childern Shelby King (Josh) of Nixa, Mo., Kyle Nespory (Shelbi) of Kansas City, Mo.; step son Dr. Austin Lehr (Mandy) of Liberty, Mo.; mother, Judy of also of Liberty, Mo.; brother Michael (Dianne) of Platte City, Mo.; sister, Kelly (Mike) of Kansas City, Mo.; grandchildren Rylee Chavez (Eric), Regan Juhnke (Levi), Reese Lehr, Rowan Lehr, Rhett Lehr, Kalli King, Josiah King, Cora King and Judah King; great grandchildren, Jedidiah Juhnke and Emery Juhnke.

He was preceded in death by his father, maternal grandparents and paternal grandparents.

Dr. Nespory was a Colonel in the Army National Guard for 12 years. He was a Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Surgeon (ACOS) as well as Missouri Association of Osteopathic Physicians, (MAOPS) and American Osteopathic Association (AOA).

 He married the love of his life on January 3rd 1998, in Carthage, Mo., and they worked side by side for 31 years as doctor and nurse. He was a kind and humble man that was slow to anger. A dedicated surgeon who always brought a sense of calm in intense situations. He had a wonderful bedside manner and an innate ability to explain surgical procedures or any medical diagnosis in a manner easy to understand. Many patients would call the office to ask questions unrelated to surgery because they trusted Dr. Nespory. 

He was always considerate and well-liked by the operating room staff. He was always available for patients and medical staff. His patients and their families were a priority from the moment they met whether it was a simple procedure or a lifesaving surgery. He had an extensive skill set and he operated with finesse. He felt being a surgeon wasn’t a career but a lifestyle and he put others needs before his own. He would not compromise his integrity and always tried to do the right thing in every situation even if his decision was not popular.

 In lieu of flowers the family urges everyone to take care of your health, take a day off sometime, spend time with family and not feel guilty taking time for yourself once in a while.