Kathleen T. (O'Boyle) Chiapeti

Kathleen Chiapeti (nee O'Boyle) passed away on Tuesday, February 23, 2011, at Wheaton Franciscan All-Saints Hospice with family at her side. Kathleen was born in County Kerry, Ireland, in 1927.

Orphaned at an early age, she and older sister Mary were raised by nuns in a Catholic girls school in England. "Kathy" was a competitive swimmer and won many awards. She also told about hiding in bomb shelters during World War II. She came to the United States on the Queen Mary towards the end of the War.

She was married to Peter Chiapeti in January 1948. They enjoyed an incredible life together for 56 years. Kathy became an American citizen in 1957. She was well-known as a seamstress and baker. With a quirky sense of humor, she had long, interesting tales to tell. Kathy's life revolved around her husband and children. Her two grandchildren were her pride and joy. She taught many lessons in her special way, with lots of laughter. She enjoyed Bible study and often visited many churches of all denominations. Calvary Memorial became her spiritual home where she made many friends. Kathleen was a wonderful wife, mother, grandmother and friend. She will be forever in our hearts.

Kathleen was preceded in death by husband Peter in 2005 and son John in 1996. Also preceding her in death were mother and father-in-law Raphaela and Vicenzo Chiapeti; brothers and sisters-in-law William and Dorothy Chiapete, Loren and Jill Luckey, Edith Daceno, Albert Chicapeti; and nephew Ronald Chiapete.

Left to cherish her memory is son James Chiapeti; daughter Pamela Dvorak; grandchildren Marla Gorelik and Zachary Gorelik; brother-in-law Charles Daceno Sr.; her sister Mary; as well as many nieces and nephews. Special friends include Craig Pitzen, Esther Betts and Louise Lanphear. She will also be missed by her "furry" friends Charlie and Gracie.

Funeral services will be held at the funeral home Monday, February 28, 2011, at 11 a.m. with Chaplain Mark Grobner and Rev. Nathan James officiating. Interment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery, Hwy 32. Relatives and friends may meet with the family Monday from 10 a.m. until time of service In lieu of flowers, memorials to the family would be appreciated.

Special thanks to cousins Charles and Chiki Daceno Jr. for their support and assistance. Thank you to the staff at Schmidt Memorial Assisted Living for their great care and companionship for two years. Thank you to Wheaton Franciscan All-Saints 2D nursing staff, especially Michelle and hospice nurse Lori for keeping Mother comfortable in her final days. Also thank you to the Prayer Shawl Ministry from Atonement Lutheran Church

MARESH-MEREDITH & ACKLAM FUNERAL HOME
803 Main St., Racine (262) 634-7888