Joseph Porfirio Parra

It is with deep and heavy sadness that we announce the death of Joseph Porfirio Parra, 82, who passed on December 4th, 2018, while at The University of Kansas Hospital. He was a loving Son, Brother, Father, Uncle, Grandfather, Great Grandfather and loyal friend.

Visitation will be Monday, December 10th, 2018 from 9:00am to 11:00am at St. Peters Cathedral, 409 N. 15th Street, Kansas City, Kansas followed by Mass and graveside services at Mt. Calvary Cemetery.

Joseph was born March 19th, 1936 in LA Piedad Michoacn, Mexico. He immigrated to the United States on June 24th, 1947 with his family where he would begin his new life in the Kansas City, KS community. It was during this time he would meet Joyce Marie Taylor and soon marry on May 6th, 1957 in Oklahoma. With his job at Armour Foods taking him first to Emporia, KS and then to St. Joseph, MO.

Kansas City, Kansas would ultimately become his home for more than 70+ years. It is there, he would create and cherish many friendships during his lifetime. Joseph enjoyed many types of sports and outdoor activities. He could be found many weekends on Lake Contrary (St. Joseph, MO) teaching his kids to water ski or playing softball with his pals from Union Local P58. He enjoyed traveling, including many trips back to Mexico to see his remaining family members. Many of the trips he took involved those which included traveling with his brothers and sisters as well as with his mother Esther. He had a great love for dancing and if there was a band playing, you could bet he would be out there dancing. He enjoyed watching football, especially his Kansas City Chiefs. He wasnt one of those fair-weather fans, he was loyal 100%! He would retire early due to an accident that would leave him with partial disability on his right hand and arm. This unfortunate accident would allow him the opportunity to work side by side with his brothers in the construction industry. It was those times, that meant so much to him.

Joseph was very much a family man; his family meant the world to him. He was generous to a fault for those who really knew him. There wasnt anything he wouldnt do for a friend or a family member if it was possible. He is survived by his children Julianna Parra-West, David Brian and Steven Dylane Parra. His grandchildren Amanda Kaitlin , Aaron Anthony and Riley Jane Parra. His great-grandchildren Adeline Kelly Schneider and Callen Christopher Parra. Brothers; Robert, Francisco and Anthony. Sisters; Dolores Graves, Guadalupe (Joe) Vega, Hope (Richard) Ortiz, Angela (John) Reyes. His special friend Betty Miranda with whom he shared many special moments. There are countless nieces and nephews that cared for and loved him, as well as numerous cousins and friends who will miss him dearly.

Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Ygnacio and Esther Parra, his brothers, Francisco, Arthur and Ignacio Parra and his first-born son Paul Joseph Parra.

A special thank you to the staff on the 6th floor ICU at The University of Kansas Hospital for their loving care and support during his final days. Also, the family would like to extend their sincerest gratitude toward Skradski Funeral Home for being very accommodating and understanding during this difficult time.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that Memorial donations be made in honor of Joseph P. Parra to St. Peters Cathedral and/or St. Jude Childrens Hospital.

SERVICES Visitation
Monday, December 10, 2018 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Cathedral of St. Peter 409 N. 15th Kansas City, Kansas 66102
Mass of Christian Burial
Monday, December 10, 2018 11:00 AM
Cathedral of St. Peter 409 N. 15th Kansas City, Kansas 66102
Burial
Monday, December 10, 2018 12:30 PM
Mt. Calvary Cemetery 38 & State Kansas City, Kansas 66102