Catherine R. Garofolo

Catherine R. Garofolo, of Jenkintown, PA passed away peacefully on Monday, January 22nd, 2024, surrounded by her family. She was 103 years old. Catherine was born in Philadelphia, PA on January 24, 1920, a daughter of the late Teresa (nee Asti) and Gregorio Sanginiti. She is predeceased by her siblings Bruno S., Mary Viggiano, Frank S., Rose Stabile, Eleanor (Dolly) DeMasi and Vincent Sanginiti.

She was the wife of the late Salvatore Garofolo and the widow of the late Joseph Papa who passed away in 1961.

She is survived by her daughter Splendora (Dora) Sowirka and her son-in-law Ted; grandchildren Taras W. (Ted) Sowirka and Jeffrey Sowirka (Nicole), and great-grandsons Christopher, Matthew, and Joseph.

Catherine loved spending time with her family. Since youth, she and her sisters spent summers in Wildwood NJ. They were very close. She often cooked and kept the kitchen for her family. Catherine was very independent, and continued to live in Philadelphia for many years after the death of her second husband. Nineteen years ago, she sold her home in Elmwood Park and moved to Meadowbrook to live with her son-in-law and daughter, who became her full-time caregiver. She continued to share her love and concern with all who knew her.

Family and friends are invited to attend Catherine’s viewing, which will take place at Immaculate Conception BVM Church, 602 West Ave., Jenkintown, PA 19046 on Friday, January 26, 2024 from 10:00 to 11:00 am, and her Funeral Mass starting at 11:00 am.

Interment will follow at SS Peter & Paul Cemetery, Springfield, PA.

Condolences to the family can be made at www.mcgoldrickfh.com

Services have been entrusted to the Joseph McGoldrick Funeral Home.