Louis Hilaire Tournoy

Louis Hilaire Tournoy, born on November 9, 1928, in Veurne, Belgium, peacefully passed away on March 5, 2024, in Smithville, Missouri. He was the beloved son and only child of Michael and Yvonne Tournoy.

Louis was a man of great integrity and resilience, deeply devoted to his family. He was preceded in death by his cherished wife, Anna Marie Tournoy (née Rijks), his son-in-law, Andrew Moore, and his parents. Louis is survived by his loving children Jacques Tournoy (Maureen), Michael Tournoy (Kimberly), and Evelyn Moore. His legacy lives on through his grandchildren Grace and Brendan; Michael Jr., Benjamin (Sarah) and Andrew Tournoy; Andrew Jr. and Rachel Moore, and Elizabeth (Gregor) Catto. He is also blessed with great-grandchildren Leighla, Hannah, Channing, and Cayden Tournoy.

Louis and Anna were married on May 26, 1956, in Heythuysen, The Netherlands, and their bond was a testament to unwavering love and devotion. Louis was a dedicated family man, always there for his loved ones in times of joy and sorrow.

Educated at the University of Ghent in Belgium, Louis focused on Physiology/Physical Education. Fluent in multiple languages including French, Dutch, German, Flemish, and English, he had diverse talents and knowledge.

Louis served his country with honor and distinction, starting as a test pilot in the Belgian Air Force.  His passion for flying took him on a journey that shaped his character and skills. He began his 5-year enlistment in 1952 at Goetsenhoven, Belgium. There, he became accomplished flying T-33 and F-84 fighter jets as a test pilot. Part of his 5-year enlistment with the Belgian Air Force included basic training with the United States Air Force. He was stationed in Malden, Missouri and eventually earned his US Air Force wings in 1953 at Foster Air Force Base in Victoria, Texas. He returned to Belgium in January of 1954 and was sent to Germany with the 23rd Fighter-Bomber Squadron. Early in 1955 he returned to his home base at Kleine Brogel Air Force Base in Belgium and became an instructor for jet instrument trainees. After his military service, he embarked on a 35-year career with Trans World Airlines where he was a Flight Safety Training Supervisor, training TWA pilots and flight attendants on safety protocols, as well as personnel from airlines around the world in the early days of commercial aviation.

In his leisure time, Louis loved sailing, spending many weekends with his family and friends at Perry Lake in Kansas and Smithville Lake in Missouri. He also found great joy in caring for his grandchildren, creating lasting memories with them.

 A man with a contagious laugh and a sharp wit, Louis had a knack for humor and storytelling. His 'Belgian Jokes' brought smiles to many faces and will be fondly remembered by all who knew him.

The funeral service to honor and celebrate Louis Hilaire Tournoy's life will be held at Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Smithville, Missouri, on March 9, 2024, at 11:00 AM. Flowers can be sent to the church. The burial service will be held at Terrace Park Funeral Home & Cemetery at 801 NW 108th St, Kansas City, MO 64155 at 1:30 PM. He leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering dedication to his family. Louis will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in peace, surrounded by the love of those who went before him.