John R. DeLuca

JOHN RICHARD DeLUCA

John Richard DeLuca was born November 29, 1940 in Kansas City, Missouri and departed this life on July 19, 2025 at his home in Pleasant Hill, Missouri, surrounded by the love of his family, at the age of 84 years, 7 months and 20 days.

He was the son of James C. and Katherine (Armilio) DeLuca.

John spent his younger years in Kansas City, Kansas, graduating from Bishop Ward High School in 1959. He proudly served his country in the Kansas National Guard. After his service to his country, John returned to Kansas City, Kansas and purchased his first shoe repair shop, DeLuca Shoe Repair. After several years, he sold this shop and went on to open a second DeLuca Shoe Repair business in Grandview, Missouri which he operated for more than 35 years before his retirement.

On November 6, 1965, John was united in marriage with Gertrude Clara “Trudy” Leavey in Raytown, Missouri. After their marriage John and Trudy lived in Kansas City, Missouri for several years before moving to Raymore, Missouri where they lived for more than 30 years. In 2004, John and Trudy moved to Pleasant Hill, Missouri to make their home.

John enjoyed collecting stamps and coins. He loved a well-manicured lawn and worked diligently to make it as beautiful as possible. At Trudy’s request and with her detailed instructions, John worked in their garden.

John was a loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather who was completely devoted to his family.

John was preceded in death by his parents, James C. and Katherine DeLuca; one son, Chris DeLuca and one brother, James DeLuca.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 59 years, Trudy DeLuca of the home; son, Rick DeLuca and wife Jennifer of Lee’s Summit, Missouri; sister, Clara Bello and husband Pat of Overland Park, Kansas; grandson, John DeLuca, III of Raytown, Missouri; granddaughter, Julie Humphrey and husband Aaron of Belton, Missouri; other relatives and many friends.

As John requested, cremation has been accorded.

A Memorial Service, in Memory of John Richard DeLuca, will be held at 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 6, 2025 at the Wallace Funeral Home in Pleasant Hill, Missouri with Pastor Matthew Priem officiating.