Patricia (Opelski) Perna

Patricia Ann (Opelski) Perna, 88, of Norristown passed away peacefully on Sunday, May 3, 2026, at her home surrounded by her loving family. Born on February 17, 1938, in Philadelphia, she was the daughter of the late Francis & Marie Opelski, and the beloved wife of Lawrence “Larry” J. Perna, Jr.

Mrs. Perna was a long-time active member of Saint Francis of Assisi Parish. She was a Eucharistic minister who provided Holy Communion to the homebound parishioners and to hospitalized patients. In her last year she became a recipient of this service, provided by her friend, Mrs. Annmarie Collins. She participated in many parish activities including the Christmas bazaar, church committees, and providing meals to homebound parishioners. She was an active member of the Ladies of St. Francis, the Halford Garden Club, the Red Hats and the Norristown Chorale. She was a Cub Scout Den Mother to her sons’ scout pack. Patricia also worked as a travel agent and enjoyed frequent trips and cruises with her beloved husband, Larry. Patricia was an avid sports fan who enjoyed watching the Phillies and Eagles whenever they played. She cherished her family and enjoyed talking & spending time with them. She was a devoted wife, loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister. She loved socializing with her friends and was a dear friend to all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She will be missed by many.

In addition to her beloved husband Lawrence, Patricia is survived by her six children, Dianne Kolenda (Thomas), Sharon Kelly, Donna Perna, Lawrence “Larry” Perna, III (Debbie), Michael Perna (Christa), and Patricia San Felice (John); eleven grandchildren, Angela Delong (David), Eric Burnett (Amanda), Josh Nickelson, James Kelly, Pamela Fesko, Amy Kolenda, Shawn Alexander, Tyler Perna, Nicole Matejka (Barron), Heather San Felice (Kevin), and Lauren Perrone (Dan).  Patricia is also survived by her 16 beloved great grandchildren, her aunt/friend, Joan Gambone, her sister, Mary Elizabeth Sekerakand many cousins, nieces and nephews. 

In addition to her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her brothers, Francis Opelski, Jr., and Edward Paul Opelski.

Family and friends are invited to attend the viewing for Patricia on Thursday May 7, 2026, from 10:00AM-11:30AM at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, 601 Buttonwood St. Norristown, PA 19401.  Mass will immediately follow the viewing at 11:30AM. Burial will take place privately at the convenience of the family at St. Patrick’s Cemetery, East Norriton PA.  In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in memory of Patricia to St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church. Funeral arrangements are in care of the CaramenicoFuneral Home & Cremation Services Inc. Please visit www.caramenicofuneralhome.com for more information and to leave messages of condolence.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Patricia (Opelski) Perna, please visit our floral store.