Joe Mac, a beloved family man, successful businessman, and friend to all, who left us on May 17, 2024 at the age of 88. Joe passed away surrounded by his loving family in Kansas City, Missouri, leaving behind a legacy of generosity, love, and community spirit.
Joe was raised by his loving aunts, Josephine Pascuzzi and Mary Smiroldo. Joe graduated from Northeast High School in 1954 and married his high school sweetheart, Mary Louise Henry.
Fulfilling a lifelong dream, Joe opened his first store with Louise in 1973 which paved the way for a lifetime of success in the grocery business including the well-known Macaluso’s Thriftway. Joe’s dedication not only propelled his professional success but also made a lasting impact on his community, employees and numerous customers.
In 2011, Joe was recognized as the North Kansas City Neighborhood Man of the Year for his endless contributions to the community.
A devout catholic, Joe and Louise were active members of St. Andrews Catholic Church.
His legacy of love, generosity, and kindness will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.
He is preceded in death by his brother, Nick Macaluso; good friends, Phil Scimeca, Sal Shortino, and angel grandbaby, Waylon Hardesty.
Joe is survived by his wife Louise, his children, Phillip C. Macaluso (Bruny), Joseph M. Macaluso (Donna), Donna S. Caldwell (Robert); his cherished grandchildren, Christina, Carly, Nicholas, Casey, Kylie, Samantha, Gina, Phillip, Robbie, Annie; and 11 great grandchildren. Additionally, he is survived by his lifelong best friend Carl Shortino, who provided comfort and companionship his final days, and John Lipari, and Marion Lombardo.
A celebration of Joe’s Life will take place on Thursday, May 30th, from 4:00- 7:00PM at White Chapel Funeral Home, 6600 NE Antioch Rd., Gladstone, Missouri, 64119, may we gather to honor his memory, share stories of his remarkable life.
A Funeral Mass will take place Friday May 31st at 10:00 am at St. Andrews Catholic Church 6415 NE Antioch Rd. Gladstone, MO, 64119.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude's Place, Memphis, TN, 38105, or Wounded Warriors Project, PO Box 758516, Topeka, KS 66675 - Causes close to Joe’s heart.
