Holy Trinity Catholic Church Obituaries

A Sacred Space for Farewells: Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home

Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home, located at 1292 West Santa Cruz Street, San Pedro, CA, 90732, is a revered institution that has been providing solace and support to families in their time of grief for many years. As a sacred space for farewells, this funeral home offers a range of services and amenities designed to help families honor their loved ones with dignity and respect.

A Rich History and Tradition

Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home has a rich history and tradition of serving the San Pedro community. Established as a place of worship and reflection, the church has expanded its mission to provide comprehensive funeral services that cater to the unique needs of each family. With a deep understanding of the Catholic faith and its traditions, the funeral home's staff is dedicated to creating personalized ceremonies that celebrate the life and legacy of the deceased.

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Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Patricia L. Coppa - September 02, 1946 - August 30, 2023

Departed: 08/30/2023 (San Pedro)

Obituary Preview: On August 30th, Patricia LaVetta Coppa, our much-loved Wife, Mother, Sister, Aunt, Friend and Nana was welcomed home by her Heavenly Father. Her life centered around God, family and community. Her unconditional love and kindness impacted all who met her. She shared her gift for cooking to many generations within the family and even close friends. Her love for her husband of 58 years, Carmine, was steadfast and true.

To watch them enjoy their grandchildren and great grandbabies was pure joy. Memories of Nana are always filled with her gathering people at the table for joyful celebrations. Hers was a life well lived. Family is her legacy: Her son, Joe, and daughters, Lisa and Gina, and their descendants to four generations. Her unconditional love has been passed to the next generations.

Pat is survived by her loving husband, Carmine Coppa, and their children; daughter Lisa Lawrence (Michael), son Joseph Coppa (Shannon), daughter Gina Coppa, grandchildren; Anthony Coppa (Brit), Ashley Coppa, Ryan Coppa-Espinoza, Taylor Santillan (Daniel), Blaize Coppa and Ryker Coppa, Carli and Jake Lawrence, Leo and Chance Haber, great-grandchildren; Caleb, Sarah and Zoe Coppa, and Moriah Santillan, Pat’s sister Melissa Thomas (Alan), Uncle John and Aunt Maria Ruggiero, and numerous brother and sister in-laws, cousins, nieces and nephews, and numerous loving friends who are extended family. Pat is now in Heaven surrounded by so many dear friends and family, including her parents Kathryn and Melvin Janis, and her mother and father in-law Rose and Attilio Coppa.

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Constance Rutter - April 14, 1930 - January 21, 2023

Departed: 01/21/2023 (San Pedro)

Obituary Preview: Connie Rutter passed away on January 21st, 2023 in San Pedro, CA at the age of 92. She was loved by her family and friends and was the last remaining of her four siblings - sisters Romayne and Therese, and brothers David and Mundan. Connie is survived by her nieces and nephews, Andy, Danny, Connie, Margie, David, Sharon, and Kristen, as well as many Great nieces and nephews. Connie was born in Altoona, PA in 1930, to Alma and Munden Rutter, Jr. At the age of 20, she entered the Sisters of Mercy and later joined the Sisters of Charity. She received a National Science Foundation grant to study chemistry at Tuskegee Institute in Alabama, where she ultimately received her Master's degree in 1968. After leaving the convent, Connie worked for Conoco and Fletcher Oil before starting Constance A. Rutter Environmental Services (CARES) in 1988. She also employed for a time her nephew and niece, Matthew and Kristen. Throughout her life, Connie's true passion was her Catholic faith. She has been an active member of the Holy Trinity parish in San Pedro since purchasing her home there in 1983. She was chair of the Peace and Justice ministry, wrote meditations for the church bulletin and website, and went to Church every day. Connie will be remembered for her strong faith, love of family, and political activism. She has published her own telling of Jesus' life, a vegetarian cookbook, and penned many murder mystery plays. The family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to https://homeboyindustries.org/donate/donate-online. Memorial Mass will be offered on Thursday, March 9 at 11:00AM at Holy Trinity Catholic Church - 1290 West Santa Cruz Street - San Pedro, CA.

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Mary Frances Sala - August 21, 1931 - January 08, 2023

Departed: 01/08/2023 (San Pedro)

Obituary Preview: Mary Frances Sala passed away on January 8, 2023, at the age of 91. She was born on August 27, 1931, in Ischia, Italy. She came to America at the age of 16. She attended San Pedro High School and graduated winter 1950. She met her husband, Lucio Sala, in 1957, they were married after three short months. Frances was a dedicated homemaker and known for her delicious cooking, which she happily shared with family and friends. She was a member of the Holy Trinity Better Half club and enjoyed her many trips and friendships. The times she cherished the most were her trips to Las Vegas with her sister Phyllis. She was preceded in death by her husband, her brothers Phillip and Giovan Giuseppe D'Ambra. She was survived by her loving sister Phyllis D'Ambra; her daughter Lea (Victor) Wagoner; her son Enrico (Marialena) Sala; the four loves of her life, her grandsons Michael (Melissa) Wagoner, Mark (Courtney) Wagoner; Matthew Sala, and Joseph Sala; great grandchildren Liam Wagoner, Ava and Ivy Wagoner; her brothers Carlo, Tony, and Ralph D'Ambra and their families. The funeral mass will begin with the rosary at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 17, at Holy Trinity Catholic Church, 1292 W. Santa Cruz Street, San Pedro. A donation may be made in her honor to Children's Hospital Orthopedic Center, 4650 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, California 90027.

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Mary Sullivan - December 12, 1932 - November 21, 2022

Departed: 11/21/2022 (San Pedro)

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Maxine Kern Miller - December 31, 1919 - October 23, 2022

Departed: 10/23/2022 (San Pedro)

Obituary Preview: Maxine Kern Miller, of San Pedro, California, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2022, at the age of 102. She was born at home in Junction City, Kansas, the daughter of Nellie and Clinton Kern. In 1941 she married Whitside "Whit" Miller, a U.S. Cavalry Captain, stationed at nearby Ft. Riley, Kansas. After the birth of their first child, the Army sent Whit to the European Theater of WWII, where as a tank commander, he served under Gen. George Patton. During that time Maxine and her first-born daughter lived with Maxine's parents in Kansas. Her husband returned from the war in 1946. After that Maxine's family grew to 5 children, moving many times over the years...Kansas, Georgia, Arizona, Alaska, Maryland, San Francisco, San Diego, and finally settling in San Pedro in 1958. Maxine and Whit loved to dance, play bridge, and socialize. They especially enjoyed Whit's West Point classmates while they were stationed in Maryland. Maxine was greatly involved in volunteerism and active in many worthy causes: Hollywood Bowl Volunteers President; Retired Officers' Wives Club at Ft. MacArthur; Assistance League member; San Pedro Chamber of Commerce Representative; and one of the founding members of Toberman House Auxiliary of San Pedro, serving as President 4 times. She also remained an avid bridge player, many times organizing charitable bridge functions, or a night at the Hollywood Bowl with a pre-party at the Cottage at the Bowl, or even a picnic or two...all for Toberman. Maxine was recognized by Toberman with their first annual award of Volunteer of the Year. Maxine is survived by 4 of her 5 children: Janet Simkins, of Coronado; Whitside G. (Gerry) Miller, of Lomita; Linda Cibel, of San Pedro; and Debbie Klett, of Torrance; 6 grandchildren, and 16 great-grandchildren. She was pre-deceased by her husband Whitside, son Gregory Kern Miller, and granddaughter Tasha Montelongo. All the family called her "Baba." She will be missed very much. Mcnerney's Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. Visitation is Saturday, November 12 at 8:15 A.M. with funeral Mass following at 9:00 A.M. at Holy Trinity Catholic Church in San Pedro. Internment is at Green Hills Cemetery. Donations in her memory can be made to Toberman Neighborhood Center of San Pedro.

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Victor Sorich - March 30, 1934 - October 19, 2022

Departed: 10/19/2022 (San Pedro)

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Shirley Ann Despal - August 24, 1944 - October 11, 2022

Departed: 10/11/2022 (San Pedro)

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Dorothy Ann Bruno - January 06, 1926 - October 08, 2022

Departed: 10/08/2022 (San Pedro)

Obituary Preview: Our dear mother, Dorothy Ann Bruno, passed away peacefully on Oct. 8, 2022 at the age of 96 at her home in Rancho Palos Verdes. A farm girl raised in Wisconsin, she and her husband, Gene, moved to California in 1954 where they raised three daughters. She was a supervisor at McDonnell Douglas for many years and a well-loved member of Holy Trinity parish. She was a wonderful mother who was always there when we needed her. She was predeceased by her loving husband, Gene, and is survived by her three daughters, son-in-laws, grandchildren and great grandchildren. She was very much loved and will be missed terribly. Funeral Mass will held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church on Thursday, November 3, 2022 at 10:30AM with burial to follow at Green Hills Memorial.

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Robert Andrew Gathy - July 30, 1939 - July 02, 2022

Departed: 07/02/2022 (San Pedro)

Obituary Preview: It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Robert "Bob" Gathy, a lifetime resident of San Pedro, CA. Bob passed away on July 2, 2022 in his home. Bob was born on July 30, 1939 in Bronx, NY to Frank and Mary (Polplawska) Gathy. He attended Dewitt-Clinton High School in the Bronx. After graduation, he worked various jobs until attending traffic management school. After school he was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1964. He was stationed at Fort MacArthur in San Pedro where he discovered his love of Southern California. While stationed at Fort MacArthur, he became a member of the Honor Guard, which he always remembered with pride. He was deployed to Vietnam where he served from 1965 to 1966. He was proud to have served in our military and in being a Vietnam Veteran. After leaving the Army, he wanted to return to sunny California so he moved to Los Angeles where he met and fell in love with Edilma Rosa Moreno. They married on November 8, 1969. They purchased their first and only home in San Pedro, where they have lived for the past 50 years. Bob worked in the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach for 40 years until his retirement in 2009. Bob was an active member of Holy Trinity Catholic Church where both he and Edilma were teachers in the Early Childhood Education Program for 10 years. They were also money counters for Holy Trinity for over 30 years. Bob truly enjoyed his time with Eastview Little League, both as a parent of his children playing, and also as part of the Executive Board, where he was League President for the years of "86-"87. He played a part in the planning of the Field of Dreams for Little League Baseball in San Pedro. Bob loved his New York Yankees and the Fighting Irish football team of Notre Dame. He was funny and kind and will be missed by many. Bob is survived by his wife of 52 years, Edilma, his 3 children Richard (Andrea) Gathy, Christine (Jeromie) Cook, and Caroline (Shane) Eisenbraun, and his 7 grandchildren, Cole, Abigail, Rhett, Evelyn, Tyler, Richard (RJ), and Dominic. On Saturday, July 23, 2022, a Rosary will be held at Holy Trinity Catholic Church at 9:30 AM, followed by the Funeral Mass at 10:00 AM.

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Carlos Fuentes - May 07, 1962 - June 26, 2022

Departed: 06/26/2022 (San Pedro)

Obituary Preview: Our family is saddened to share that our beloved brother, Carlos (Charlie) Fuentes passed away on June 26, 2022. Born on May 7, 1962, Charlie faced a life with numerous health challenges, but he always faced his struggles with determination and humor. Charlie worked for 30 years at his family's restaurant, Arturo's, as an assistant manager and bartender. Our brother leaves behind his siblings, Nora Armenta, Annie Graff, Lucy Felando and Michael Fuentes, numerous nieces and nephews. Charlie will be greatly missed but we'll find comfort in knowing he's healthy and joyful with mom, dad and Tudy. A Funeral Mass will be held on July 8, 2022 at Holy Trinity Church in San Pedro. A private family burial will follow.

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Michele H Saldonis - November 17, 1944 - June 14, 2022

Departed: 06/14/2022 (San Pedro)

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Andrew P Marincovich - October 01, 1921 - March 25, 2022

Departed: 03/25/2022 (San Pedro)

Obituary Preview: Andrew P. Marincovich passed away on March 25, 2022 at his home surrounded by his family. He was born October 1, 1921 in San Pedro, CA to Paul and Margaret Marincovich. He lived a full life filled with love for his family, service to his community and service to his profession. He met the love of his life, Matilda, and they recently celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary on February 1, 2022. In October 2021 Andy and his family celebrated his 100th birthday! He is preceded in death by his parents Paul & Margaret Marincovich, his brother James Marincovich, his sister Jacqueline Rhine and his first-born daughter Marleen Golonsky. Andrew is survived by his wife Matilda, daughters Andrea Clark and Debbie Engstrom (Dave), brother Paul Marin, ten grandchildren Timothy Clark, Michael Clark, Christie Torre, Vince Torre, Robert Engstrom, Dawn Golonsky, Matthew Golonsky, Andrew Golonsky, Laura Castanon and Ben Golonsky. Andrew & Matilda also have fifteen great grandchildren. Matilda would love when Andy would sing their special song to her “Let Me Call You Sweetheart”. Each year Andy and Tillie would attend professional CPA conventions whether in Alaska, Hawaii, New York, Florida, Mexico and the like. Each year one or more of their grandchildren were invited along for an unforgettable vacation. A memorable trip to Hawaii included four of their grandsons which was talked about for years!

Andy attended the University of Southern California where he played football in the January 1, 1944 Rose Bowl game. He was a devoted Trojan and a USC football season ticket holder for many, many years. He enrolled at USC through the ROTC program and his Naval military service included the responsibility of commanding officer of a Landing Craft Support (LCS) vessel and task unit commander in the Pacific, providing gunfire as the Marines stormed the beach. After WWII, he continued his education at USC and graduated in 1947 with a major in accounting and received his Master’s in Accounting in 1960.

Andy began his accounting career at Price Waterhouse & Co where he participated in the audits of major oil companies and while a member of the firm’s tax department advised film production companies, business executives and film production personalities. Andy lectured in tax and accounting subjects for years at the USC, Cal State University Long Beach and Los Angeles Harbor College. He was appointed to the initial Board of Advisors for USC’s School of Accounting.

In additional to his devotion to family, Andy was active in his profession as a CPA. He managed at his firm, Marincovich & Company, for over fifty years. Andy’s many other professional activities have included serving as President of National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA), Chairman of the Board of Examiners of the American Institute of CPAs and President of the California State Board of Accountancy. In 1985 Andy was awarded the Distinguished Service Award by the California Society of Certified Public Accountants in recognition of his many years of service to the accounting profession.

Andy loved giving back and serving his community. He served as Chairman of the San Pedro Peninsula Hospital board of directors and President of the San Pedro Peninsula Hospital Foundation as well as a board member for the San Pedro YMCA and Boys and Girls Club. Andy was a San Pedro Rotarian, a lifetime member of the San Pedro Elks Club and served at Mary Star of the Sea church as usher, eucharistic minister, and lecturer. As we continue our lives without our loving husband, father, grandpa and Nono, we can hear him affectionally say, Fight On!

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Katherine Michelle Avila - August 01, 1949 - May 26, 2024

Departed: 05/26/2024 (San Pedro)

Obituary Preview: Michelle Avila passed away peacefully at her home on May 26, 2024. She was surrounded by family. She was born to Alicia and Jesus Avila in San Pedro on August 1, 1949. She graduated from San Pedro High School in 1967. She worked many years selling insurance at Auto Club of Southern California and subsequently retired from Longshoreman’s Union Local Chapter 13. She loved adventure, family, friends and playing bingo. She is survived by her mother, Alicia Avila, sister Rene Caldwell, brother Michael Avila and brother Mark Avila. Michelle’s services will be Monday June 10 at Holy Trinity Catholic Church beginning with viewing at 9:00AM, followed by rosary at 9:30AM and then Mass at 10:00AM. Interment will follow at Green Hills Cemetery.

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A Comforting Atmosphere

As you step into the funeral home, you'll be enveloped in a comforting atmosphere that exudes warmth and compassion. The elegant chapel, adorned with beautiful stained-glass windows and ornate furnishings, provides a serene setting for families to gather and pay their respects. The spacious reception area, complete with comfortable seating and refreshments, offers a welcoming space for friends and loved ones to share stories and memories.

Personalized Funeral Services

Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home understands that every life is unique, and every family deserves a personalized farewell ceremony that reflects their loved one's personality, interests, and accomplishments. The funeral home's experienced staff works closely with families to create customized services that may include traditional Catholic rites, such as the Vigil Service, Funeral Mass, and Rite of Committal. They also offer non-denominational services and celebrations of life, ensuring that every family's needs are met with sensitivity and respect.

Cremation Services

In addition to traditional burial services, Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home offers cremation options for families who prefer this alternative. Their state-of-the-art crematory ensures that every cremation is performed with dignity and respect, while their knowledgeable staff guides families through the process, answering questions and addressing concerns along the way.

Pre-Planning and Advanced Planning

While it can be difficult to think about our own mortality, pre-planning or advanced planning can bring peace of mind to individuals and their loved ones. Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home offers expert guidance on pre-planning funeral arrangements, including selecting caskets, flowers, music, and other details. By making these decisions ahead of time, families can ensure that their wishes are respected and alleviate some of the burden from their loved ones during a difficult time.

Supporting Families Through Grief

The journey through grief can be long and arduous, but Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home is committed to supporting families every step of the way. Their compassionate staff offers bereavement resources, including counseling services, support groups, and online resources, to help families navigate their emotions and find healing.

A Commitment to Community

Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home is deeply rooted in the San Pedro community and is dedicated to giving back through various outreach programs and initiatives. From hosting memorial services for local heroes to participating in charity events, the funeral home demonstrates its commitment to serving others with kindness and compassion.

A Legacy of Trust

For generations, Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home has earned a reputation for trustworthiness, integrity, and excellence in funeral care. Families have come to rely on their expertise, compassion, and dedication to creating meaningful farewell ceremonies that honor their loved ones. As you consider your own funeral arrangements or those of a loved one, rest assured that Holy Trinity Catholic Church Funeral Home will guide you through the process with empathy, understanding, and professionalism.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and other biographical information. It may also include details about their life, accomplishments, and surviving family members.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to inform friends, family, and community members of a person's passing, allowing them to pay their respects and offer condolences. They also provide a lasting tribute to the deceased, preserving their memory and legacy.

Who writes an obituary?

Typically, the family of the deceased or a close friend writes the obituary. In some cases, a funeral home or mortuary may assist with writing the obituary or provide a template for the family to use.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary includes the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, education, hobbies, and surviving family members. It may also include information about their life achievements, military service, or charitable work.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication or online platform. Generally, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from 100 to 500 words.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications and online platforms allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can help personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful to readers.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

Contact the newspaper's obituary department directly to inquire about their submission process and deadlines. You may need to provide the written obituary, along with any photos or other materials, by email or through an online portal.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms that allow you to publish an obituary, such as Legacy.com, Tributes.com, or social media websites. These platforms often provide templates and guidelines to help you create and share the obituary.

How much does it cost to publish an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication or online platform. Some newspapers may charge a fee based on the length of the obituary or the number of photos included. Online platforms may offer free or paid options for publishing an obituary.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, some people choose to write their own obituary in advance, often as part of their estate planning or as a way to ensure their legacy is preserved accurately. This can be a meaningful way to reflect on your life and accomplishments.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of a person's passing, usually including only basic information such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a longer, more detailed tribute that provides a fuller picture of the person's life.

Can I include humor or anecdotes in an obituary?

Yes, many people choose to include lighthearted or humorous stories about the deceased in their obituary. This can help celebrate their personality and make the tribute more engaging and memorable.

How do I handle sensitive or private information in an obituary?

If you're unsure about including certain information in an obituary, it's best to err on the side of caution and omit it. You may also consider consulting with other family members or friends to ensure everyone is comfortable with the content.

Can I update or correct an obituary after it's been published?

In some cases, it may be possible to make corrections or updates to an obituary after it's been published. Contact the publication or online platform directly to inquire about their policies and procedures for making changes.

How long will an online obituary remain available?

The duration for which an online obituary remains available varies depending on the platform. Some websites may keep the obituary available indefinitely, while others may remove it after a certain period of time.

Can I share an obituary on social media?

Yes, many online platforms allow you to share an obituary on social media websites like Facebook or Twitter. This can help spread the word about the person's passing and provide an opportunity for friends and acquaintances to pay their respects.

What is a memorial website?

A memorial website is a dedicated online space where friends and family can share memories, photos, and condolences for the deceased. These websites often remain active for years after the person's passing.

How do I find an old obituary?

You can try searching online archives of newspapers or websites that specialize in storing historical records. You may also contact local libraries or genealogical societies for assistance in finding older obituaries.

Can I republish an old obituary?

In most cases, yes. If you have permission from the original publisher or copyright holder, you can republish an old obituary online or in print. Be sure to check copyright laws and regulations before doing so.

What is the purpose of an obiturary in genealogical research?

Obituaries can be valuable resources for genealogists, providing information about ancestors' lives, relationships, and migrations. They can also lead researchers to other sources of information, such as census records or birth certificates.

Can I include charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obiturary?

Yes, many families choose to include information about charitable donations in lieu of flowers in an obiturary. This allows friends and acquaintances to make a donation in memory of the deceased instead of sending flowers.

How do I write a condolence message for someone who has lost a loved one?

A condolence message should express sympathy and support for the grieving person. Keep your message brief and sincere, acknowledging their loss and offering words of comfort.

What is the etiquette for responding to condolences?