Kathleen M. (Zaterka) Napoli

Kathleen M. (Zaterka) Napoli passed away after a short illness at the age of 75 on October 3, 2022.

Kathy, or Nana as she was affectionately known by her adoring grandchildren, was born on June 25, 1947. A lifelong Worcester resident, Kathy was a graduate of Worcester State University and a teacher in the Worcester Public School system for over 40 years, a profession she loved.

There was nothing in this world that meant more to Kathy than her grandchildren, whom she babysat and proudly supported in their sports and activities. Each day, you could find her driving them to school, sports, ballet, gymnastics, rock climbing and karate. Their childhood was filled with “field trips in Nana’s bus” to The EcoTarium, Old Sturbridge Village, Green Hill Farm and countless other adventures. She was so special to each of them as a daily presence in their lives.

Kathy leaves behind her two daughters, Amy Reid and husband Dennis and Jenny Montiverdi and husband Michael. She has four grandchildren: Casey, Zack, Leo and Lucia. Kathy also leaves behind her sister Margie Sundstrom and husband Paul, her companion of over 30 years, John Brodrick, as well as nieces, nephews and lifelong friends lovingly known as “the girls”.

Kathy was the daughter of Marguerite and Emil Zaterka. She was predeceased by her husband, Peter Napoli. We find comfort in knowing that they are reunited once again.

Calling Hours will be on Wednesday, October 5 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm at Athy Memorial Home, 111 Lancaster Street, Worcester. The funeral Mass will be on Thursday, October 6 at 10:00am at St. Peter’s Catholic Church, 931 Main Street, Worcester. Burial will be in Mountain View Cemetery, Shrewsbury.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Kathy’s memory to the Kathy Napoli ‘69 Memorial Fund at Worcester State University. Checks can be made payable to the Worcester State Foundation, Inc. and in the memo field please indicate Kathy Napoli ‘69 Memorial Fund. Donations may be mailed to the Division of University Advancement, Worcester State University - 486 Chandler Street, Worcester, MA 01602.