Patricia J. Arena, 86, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Saturday, September 20, 2025, surrounded by devoted family.

Services will be held on Tuesday, September 30, at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church. Visitation will begin at 10:30 a.m. with the Mass of Christian Burial celebrated at 11:30 a.m. Patricia will be laid to rest at Leavenworth National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to St. Charles Church or the NorthCare Hospice House.

Born on November 16, 1938, in Chicago, Illinois, Patricia (Pat) was the daughter of Lawrence and Lucille Lonier. She grew up in Evansville, Indiana, where she attended St. Mary's Grade School and Memorial High School. At the age of 18, she moved to Kansas City and soon met the love of her life, Joe Arena, with whom she shared 52 years of marriage. Together, they built a home firmly rooted in faith, love, and family values.

A devout Catholic, Patricia's faith was the cornerstone of her life. She devoted herself to her children's spiritual and academic foundation, making sacrifices to provide them with a Catholic education, something she deeply believed would guide and sustain them throughout their lives.

Pat's days were filled with acts of service, both great and small. Fiercely independent and direct with her opinions, she also carried a servant's heart, always ready to give of herself for others. She embodied generosity and compassion, whether running a school cafeteria, caring for friends and family during end-of-life journeys, driving friends to church or appointments, cooking meals for neighbors, or simply offering a listening ear. Her home was always open, a place of warmth, hospitality, and welcome for anyone in need.

She also cherished moments of joy and leisure. Pat eagerly anticipated her trips to Florida, a tradition she began with her beloved husband Joe and lovingly continued after his passing. There, she enjoyed sunshine, fellowship, and laughter with friends, treasured moments that brought balance and renewal to her life.

Pat was preceded in death by her beloved husband Joe; parents; her sister, Yvonne Reine; her son-in-law, Lee Swope; and her brother-in-law, John Arena.

She is survived by her children: Julie Swope, Joe and wife Jenny Ann Arena, and Jennifer Arena; her grandchildren: Joe Pat, Michael, and Anthony Swope, Joseph, and John Richard Arena; her brothers-in-law: Paul Arena, Charles Arena, Bill Reine, and Bob Stenson; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and lifelong friends.

Pat will be remembered for her unwavering faith, her fierce independence, her direct honesty, her servant's heart, and her boundless love for others. She leaves a legacy of devotion, service, generosity and faith that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate caregivers at NorthCare Hospice House, who cared for Patricia with dignity and kindness in her final days.

Pallbearers: Joe Pat Swope, Michael Swope, Anthony Swope, Joseph Arena, John Richard Arena, and Frank Arena.

Online condolences may be shared at www.passantinobros.com