Walter Joseph Accurso, 90, passed away peacefully on April 16, 2023, at his home away from home, The Atriums, where he had lived for the last six months. Services will be held Saturday, April 22nd, at St. Thomas More Catholic Church, 11822 Holmes Road, Kansas City, Missouri 64145. Visitation will begin at 9:30 a.m., with the Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. Entombment services will follow at Mount Moriah Mausoleum, 10507 Holmes, Kansas City, Missouri 64131.

Walter was born on November 9, 1932, in Kansas City, Missouri to Joseph and Raphael (Donnici) Accurso. He grew up in the Northeast neighborhood of Kansas City and attended Glennon High School his freshman year. Later the family moved to New Orleans where he grew close friendships with his cousins down south, finishing high school there. Shortly after, Walter joined the Navy. He served on an aircraft carrier maintaining planes during the Korean war. During his time in the Navy, he was able to visit other countries including his father's homeland, Camporeale, Sicily.

Walter married the love of his life, Mary Theresa (Charmella) Accurso on June 9th, 1956, just shy of 67 years ago! What a love-filled life they have led. The legacy Walter leaves is one of hard work, laughter, joy, family, and friends. Walter valued faith, family, and his commitment to them above all else. He was the foundation that his family stood on and could count on. He took care of everyone. Mary's mother lived with the family and Walter loved her and took care of her as if she were his own mother. Walter was the most loving, caring, and supportive husband and father and grandfather. His whole life was dedicated to the happiness of his family.

During the first years of their marriage, Walter worked for TWA, continuing to service airplanes. He worked full-time while going to night school to complete a business administration degree at Rockhurst College. He went on to a highly successful career in pharmaceutical sales, winning many awards including The President's Award in the early 1980's. Walter also served as Regional Manager for SmithKline Diagnostics, the company he retired from. Mary accompanied Walter on most of his work travels toward the end of his career.

After retirement, Walter and Mary continued to enjoy life to the fullest. Walter was involved in many clubs over the years including Unico, The Rumbala Club and the Camporealese Club. They also traveled extensively with family and friends all over the country and internationally!

Walter was also blessed with the gift of song. With no formal training his natural tenor voice was angelic. While he was offered opportunities to perform at various venues, he lovingly chose to sing for family and friends at weddings and funerals throughout his life. Walter and Mary also sang for the Fatima Choir for many years traveling all over the country to perform. They performed at the National Cathedral in Washington DC and with Andy Williams in Branson at Christmas time.

The family would like to thank the many caregivers including the hospice staff that lovingly took care of Walter. We are eternally grateful for not only their great care but for their love and support of our whole family. Walter was smiling until the end and that's how we will remember him. "I feel great!" was his answer to all who asked. Heaven now has this lovely man, and he will continue to watch over us from above. Walter lived a good life and was well loved by all. We are grateful for the many years we shared love and joy and laughter with him. Walter was a strong presence that will always be surrounding us with love and light. He is in our hearts forever.

Walter was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Raphael Accurso; his mother-in-law, Lucy Charmella; his daughter-in-law, Carolyn Accurso; his sister and brother-in-law, Catherine and Joe LaSala; his sisters-in-law and brothers-in-law, Joseph and Josephine Charmella and Angelo and Ruth Charmella; and many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

He leaves to cherish his memory his beloved wife of 66 years, Mary Theresa Accurso; his children, Anita (Don) McGuire, Cathy (Art) Accurso-Hadley, and Joseph Accurso; his grandchildren, Michael McGuire, Joseph McGuire, Mary McGuire and Charlie Rose Accurso; his great-grandchildren, Enzo McGuire and Koto McGuire; many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and cousins and friends.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Walter's honor to Brighton Hospice or St. Thomas More Catholic Church.

Condolences may be offered at www.passantinobros.com