Genevieve Bonanno Leo, lovingly known as “Nana,” passed away peacefully on February 3, 2025, at the age of 100. Born Genevieve Bonanno in Des Moines, IA, in 1924, she carried her family name with pride, later making it her middle name when she married. Genevieve was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose love and strength shaped generations.
She married the love of her life, Tony Leo, on April 11, 1948, and together they built a beautiful life, moving to Kansas City, MO, in 1964 and later settling in Belton, MO. Genevieve was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Tony, and is survived by her children Anthony Leo Jr., John (Josh) Leo, Robert (Bob) Leo & wife Becky Leo, Thomas Leo & wife Sally Leo, and Rosanne & husband David Hoover, along with many grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will carry on her memory.
Gen was a woman of many talents, known for her unwavering work ethic and dedication. She began her career as a typist, serving four years at the War Department for the U.S. Army Air Force before continuing for five years at the Veterans Administration. She then dedicated herself fully to her most cherished role—raising her five children. Once her youngest child reached school age, she returned to the workforce, spending 13 years as a cook at Barstow School before she retired.
A proud graduate of Lincoln High School in 1942, Gen possessed a sharp mind and a deep sense of community. For 29 years, she was an active member of TOPS, where she formed countless lifelong friendships. She found joy in cooking, sewing, crocheting, and playing cards, always sharing her talents with those she loved. As a devoted parishioner of St. Sabina Catholic Church she spent seven years coordinating and preparing food for funerals. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. In recognition of her dedication, she was honored with the Bishop’s Award for her contributions to the church.
Gen’s warmth and humor made her the heart of her family. Pasta and meatballs every Sunday were a cherished tradition, bringing together not only her family but also friends and extended relatives, creating a warm and welcoming table filled with love and laughter.
Her bold personality lives on through her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, a lasting testament to her vibrant spirit.
A rosary for Gen will be held on Friday, February 14, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 10:00 AM at St. Sabina Parish, 700 Trevis Ave, Belton, Missouri. Visitation will follow from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM, with a Catholic Funeral Mass from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. A graveside ceremony will follow the mass at Mount Moriah Cemetery 10507 Holmes Rd. Kansas City, MO 64141. A meal will be held afterward in the St. Sabina fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers, contributions in Gen's memory may be made to St. Sabina Catholic Church or VNA Home Health & Hospice of Kansas City.
