Ronald Lee Calegari

Ronald Lee Calegari, known as Ron, was born on June 20, 1939, in Kansas City, Missouri to Bill and Rosalie (Schrimpf) Calegari. After a life dedicated to service, he passed away from a broken heart on April 30, 2025, in his hometown of Kansas City, Missouri.

Ron’s professional journey began after graduating from Ruskin High School in 1957, followed by honorable service in the Navy Reserve. His career as a police officer for Kansas City, Missouri, spanned over three decades, culminating in his retirement in 1996. During his tenure, he served in various divisions including the Central Patrol Division, Metro Patrol Division Support Unit, Traffic Enforcement Unit, Safety Operations Unit, and Safety Education Section, as well as the South Patrol Division. Ron is remembered for his meticulous, well-organized, and hard-working demeanor both on and off duty. Ron relished hanging out with his fellow officers, strengthening the bonds of friendship that came from shared experiences.

Beyond his commitment to policing, Ron found joy in the love of his life, his late wife Josephine "Joey" Calegari. Together, they enjoyed long rides in the countryside, sharing a passion for classic cars, including his Corvette and his treasured 1964 Chevelle Super Sport. Their shared interests also included being active members of the Kansas City Corvette's Club, where their love for vehicles was a testament to their adventurous spirits. For many years, he also enjoyed a weekly lunch with his wife, Joey, and her sister and brother-in-law, Carol and Don Roberts. Ron remained faithful in life and could often be found as an usher at the 4:00 PM Saturday Mass at St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Kansas City, Missouri until it’s recent closing, which made both him and Joey sad.

Ron is survived by his daughters, Sherry Calegari (Les Tavis) and Shannon Damanti; his brother, Bill "Rick" Calegari; his cousin, Jennifer Monteleone; sisters-in-law, Connie Moulious (George) and Carol Roberts (Don); as well as grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will miss him dearly. He now joins his beloved wife, Josephine Calegari; son, Craig Calegari; and his siblings, Mike Calegari and Pug Calegari; as well as his parents, Bill and Rosalie Calegari, who all predeceased him.

A visitation will take place on May 6, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Our Lady of the Presentation Catholic Church in Lee's Summit, Missouri, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 AM. His interment will occur at Mt. Olivet Catholic Cemetery in Raytown, Missouri, starting at 12:30 PM.