Peter Slusarczyk

Peter Slusarczyk lived a life defined by resilience, service, hard work, and deep devotion to his family. From humble beginnings in post-war Europe to building a life of opportunity in America, Pete embodied the strength, gratitude, and determination that define the immigrant experience.

Pete passed away peacefully at home on March 6, 2026, surrounded by his loving family and his loyal pug, Rocky, who had been his faithful companion and friend for many years.

Pete was born in 1948 in Altenstadt, Germany, to Joseph Slusarczyk of Poland and Anna Slusarczyk “Zmud” of Ukraine. During World War II, his parents were taken from their homes by the Nazis and forced into displacement in Germany to work the farms. In the difficult years following the war, they married and sought a new beginning for their family.

In 1951, Pete immigrated to the United States with his family through Port of New York. Their immigration was sponsored by Dr. Sukokski, who helped the family begin their new life in America. The family settled in Northeast Kansas City, Missouri, where Pete grew up and began a lifelong connection to the Kansas City community.

Pete later became a proud citizen of the United States and remained a lifelong resident of Kansas City and Independence, Missouri.

Pete attended DeLaSalle Academy, graduating in 1966. Shortly after graduation, he answered the call to serve the country that had given his family a new life, joining the United States Air Force in 1967. Pete served honorably from 1967 to 1971, including a deployment to Vietnam from January through December of 1971. During his time overseas he was stationed at Phan Rang Air Base, where he worked in procurement supporting military operations. Pete remained deeply proud of his service throughout his life and honored his fellow veterans each year by participating in ceremonies at the Kansas City Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Later in life, Pete developed cancer caused by exposure to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War—an illness that ultimately claimed his life and stands as a lasting reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served.

One of the greatest blessings of Pete’s life was his marriage to the love of his life, JoAnn Slusarczyk (née Ogrizovich). Pete and JoAnn began dating while they were still in high school. Immediately after JoAnn graduated, they were married in 1969 and soon moved to MacDill Air Force Base in Florida before Pete’s deployment to Vietnam.

Their marriage was built on deep love, loyalty, and friendship. They were truly best friends. In later years, after Pete retired, there was rarely a day they were apart. They traveled together, attended family gatherings, and shared daily life side by side. Their partnership was the foundation of their family and a beautiful example of lifelong devotion.

After returning home from military service, Pete built both a family and a successful career. He founded Reliable Overhead Door, a business servicing both commercial and residential overhead doors. Through determination, skill, and strong relationships, Pete built a respected company that served many major clients. Among his notable projects were large commercial contracts including work for The Kansas City Star during the years when newspapers were still delivered daily, as well as projects for Hunt Midwest Underground, one of his largest and most valued clients.

Pete was also active in his community and proud of his fellow veterans. He was a member of Moose Lodge 2414 and served as Commander of VFW Blue Ridge Post 9997.

Pete was truly a friend to everyone he met. He had an easygoing way about him and a genuine kindness that made people feel welcome the moment they met him. It seemed that everyone who crossed Pete’s path liked him, and many quickly became lifelong friends. He loved spending time with friends playing cards and dominoes, sharing stories and laughter late into the evening. Earlier in life he was also an avid and talented bowler and pool player, competing regularly in leagues and tournaments.

While Pete was proud of his service, career, and friendships, nothing meant more to him than his family. He was an incredible husband, father, father-in-law, and beloved Dzadzi. Pete had a special way of keeping his family close. Even as his children grew into adulthood, married, and built families of their own, Pete made it a point to spend evenings together and remain deeply involved in their lives.

He loved and doted on his three grandchildren—Chloe Yonke, Albert Yonke, and Andrew “AJ” Graf. Pete rarely missed an opportunity to attend their school events and sporting activities, proudly cheering them on and celebrating their accomplishments. Pete and JoAnn cherished traveling with their children and grandchildren and creating memories together until his health no longer allowed it.

Pete is survived by his loving wife JoAnn Slusarczyk; his daughters Kristin Graf and Janelle Yonke (Michael); his cherished grandchildren Chloe Yonke, Albert Yonke, and Andrew “AJ” Graf; his sister-in-law Nicki Mahurin; his nieces Stancia Cox and Alison Blankenship; his faithful pug Rocky; and many extended family members and friends whose lives he touched.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Anna Slusarczyk, and his beloved son Peter “Petey” Slusarczyk and his in-laws Nick and Sarah Ogrizovich.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Phoenix Hospice for the compassionate care they provided Pete during the final six months of his life. In particular, the family wishes to thank Kristen, Dawn, DeeDee, Kim, Sandee, Briana, Bryce, and Stephanie for the extraordinary empathy, dignity, and kindness they showed Pete and his family.

Visitation will be held Thursday, March 12, 2026, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at McGilley & Sheil Funeral Home, 11924 E. 47th St., Kansas City, Missouri 64133.

Funeral Mass will be held Friday, March 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Nativity of Mary Catholic Church, 10021 E. 36th Terrace S., Independence, Missouri 64052.

Graveside services will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery.

Following the services, the family invites friends and loved ones to gather for a luncheon at Moose Lodge 2414, 2537 Blue Ridge Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri 64129.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Pete’s memory to Veterans Community Project in support of veterans or to Wayside Waifs, a no-kill animal shelter.

Pete will be deeply missed, but the life he built and the values he passed on will live on through all who loved him.