MaryAnn Pocapalia

1921 - 2017

May 5, 1921 - February 26, 2017 MaryAnn Pocapalia passed away early Sunday morning, February 26 at the age of 95. Born in Stevens Point, Wisconsin, she was the oldest of 5 with 4 younger brothers. She was a high energy, fearless adventurer who traveled by train alone to Pasadena, California, when she was only 16. MaryAnn dreamed of being a singer and wanted to study music with teacher, Emily Feuerstein, her "Aunt Emmy." After 2 years here, MaryAnn discovered this perhaps was not her path. She attended secretarial school and moved back to Chicago for possible employment opportunities. A few Chicago winters were enough to entice MaryAnn back to California. During World War II, MaryAnn was a secretary for a plastics company. One fateful day soon after the war, Dan Pocapalia, who had recently started up Kit Manufacturing, walked into MaryAnn's office. Two years later they were married and had 5 beautiful children. Over the next 63 years, Dan and MaryAnn were a committed life team. The Pocapalia clan enjoyed a "town and country" life-style in Palos Verdes. Family was always the most important part of life for MaryAnn and large family reunions were held often. MaryAnn was a devout and involved parishioner at Holy Trinity Catholic Church. Also civic minded, MaryAnn headed up a non-profit: C.A.T.H.Y, Community Assistance to Homeless Youths, and pursued legal rights for foster children in California. Later in life, MaryAnn was a court docent and taught students on field trips how the judicial system worked. MaryAnn loved to travel but not just to fine museums, chateaus and palaces, she also explored the jungles of New Guinea, South America and the plains of Africa. MaryAnn's love of music and theater were nourished by season patronage to the Music Center, and the Disney Hall. She was also a patron of the Russian National Orchestra. Fortunately for her children, MaryAnn also included them in these adventures and cultural experiences. She had a "Wonderful Life." MaryAnn is survived by her 5 children, Maria, Daniel, Diana, Richard and Ann Pocapalia, her grandchildren Adrianne and Kimberly Brounstein, Richard and Jordan Kern, and by her brother David Spalenka. In lieu of flowers, please send condolence donations to Holy Trinity Church, San Pedro, CA.