Thomas Joseph Haggerty

Thomas Joseph Haggerty, 72, peacefully passed from this life on February 26, 2014 after a long battle with cancer. Just a couple hours before he passed, Dad was affectionately surrounded by his four children in the home of his daughter Bridget.

He was born on November 5, 1941 in New York City to John and Mary Haggerty who emigrated from Ireland. His adventurous spirit inspired him to move to Kansas City, MO when he was fifteen years old. He graduated from Bishop Hogan High School in 1960 where he met and married Kathi Dunn in 1961. He was a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather. His love was truly unconditional. His engaging personality produced many strong friendships. He valued faith, family, and friends.

He retired as a lead lineman from KCP&L after 40 years. His dedication and strong work ethic earned the respect of his peers. Retirement years consisted of spending quality time with family, enjoying daily workouts at Woodside Racquet Club, and sharing stories about his children and grandchildren during happy hour at The Brooksider.

He is survived by his children, Mike and Marilyn Haggerty, Bridget Civella and her friend Luke Schuler, John and his friend Felice Searles, and Matt and Mary Haggerty; nine grandchildren, Whitney and Joe Cavalier, Taylor Haggerty, Mason Haggerty, Brianna Civella, Madison Haggerty, Maxwell Haggerty, Jackson Haggerty, Bella Haggerty and Olivia Haggerty; 2 great-grandchildren, Tyler Cavalier and Nick Cavalier; brother John (“Jack”) and Leona Haggerty; extended family Kathi and Joe Effertz and their famlies. He was preceded in death by his sister Mary Anastasia.

His desire to find a cure for cancer inspired him to donate his body to KU Medical Center.

A Memorial Mass will be held at 2:00 p.m. Saturday, March 8, at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 14251 Nall Ave, Leawood, KS 66223.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks donations to Kansas City Catholic Hospice, https://www.catholiccharitiesks.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=453