Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr: The Tragic Story Of A Kidnapped Boy
Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr was a prominent businessman and philanthropist in Kansas City, Missouri. He was the founder of the Greenlease Cadillac Company, which became one of the largest car dealerships in the Midwest. However, his legacy was overshadowed by the tragic kidnapping of his six-year-old son, Bobby, in 1953.
The Kidnapping
On September 28, 1953, Bobby Greenlease was kidnapped from his school by Carl Austin Hall and Bonnie Brown Heady. They demanded a ransom of $600,000, which was the largest ransom ever requested at the time. Despite the Greenlease family complying with the demands and paying the ransom, Bobby was murdered by his kidnappers.
The case shocked the nation and received widespread media coverage. It became the subject of books, movies, and television shows. The tragedy also led to changes in the way kidnapping cases were handled by law enforcement and the justice system.
Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr's Life
Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr was born on February 3, 1895, in Kansas City, Missouri. He was the son of Irish immigrants and grew up in a working-class family. After completing high school, he worked as a mechanic and later started his own car dealership. He married Rose Lenore McNulty in 1921, and they had two children, Robert Jr and Mary.
Greenlease was well-known in the Kansas City community for his philanthropy. He donated to various charities and organizations, including the University of Kansas City and the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. He was also a member of the Knights of Columbus and the Rotary Club.
Question and Answer
Who was Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr?
Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr was a prominent businessman and philanthropist in Kansas City, Missouri. He was the founder of the Greenlease Cadillac Company, which became one of the largest car dealerships in the Midwest.
What happened to his son, Bobby?
Bobby Greenlease was kidnapped from his school by Carl Austin Hall and Bonnie Brown Heady in 1953. They demanded a ransom of $600,000, which was the largest ransom ever requested at the time. Despite the Greenlease family complying with the demands and paying the ransom, Bobby was murdered by his kidnappers.
What was Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr's legacy?
Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr's legacy was overshadowed by the tragic kidnapping and murder of his son. However, he was well-known in the Kansas City community for his philanthropy and donations to various charities and organizations.
The Response of People who Know Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr
The kidnapping and murder of Bobby Greenlease was a tragedy that affected not only his family but also the Kansas City community. Many people who knew Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr spoke out about the tragedy and the impact it had on them.
One of Greenlease's friends and business associates, Joseph F. Heim, described him as "a kind and generous man who was loved by all who knew him." Heim also spoke about the impact of the kidnapping, saying, "It was a terrible tragedy that no one should have to endure."
Another friend, Father John P. Carroll, spoke about Greenlease's philanthropy and generosity. He said, "Bob was a wonderful man who gave so much to his community. He will be remembered for his kindness and compassion."
Summary Table
| Full Name | Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 3, 1895 |
| Place of Birth | Kansas City, Missouri |
| Occupation | Businessman |
| Known For | Founder of the Greenlease Cadillac Company, philanthropist |
| Family | Married to Rose Lenore McNulty, two children (Robert Jr and Mary) |
| Tragic Event | Kidnapping and murder of his son, Bobby, in 1953 |
| Legacy | Remembered for his philanthropy and donations to various charities and organizations |
The Legacy of Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr
Despite the tragic events that occurred in 1953, the legacy of Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr lives on. He is remembered for his philanthropy and generosity, as well as his contributions to the Kansas City community. The Greenlease Cadillac Company is still in operation today, and the family has continued to donate to various charitable causes.
The kidnapping and murder of Bobby Greenlease led to changes in the way kidnapping cases were handled by law enforcement and the justice system. The tragedy also raised awareness about the importance of child safety and the need to protect children from harm.
Robert Cosgrove Greenlease Sr's life and legacy serve as a reminder of the impact one person can have on their community and the world. Despite the tragedy that befell his family, he will be remembered for his generosity, kindness, and compassion.
Comments
Post a Comment