Dona Mary Centanni

It is with extreme sadness we announce the passing of our sweet mother, Dona Mary Centanni, on Tuesday, February 15, 2022. She was a beloved mother, grandmother, aunt, sister and friend to many, and will be greatly missed.

She was born in Badger, South Dakota on January 30, 1934 to Leo and Marguerite Weidenkopf. She was the seventh of eight children and held her parents and siblings dear to her heart all the way to the end of her life.

Mom moved to Compton, California in 1940 with her family and later graduated from St. Anthony’s High School in Long Beach. She went on to work at Northrop Aircraft Co. before meeting her future husband, John Centanni, at the Scott’s Club Catholic Group. She and John were married in 1959 and went on to raise a family of eight in a loving and rambunctious home in Lakewood, California. They sought to give all their children a solid Catholic foundation and were examples always of honesty and devotion. Mom’s own faith was a constant and steady light for her that brought her great strength and peace throughout her lifetime.

Mom was a devout fan of all sports, was an active bowler for years and used to love taking trips with her sisters to Laughlin for a little “light” gambling fun! She loved puzzles, mysteries and spending time with family. Mom had a spark that could bring a smile or light a fire, depending on her perspective. Her humility, inner and outer beauty and quiet strength will be remembered and cherished always.

She leaves behind her sisters, Jane Duhon and Rose Wells; her eight children: Kathleen (John), Steven (Tammy), Christopher (Kathryn), Robert (Loida),  Jennifer, Laura (John), Elizabeth (Shannon), and Carrie (Pat); fifteen grandchildren and 7 great-grandchildren. She is preceded in death by her husband, John; parents, Leo and Marguerite; and siblings: Marguerite, Bud, John, Gene, and Jim. It warms our hearts to think of them all reunited at last.

Luyben Dilday Mortuary (562) 425-6401