Katherine Ann Saggiani

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Katherine Ann Saggiani, age 89, of Rancho Palos Verdes. Katherine passed away peacefully at her home on May 13, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Katherine (Kay) was born on November 4, 1935 in San Pedro, California to Marko and Minnie Cvitanich. She was the oldest sibling to three younger brothers. Graduating San Pedro High in 1953, Kay began working at United California Bank. Later in life she went back to work as an escrow officer for Califano Escrow, a position she held for several years. While pursuing one of her favorite pastimes of bowling, Kay met and fell in love with Nello Saggiani. Married on May 13, 1961, together they raised three children; Mike, Steve, and Gina.

Kay was a devoted wife and mother, always putting her family and their needs first. She was generous, unselfish, and caring. Nothing brought her more joy than gatherings and holidays, whether out to dinner, or whipping up home-cooked Croatian specialties such as sauerkraut, Slav soup, and stuffed cabbage rolls that everyone loved.

Kay had a knack for sewing, often crafting whole ensembles for the kids, and even a suit jacket for Nello. She was an avid card player, progressive rummy being a favorite. In her later years, she joined the Red Hats, a perfect match for her signature bright red lipstick. She also took up golf, and enjoyed line-dancing with friends. Above all, she cherished and embraced her greatest role as Mima to her grandkids.

Kay will be remembered for her immeasurable love of family, her generous heart, great laugh, and beautiful smile.

Kay is preceded in death by her beloved husband Nello Saggiani (reunited on their wedding anniversary May 13, 2025) son Steve, infant son Robert, and brothers Mark and John Cvitanich.
Kay is survived by her son Mike (Mindy) Saggiani, daughter Gina (Peter) Califano, and four granddaughters: Giana, Tessa, Laina Califano and Sienna Saggiani. She is also survived by her brother Jack Cvitanich, sisters-in-law Sally Cvitanich and Velma Coats, and numerous nieces, nephews and godchildren.

The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to those who provided Kay with compassionate care, especially Nanzy Uy, her devoted caregiver for the last few years.

A funeral mass will be held at Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in San Pedro on Wednesday, May 28, at 10:30 am. Private reception and burial to
follow. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in Kay’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.