Laura Cataldo's Obituary
Laura Cataldo, 96, entered eternal life on August 20, 2022. The eldest daughter of Frances (Napolitan) and Charles Cataldo, Laura was born in Detroit and influenced many young lives as a teacher and reading specialist, and was a devoted sister, aunt, cousin, and friend.
Laura spent 16 years as a Dominican Sister teaching elementary school in Grand Rapids and then 28 years in the South Lake and Van Dyke Public Schools. She was devoted to building skills and confidence in all the young people she taught. They appreciated her efforts and at age 95, she was delighted to receive birthday cards from students who remembered her.
Her greatest devotion was to her large extended family. In 2011, she survived a stroke that partially disabled her. She persevered with incredible strength and optimism as she strived to live her life to the fullest. It was during this time that she wrote family histories and recollections that are now treasured memories. As Matriarch of the Napolitan family, she celebrated her 96th birthday with 125 family members just a few weeks ago.
She will be remembered for her joy in being with family and friends, her appreciation of each person’s unique talents, and for her quiet generosity.
Laura is survived by her sisters, Marie Kuhnlein Gilbert and Eleanor Downey, dozens of nieces, nephews and cousins, and her dedicated caregiver, Donna Leppek, whose friendship and support for Laura was boundless.
She was predeceased by her parents, her sister Helen Ruda, and her brothers-in-law Daniel Kuhnlein, Anthony Ruda, Henry Gilbert and Dennis Downey.
A Funeral Mass will take place on Saturday August 27, 2022 at 11:00a.m. at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in St. Clair.
In lieu of flowers, Laura asks that you have gratitude for your memories of time with loved ones.
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