John Tesar

John Tesar

John Tesar, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2024, at the age of 81 in Kansas City, MO. He was born on April 20, 1942, in Sydney, NE, to Harry and Loretta Tesar.

John was known for his kind and giving nature. He was a gentle soul who worked tirelessly to ensure his family had everything they needed. Throughout his life, he faced challenges with admirable strength and courage, serving as an inspiration to all who knew him. John instilled a strong work ethic in his family and was always there to lend a helping hand or a listening ear. He was a man of strong faith, teaching his loved ones the importance of family, hard work, and doing what is right.

John is survived by his loving wife, Linda of 50 years; his daughter, Vanessa, and her fiancé, Joby Vanderwel; and his grandchildren, Gwyn, Jillian, and Zoe; his brother, Glenn(Irma) Tesar; his brother-in-law Tom Weigand; his sister-in-law Peg Tesar; his sister-in-law, Barbara Opfer, his brother-in-law James Last(Cyndie) his sister-in-law, Brenda Scharig, his sister-in-law Diane Last and his many nieces and nephews . He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry and Loretta Tesar, and his siblings, Mary Weigand and Tony Tesar, and brother-in-law Kevin Last.

John attended Pomona High School and later pursued higher education at Kansas State Teachers College with a Bachelor's Degree in Business. John had a long career in retail as a manager at WT Grant in Kansas City and then became a manager at the Ben Franklin store in Independence Missouri in 1976. John then purchased BenFranklin and operated the store until 2004. He proudly served in the Army from 1960 to 1962.

John found solace and strength in his faith and was a member of St. Marks Catholic Church.

In his leisure time, John enjoyed spending time with his granddaughters and attending their activities. He had a deep affection for his pets, Millie the dog and Milena the cat. John had a fondness for coffee and ice cream, and his late-night snack of choice was always a comforting bowl of chunky chocolate chip. He was an avid Chiefs fan and was hopeful the Chiefs would go on to win another Super Bowl.

A Mass will be held on Friday, February 2, 2024, at St. Mark's Catholic Church located at 3736 Lee's Summit Rd, Independence, MO 64055. Visitation and Rosary will be held prior to the Mass, starting at 10 AM. The graveside service will be held by the family at a later time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Marks Catholic Church. Flowers may also be sent to St. Marks at 3736 Lee's Summit Rd, Independence, MO 64055 by 9 AM on Friday, February 2, 2024.

John Tesar will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy of love, faith, and hard work will forever be cherished by his family and friends.