Verna Ferrari passed away unexpectedly on November 20, 2021.

Mom was born on January 6, 1932 to Patrick and Verna O’Keefe.

Being full Irish, when Dad and Mom married in 1957, Dad gave Mom the nickname “Irish.” Dad and Mom made their home in Fortuna and were happily married for 55 years.

Mom always enjoyed her time as a stay-at-home mom. Mom would be a constant source in the neighborhood for the latest news. Often, the neighborhood kids would want to come over and talk with Mom instead of us. Known to many as Mrs. Ferrari, Mom could often be seen walking down the boulevard to the grocery store. Thank you to those who would stop to ask if Mom needed a ride, most often she would say “no thank you.”

Mom always had a special place in her heart for a stray cat. Even though Mom was more of a “cat person”, she always loved the companionship of her dog “Tiffy.” Mom could often be seen working in her yard, always enjoying the time of year when her roses and hydrangeas were in full bloom.

Verna is survived by her children Julie DeSantis (Larry); Thomas Ferrari (Bunny); grandchildren Lene Ferrari and Rocco Ferrari.

Preceeded in death by her parents Patrick and Verna O’Keefe; brothers Tommy O’Keefe, Eddie O’Keefe, Joe O’Keefe, Gene O’Keefe and Walter O’Keefe and her husband Eddie Ferrari.

Special thanks to John and Carol Lopez for being there for our Mom throughout the years; Also,thank you to David and Bonnie Settle. Sandra and Debra, Mom always enjoyed your visits, the meals and groceries you would bring her. Christine, you and Mom had a special bond with your love for cats. Dennis and Shari DeCarli, thank you for checking in on Mom, along with the treats you would bring for her.

Please encourage your elderly loved ones to wear a Medical Alert.

Verna will be joining her husband Eddie at Sunrise Cemetery in Fortuna. There will be a private graveside service at a later date.