Kathleen Ann Giacalone, a dedicated educator and beloved family member, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2025, at the age of 88. Born on April 24, 1937, in San Pedro, she was the daughter of Vincent and Antoinette Vitalich. Kathleen spent her later years residing in Lomita with her husband, Rosario (Jack) Giacalone.
Kathleen dedicated an impressive 39 years of her life to teaching elementary school students, shaping the minds of countless children. Beyond her professional career, she nurtured a passion for travel during her retirement, exploring new places and creating lasting memories.
She is survived by her husband, Jack, as well as her daughter, ToniLynn (Tomo) Meek, and son, Paul (Kelly) Giacalone. Kathleen’s family also includes her four grandchildren: Tommy, Anthony, Jacquelyn, and Gianna, along with numerous nieces and nephews who cherished her deeply.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Kathleen’s name to several organizations that were close to her heart. These include Shriners Children’s, St. Jude’s Research Hospital, Disabled American Veterans, and the San Pedro Peninsula Cancer Guild.
A Funeral Mass in honor of Kathleen Ann Giacalone is scheduled for December 2, 2025, at Mary Star of the Sea Church, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Family and friends are invited to pay their respects and celebrate a life that touched many.
