Catherine Rando

Catherine Rando (nee Nestico), 96, of Paterson, passed away on January 7, 2026, surrounded by her adoring family. She was born in Sant’Andrea, Calabria, Italy, on March 20, 1929. After immigrating to the United States, her family settled in West Paterson. She formed lifelong friendships at Passaic Valley High School and then worked as an executive assistant. She moved to Paterson in 1957, where she raised her family. Catherine was the devoted wife of the late Ramon Rando, who loved her dearly throughout their 64 years of marriage, and the cherished mother of James Rando and his wife Patricia, Nicholas Rando, and Michele Rando Wan and her husband George. She was a loving grandmother to Raymond Rando and his wife Jessica, Michael Rando and his wife Traci, Caitlyn Wan Smith and her husband Zachary, Christina Wan, and Alexander Wan. She also had the joy of being great-grandmother, or “Big Grandma,” to Leo and Matteo Rando. Catherine was predeceased by her beloved sister Victoria Mongiardo. She will be greatly missed by her nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. Those who knew Catherine admired her warmth and generosity, fierce spirit, and sly humor. She was a prolific crocheter and had an unmatched talent for cooking, baking, and convincing her guests to keep eating long after they claimed to be full. Catherine was a gracious hostess, a loyal friend, and an exemplary matriarch who will be remembered, most of all, for her infinite love and kindness. Family and friends may visit on Monday, January 12, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Marrocco Memorial Chapel, located at 470 Colfax Avenue, Clifton, NJ. Funeral services will be held on Tuesday, departing the funeral home at 10:15 a.m. followed by Funeral Mass at St. Gerard Majella Church, 501 West Broadway in Paterson at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, donations in Catherine’s name to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital would be greatly appreciated. http://fundraising.stjude.org/goto/CatherineRando