Obituary
Father Rice passed away from complication following a stroke, Thursday, FEB 28, at Research Hospital, where he once served as chaplain. Fr. Rice was preceded in death by his parents Alva and Nora Rice, and brothers Jim, and Jack Rice.
Fr. Rice proved to be an excellent student, while attending Rockhurst High School, winning several debate contests. Upon graduating in 1956, he received several scholarship offers from prestigious colleges, but instead chose to study for the priesthood at the (then} St. John’s Diocesan Seminary, and later graduated from Cardinal Glennon in 1960. He then attended the North American College, in Rome Italy. Upon his return to Kansas City, he was ordained to the priesthood in May 23. 1964.
Fr. Rice served as associate Pastor at a number of area parishes, until his as appointment as Editor of the “KEY” in 1970. During his 9 years in that capacity, this Diocesan publication grew from a 4-page bulletin format to its present configuration. Fr. Rice returned to parish duties as the pastor of Our Lady Of Presentation, where his funeral Mass will be celebrated Thursday, March 7th.
Fr Rice developed a well-earned reputation as a “Hands On Guy” for his skill in carpentry, electrical wiring, and plumbing. Upon taking on the job of “Founder” of St Margaret of Scotland in 1999, no physical task was too great for him. His new parishioners were often inspired to donate their own time and skills when word spread rapidly that their paster was on his knees, not praying, but laying tile in their new church!
Fr Rice ‘s family wishes to thank the staff at St Antony’s Senior living, the medical staff at Research Hospital, and, most particularly, the unselfish and tireless efforts of Diocesan Representative, Janet Waulfe, in seeing to Fr. Rice’s health and Wen being! The family also wishes to extend appreciation to Fr Tom Holder of Our Lady Of The Presentation Catholic Church and Fr Jim Toronto for their gracious assistance at this time.
In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to your favorite charity.
Arrangements by Langsford Funeral Home, 115 SW 3rd Street, Lee’s Summit, MO 64063
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Lee's Summit, MO 64081
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Lee's Summit, MO 64081
I did not know Father Rice personally only as a parishioner he made a huge impact on our family thru homily and Marriages, baptism and holy communion. He was a wonderful Priest who was mentioned long after he left presentation church.
I knew Mike on a personal level and as a pastor. He was instrumental in my young married life and family life and helped me through many things. His knowledge of scripture and his counseling degree made him a valuable asset to the Presentation community and Kansas City area. He will be greatly missed.
Rest in peace dear friend. You will be missed.
Father Mike was a good friend of our family for many years way back to St. Therese of the Little Flower in KC.
He will be missed, God Bless,
I was a classmate of Fr Rice at Rockhurst. May he rest in peace.
God Bless all who knew him.
Dear Fr. Rice, my friend, I thank you for being a joyful and dedicated pastor at Presentation Parish during my childhood. I have many fond memories and warm feelings. I am glad you were able to attend my solemn profession of monastic vows in 2019. I am sorry I was unable to attend your memorial here on earth, but I trust that you were honored with so many in attendance and supported with heartfelt prayers by many more. Rest in Peace, Fr. Rice, and I hope to see you again.