Irene Leschak Catalano

CITRUS HEIGHTS, Calif. < Irene Leschak Catalano, 90, of Citrus Heights, Calif., formerly of Auburn, passed away peacefully Saturday, Nov. 24, 2007, at the Eskaton Care Center Manzanita in Carmichael, Calif. She was born in Auburn, the daughter of the late Luke and Mary Wanko Leschak, and had been an area resident for most of her life. She had resided in California the last four years to be closer to her family. Mrs. Catalano was a member of St. Nicholas Church. Prior to her retirement, Irene had been employed for more than 19 years at the General Electric Co. in Auburn. Irene enjoyed the many hours she spent reading and knitting. She would knit many different items, especially very beautiful blankets for each grandchild, and was well-known for her dishcloths that she gave to numerous friends and family. She is survived by three loving sons, David (Patti) Catalano, of Citrus Heights, Calif., Robert (Joan) Catalano, of Las Vegas, Nev. and Carl Catalano Jr., of San Diego, Calif.; a sister, Pauline (Lee) LeClerc, of Las Vegas, Nev.; two brothers, William (Joan) Leschak, Nicholas (Mary) Leschak, of Port St. Lucie, Fla.; 10 grandchildren; 12 great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to her parents, Irene was predeceased by her husband, Carl, in 1961; two sisters, Helen Volsko and Mary Komanecky; a brother, Anthony Leschak. Friends and relatives are invited to attend Irene"s Mass of Christian burial at 11:30 a.m. Friday, in St. Nicholas Church, with the Rev. Stephen Mack officiating. Calling hours will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. Friday, at the Pettigrass Funeral Home, 196 Genesee St., Auburn. Burial will be in St. Nicholas Cemetery, Aurelius. Contributions may be made in Irene"s memory to a charity of one"s choice. To send a message to the family, sign our guest book at www.auburnpub.com and click on obituaries.