Robert "Tom" Kolenda Sr.

Born, Robert Thomas Kolenda, February 4th,1932 to Chester and Mildred Kolenda in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Tom was the oldest of six. Two of his brothers preceded him in death, Richard and David, He is survived by his sisters Lynn and Peggy and brother, Michael.

Tom married the love of his life, Grace (Amazing Grace) on June 18, 1955. She preceded him in death in April 2023. Together they had five children, Bob Kolenda (Cindy), Don Kolenda (Carol), twins Cathy Stangl (Ricky) & Cindy Heffern (John) and Lisa Hinton (Doug). His legacy includes 13 grandchildren and 25 great grandchildren. One grandchild Shawn was also waiting in heaven to greet him. Two more are due later this year. He was very proud of his family.

Tom proudly served his country as a member of the USAF during the Korean War. He met Grace while he was in the Kansas City area for training. For the majority of his employment years Tom was a top appliance salesman for Sears.

He had a passion for fishing which he shared with his children and grandchildren. He was an active member of his church as a communion minister. A faithful Catholic, two of his sayings were: “singing is praying times two” and “you can’t outgive God.” He loved calling Bingo for the Little Sisters of the Poor. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus where he learned to be a clown to entertain children at events. He was also a member of the local VFW and American Legion.

While in assisted living the Lord’s Prayer brought him great comfort. He asked anyone who assisted him to pray with him. He taught this prayer to several staff members.

In Lieu of flowers the family requests donations to:

Little Sisters of the Poor Kansas City,

Jeanne Jugan Center

8745 James A. Reed Road

Kansas City, MO 64138-4414

Phone 816.761.4744

A visitation for Robert will be held Thursday, June 26, 2025 from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Our Lady of the Presentation, 130 NW Murray Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64081.

A funeral service will occur Thursday, June 26, 2025 from 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, 130 NW Murray Rd, Lee's Summit, MO 64081.

A graveside service will occur Thursday, June 26, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 3:30 PM at Floral Hills East Memorial Gardens, 25203 E US Hwy 50, Lee's Summit, MO 64086.