Lena Mascaro was released from the ravages of Alzheimer's disease on December 13, 2015. Lena's favorite number was 13 which she always claimed was a lucky number for Italians. On this date, we pray, that Lena is able to travel to heaven to see the Lord Jesus and all of the ones that went before her.

Born to John and Katie Vaccaro on December 4, 1928, she was raised in the "North End" and graduated from St. Aloysius High School in 1946. In 1951 she married John Mascaro. She was preceded in death by her Husband John (1970) parents, brother, Carl Vaccaro (Beverly), and sister, Catherine Brown (Edward).

Lena was a beautician. After the death of her husband she moved her beauty shop into her home to be there for her family and successfully ran her business for decades. We have fond memories of spending time in the beauty shop listening to all the stories told and laughs shared.

Lena had a vibrant, sassy personality. She was outspoken, opinionated, funny and truly the life of all our family gatherings. Lena was a "fashionista" before that was even a word! She had fancy hats for all occasions, loved to travel, and enjoyed over 20 ocean cruises with her friends and family.

She was a fantastic cook. She made mounds of Italian cookies over the years and loved to experiment with recipes. Sundays frequently involved family gatherings at her house which always smelled of delicious Italian food that often included artichokes, pasta, and meatballs.

Lena leaves behind her son, Frank Mascaro & wife Susan, and her daughter Johniann Vitatoe & husband Jim; her cherished grandsons Carl John and Rudy Mascaro and Vincent (Kimberly) and Johnny Vitatoe. Mom, we have missed you for so long now and we are forever grateful for all you taught and gave to us in this life. We love you, miss you, and look forward to seeing you again.

Many heartfelt thanks to the staff of Golden Living-Smithville for the care given to Lena during her long illness.

While Lena's memory faded at the end, the way she lived her life made an unforgettable impression on all those around her which will always be remembered.

Visitation will be 4-7 p.m. Wednesday, December 16, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home, 2117 Independence Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64124, where the Rosary will be prayed at 6 p.m. The Mass of Christian Burial will be 10 a.m. Thursday, December 17, at Holy Cross Catholic Church, 5106 St. John Ave., Kansas City, MO 64123, followed by burial in Mount St. Mary's Cemetery. Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com