Paolo "Paul" Donze, 89, passed away peacefully, February 7, 2026, at his home in Gladstone, Missouri. Born on May 17, 1936, in Camporeale, Sicily, Italy, Paul was one of eight children born to the late Vincenzo and Filippa Donze. Raised on the family farm, he learned early the value of hard work, perseverance, and devotion to family—qualities that would guide him throughout his life.

In 1960, at age 23, Paul immigrated to the United States, along with his mother and seven siblings. Settling in Kansas City, Missouri, Paul set his sights on various career opportunities for a successful future. He began working for LPF Plastics, Inc., where he made history as the first American to apply Teflon - a non-stick coating - to a frying pan. His boss proudly named this invention the "Happy Pan." One of the original pans now resides in the Smithsonian Institution, and another is part of the Kansas City Museum collection—a lasting testament to Paul's skill and ingenuity.

After retiring in 1989, Paul embarked on a second career in home remodeling; a craft he truly enjoyed. His greatest project was his own home, which he completely renovated. He took immense pride in his home, his family, and his Italian heritage, and he was happiest when he was busy creating something with his hands.

Outside of work, he found joy in the simple and beautiful things in life – gardening, cooking, baking homemade bread and fig cookies (cuccidati), dancing, and singing. He was the life of every gathering, greeting everyone with warmth and humor. To him, no one was a stranger.

Paul leaves behind a legacy of hard work, high energy, kindness, generosity, immense cultural pride and a deep love of family. He will forever live in the hearts of all who knew him.

Along with his parents, Paul was preceded in death by his siblings and their spouses: Salvatore Donze (Vita), Fina Donze (Vincenzo), Angelo Donze, Antonina DiMaggio (Frank), Rosaria Cascone (Salvatore), and Santina Caravella (Anthony).

Paul leaves behind his twin brother, Vincenzo (Francesca); his son, Michael; his grandson, Michael S. Shamow; sister-in-law Matilda; as well as many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, February 12, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home. The Funeral Mass will be 10:30 a.m. on Friday, February 13, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Entombment will follow at Resurrection Mausoleum.

Pallbearers: Michael S. Shamow, Salvatore Scire, John Cascone, Anthony DiMaggio, Sal Donze, Vince Caravella