Jesse Anthony LaPuma, 85, died Saturday, May 15, 2021, at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Overland Park, Kansas.  He leaves his wife of 57 years Anna (Sarro) LaPuma.  He also leaves his children Mary Giordano (Steve), Esta Frisby (Dustin), Tony LaPuma, and Francine Bishop (Jeff); grandchildren Dominique (Tyler), Anthony, Jesse (Shannon), William, D'Artagnan, Aaron (Jenny), Micah, Trevor (Emily), Megan; and great-grandchildren Joshua, Jacob, Ezekiel.

Jesse was preceded in death by parents Anthony and Mary LaPuma; in-laws Frank and Pasqua Sarro; siblings Laura Conklin (Ramon), Dominick LaPuma, Lena Palermo (John); and many nieces, nephews, brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law.

At an early age, Jesse decided to pursue a college degree in Art and Theater at UMKC. His career path changed after his niece Sharon was born with Down Syndrome.  He eventually earned a master's degree in special education at St. Louis University. After earning his degree, he worked for the Missouri State Department of Elementary & Secondary Education as a speech consultant then area supervisor, where he developed school programs for students with special needs.  He combined his passion for film and education while working for the department by producing educational films to teach children and young adults with special needs life and social skills.  In 1978, Jesse became the Director of the Greater Kansas City Foundation for Adults with Developmental Disabilities, where he developed work and independent living programs for adults with special needs.  Jesse was president of Sunrise Optimist Club of Jefferson City in 1970 and president of TKE at UMKC.  He served on the board of directors for the 3rd & Long Foundation, UCT, Camporeale Society, and UNICO.

Jesse first and foremost loved his family. He was his children and grandchildren's biggest supporter!! He never missed a skating competition, baseball game, cross country meet, dance competition, scouting events, art shows, or band concert. He instilled in all of us the values of hard work, caring for others, hospitality, generosity, and kindness. He was an advocate for the underdog and was selfless in everything he did. Jesse shared his passion for culture, music, fine arts, and travel with all. He was also a phenomenal cook and along with his wife Anna opened two restaurants and a catering company.  Jesse was also involved with church and helping with the St. Joseph's Table to carry on the traditions of his family and commitment to the Lord.

The Rosary will be prayed at 4:30 p.m. followed by Visitation 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, May 20, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be 10 a.m. Friday, May 21, at St. Therese Catholic Church, Parkville, MO, followed by entombment at White Chapel Memorial Gardens Mausoleum.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com