John Wirtz

John Jacob Wirtz was born on Easter Sunday, April 17, 1927. He passed away peacefully at his home on March 26, 2015, surrounded by his loving family.

John attended St. Peter and St. Francis Xavier grade schools before becoming a member of the first graduating class of Bishop Hogan High School in 1944. He was a graduate of Rockhurst College in 1950 and served his country in the Navy during World War II. He was employed by St. Paul Fire and Marine Insurance for 36 years.

John?s greatest joy was his family and his entire life was devoted to caring for them, providing for them and making sure they knew that they were loved. He dedicated himself to living out his favorite prayer, the last lines of which are, "to labor and not to ask for reward, save that of knowing I am doing Your will." His selfless service to others, loving spirit, and genuine smile will be deeply missed.

He was preceded in death by: his newborn baby daughter Margaret Mary and gentle adult son Paul; his parents Anna Klein Wirtz and Michael Wirtz, his seven older siblings Virginia, Loretta, Arthur, Victor, Elizabeth, Mary Ann and Michael.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife of 58 years, Kathleen Kraus Wirtz; devoted children: Mary Koncak (Dave), Lisa Sullivan (Bill), Mark Wirtz (Katy), Sharon Mohler (Steve), Bill Wirtz (Sally), Tom Wirtz (Cindy); 21 adoring grandchildren: Bret Koncak (Julee), Erin Sleddens (Tim), Nikki Holdcraft (Mike), Colton Koncak (Bree) and Kristy Koncak; Marie, Anna, Kathleen and Molly Sullivan; Michael Wirtz (Melissa), Jonathon and Steven Wirtz; AJ, Danny, Nate, Lucy and Matt Mohler; Sarah and Jack Wirtz; Aniston and Eden Wirtz; two precious great-grandchildren, Josie and Logan Koncak; and a multitude of beloved nieces and nephews.

Services will be held at St Francis Xavier Church, 5200 Troost, KCMO, on Saturday, April 11, 2015 with a visitation at 9am and Funeral Mass at 10am.

There will be a private burial following the mass. Condolences may be left for the family at www.muehlebachchapel.com. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to St. Francis Xavier or a charity of your choice.