Katherine Sue Napolitano

Katherine Sue Napolitano passed away peacefully in her home in Riverside, California on March 10th, 2020 at the age of 71. Kathy was born in Colorado in 1949 to Earl Lucke and Jacqueline Riedel. She spent most of her childhood in Longmont. After high school, Kathy moved to California to be with her grandmother, Viola Van Wie, where she went on to pursue a career in elementary education. After moving to California, Kathy met the love of her life, John Napolitano. They were married on August 28th, 1976. In August of 1978, Kathy gave birth to her only child, Chris Napolitano. Katherine was a passionate teacher, and she was able to make a positive impact on thousands of students throughout her 32 year career with Corona-Norco Unified School District. Kathy cared for her students as if they were her own children, often buying clothes and shoes for students who couldn't afford them. Katherine loved to read books in her free time. On warm, summer afternoons, she could always be found swimming in the pool with her husband, John. Katherine also enjoyed spending time with her family and friends. In April of 2016, Kathy officially became a grandmother. She especially loved spending time with her granddaughter, Sienna. Kathy will always be remembered as a caring and generous soul. She will be greatly missed. At the time of her passing, Kathy was greeted in heaven by her parents, grandparents, and her younger brother, Tommy Lucke, all of whom she missed greatly. Kathy is survived by her loving husband, John Napolitano; brother, John Lucke; sister, Toni Walesky; son, Chris Napolitano; daughter-in-law, Manida Napolitano; granddaughter, Sienna Napolitano; niece, Kaiti Walesky; and nephews, Ben Walesky and Jason Walesky.