Joseph Alexander Giamalva passed away March 31, 2017, surrounded by family and friends after a courageous battle with cancer.

Joe was born to Frank and Ann Giamalva in Kansas City, MO. He graduated from Northeast High School in 1973. Shortly after, he opened Speedy's Food & Liquor Mart at 9th and Prospect in the Northeast area of Kansas City, where he worked for the next 40 years until his retirement in 2016.

One of Joe's greatest passions was coaching the Missouri Wolverines Youth Football team which he pursued for 13 years. He shared that same passion for his family and friends, and devoted much of his life to his parents and loved ones. Family gatherings were always more fun with Joe's stories and great sense of humor.

Joe's loyalty to his friends, many of whom he had known since childhood, was unparalleled. He never met a stranger and had a way of making friends wherever he went.

His larger-than-life personality will forever be remembered. He will be greatly missed.

Joe was preceded in death by his father, Frank Giamalva. He is survived by his mother, Ann (Fazzino) Giamalva; sister and brother-in-law, Mary and Pete Badalucco; nephew, Anthony Civella; uncle, Louis Giamalva; and aunt, Josephine Fazzino.

The Rosary will be prayed at 3:30 p.m. followed by Visitation from 4 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, April 4, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home, 2117 Independence Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64124. The Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 5, at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 911 E. Missouri Ave., Kansas City, MO 64106. Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery. Please omit flowers.

Pallbearers: Vince Agrusa, Frank Giamalva, Tony Caloroso, Frank Fazzino, Jerry Johann, and Pete Mendolia.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com