Andrew "A.J." Zahner

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It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Andrew “A.J.” James Zahner on February 16, 2025. Though his ten years with us were far too short, A.J.’s life was filled with immense love, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit that defied every expectation. Born on June 26, 2014, with a rare genetic condition, A.J. overcame extraordinary challenges with joy and determination, leaving a lasting impact on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

AJ was welcomed into heaven by his grandparents, James Michael Sawyer, Kelli Louise Pecor, and Brian Zahner as well as his great-grandparents, Francis and Dawn Sawyer, Emma “Kay” Kaiser, Andrew and Mary Zahner, and Robert Mendoza.

 He is survived by his devoted parents, Andrew and Tara Zahner, and his loving sister, Aria Louise Zahner. He is also survived by his grandparents, Estella Zahner, Stephan Holcomb, Gerry and Mary Myers. As well as his cherished 99-year-old great-grandmother Katherine “Nana” Mendoza with whom he had a special connection. 

 AJ spent many weekends with his uncle and godfather, Brian David Zahner II, Aunt Tori Zahner, along with his cousins Brian Zahner III, Royce Zahner, Graham Zahner, and Vincent Zahner. His TT Maria Myers, Aunt Lizy Myers and godmother, Angela Cindrich, played integral roles in his life, offering unwavering love and support.

 AJ was deeply loved by his extended family, including his great-great-aunt Deanna Kaiser and great-great-uncle William Kaiser, his great-aunts Becca Konzak, Ruth Jones (Steve), Mary Zahner Bauer (Scott), Sharon Zahner Smith (Joe), Sheila Zahner Vadovicky (Paul), Angela Zahner Shipley (Tim), Nancy Fox (Daryl), and Mary Schmidt (Terry) and his great-uncles Robert Mendoza (Linda), Jose Mendoza (Cindy), Charlie Lopez (Carlita) and Bob Zahner. He leaves behind over 100 cousins and extended family members who cherish him.

Beyond his family, A.J. was embraced by a community that became family, especially the Notre Dame de Sion School, where he found love, friendship, and unwavering support. His presence was a gift to all who knew him, and his story inspired many. The Zahner family extends their deepest gratitude to the many local and national organizations that supported A.J. throughout his journey, especially The University of Kansas Health System, whose compassionate care helped him defy the odds time and time again, and The Sherman Family Foundation, whose generosity helped make his educational dreams a reality.

A.J.’s life was a testament to perseverance, joy, and the power of love. Though he faced immense challenges, he never allowed them to define him. Instead, he taught us all the true meaning of strength, resilience, and the beauty of unconditional love. His impact will forever live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him. Though A.J.’s journey on earth has ended, his light will never fade. He will forever be our North Star, guiding us with love, courage, and the lessons he left behind.

All services will be held at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, 1001 E. 52nd St., Kansas City, MO, 64110, on Saturday, February 22, 2025. Visitation will begin at 10:30am, with Mass of Christian Burial following at 12pm. 

Honoring A.J.’s Legacy:

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made in A.J.’s honor to A.J.’s Rare Journey. These contributions will be distributed to the organizations that had the most profound impact on A.J.’s life. Donations can be sent to Muehlebach Funeral Care, 6800 Troost Ave, Kansas City, MO, 64131, care of A.J.’s Rare Journey.