Genevieve G. Calla

She was born January 5, 1924 in Altoona, PA; Gen was the second youngest of 13 children of the late Christ and Florence (Lolas) Grimooris, and was preceded in death by her husband, Ralph Calla.

Surviving are two sons, Ricardo Calla, wife Michelle, and Michael Calla, wife Jolene; both of Halifax. Grandchildren are: Jessica, Nick, Brandon and Karis.

Gen retired from the PA Dept. of Transportation and she was a long time member of St. Catherine Laboure Church, where she did much volunteer work over the years. In her 70's, she enjoyed visiting the "old people" at several homes.

Gen moved to Harrisburg by herself when she was 18 and she loved living in the big city! It was here that she met her husband Ralph. They were both very family oriented and were thrilled to have 2 sons; nothing made Gen happier than staying home to raise them. She did everything that they did - boy scouts, karate, music, skiing, etc. This love of life carried on with her grandchildren whether she was making "pan-a-cakes" with Jessica, painting with Nick, building couch "forts" with Brandon or drawing and coloring with Karis.

Gen was a great cook! She also made the strongest coffee, at family gatherings people often teased her that only she could drink it! Gen loved dogs - especially her German Shepherds (most named Tanya). She had Shepherds all her life and she often volunteered at the Humane Society. More than anything, Gen was a talented artist. She had a passion for acrylic painting and loved to exhibit her work.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on March 25, 2013 at 11:00 AM at St. Catherine Laboure Catholic Church, 4000 Derry Street, Harrisburg. Burial will be in Resurrection Cemetery. A viewing will be held at the Neill Funeral Home, 3501 Derry Street on Sunday, March 24, 2013 from 6-8 PM, and Monday from 10-11 AM at St. Catherine's.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Harrisburg Humane Society or to Susquehanna Service Dogs.