Carl Joseph Sprofera, 89, Northeast Kansas City, MO, passed away Wednesday, July 18, 2012, surrounded by his loving family. Visitation will be 3-8 p.m. Friday, July 20, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home, 2117 Independence Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64124, where the Rosary will be prayed at 6 p.m. followed by an American Legion service at 6:30 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Saturday, July 21, at St. James Catholic Church, 309 S. Stewart Rd., Liberty, MO 64068. Burial will follow in Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Contributions are suggested to Catholic Community Hospice, 9740 W. 87th St., Overland Park, KS 66212; or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

Carl was born November 24, 1922 in New Orleans, LA, to Charles and Anna Sprofera. He was a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant during WWII, serving in the 541st Airborne as a Jump Master, and was a member and past-commander of Campo-Manfre-Barbieri Post 151 of the American Legion. He was a former parishioner of Holy Cross Catholic Church, serving many years as an usher, money counter, and member of the St. Joseph Altar Society, and was a 4th Degree member of Cardinal Glennon Council 4613 of the Knights of Columbus. He retired from UMB Bank after 20 years.

Carl was preceded in death by his daughter, Carleen Sprofera; his parents; his brothers, John, Joe, Tony, Tudy, Pete, Frank, and Nick; and sisters, Delia and Mary.

Survivors include his wife of 63 years, Marie Sprofera; his daughters and sons-in-law, Anita and Frank Daniels, Carla and Mike Frew, Marissa and John Vernickas; grandchildren, Carl Welch, Kara and Jim Brown, Scott Welch, Krista Daniels, Jonathan Vernickas, Jessica Vernickas; and seven great-grandchildren.

Pallbearers: Scott Welch, Jonathan Vernickas, Jim Brown, Joe Cirese, Kyle Damas, Joe Privitera, Mike Privitera, Pat Paul Ranallo. Honorary Pallbearers: Chuck Cuda and Carl Welch.

Carl was of the greatest generation. He modeled faith, love, and respect as he always put others before himself. He was a loving husband, father, uncle, and Poppi. His strength will live on in all of our lives forever. We love you.

The family would like to thank the members of Catholic Community Hospice for the excellent and loving care shown to Carl.

Online condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com.