Kate was born on June 12, 1924 and entered into eternal life August 15, 2011. Throughout her life she was surrounded by the constant love, affection and prayers of her family and many who loved her. Kate and Fred were married almost 56 years. They had twelve children and enjoyed an adventurous and wonderful life together. Kate was a devoted wife and mother.
Kate was a first generation, patriotic American. She was raised by Irish-Scotch parents, Michael and Anne Murphy and received a Catholic education in which she placed great value. In 1942, Kate and Fred met in Central Park in New York City while he served in WWII. They moved to Carson City in 1965. They were business partners throughout their lives: farming, tile, construction, real estate, inventing... Kate was a member of St. Teresa of Avila Catholic Church and participated in Cursillo, Women Aglow, and the PTA. Seven of Kate's children and six of her grandchildren attended St. Teresa School. Kate was a life-long learner, as she attended courses in business, ceramics, and hospice. Kate loved lavender and everything natural. She marveled at God's beauty everywhere and spent countless hours in her yard tending to her flowers and enjoying her birds. Although she was a private person most of her life, Kate seldom passed up a cup of tea, sweets, and a visit. She used to say, "I had a good life." Kate accepted life on life's terms and often said, "If I had my life to live over again, I wouldn't change a thing."
Kate was a lovely lady: kind, encouraging, wise, funny, humble, and strong.... She cared deeply for those less fortunate and was generous with them. She was devoted to God and taught her children, by example, the importance of gratitude for all of life's blessings. Her faith and courage sustained her through many difficulties along life's journey. Kate was a peacemaker and left a legacy of perseverance, gratitude, and love.
Kate was preceded in death by her husband Fred J. Polichio, son Frank Polichio and infant daughter Ann Polichio, her sisters: Rose Murphy, Margaret Johnson (Bill), Theresa Murphy, her brothers: Father Frank Murphy of the Diocese of Reno, Dennis Murphy, Michael Murphy, cousin Bud Walsh, and other relatives.
Kate is survived by her children: Bob Polichio, Patricia Borst (Gary), Paul Polichio, Marie Martinelli, Susan Galbraith (Dave), Carol Miraglio (Mike), Peggy Polichio (Charlie), Fred Polichio, Joan Polichio-Palm (Jon), Rosemary Polichio, 20 grandchildren, 14 great grandchildren, brother Andrew Murphy (Regina), cousin Mary Walsh - Kate loved like a sister, many nieces, nephews and other relatives. A Mass of the Celebration of Life was held at St. Teresa of Avila Chapel on August 19, 2011, officiated by Father Chuck Durante, assisted by Sister Marie McGloin. In honor of Kate, contributions may be made to St. Teresa's School or to the Alzheimer's Association.
