Gerald J. Katiba, 73, Chemical Operator

He was born May 27, 1938 in Lorain and was a lifelong resident.

Gerald worked as a chemical operator at BF Goodrich, retiring in 2000 after 22 years. He previously worked as an assistant manager at A & P Grocery Store for 22 years.

He was a member of Nativity B.V.M. Church in Lorain. He belonged to it's Holy Name Society and was an altar server.

He was a dedicated worker with food distribution at St. Joseph Church in Lorain.

Gerald very much enjoyed being with his family for different events, and also enjoyed bowling and yard work.

He is survived by his loving wife of 51 years Cathy (nee Celik), and daughters Debbie (Bob) Albrecht of Amherst, Mary Jo (Craig) Mathewson of Lorain, Pat (John) Murray of Elyria, and a son Dan (Rebecca) Katiba of Troy, MI., along with 9 grandchildren, and a sister Lois Reichlin of Lorain.

He was preceded in death by his mother Jennie Katiba in 2000, and an infant brother Dale Katiba in 1949

Friends may call Sunday from 3:00 to 7:00 PM in Reichlin-Cooley Funeral Home, 2920 Broadway, Lorain. The Rosary will be prayed at 6:30 PM by the Holy Name Society.

Funeral services will be Monday beginning with closing prayers in the funeral home at 9:30 AM followed by Mass of Christian Burial at 10 AM in Nativity B.V.M. Church in Lorain. Fr. Robert Glepko will officiate.

Burial will be in Calvary Cemetery, Lorain.

Memorial contributions if desired can be made to St. Joseph Homeless Shelter, P.O. Box 766 Lorain, OH 44052, or Nativity B.V.M. Church 418 W. 15th St. Lorain, OH 44052.