Jan 24, 1941---Jan 26, 2024

Marianne Elizabeth Vespa, 83, of Overland Park, KS passed away peacefully on January 26, 2024 following a long illness.  Visitation will be held at 9:30 a.m. with a Funeral Mass following at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 1, at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 11300 W. 103rd St. Overland Park, KS.  Burial will follow at Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, KS.

Marianne was born in Peoria, IL on January 24, 1941 to Muriel (Matusak) and William Black.  She was the third of nine children and lived her younger years in Atlanta, GA.  She moved to Springfield, IL to pursue her nursing education, and eventually moved to Kansas City where she has lived for 55 years.   Marianne worked as an RN in the Baptist Memorial/ Research Healthcare system until her retirement at age 75.  She was very dedicated to her vocation as a surgical nurse and her compassion touched countless lives.

Most of all, Marianne was a devoted mother and grandmother (aka “Mimi”).  Her family was her priority and she loved spending time going out to dinner, shopping, taking vacations to the beach, celebrating milestones, and gathering for holidays.  She was an avid reader, enjoyed traveling, taking walks, decorating her home, getting together with friends, and of course, caring for her dogs.   A devout Catholic, Marianne was a member of Holy Spirit parish in Overland Park, KS for 40+ years.  She will be remembered for her strong faith, strong will, and strong convictions.

Marianne is survived by her two sons Bill Jr (Karen) of St. Louis, MO, and Tim (Marianne O’Connell) of Overland Park, KS.  She was blessed with four granddaughters: Katie, Maria, Jane, and Meg.  She was preceded in death by her parents, and brothers Fred, Tom, Bill, and Pat.  She is survived by her sister, Penny, and brothers Jim, George, and Pete. 

The family also wants to extend special gratitude to Bonnie Maloney for her tireless devotion and exceptional care to Marianne.  She was a true friend.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Rockhurst Catholic High School https://www.rockhursths.edu/giving/your-gift-their-present-and-future/make-your-gift-to-rockhurst and Saint Louis University School of Nursing https://www.slu.edu/give/ways-to-give/index.php.

 



Condolences

Marjorie Cooper Jan 29, 2024

Childhood friend ,Auburn ,Washington

My deepest sympathy to Bill and Tim in the loss of your sweet mother. I have known Marianne since we were both about 5 years old and neighbors and playmates in Marietta, GA. She spent most of her summers with my family, and my parents thought of her as another daughter. She was always devoted to her two boys, her family, and her church. I will miss her terribly. God bless each of you and rest assured that she is in a better place now. Blessings to all.

Jeff Jan 29, 2024

Friend and hairdresser ,Lenexa ,Kansas

I am saddened and sorry to learn of your mom's passing. She was a joy to know. Throughout our years of friendship I had the privilege to learn her values in family, friends, work and faith. All very strong. So fortunate to have had the opportunity. Miss her. God Bless

Patty Rome Jan 30, 2024

Friend and co-worker. ,Lenexa ,Kansas

Marianne was a dear friend and co-worker for over 37 years. I know she is at peace now after many years of health problems. May she rest in peace. My condolences to all the family. The picture below is from Marianne’s retirement party with co-workers.

Syd Overton Jan 30, 2024

Friend ,Overland Park ,Kansas

Marianne was a wonderful friend and coworker. We had great times for 40 yrs!! I will miss her laugh and great conversations!! We along with a couple of friends have great adventures and day trips for years... thankfully she's at peace now.. fortunately she had a blessed life with friends, family and coworkers

Darrell Black Feb 03, 2024

Aunt ,Acworth ,Georgia

Sorry to hear about your mom passing she was a great person to know she’ll be missed sorry I couldn’t come to her funeral but I got a few problems myself I know y’all are going through heart break but she is in a better place now and not hurting anymore I know y’all are hurting but she has met her family and friends that have passed and she will be looking forward till y’all meet again in heaven just not yet god bless Timmy and Billy and your family I know what you’re going through because I’ve been through this too hopefully someday we’ll cross paths and see you guys soon in the near future again sorry for y’all’s loss God be with y’all

Photo Gallery

Services

Event:
Visitation
Location:
Holy Spirit Catholic Church
Address:
11300 West 103rd Street
City:
Overland Park
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66214
Date:
Feb 01, 2024
Time:
9:30 AM
Google Map:
Event:
Funeral Mass
Location:
Holy Spirit Catholic Church
Address:
11300 West 103rd Street
City:
Overland Park
State:
Kansas
Zip Code:
66214
Date:
Feb 01, 2024
Time:
10:30 AM
Google Map: