R. Darlene Spero Gantos, 74, Blue Springs, MO, passed away Wednesday, February 13, 2013. Visitation will be 3-7 p.m. Monday, February 18, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home, 2117 Independence Blvd., Kansas City, MO 64124, where a prayer service will begin at 5 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions to Wayside Waifs or an animal charity of your choice.

Darlene was born June 4, 1938 in Kansas City, MO. She held a deep love and passion for animals and was generous in supporting various animal charities. She was preceded in death by her first husband, Joseph Spero Sr.; her second husband, Alex Gantos; and two sons, Nick Spero and Carl "Michael" Spero.

Darlene is survived by her children, Joe Spero Jr., Cecilia Izzo and husband Jeffrey, Carla LaGalle and husband Jared, Vince Spero, Stephen Spero and wife Julie; her grandchildren, Michael Spero, Christina Spero, Joseph Spero III, Matthew Spero, Cecilia Savala, John Savala, Rachel Izzo, Natalie Izzo, Michael Spero; her great-grandchildren, Sage, Camber, Julia, and Lucy; and her sisters, Dorothy Dutcher, Dora King, and Rosalie Nakashima.

The family would like to thank the staffs of The Carlyle and Three Rivers Hospice for the care given to Darlene.

Online condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com.