John G. Olivarez

John Guadalupe Olivarez, 91, of Independence, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, August 10, 2022. A visitation will be held from 9-11am at St. Mary’s Catholic Church on Saturday, August 20, 2022. Mass of Christian Burial will immediately follow at 11 am. Interment will follow at Mound Grove Cemetery.

John was born on February 11, 1931, in Independence, Missouri, to Joseph G. and Feliz (Cruz) Olivarez. In 1950, he graduated high school from St. Mary’s Catholic School and that September, married the love of his life, Joanne Nelson. Not long after, John began a successful, 40-year career as a mail carrier for the United States Postal Service. After retiring, John stayed active and from 1992 to 2015, owned and operated Shocking Prices on 23rd St. and 291 Highway in Independence.

John was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Robert Olivarez; and brother-in-law, Duane Meier.

He is survived by his beloved wife of nearly 72 years, Joanne Olivarez; his son, John (Gerrie) Olivarez; seven grandchildren, John Carlos (Heather) Olivarez, Jared (Melissa) Olivarez, Bonnie (Marc) Macoubrie, Marty (Leslie) Hoffman, Scott Hoffman, Amy (Dan) Phillips, and Jenni (Scott) Boldrey; twenty-four great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren and two more on the way; sister, Mary Meier; brother, Joseph (Jan) Olivarez; sister-in-law, Gwendy Olivarez; as well as several nieces and nephews.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in his honor to the Wounded Warrior Project.