Kathleen Ann Sonsini's Obituary
Kathleen Ann Sonsini (nee Vitarelli), of Marlton, NJ, passed away on February 11th, 2025, at the age of 80.
Born to the late Santo and Lois (nee McKee) Vitarelli on July 15th, 1944, in New Orleans, LA, Kathleen is the beloved sister of Patrick (Phyllis) Vitarelli and the late Henry (Gaetana) Odenwald (2024). Early in Kathleen’s childhood, she was raised by her doting grandmother, Etta, until she was five years old. At the age of five, Kathleen and her mom packed their belongings to move to Atco, NJ. Kathleen attended St. Joseph’s Catholic High School as the graduating class of 1962. At the age of 17, Kathleen was at Dancette Oaklyn Ballroom, where she met the love of her life, Frank Sonsini. Frank was charmed by Kathleen’s smile and asked her to dance, and the pair became inseparable ever since. Frank and Kathleen married at St. Mary’s Church in Atco, NJ, on October 12th, 1963, spending a loving 61 years together. Kathleen and Frank’s relationship was rooted in a deep understanding of one another. They truly were each other’s best friends.
Together, the couple welcomed their four loving children into their home; Frank (Tonya) Sonsini, Maria T. Sonsini, Kathleen E. Sonsini, Marc (Jamie) Sonsini. As a mom, Kathleen shined. She was heavily involved in everything her children did. From school events to sports, Kathleen was there. Her children remember fondly how their mom would comfort them with home-cooked meals of her famous Gumbo and Jambalaya. With Frank and their children, Kathleen ran their family restaurant, La Familia Sonsini in Medford, NJ, as owner and chef from 1985 – 2005. Kathleen’s creativity showed in the kitchen. She put together perfectly balanced meals that everyone could love. Cooking was Kathleen’s love language. Whenever someone in her life needed cheering up, Kathleen made a dish for their family that was truly made with love.
Kathleen’s passion for cooking funneled into every aspect of her life, such as when she spent time with her loving grandchildren, Felicia, Sienna, Vincent, Cerelina, Vanessa, Sean (Kaitlin), Tony, and Natalie. Kathleen adored her grandchildren. She hosted summer “Cooking Camp,” where she taught them how to make pizza, pasta, and cookies. Kathleen’s generous nature knew no bounds, especially when it came to the people she loved. When Kathleen was not spending time with her family, she was often found listening to Elvis Presley, in the kitchen making a new recipe for her loved ones to try, or painting.
Kathleen’s spirituality and faith in God also knew no bounds. She truly believed that her angels and the Blessed Mother were always with her, protecting her family and guiding her through all the days of her life.
Kathleen will be missed deeply by those who knew & loved her for her generous, compassionate nature, and her heart of gold.
In lieu of flowers, please donate in Kathleen’s name to The Food Bank of South Jersey.
Services will be held privately.
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