Leo J. Failoni, age 80, passed away peacefully Saturday, September 25, 2010 at his home. The Mass of Christian Burial was 10 a.m. Tuesday, September 28, at St. Patrick Catholic Church, 1357 NE 42nd Terrace, Kansas City, MO 64116. Entombment followed in Resurrection Cemetery Mausoleum. Visitation was from 4 p.m. until 9 p.m. on Monday at St. Patrick's Church. In lieu of flowers, the family suggested contributions to the Sister Servants of Mary, 800 N. 18th St., Kansas City, KS 66102.

Leo was born September 22, 1930 in St. Louis, MO, the third of four sons born to Rose and Alex Failoni. He was a veteran of the Korean War. Leo married Anna Marie Trantanella of St. Louis, MO on November 28, 1953 and moved to Kansas City. He worked for two shoe companies until 1974 when he opened Leo's Pizza. With his wife at his side, they turned a small business into the iconic pizza restaurant of the Northland. Over three generations have enjoyed his food and friendliness. Leo never met a customer he didn't like. His smiling face and love of life were contagious. Gatherings at Leo's were special times to hear a story or two and, if you were fortunate, you got to hear him sing. He was a member and former president of the American Sons of Columbus, UNICO, and a member of St. Patrick's Church. Leo is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Anna Marie; and by his two children, daughter, Rosanne Willcott and her husband Ron; and son, Joseph Failoni. Leo has seven grandchildren, Anthony Accurso, Leo (Ashley) Accurso, Louis Accurso, Annamarie Accurso, Leo Failoni, Alex Failoni, and Tyler Pastena; and one great-grandson, Tyler; brother and sisters-in-law, Alex and Rosemary Failoni, and Anna Rita Failoni all of St. Louis; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Pallbearers were Leo's grandsons. The week before his passing, Leo celebrated his 80th birthday just the way he celebrated every day… with family, friends and favorite customers. We thank God for sharing Leo with us!