Marie Ketchel

Born in Providence, RI, she was the beloved daughter of the late Phillip DiFrenna and the late Connie (Starziano) DiFrenna Scotti and beloved stepdaughter of the late Luigi Scotti, MD.

Marie grew up in Providence and graduated from Mount Pleasant High School at the top of her class at age 16. Thereafter, she attended and graduated with honors, from Rhode Island Hospital School of Nursing in 1954. She practiced nursing as a licensed registered nurse at Rhode Island Hospital. She was cherished by her patients and their families for the care and comfort that she administered to the sick and dying. Because Marie’s professionalism was so greatly admired and respected, she was fondly remembered by co-workers and medical staff at Rhode Island Hospital for many years after her tenure.

She was the devoted, true and faithful wife of the late Terry Lee Ketchel. Together they raised their five children and were recognized as an authentic and genuine family by all who encountered them.

Her familial connections, both immediate and extended, were celebrated upon multiple occasions and holidays. These gatherings are lovingly remembered and treasured by her children.

She is survived by her son, Terence Lee Ketchel, wife, Cindy, grandchildren Tonya Domenica and Ryan Vincent (predeceased), daughter, Mary Ann (Ketchel) Budlong, husband, Walter A., son, Joseph Paul Ketchel, daughter, Bernadette Natalina (Ketchel) Guilbert, husband, Jeffrey Paul, and son, Anthony Jude Ketchel, wife, Rosemarie, grandchildren, Christian Michael and Julianna Elizabeth.

Marie was the sister of the late Joseph DiFrenna and was the aunt of Willard DiFrenna. She was the niece of the late Luigi DiManni and late wife Pauline, the late John Starziano and late wife Mary, the late Domenic Starziano and late wife Kay, the late Natalina Starziano, the late Flora Starziano and the late Benjamin Starziano and late wife Elena. She was the cousin of the late Lucille (DiManni) Coupe and the late Louis DiManni. She is survived by her cousins Anthony DiManni, Donna (Starziano) DiCecco and husband Kenneth, Donald Starziano, John Starziano, Jr. and wife Deborah.

Marie loved and cared for animals which included her adorable dogs Poncho and Pegas who she adopted when she resided in Santa Barbara, CA during the 1960s.

During her youth, Marie traveled extensively throughout Europe and enjoyed visiting the countries of Austria, England, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Portugal, Scotland and Switzerland. During her later years in life, she devoted her time to various philanthropic causes which provided much joy and solace to many.

She was a steadfast and devout Catholic which was exemplified by her forgiveness and ardent prayer for others. Her Catholic faith was undeniable and beyond measure. It will always be her greatest legacy and will serve as perpetual inspiration for future generations to follow.

A Catholic Mass of Celebration will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please forward all donations to the Providence Animal Rescue League located at 34 Elbow St., Providence, RI 02903. Tel.1-401-421-1399; Website https://www.parl.org