Louise Genevieve (Perelli) Katalinic

Louise Genevieve Perelli Katalinic, 96 of Fairchance, Pa. died at home on August 19, 2025, surrounded by those who loved her. Louise was born in Fairchance on January 21, 1929, the youngest child of Leonardo and Josephine (Cruciana) Perelli.

Louise graduated from Fairchance High School at age 17 with the Class of 1946. During high school she participated in cheerleading, worked Saturdays at the G.C. Murphy Company, and was a babysitter for her many nieces, nephews, and family friends. After graduation, she worked for the Berkowitz Company becoming so proficient at sewing that she traveled to other factories as an instructor. On October 14, 1953, she married John Joseph Katalinic, and together they created a home where the door was always open and welcoming. While volunteering at her children’s elementary school, an opportunity presented itself for employment in the cafeteria. She then spent over 30 years giving every child who came through her line a smile and a nourishing meal while cherishing her friendships with the outstanding faculty and staff. She retired as cafeteria manager of A.L. Wilson Elementary School. Those were years that she treasured.

Louise was a lifelong parishioner of SS. Cyril & Methodius R.C. Church and a member of its Confraternity of Christian Mothers, of which her mother was a charter member. Very proud of her Italian heritage, she was an active member of Fairchance Sons of Italy Lodge #497, which held a special place in her heart as her father helped start the local lodge. Through the years she held many SOI offices, co-chaired weekly bingo, and served on various committees on the regional, state, and national level. Louise loved her hometown and was the first woman elected to the Fairchance Borough Council. She also served several terms as Judge of Elections as well as Committee Woman for the Democratic Party. Louise enjoyed spending time with her family; watching Pittsburgh sports; playing bingo, card games, and word puzzles; and daily meals at Eat ’n Park.

In addition to her parents, she was predeceased in 2009 by husband, John J. Katalinic, son, John L. “Johnny” Katalinic in 2019, and the following siblings: Philip Perelli (Helen); Mamie Cossick (Andrew); Catherine “Lil” Bukovitz-Snow (Louis Bukovitz, Luther Snow); Margaret Kral (John “Laddy”); Jessie Holup (Steve); Freda Morgan (Floyd); Mary Walls (Oscar); and two sisters who died in childhood: Maria and Joan.

Louise is survived by a devoted, loving, and most grateful family: daughter and son-in-law, Karen and Ronald Inks of Fairchance; granddaughters, Mary Inks Budinsky and husband Michael, and Sara Inks Romeo and husband Michael, all of Uniontown. She is also survived by three great-grandchildren who brought much light and joy to her life: Nora, Anna, and Anthony.

The family will receive friends and family in the Dean C. Whitmarsh Funeral Home, 134 West Church Street, Fairchance, Pa. on Friday from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturday, August 23, 2025 until 9:30 a.m. when Prayers of Transfer will be said. Her Funeral Mass will follow at 10:00 a.m. in SS. Cyril and Methodius R.C. Church, 50 North Morgantown Street, Fairchance, Pa. Interment will follow in Saint Joseph Cemetery, Fairchance, Pa.

The Confraternity of Christian Mothers will recite the Rosary on Friday at 4:30 p.m.

The family wishes to thank those who assisted in providing gentle and compassionate care: Brenda Dahlgren and all the Amedysis Hospice Angels. In lieu of flowers, please make a donation to SS. Cyril & Methodius Church or a charity of your choice.

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