Caterina Caroline Venitucci

Caterina Caroline Venitucci, age 64, passed away on July 15, 2026. She was born on March 8, 1962, in Kilgore, Texas to Gino Venitucci and the late Mildred (Brady) Venitucci. She leaves behind to cherish her memory her beloved son, Alexander Bolanos and his wife, Sara; her treasured grandsons, Judah and David Bolanos; her father, Gino Venitucci; her brothers, Luis Venitucci and his wife, Loretto, and Walter Venitucci and his wife, Carla; her nephew, Logan Venitucci; and a host of extended family members and dear friends who will miss her deeply.

Caterina was a remarkable woman whose intelligence was matched only by her generous heart. She was very well educated from a student at Ft. Lewis College in Durango, CO, to doing post-graduate research at the University of Cambridge, to becoming a certified teacher through the University of Houston and Southwest Texas State University specializing in bilingual education, then moving on to get certifications as an MCSE and Novell CNE and CNI and getting her BS in economics from the University of Utah. Furthermore, she earned her Masters in Business Administration and Finance from Duke University. From ESL teacher to Vice President at Continental Carbon Co., she left a lasting impact wherever she went. Her last position suited her well as a manager consultant. She was able to thrive as a trusted leader and compassionate mentor. She was in the business of building relationships and had the unique gift of connecting with others. She was well traveled and she spoke several languages, making friends all over the world.

Caterina's greatest joy came from caring for the people she loved. She was always on the go, rarely thinking of herself before thinking of someone else. Her kindness was evident in the countless ways she helped others, offering her time, her knowledge, even her own home, whatever support was needed, she was beyond generous.

At her home, and even others’ homes, you would find Caterina in the kitchen. She was an exceptional cook who loved sharing recipes and teaching culinary skills. Her laughter lit up the room. She also took great pride in her garden, winning the neighborhood’s Garden-of-the-Month (more than once). She found peace in the mountains and always dreamed of the next time she could go skiing. She was a horse whisperer.

Student, teacher, colleague, leader, mentor, neighbor, friend, daughter, sister, aunt, mother, Nonna. She adored her grandsons, Judah and David, and there was no greater happiness than spending time with them. They loved their Nonna dearly and will forever cherish the memories of her love, playfulness, and bringing storybooks to life!

Caterina's legacy is one of courage, strength, compassion, generosity, and unconditional love. She lived with purpose, gave without expecting anything in return, and left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her. Her memory will continue to inspire all whose lives she touched.

Arrangements entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.