Augustine "Augi" Valdivia

Augustine "Augi" Valdivia, 55, of Kansas City, Missouri, passed away peacefully on July 2, 2026, after a courageous battle with pancreatic cancer. Born in 1971, Augi was a fighter from the day he was born until his very last breath. Through every challenge in life, he met the world with courage, determination, and an unforgettable smile.

Augi graduated from Winnetonka High School and fulfilled his dream of becoming a successful hairstylist and the proud owner of his own salon. He loved making people feel beautiful and confident, and the friendships he built with his clients became lifelong treasures.

Known for his wit, compassion, loyalty, and mischievous sense of humor, Augi brought laughter wherever he went. He loved dancing to EDM music, attending Renaissance festivals, gaming, gardening, and preparing delicious new dishes to surprise family and friends at gatherings. His beloved fur babies held a special place in his heart, and he cherished every moment spent with those he loved. Above all, Augi loved his family, especially his mother, whom he loved more than life itself.

One of life's greatest blessings came when Augi found his soulmate and forever love, Jerome Freers. Jerome was not only his loving partner but also his truest friend, faithful companion, and greatest source of strength. His family is deeply grateful that Augi experienced such remarkable and unconditional love.

Augi was preceded in death by his beloved brother, Jason Valdivia; his paternal grandparents, Augustine and Elvira Valdivia; and his maternal grandparents, William and Wanda Perez.

He leaves behind to cherish his memory his loving partner, Jerome Freers; his mother, Toni Perez O'Connor (David); his grandmother, Lila Casperson; his brother, Mario Valdivia (Mindy); his stepsister, Angel O'Connor; and many aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and countless dear friends whose lives were forever touched by his love and kindness.

Visitation will be held on Friday, July 10, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Guardian Angels Parish, 1310 Westport Road, Kansas City, MO 64111, with Mass immediately following. Graveside services will be held at Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1150 N. 38th St., Kansas City, KS 66102.

Augi's family asks those who knew and loved him to honor his memory by holding loved ones a little closer, taking the spontaneous trip, turning up a favorite song, spending time in nature, or sharing a meal with family and friends. Though his earthly journey has ended, Augi is now an angel watching over all who loved him. His legacy of love, laughter, resilience, and generosity will live on in the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to have known him.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent directly to the family.