Catherine (Napper) Governale

Angola, Indiana

Catherine Napper Governale passed away suddenly on October16, 2018.  Born in Billings, Missouri on February 8, 1933, Catherine is survived by her beloved husband Norman, son Jeffrey, daughter Susan, son-in-law Michael, and adored grandchildren: Katie, Michael, and Declan Mangan.  Catherine is preceded in death by her beloved parents, George and Lucille Napper, dear brothers Richard and Ted, sister-in-law Roxie, and brother-in-law Bill Adams.  She is also survived by her dear brother Pat, sister-in-law Peggy, and beloved sister Margaret Adams.  Catherine has many nieces, nephews, and friends who will miss her dearly.

Always a fine student, Catherine graduated from Billings High School in 1951. She then went on to study nursing at Incarnate Word College in San Antonio, Texas, where she was a member of Phi Beta Kappa. Catherine graduated summa cum laude in 1955. She also was listed in Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities. After graduating with honors, Catherine went on to teach nursing at St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Missouri. She then went on to practice nursing at the Veteran’s Administration Hospital (Hines) in Chicago. It was in Chicago that Catherine was introduced to Norman by his cousin Vince Oddo. Catherine and Norman were married on June 7, 1958 at St. Ferdinand Church in Chicago, Illinois. In this parish, they built a wonderful life and raised two children, Jeffrey and Susan. Catherine continued to devote her time to family and nursing. After working at Hines Hospital for over ten years, Catherine then worked as a nurse, and later hospital administrator at Our Lady of the Resurrection Hospital in Chicago, until her retirement in 1997.Upon retirement, Catherine and Norman moved to Crooked Lake, in Angola, Indiana. Here they met many wonderful friends and became actively involved in community and parish life at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church. They volunteered as drivers for Steuben Mobile Meals, and Catherine was a member of St. Anthony of Padua’s Altar and Rosary Society. She also belonged to the professional women’s PEO organization. Additionally, Catherine volunteered her time at the Carnegie Public Library in Angola.

When not busy volunteering her time and talents, Catherine enjoyed bird watching, nature walks at Pokagon State Park, and solving the daily crossword puzzles with Norman. She also enjoyed knitting with friends, playing cards, and reading. Catherine belonged to both a bridge group and book club. More than anything, Catherine adored her three grandchildren and loved keeping up with their school events, sports, and college activities.

Catherine and Norman were blessed to celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on June 7, 2018. Surrounded by family and friends, they shared love and laughter during their anniversary celebration. Catherine and Norman are both forever grateful for the love their nieces, Missy Monroe and Terry Sondermann, showered them with on this happy occasion.

Catherine’s funeral mass will be celebrated at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Angola, Indiana, at noon on Monday, October 29, 2018 with calling one hour prior to services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Altar and Rosary Society at St. Anthony of Padua Church, Angola, Indiana, and the Billings Scholarship Fund: Billings High School, 118 West Mt. Vernon Street, Billings, Missouri, 65610

To leave condolences visit:  www.hejohnsonfh.com

Arrangements have been entrusted to H.E. Johnson & Sons Funeral Home in Angola.

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