Catherine Pietronuto

Dr. Catherine (McDonnell) Pietronuto died peacefully at home in Manhattan on Monday, September 16th. Born in 1934 to Irish Immigrants John McDonnell and Mary Lynch, and lived almost her entire life within the Bronx and Manhattan. She leaves behind her beloved husband Louis. She is also survived by her many Irish relatives, the Lynchs, McDonnells, Reagans, and Collearys, Lou’s nephews, Robert and Michael Pietronuto and their families; her adopted family, Lia Galeano and her daughters, Lisa, Cristina, and Jennifer; her dear friend of 73 years who was like a sister to her, Helen T. Lowe; and her longtime friend and fellow counselor, Joseph Demas. Although she was often found playing bridge with Geraldine Ferraro in the Tea House, Cathy eventually earned her bachelor’s degree from Marymount Manhattan College and followed up with a master’s degree from Teachers College, and a doctorate from Yeshiva University.

For nearly her entire career she worked in the public schools of New York City. It is where she was introduced to the love of her life. She served first as a teacher, then a guidance counselor and finally in the supportive service program at George Washington High School, where she met Lia who she came to see more as a daughter than a colleague. Cathy was governed by a tremendous sense of justice and fairness. She twice interrupted pickpockets and got socked for her efforts. In retirement she and Lou spent years collecting art and travelling around the world.

In lieu of flowers consider donating in Cathy’s name to The Alzheimer's Association or Meals on Wheels.