Josephine (Donnici) Distefano, 88, passed away peacefully at home on July 27 ^th . She was raised in the Columbus Park area, attended Holy Rosary Parochial School, St. Aloysius Academy and St. Therese College. In 1952 she began her secretarial work at Mobil Oil in the credit department and later was employed in the Pratt and Whitney field office at the TWA overhaul base, in addition to being a homemaker.

She was preceded in death by her husband of 55 years, John Jr., parents Alfonso and Raphaela Donnici, sisters and brothers in law Catherine and Dr. John McCalla, Annette and John Belfonte and in laws Lena and John Distefano Sr. She is survived by sons John D. (Katherine), Paul, and Mark (Susan), grandchildren Nicholas, Laura, Benjamin, and Nathan, brother and sister-in-law Anthony and Paula.

She and John enjoyed their many travels to Europe, especially the days touring Italy with their sons.   She was an avid reader of mystery stories, especially Agatha Christie.  Visitation will be Saturday, July 30 from 9:30-11am at St. Therese Catholic Church in Parkville with the Mass of the Resurrection at 11am. Interment to follow at Resurrection Cemetery.  In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to The John Thomas NKH Foundation to help fund research for children diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder; address Cindy (Collura) Graham, 16834 Westglen Farms Drive, Wildwood, MO  63011.  The family would also like to thank Appl Orchard Hospice for their care.

Pallbearers will be Michael Bartelli, Phil Bartelli, Michael Belfonte, Jim Darby, Jim Hansen, and Allen McCalla.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com