ROSEMARY SCALA, (nee Grella) of Mission Viejo, CA, passed away on Thursday, March 16, 2023.  She was 94 years of age.  Born in Pittston, PA, she later resided in Kaiserville, PA, Iselin and Nutley, NJ, for many years before moving to Mission Viejo, CA, in 1986.  Loving wife of Stephen Scala (deceased), and mother of Joan Tipold (Frank), Carol Reilly (Rich), Lori Hetrick and Stephen M. (Lori).  Devoted grandmother of Christopher, Erin, Jason, Amanda, Emily, and Stephen R., and great-grandmother to Annie, Melanie, Eveleigh, Mia, Sofie, and Olive.  She and her siblings attended schools in PA, having humble beginnings in a one-room schoolhouse, just up the road from their home.  A homemaker and mother, she was employed by the Nutley School system, working in the high school library for a number of years, at a job she loved. She made many long-lasting friendships there.  She was an active member of Holy Family Church in Nutley, NJ, and joined St. Kilian Catholic Church, in Mission Viejo, once they moved to CA.

Rosemary was a dedicated mother, confidant and peacemaker.  Her family attests to her ability to solve problems and make things look brighter.  She was a fine cook, and especially enjoyed cooking for a crowd.  She loved celebrating any occasion with her family and friends and was always ready for a conversation, along with a cup of tea.  Her kids will always remember Mom's lasagne, lemon meringue pie, apple dumplings, and holiday dinners.  Over many years of family camping trips, she also perfected the campsite supper. She loved keeping up with the news and trivia, and often slotted some time at the end of a day to read her favorite newspaper.

Rosemary was the devoted daughter of the late Michael and Mary Grella, of PA, and sister to Judy, and the late Helen, Connie, Terry, and Edward.  She is survived by family and friends on both coasts.

A visitation will be held at McCormick & Son Mortuaries, 25002 Moulton Parkway, Laguna Hills, CA, 92637, on Tuesday, April 18, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM, with the  Recitation of the Holy Rosary at 7:00 PM.  The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Wednesday, April 19th at 10:30 AM, at San Francisco Solano Catholic Church, 22082 Antonio Parkway, Rancho Santa Margarita, CA 92688, followed by private graveside services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Rosemary's name to St. John the Baptist Catholic School, 1021 Baker Street, Costa Mesa, CA,  92626. Rosemary loved going to the school for special events and student performances, especially on Veterans Day.  When sending a memorial donation by mail, please include the name of the deceased, and the name and address of the family or friends you would like to be notified of your thoughtful gift.

To view webcast of the Visitation, please click HERE.