Colonel Anthony Joseph Bamvakais, United States Army, passed away on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the age of 74. A devoted father, friend, and patriot, Colonel Bamvakais dedicated his life to the service of his country and the well-being of those around him.
Born on April 5, 1951, in St. Louis, MO, Anthony grew up with a deep sense of duty and a calling to serve. Before commissioning into the United States Army—where he embarked on a distinguished military career spanning 35 years—he served as a police officer for 10 years.
Colonel Bamvakais was commissioned as an officer in 1975 and served in the Missouri National Guard until entering active duty in October 1987. Throughout his service, Colonel Bamvakais exemplified honor, courage, and selfless leadership. He held numerous assignments, including six years in the Combat Engineers and twelve years in Logistics, ultimately rising to the rank of Colonel at his final retirement. His final duty assignment and major command prior to retirement was as Commander of the Headquarters and Headquarters Company at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
Following retirement, Colonel Bamvakais continued to serve by working under the Adjutant General at the Missouri National Guard Headquarters and was elected to two terms as Mayor of the City of Odessa, Missouri.
His commitment was recognized with numerous awards and commendations, including the Army National Guard Recruiter Badge, the Meritorious Service Medal (four awards), the Army Commendation Medal (two awards), the Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal (nine awards), the National Defense Service Medal (three awards), the Humanitarian Service Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal (three awards), the Armed Service Ribbon, the Army Reserve Component Overseas Training Ribbon (third award), and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.
Colonel Bamvakais was deeply committed to education, earning a Bachelor of Science from Sterling University and an MBA in Military Management from Touro University International. He also graduated from the Command and General Staff College.
Anthony was baptized at First Baptist Church of Odessa, MO, where he was a member and enjoyed being a part of the AV crew.
He was preceded in death by his father, Brigadier General John R. Bamvakais Sr.; his mother, Ellen G. Donnelly Bamvakais; and his brother, Sgt. John R. Bamvakais Jr., who was killed in Vietnam.
Colonel Bamvakais is survived by his daughter, Meghan Victoria Blansett (Josiah), and grandchildren Aspen, Olive, and Gardner of Excelsior Springs, Missouri; his son, Andrew Dayne Godsey (Becca) of Orlando, Florida; and the mother of his children, Dana Bamvakais Edwards of Excelsior Springs, Missouri. He is also survived by his siblings: Thomas Bamvakais (Donna), Viola “Dodie” Toth (John), Robert Bamvakais (Brenda), Debi Ealick (Bruce), Jacqueline Scydick (Michael), Judy Bamvakais, Steven Bamvakais (Kathy), and JoAnn Nutt, as well as many cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A funeral service with full military honors will be held on July 7, 2025. Visitation will take place at Kutis Funeral Home, 5255 Lemay Ferry Rd, Mehlville, MO 63129, from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., followed by a service at 11:30 a.m. A procession will follow to Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery at 12:30 p.m.
Family and friends are invited to celebrate and honor the life of Colonel Anthony Joseph Bamvakais
A unique soul, a true patriot, and a fiercely loyal friend to General Danner and the Missouri National Guard. From days at the Regional Training Institute at the U.S. Army at Fort Leonard Wood through countless shared experiences, Tony brought integrity, strength, and heart to every challenge. His legacy of service and friendship will not be forgotten.
A true and loyal friend. An outstanding career as a professional soldier and valued military advisor to the Missouri National Guard leadership, Tony’s selfless service to his State and the Nation will endure to the benefit of generations of future soldiers and airmen serving in the Missouri National Guard.
He made better leaders of all us.
Stephen L. Danner
Major General, USA, (ret)