Peter Joseph Genova, Sr. passed away August 20, 2025, at the age of 83.

Born on March 14, 1942, to Charles and Marie (DiCapo) Genova, Pete Genova was the eldest of four siblings.  He attended St. Elizabeth's Catholic School before becoming a proud Rockhurst graduate in 1959.  Pete possessed equal passion and skill for both sports and academics. His favorite sport was the "one of the season" and when it came to the seasons very few celebrated with more enthusiasm than Pete.  His Christmas lights display on Bramble Trail was second to none. He single-handedly lit up the neighborhood and year after year won first place for his sprawling and extraordinary display of lights and animation. Creating joy for his family and others is what mattered to him most.

In 1970 Pete married Catherine Shepherd.  It was his charisma and confidence that swept Cathy off her feet. Pete and Cathy would build the home of their dreams in Lakewood.  More than the construction of a home, this was the birth of a dream to create a loving family and a home open to all. Family came first for Pete and Cathy, but the love of hosting and entertaining would be a firm second. From a simple get-together, birthday parties, Christmas or his most anticipated celebration of the year, the annual 4th of July party.  This party meant the most to Pete, and the more the merrier. There was never a shortage of love, laughter, and most certainly not food.

Following the death of his father, Pete became the owner and operator of Genova's Chestnut Inn (Shady Lady). He worked tirelessly - 18-hour days, 7 days a week - for 60 years. Staying focused and determined he would eventually pass on this same sense of success and motivation to the next of his legacy, the third generation of owners, his sons Charles and Peter Jr.

"Big" Pete's family was his sanctuary.  Providing at every opportunity for his wife, children and grandchildren.  As a son, when his elderly parents became ill, he became their natural caretaker.

Pete is survived by his loving wife of 55 years Cathy; his sons Charles and Peter Joseph Jr. (Lupita); and his adoring daughter Marie; his two granddaughters Catherine (13) and Nicki (12); and his grandson, who completed his bucket list, Peter Joseph Genova III (9).

Also surviving are his brother-in-law Gene Shepherd (Mary); sister-in-law Diane Bonacorso (Joe); his sister Debbie Stanley (John); numerous nieces, nephews and cousins; and Joe Spinello who was like a brother.

Pete was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Marie; his mother-in-law, Gerry Shepherd; father-in-law Gene Shepherd; brothers-in-law Art and Fred Shepherd; his nephew Joe Mike Bonacorso; and his cousin with whom he shared a brotherly bond, Pete Simone.

Services will be held at Holy Rosary Catholic Church, 911 E. Missouri Avenue, Kansas City, Missouri 64106. On Monday, August 25, the Rosary will be prayed at 3:30 p.m. followed by Visitation from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The Funeral Mass will be at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 26, followed by entombment at Mount Olivet Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to St. John LaLande Catholic School, 801 NW R D Mize Road, Blue Springs, Missouri 64015

Pallbearers: Bill Bondon, Gene Shepherd, Michael Bonacorso, Ronnie Arens, Alex Fazzino, Larry Buccero.

Honorary Pallbearers: Joe Spinello, Frank Cascone, Paul Howell Sr., Mike Pheiffer, Anthony DiMaggio, Joe Mike Sorrentino, Phil Amaro.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com