John Joseph DiSalvo, age 77, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away on August 13, 2025.
John was born on September 1, 1947, to Angelo and Carmeline DiSalvo (Tuzzolino). He grew up in the North End of Kansas City and cherished the time he spent with his beloved grandfather ‘Papa Joe’.
From a young age, John embraced the value of hard work. He began at the City Market, working in the banana house and selling produce on weekends. He went on to build a 33-year career with Trans World Airlines (TWA), where he was admired for his strong work ethic and took great pride in his record of perfect attendance. It was also at TWA where John met Carol, his wife of 45 years. Even after his retirement from TWA, John continued to dedicate himself to work he enjoyed, lending his talents at Worldspan, C&C Produce, and Ground Freight Expeditors. For 25 years, he shared his fun-loving personality at Arrowhead Stadium, bartending for Chiefs games and events across Kansas City.
John loved spending time outdoors and pursuing the things that brought him joy. Golf was his true passion. He played weekly, and for over 20 years he planned annual trips to Las Vegas with friends; combining rounds on the course with gambling, good food and drinks. He also loved traveling around the world, cooking, and tending to his yard and garden. Above all, John treasured time with his friends, sharing stories, jokes, and good company whenever he could.
Rocco, the family dog, was John’s loyal companion and shadow for 16 years. He loved taking ‘his boy’ for rides in his red Chevy truck.
John’s three daughters and five grandchildren were the center of his world, and greatest source of pride and happiness. He cherished his two sons-in-law, who he welcomed wholeheartedly into the family and loved like his own. More than a celebrator of milestones or a source of strength in challenges, he was a steady presence in everyday life and offered guidance, humor, and wisdom to anyone who would listen. His unwavering love and support earned him two of his favorite titles ‘Mizzou Dad’ and ‘Popo’.
John and Carol shared a wonderful life together, building a home filled with love and countless memories over their 45 years of marriage. She was his closest companion and true partner, and their bond was the foundation of the family he treasured.
John often reflected on what mattered most to him. He recently shared a message that captured his heart perfectly: “Someday my life will end. My wife, daughters and grandchildren will be the best part of my life. Keep me in your heart. I will always keep you in mine. Nothing will ever change that. Love forever, Dad.” Those words reflect the deep love, devotion, and guidance he showed his family every day.
Survived by his wife Carol; daughters Deanna DiSalvo, Gina LoPorto (Sal), and Jeni Briley (Tim); grandchildren Alena, John, and Vivienne LoPorto, and Hudson and Cruz Briley; and brother Kyle Roth.
Services will be held on Tuesday, August 19, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. with the Funeral Mass at 12:00 p.m. Burial will be at White Chapel Memorial Gardens. Memorial contributions are suggested to The American Heart Association.
Pallbearers: Tim Briley, Chuck Cuda, Sal LoPorto, Brad Nelson, Kyle Roth, Andrew Schramm
Honorary Pallbearers: Pete Badalucco, Charlie Bruscato, Ben Cuda, Bill Mortallaro, Tom Mortallaro, Steve Saluto
Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com
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