Raymond Charles Zapien, 55, passed away peacefully March 31, 2021, surrounded by his loving family. Visitation will be at 10 a.m. with a Funeral Service at 12 p.m. on Thursday, April 8, at Passantino Bros. Funeral Home, KCMO. Cremation will follow the services. In lieu of flowers contributions are suggested in Raymond's name to the American Cancer Society .

Raymond's career began at Burger King and then Edy's where both helped him create lifelong friendships and many happy memories.  He retired after 19 years at Belfonte Ice Cream Company to realize his dream of owning his own business: 'Brite Line Striping' and 'A Sweep At The Wheel'.  He sold 'Brite Line Striping' to his friend and partner Bill to focus on the business that had him by the heart 'A Sweep At the Wheel'.  With the help and support of the love of his life Sally he built this business to a success, which will be his legacy to his sons and families for many generations to come.

His love for his family and his extraordinary work ethic is what made Raymond who he is.  He absolutely loved and was proud of the work he did and all who were a part of his past and present work family.  His family and his work came first and foremost.  He cared deeply for those he surrounded himself with and was truly loved by all. He loved spending his time off alone with the love of his life Sally and his family. He was a family man, and this is where you saw the deep compassionate and caring side of him.  He was a very proud and truly loved Husband, Dad (Pops) and Papa who was always there to encourage his sons and grandchildren to great lengths.

Raymond was preceded in death by his parents Rudolph and Shirley Zapien and brother Rudolph Jr.

Raymond will be deeply missed by his wife of 25 years Sally Zapien; sons Travis Kudart and Trevor Kudart (Crystal Kudart); grandchildren Meadow, Charlee, Crosby, Sophia and Kayson; and many brothers, sisters, aunts, uncles, and cousins.

They will remain close and cherish the man he was and who loved, encouraged, and bound the family they are today.  He will be forever loved, missed, and cherished from this day forward as the man who helped create so many beautiful memories, we all have today and will carry with us forever.  We love you more than any one person can begin to imagine, and you will remain with us and fill our hearts forever.

The family wish to thank the Cosentino and McKeever families, The RH Johnson Company, and many other companies for their continued support over the past 13 years in helping and allowing Raymond to live his dreams and reach his lifetime goals, but especially for their 100% support and friendship over the past two years while Raymond courageously fought his battle with cancer. He couldn't have done this without your support.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com