Born in Kansas City, Missouri, Lon was a resident of Overland Park, Kansas for the past 38 years.

A pioneer in the internet, telephony, and artificial intelligence, Lon’s 45-year career in technology included early registration on ARPANET (the forerunner to the internet), and leadership as chairman of the Kansas City Local User Group and vice-chair of the U.S. Chapter of DECUS (Digital Equipment Computer Users Society)—both of which helped shape the early computing community through the sharing of software, ideas, and best practices long before the internet became commonplace. Decades later, he conducted advanced research for Ericsson on the supercomputer in Austin, reflecting a lifelong commitment to innovation at the forefront of technology.

From 1985 to 1997, Lon served as partner and CIO of Resource & Development Group, where he took great pride in creating jobs and opportunities in the Kansas City area. He retired from T-Mobile in 2023 as a Senior Technical Architect, where he continued to design and improve reliable, high-performance platforms for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning. His work helped build the foundation of the digital world we know today. Known not only for his technical brilliance, Lon was deeply committed to mentoring young professionals—always eager to encourage the next generation with patience, and wisdom.

He began his public service early, serving as a Congressional Page and later a Congressional Intern during the Johnson administration.

Lon attended the University of Kansas from 1969 to 1971 before transferring to William Jewell College, where he earned his B.A. in English in 1973. He later earned his MBA in Planning and Control from the University of Missouri–Kansas City in 1978.

Lon met Ruth Ann “Ruthie” Carpenter in December 1972 while they were both studying at William Jewell College. Their connection was immediate, beginning a love story that spanned more than 50 years. They were married on May 25, 1974. Through every chapter of life, their greatest joy was simply being together—content in each other’s presence and devoted to walking life’s path hand in hand.

Music was one of Lon’s great passions. He played folk clubs in 1960s New Jersey alongside artists like Simon & Garfunkel and remained a passionate musician and music lover throughout his life. At KU, he was a DJ at KJHK and later helped establish radio station KWJC 91.9 at William Jewell College, now known as Classical KC.

A devoted servant of Christ, Lon taught and served in several congregations over the years, including North Oak Christian Church, Emmanuel Baptist Church, and Blue Valley Christian Church. In addition, he taught as an adjunct professor at DeVry, sharing his deep technical knowledge, and committed his time and expertise to work with nonprofits like The Salvation Army and City Union Mission. His life was marked by generosity, integrity, and faith in action.

Lon was an optimist who focused on blessings even in hardship, which he met with unwavering courage and grace. He always looked for the best in others and remained an inspiration to all who cared for him. A wise counselor and true confidant, he was selfless, honest, and kind. He deeply valued his friendships and was proud of his family, treasuring every moment with them.

Lon was preceded in death by his parents, Lon Gilbert Amick, Sr. (1920–1972) and Naomi “Cissy” Amick Brownfield (1929–2011). He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth Ann Amick; his son, Lon (Rachel) Amick; siblings Alice Amick, Ann (Mike) Juffa, Eugene (Stormy) Amick, and John (Kim) Amick; sister-in-law Wanda Sue (Perry) Barker; and many treasured nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

Lon expressed deep gratitude for the excellent healthcare workers who supported him throughout his treatment, and for all who endeavored in prayer on his behalf.

His legacy endures in the countless lives he touched—with wisdom, creativity, humility, and love.

A Celebration of Life will be held at Wesley Chapel, Church of the Resurrection (13720 Roe Avenue, Leawood, Kansas 66224), on the fourteenth of June, 2025, at eleven o’clock in the morning. A reception will follow.

https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/kansas-city-mo/lon-amick-12363601